BIG SIR COLUMN LITTLE SIR SEZ

Send Hotline comments to Chuck Joyce at [email protected]............. Page 1 INDEX

Branch 8 Website:

https://www.sirbr8.com

BIG SIR COLUMN

The Branch 8 Restart Luncheon of October 11 is on full ahead. Get those reservations in for a seat at the table. We are holding the luncheon cost at $35, cash or check (payable to Sir Br 8). If you are inviting a guest, be sure you get him a reservation and advise him of the requirement to be vaccinated and sign the Covid waiver which will be available on site. The SIR State Election of Officers for 2022 was held in August. Rich Kindle, President,

Davis Gonzales, VP., Roy Hodgkins, Treas., Ron Flagel, Sec., Dean Steichen, Chief Admin Officer, Ron Saltgaver, Asst Tresurer. And Lee Moy, Asst Sec. A good bunch of guys and a great leadership group. Thanks to Tom DiGrande and Tony DeLosada, co-chairs of “Sir Community Outreach-Giving Back” on the launch of this volunteer activity to get the SIR name out to our communities. The first outing will be helping at the Contra Costa Food Bank on Oct 13. Other opportunities for service are coming. Contact Tom at [email protected] or Tony at [email protected]. We will be holding the Br 8 2022 election of officers at the October meeting. 30% of the membership must be present to have a valid election. Please come to luncheon, your vote is important. More activities are restarting, get out and have some fun.

Ron Cassano, Big Sir

LITTLE SIR SEZ “I’m sick and tired of Zoom meetings.” There, I said it. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, I assumed we would have a few months of membership meetings and planning meetings via Zoom. By Fall, we would begin to meet in-person once again. It has been 18 months! I know more about Zoom than I ever wanted to know. On the bright side, I have developed some computer skills that could prove useful in the future.

Now, it is time to restart our luncheons. A voluntary attendance process has been established for us so we can sign up and reserve our seat each month. Please remember to look for the branch Email and sign up. I look forward to seeing all of you in person rather than on my computer screen via Zoom.

Going forward, our luncheon speakers will come to us, make their presentations, and answer our questions. What a great idea! On September 13, Sir Michael Barrington, Area Governor, and former Big Sir of Branch 116, discussed his historical novel, “Let the Peacock Sing”. The book deals with the French resistance to the Nazis during WWII. Having spent considerable time in France, Michael knows the facts regarding the French resistance and weaves this history into a story of interesting characters of that time. I’m always impressed by the knowledge and accomplishments of SIR members. Clearly, Michael Barrington is one of our most distinguished men.On October 11, we will return to the real world, and discuss the serious issue of water resources and shortages in California. Ernesto A. Avila, a Vice President on the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) Board of Directors, will be our speaker. Currently, he is a principal at a private engineering firm, but has served as Director of Engineering at CCWD and General Manager of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District. Please come to our meeting with your questions for Mr. Avila.

I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming SIR activity, and our next Membership Meeting on October 11, 2021.

Steve Schramm. Little Sir

Shout out to everyone who can remember their childhood phone number, but can’t remember the password they created yesterday. You are my people . . .

“MAKE NEW FRIENDS FOR LIFE” Editor: Steve Moore

WHAT IS SIR?

https://youtu.be/5j5WsiyKp5s 2021

Steve Schramm Little Sir

Ron Cassano Bir Sir

(SIR Bill Phelon)

HOW BILL SEES IT:

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.sirbr8.com/

http://www.sirbr8.com/



https://youtu.be/5j5WsiyKp5s


Activities Calendar 6 GIVING BACK 5

Activities Coordinating Committee 7 Golf 15

Arts, Crafts & Hobbies ON HOLD 7 Heads Up Walkers 17 Astronomy ON HOLD 7 Hikers 18 Ballet & Opera 8 Lunch Sign-up 3 B.E.C. Biographies 24 LDL 5 BBQ 7 Member Relations 5

Birders ON HOLD 8 Mixer 14 Bocce Ball ON HOLD 8 Model Trains ON HOLD 16

Books Zoom 8 Photo Gallery 23 BOWLING 9 Pickle Ball 16 Card Games Some ONLINE 10-11 Pinochle 11

Car Enthusiasts 9 Podcasts Zoom 16 Chaplain's Corner N/A Public Relations 3

Chess 10 Senior Resources 22 Classified Ads N/A Sirs at the Games 16

Computers & Technology Zoom 10 Sirs in the Garden 17 DANSIRS ON HOLD 12 Sirs in the Kitchen ON HOLD 14

Digital Photography Zoom 12 Sums in Retirement Zoom 17

Dining ON HOLD 12-13 Sunshine Report N/A Doctor's Office 5 Traveling Sirs 18 Dominoes ON HOLD 12 Wine Tasting 18-19

FISHING 14 Woodpeckers 20 Foreign Films 14 Writing Your Life Story Zoom 20

Activity Open to Spouse and Partners

HOTLINE INDEX (Click on an item and you will be

taken to that Article.)

ACTIVITY COED PAGE ACTIVITY COED PAGE

Caesar Salad Salisbury Steak

Mashed Potatoes & Vegetables Key Lime Pie

Next SIR Luncheon: October 11th Concord Hilton 1970 Diamond Blvd., Concord Executive Meeting: N/A Social Hour begins: 10:15am Luncheon starts: 11:30am Cost $35 Greeters:TBA



NEED A RIDE TO THE

LUNCHEON?

Those SIRs who do not have transportation and would like a ride to the monthly luncheon should contact Scott Graff at (925) 552-6097 or [email protected].

RED DOT BADGES

They belong to our new members, don’t forget to say “Hi” and introduce yourself. Let's make them feel at home. Talk about your SIR activities and ask them to join you.

LUNCH SIGN-UP

We ALL must sign up to attend a Branch 8 luncheon:

1. Three sign-up methods will be available: a. A Constant Contact email

requesting your action to sign up will be sent to you the day following a Branch 8 luncheon. This email also has a provision for bringing guests. Add your guest’s names, if any, and click on the link in this email and electronically sign up for the next luncheon. You should receive a message immediately that your response has been recorded. This is the preferred method

OR b. Send an email message to

[email protected] OR

c. Call 925-901-4826 to sign up for the luncheon by phone.

2. You must sign up by 7 calendar days before the next luncheon (i.e. the Monday before the luncheon). This deadline is necessary because we must provide a final headcount to the Hilton Concord one week in advance of our luncheon.

3. Failure to sign up 7 days prior to the luncheon will exclude you from the luncheon. You may sign up within the 7 days, but you will be placed on a Waitlist. As a result, you will be able to attend the luncheon only if someone from the signup list cancels their attendance. You will be notified if you are eligible to attend the luncheon.

4. As before, you will bring a personal check to the luncheon as payment.

5. If you sign up, but do not attend the luncheon, you remain subject to payment because we owe the Hilton Concord for the lunch that they have prepared for you.

If you have any questions regarding the sign-up process, please contact Manuel Dominguez ([email protected]) or Dan Smith ([email protected]).

PANDEMIC MANDATE

For as long as the City of Concord has rules in place re the pandemic, we must obey these rules. Only our members who are fully vaccinated will be permitted to attend these luncheons. Likewise, hotel staff serving us are to be fully vaccinated. If current rules require wearing a mask entering and leaving the hotel, we shall do so. We will be able to remove our masks while sitting at the table.

NEW ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER or E- mail

If you change your address, phone

number or E-Mail address, please notify Dennis Mierzwa at (925) 938-5343 or

send him an E-mail at: [email protected].

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE







NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Each year, the Branch 8 Nominating Committee recommends

a slate of Officers & Directors for the following year. Listed below is the current status of the 2022 Officers & Directors.

As you see, this slate is a work in progress. The final group of

nominations will be voted upon by the full membership of Branch 8 at a future Membership Meeting. A quorum of the branch membership is required for this vote.

NEW SIR STORE APPAREL- NEW ITEMS! NEW SHIPPING CHANGES!

ALL SIR orders over $50 ship FREE!Shop now to

take advantage of this offer! SHOP NOW

@ https://sir.go.customprintcenter.com

SHOW YOU ARE PROUD TO BE A MEMBER OF SIR BRANCH 8, SPORT A LOGO!Be well ! Public Relations Chair: Tony de Losada SIR Store Manager: Ron Maciak

PUBLIC RELATIONS &

COMMUNITY

OUTREACH

Did you know, Branch 8 is the Test Branch for a new State concept: "Community Outreach, Giving Back," and the Publicity Committee received a file on "Volunteering" from our new activity Co-Chair for

Community Outreach, Tom Di Grande, and wife Sharon, giving many good reasons for Volunteering. I list a few as they seem more directed to our type of Social Organization. I thought it was both interesting and timely enough to share: The delayed Danville 4th of July Parade was held on September 4th. Branch 8 celebrated with five cars Ken Belfer and Karen, Dan Crowley, Lynn, Bob Weiss, Susan and Ed Kirchner, Vicky, me, and my Mighty Mini! We each drove proudly with the SIR BR8 Magnetic Signs and logo prominently displayed! Branch 8 participation is yet another example of reaching out to the community, in this case, of Danville, and letting them know that SIR is alive and well! Volunteering is also enjoyable! Achieving Physical & Mental Health Benefits. Peer-reviewed science backs it up: The regular activity, exercise, and increased social connections of volunteering are good for your health. For example, one major European study found participants who volunteered often were less likely to show signs of depression than participants who volunteered infrequently. A Carnegie Mellon study of older adults found a correlation between volunteer activity and hypertension (high blood pressure). Prolific volunteers, defined as those who gave at least 200 hours within the past 12 months, were less likely to develop hypertension than infrequent volunteers and non-volunteers. Volunteer opportunities that promote social connection: for example, chairing a parent group at your kid’s school or working on a Habitat for Humanity home build are more likely to improve mental health than solitary opportunities, such as my research summaries. Likewise, those that require sustained physical activity – such as the Habitat for Humanity home build – are more likely to improve physical health compared to sedentary engagements. SIRS In The Garden, Hiking, Walking, Golf, Food Banks, Community Outreach, Giving Back are examples of physically activities available through SIR. A 2012 study using the Wisconsin Longitudinal Survey data found that altruism predicted mortality risk among volunteers. Those who volunteered out of the goodness of

NAME POSITION

Ron Cassano Big Sir

Ray DeWit Little Sir

Dan Kohlman Secretary

Rich Carlston Assistant Secretary

Manuel Dominguez Attendance Secretary

Dan Smith Asst. Attendance Secretary

Dennis Mierzwa Membership Secretary

Rich Knowles Asst. Membership Secretary

Dan Casella Treasurer

Mike Loonin Assistant Treasurer

Leo Dominguez Director

Ken Main – ACC Member Director

Martin Simmons Director

Tony De Losada Tom Mohrman Chairmen


http://sir.go.customprintcenter.com/?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=2021Q1_Email_Email_CMM_MonthlyCMM_090920_FreeShipping&utm_content=FreeShipping

https://sir.go.customprintcenter.com/


their hearts were less likely to die during the four-year study window than those whose motives weren’t as pure. While it’s not clear precisely why this is the case, it’s worth noting. If you expect volunteering to improve your health outcomes, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. Gaining Personal Fulfillment: Everyone has a different definition of “personal fulfillment.” Some volunteers prize the social aspect, regardless of the quantifiable health benefits of increased social connectivity. Others take comfort in improving the less fortunates lives or contributing something tangible to their communities. Still, others seek and find purpose in volunteering. That’s especially true for older, semi or fully retired volunteers and those enduring temporary periods of unemployment. Moreover, purpose-driven volunteers may discover latent skills or personality attributes that come in handy in other areas of their lives, boosting their self-confidence and perhaps opening new avenues for personal or professional development. • • Join the cause “Uncle SIR” needs you!

GIVING BACK Co-chairmen Tony de Losada & Tom DiGrande head up this NEW SIR Branch 8 activity. After being selected for the “pilot” program, SIR Branch 8 will have an opportunity for Giving Back to our communities and members, thru

volunteering and participating in assisting with projects and events. The chairmen, along with a group / committee, have been compiling a list of candidates and contacting local organizations that could have need for SIR Branch 8 volunteers. Organizations include: community crisis centers, churches, shelters, meal services, and food banks. We have already scheduled an activity at the Contra Costa Food Bank on Wednesday, October 13th. 1-3pm. Check your emails for additional information! Contra costa food bank will provide food barrels at the luncheon scheduled for October 11th. Bring a bag of food, or maybe a couple cans. Let’s get this activity rolling and support and strengthen our communities! We will have an information table at our upcoming October 11th “in person” luncheon. Stop by for updates regarding this NEW activity, also sign-up for future volunteering activities. Sign-up sheets will also be provided at your lunch table. Giving Back doesn’t require an inordinate commitment of time or talent, you can do what you can, when you can and still reap the rewards of Volunteering.”

MEMBER RELATIONS COMMITTEE

The MRC continues to focus on the responsibility and role of sponsors, as well as communicating with our newest members. To that end,

MRC reached out to our members to ensure they understood the reasons the Branch requested both the Waiver and certification of vaccination. New member orientation during the Covid -19 lock down was

done via Zoom and MRC asked the Orientation Team to

include sponsors in the Zoom Orientation Meetings. The MRC wants to hear from you on all issues concerning the viability of Branch 8. With the prospect of reopening the monthly luncheons, MCR would welcome any comments from members on how to improve the lunch experience.

DOCTOR'S OFFICE

We have retired MDs, who are willing to give informal medical information to SIR members. The "doctor's office" is open at 10:45am on Luncheon days, at a table in the lobby. - Dr. Bill Adler, Chairman

LADIES DAY LUNCHEON

We hope to have a Ladies Day Luncheon in December. Due to the Coronavirus, most facilities will not book that far in advance. Therefore, we may not know where we could have the event until the first of October. We will keep you informed at that time, if we are allowed to make plans. If we commit to a venue and the County will not allow it to occur due to Coronavirus, we could be subject to still owing money to the venue. Obviously, we don’t want Branch

8 committed to payments, when an event can’t be held. So, we will do our best to arrange a venue with the ability to cancel last minute. Costs for such events have gone up, so we will do

our best to keep costs down. [email protected]

Rich Knowles Assistant Chairman

Frank Kilarr Chairman

Tony De Losada Tom Di Grande Chairmen



OCTOBER ACTIVITY CALENDAR

SIR 8 WEB LINK TO ACTIVITY CALENDAR

Here is a link to Contra Costa Health Services for the latest information:

https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/frequently-asked-questions

SIR


https://www.sirbr8.com/calendar/




ACTIVITIES COORDINATING COMMITTEE

Bocce Ball Open Play re-started on June 25th and will continue until September or October. Play starts at 8:30 am every Friday at Newhall Park. Sir's Giving Back Initiative: Our Branch continues to set the example for "giving back" to the community. Tony de Losada reports that the Sir's in Garden (SIG) members were recently recognized and thanked for their hard work & support of the Gardens at Heather Farms! On a related opportunity, Tom DiGrande is asking for volunteers (up to15 needed) to help with sorting & packaging food goods at the Contra Costa Food Bank. For more information or to sign up contact; Tom DiGrande (925) 876851 [email protected] Tony de Losada (925) 945-1730 [email protected]. About 125 Sir's (spouses, partners & friends) attended the annual BBQ. Everyone seemed to have a good time. Thanks to Dan Crowley and his team for all their planning and coordination efforts! Several Activities (including cribbage, poker, Duplicate Bridge, Rubber Bridge, and the Book Club) are now meeting indoors. Check the Hotline, our website, or contact the activity chairman for more details. The Cribbage and Poker groups need more players. Contact Chairman Ron Draper (925) 939-5740 or [email protected] to sign up for the Poker or Cribbage activities. To get more information about any of our activities, check out our List of Activities and Chairman on the BR8 website. You will find it under Activity Admin and then Alphabetical list of Activities. We currently have 58 activities (which includes 3 events) 37 of which are COED. Your ACC members: Ray deWit, Ken Main & Chick Lowry

ASTRONOMY

No new report

submitted for OCTOBER.

Larry Lange, Co-Chairman 254-6281 [email protected], Allen Grossman, Co-Chairman, 838-0954, [email protected]

ARTS, CRAFTS & HOBBIES

We’re still inactive.

[email protected] 925-314-3066

ANNUAL JUNE BBQ

The Next Sir Branch 8 barbecue: Tuesday, June 12. 2022 Dan Crowley 602-740-6644, or E-mail [email protected]

Larry Lange Chairman

Ron Smith Chairman

Dan Crowley Chairman

Mike Frey Ray DeWit Ken Main Chick Lowry











BALLET AND OPERA

No new report for August. [email protected] 925-838-3914

Assistant Chairman: Richard Remley, [email protected]

BIRDERS

No new report submitted for October.

Jerry Mix, Chair, [email protected], 925-689-4948

BOCCE BALL - LEAGUE PLAY

League play began on Tuesday June 7th. All details for the 2021 schedule will be provided to Team players as soon as the League provides those details. All team members enjoyed the Bocce team play during the season and are looking forward to another.

The SIR Bocce team for Branch 8 has 7 (max 10) players for the 2021 season

Chairman: Bob Barnes 686-0106 [email protected]

Asst. Chair: Danny Rinaldi 825-0519

[email protected]

BOCCE BALL - OPEN PLAY

The Concord Bocce Federation decided to have a 2021 season. As a result, the courts will be groomed, and we will be able to play on the courts. Our play time is governed by the schedule that the City of Concord has posted at the Newhall courts.

Chairman Bob Barnes and Assistant Martin Hawco organized the competition at Newhall Park BB Courts in Concord.

This weekly activity is on Fridays from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. in Newhall Park, and usually attracts 10-15 members. Any SIR member is welcome to attend and participate.

Open play will begin Friday, June 25th. We begin play after the

Concord Bocce Federation readies the courts for League play. I will be at the Newhall courts around 8:30 am. At that time, we will determine if we start at 8:30 am or 9:00 remain the same.

Chairman: Bob Barnes 686-0106 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Martin Hawco 925-689-4251, [email protected]

MINI BOOK

EXCHANGE

Nothing new to report for October.

[email protected] .

Assistant Chairman: Tom Kerns, [email protected], Assistant Chairman: Rob Laaback, [email protected], Assistant Chairman: Mike

Anderson, [email protected]. Assistant Chairman: Tom Keehn, [email protected] "

BOOK GROUP On September 7th, 16 members of the SIRS book group convened at our new venue, the Round Table Pizza restaurant on Treat Blvd near Trader Joe's.

This month's book was "Issacs’s Storm", a non-fiction study by Erik Larson which described the deadliest hurricane in

history which destroyed Galveston, Texas, killing over 6,000 people on September 8, 1900. The story centers around Issac Cline, resident meteorologist for the U.S. Weather Bureau, who failed to grasp the meaning of the

Jerry Mix Chairman

Alan Curtis Chairman

Ron Rizzo Chairman

Bob Barnes Chairman

David Bushnell Chairman















strange deep-sea swells and peculiar winds that greeted the Galveston that morning, despite warnings from Cuba about the storm's magnitude. Also contributing to the lack of warnings was the lack of communication between Galveston and the Bureau's hierarchy in Washington. Using the testimony of scores of survivors and Cline's own telegrams, letters and reports, the author paints a horrific picture of the devastation that descended on the City and Cline's own personal tragedy.

The book was reviewed very favorably by the assembled members, meriting a score of 3.6 out of 5. The majority of commentors were impressed by the author's story-telling skills although some noted that the book dragged in parts and would have liked to have seen an afterward which described the lessons learned and follow-ups that resulted in a new understanding of the mechanics and paths of hurricanes and the introduction of new, improved warnings systems.

Next Month the group will be reviewing "Fatal" a novel by John Lescroart.

Larry McEwen

BOWLING

Bowling League

The 2021-2022 league started September 8, 2021. We meet every Wednesday at 10 AM at Clayton Valley Bowl. We have ten four-person teams. Spouses are welcome.

Please contact Dan Weller if you are interested in league and / or tournament bowling.

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://www.sirinc3.org/sirBowling/ . You can find tournament schedules, applications and results on the site.

Upcoming SIR Bowling Tournaments:

DATE LOCATION COMMENTS

Sept.28 Brentwood

Oct. 19 -20 Citrus Heights

ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN: Dan Weller 925-935-5510

[email protected]

ASSISTANT CHAIRMAN Rob Norris 925-788-6958 [email protected]

CAR ENTHUSIASTS

Fourteen Car Enthusiasts attended the Autos of Alamo Car show on September 9th starting with a dinner at Maguey’s Mexican restaurant. The show was larger than expected and had many different vehicles on display. Lots of memories realized. Live music and as usual, very interesting people to observe as well. Our September 19th outing at the Danville Concours d’Elegance brought disappointment as at the last minute we discovered that the show was cancelled, leaving us with a hole in our activity. Ray Pixton offered an alternate opportunity with a British themed show in Dixon, but many members had instantly modified schedules to find other opportunities. We are indeed a flexible group of guys. We plan to attend the Altamont Cruisers Nostalgia Day Car show in Livermore on Sunday, September 26th as our next outing opportunity. The group is attempting to catch up on outings due to our pandemic induced drought. The schedule of events will normalize to one per month soon. The next CE meeting will be Tuesday, October 5th, at 1 PM. We will meet at Round Table Clubhouse Pizza, 2960 Treat Blvd. Concord, CA (corner of Treat and Oak Grove). Arrive a little early to get your food and drink ordered prior to the meeting. Meetings last about an hour. Come join us and see what Car Enthusiasts is all about. If interested in joining the Car Enthusiasts Activity, please contact any of the folks listed below. Happy Motoring... Activity Chair - Chick Lowry - [email protected] Assistant Chairs: Tom Mohrman - [email protected] Bill Koski - [email protected] Tom Hodgson - [email protected]

Dan Weller Chairman

Chick Lowry Chairman

SIR


http://www.sirinc3.org/sirBowling/



/Users/stevemoore/Desktop/Hotline%20October/[email protected]





CHESS

Due to COVID-19 concerns at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center, the SIR Chess activity is temporarily suspended. We hope to resume our regular schedule in October.

It may be a good time to challenge our chess skills online through Chess.com or

a related chess site. Hope to see you next month.

([email protected]) or see the SIR Chess activity webpage.

COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY

As we went to press, there were no further “CAT” programs scheduled. If you know of someone who might have a subject to discuss, please let us know. One need not be an expert on a subject to be a presenter. They just have to do some research and report their findings to the group. If you have an interest in something “techie” and are willing to volunteer, please email us at:

[email protected]

Although there is nothing new to report, you may still view past slide shows and notes at the CAT web page: https://sirinc2.org/a16cat. Take a look. You may find something interesting!

NOTE: To attend our Zoom meetings, you will need to be on the CAT mailing list. A few days before each meeting, a Zoom web link is sent to the members on our list. If you're not already on our email list, please send an email request to: [email protected]

SIR Bill Phelon [email protected], 254-8338

BRIDGE RUBBER

We were happy to see more people in the second session. Due to the no-shows, Charlene Schulze and MaryAnn Spicer filled in to complete the third table. We are looking forward to more members showing up in October. The top players were Ron Rizzo, David Bushnell and Jim Sowell. All members are invited to our game. We meet at the Round Table Pizza, 1938 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. on the first

Thursday of each month. Lunch and social time is at 11:00AM. When lunch is finished we will start the game as close to noon as possible. Masks are required. Please answer my reminder email so that I can arrange full tables Rod Spicer, Chairman, 935-5306, [email protected] Al Welch, Co-Chair, 938-4131, [email protected] David Bushnell, Co-Chair, 838-3914, [email protected]

BRIDGE DUPLICATE 1

The Duplicate Bridge Group I continues their bridge playing on an on-line site called Trickster. The format consists of an eight team round robin tournament, with each team playing once a week. “Chicago” scoring is used with no credit for honors. The Trickster site offers a video connection and most players are using it. It is proving to be a great way to stay in touch. The group has completed 3 tournaments

since the pandemic has forced play to be online. Tournament four started the week of March 1 If any SIR is interested in learning more about playing bridge on-line or joining in on our tournaments, please contact the chairman below.

Asst Chairman: Dick Long 925 274-1786 Asst Chairman: Jim Regan 925 418-4106

cards

Steve Schram Chairman

Bill Phelon Chairman

Rod Spicer Chairman

Bob Kahl Chairman



https://sirinc2.org/a16cat






COUPLES BRIDGE -

Couples Bridge will not have anything and will advise this Fall when we will resume.

(925) 429-1756 or [email protected]. or Ken Main at [email protected] or (925) 945-1065

CRIBBAGE

to 3:00pm. Please join us if you have played cribbage or would like to learn the game.

SEPTEMBER RESULTS: Don Atwater and Ray de Wit were tied in our Online Cribbage September Contest. To determine the winner, there was a one

game playoff played Ray won. Congrats to Ray. Don Atwater and Ray de Wit were tied in our Online Cribbage September Contest. To determine the winner there was a one game playoff and Ray won. Congrats to Ray.

Chairman Ron Draper: [email protected]

Asst. Chairman, Dan Smith [email protected]

PINOCHLE

GOOD NEWS!

Pinochle restarted with in-person play Wednesday, June 23! We began with a training session for those who haven’t played in a year and a half. Even those who played on-line this past year will need to be reacquainted as the computer did all the counting for us. This Pinochle group is a multi-branch activity open to women. We meet twice a month at Rocco’s Pizza, 2909 Ygnacio

Valley Rd., Walnut Creek (in the Encina Grande shopping center near Whole Foods) to play 3, 4, 5, or 6-handed pinochle. We play starting at 1:00 for two hours on the second and fourth Wednesdays. Lunch starts at 12:00 noon for those that are interested. Beginners are welcome as are partners of members. We provide instruction as requested, and most beginners learn within the first session. Before the pandemic, we were getting 10 to 16 participants. We have plenty of room for new people. Please contact Chairman Stan Johnson if you will be attending so we can get adequate space from Rocco’s. We plan to have our own private room. Of course, everyone must be fully vaccinated and sign the waiver form. Stan Johnson, Chairman, 925-938-7016, [email protected]

POKER

PLAYERS WANTED, COME JOIN US FOR

POKER!

It’s Poker Time! A few of the Poker groups are starting to play. Everyone

had a smile under their mask. We do have a few openings. Please contact Ron Draper or Dan Franklin if you would like to join us. Ron Draper 939-5740 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Dan Franklin 310-4900 [email protected]

George Schulze Chairman

Ron Draper Chairman

Stan Johnson Chairman

Ron Draper Chairman

WELCOME BACK EVERYONE The Cribbage Group meets on the first Wednesday and third Tuesday of each month. We meet at the Round Table Pizza at 1938 Oak Park Blvd. in Pleasant Hill. Hours of play are 1:00 pm to to 3:00pm. Please join us if you have played cribbage or would like to learn the game. SEPTEMBER RESULTS:

September 1st – 11 players

1st Place Terry Mason 183 pts

2nd Place Dan Smith 177 pts

3rd Place Don Atwater 168 pts

4th Place Bud Grisanti 154 pts

Bonus round Terry Mason – 21 pts

September 21st – 11 players

1st Place Don Atwater 187 pts

2nd Place Ron Draper 129 pts

3rd Place Rod Spicer 126 pts

4th Place Bud Grisanti 125 pts

Bonus round Ron Draper – 24 pts


mailto:[email protected].








DANSIRs No new report for October. 925 787-7726

[email protected] Ass’t: Russ Anderson 925 783-4630 [email protected]

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

At our September meeting, we enjoyed a wide variety of “Bird” photos. Although this assignment meant we would likely need to leave the house to accomplish it, finding birds while “self-distancing” would not appear to be a problem. Birds, after all, can be found in the wild. Nonetheless, most members relied on their film library, rather than going hunting. The subject

matter really did not leave too much room for creativity, but Wick’s bird balloon photo illustrated that it was still possible! He also had a photo of a “stink” bird – a for real bird variety! A few bird photos that were memorable: Sal showed us a “celebrity” Mallard. Steve had a black and white crow. Zebi found a Heron in a bush, and Bill showed us a “Red-footed Booby (not to be confused with the Blue-footed variety) As usual, all in all a very good bunch of photos were presented.

For our October 15th meeting we will be getting back to some fundamentals of photography Using Rules of Composition. Dave Davis has already provided us with some study material on “composition to guide us through the assignment Although we’re now open to “in-person” gatherings, the Digital Photo group continues holding "virtual" meetings via Zoom. Once the membership feels comfortable with returning to in-person meetings, we will begin the process of finding volunteer hosts and (when available) scheduling the Ygnacio library branch for gatherings. At the present time, however, the group shows no big rush to return to in person meetings giventhat the Ygnacio library is closed until “sometime in the fall” and the Delta Covid variant is running rampant. Regardless of where held, our meetings are scheduled for the third Friday of the month beginning at 10:00 AM (again, next meeting is the 15th of October). Photo group members will be sent a Zoom link (maybe even the day before the meeting!). Any SIR Branch 8 member interested in digital photography should contact the chairman to be placed on our email list. And remember, guests are always welcome! Bill Phelon, Chair Dave Davis, Vice Chair [email protected] [email protected]

254-8338 (lv msg) 838-1753

DOMINOES

925-381-5486 [email protected]

Co-Chairman: Alan Schulze 925-876-7537 [email protected]

MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOES

Mexican Train Dominos is experimenting with an on-line Mexican Train which allows you to pick the players you want. Currently Bill Peterson, Larry Mersmann, Don Atwater and myself have played games on Friday afternoon starting at 1:00pm. Easy to figure out, but a little different in the rules we played under. MORE TO COME….

Chairman: Danny Rinaldi 825-0519

[email protected]

Asst. Chairman: Terry Norton 798-6023 [email protected]

BARGAIN BITES

WE ARE BACK!! We sent out a brief survey in mid- September and received a 35% response. (which is good) Of that number, over 75% indicated they felt it was not too soon to start up. They would attend an outdoor event in October, and they also would attend an

indoor event. The same group felt we should not wait until next year to start up. Based on these results, and other input, we have arranged to hold our first Bargain Bites event since January 2020. Hard to believe but mark your calendars. On Tuesday, October 19 there will be a Bargain Bites event at Maguey Mexican Restaurant in Alamo. It will be on their outdoor patio. We will

John Sutton Chairman

Dan Rinaldi Chairman

Bill Phelon Chairman

Ron Smith Chairman

DINING DINING









be starting at 5PM. Watch for the e-mail with sign-up details, including menu selections, prices, etc. Seating will be limited. As you know, the SIR membership data base has been updated to include vaccination records for each member and his wife/partner. Any member signing up to attend a SIR function will automatically be reviewed and if his vaccination records are not current, they will not be allowed to attend. Further, state rules will be in effect at that time and all attendees will be required to show proof of vaccination and photo ID upon entering. More on this later. Remember- the motto of Bargain Bites - - Good Food! Good Price! Good Friends! And guests are always welcome. This is a really good event to invite friends to introduce them to SIR but do it early as we often fill up. If you would like to be placed on the Bargain Bites e-mail list, just send a note to [email protected] and say, “Place me on the Bargain Bites List”. Include your name. You will receive personal e-mails in advance of the Hotline. Again, thanks for your interest and wonderful support. It makes the effort worthwhile. [email protected] Asst. Chair: Ron Maciak 357-8005 [email protected]

DINE IN #1

We opened with a bang. Our restart was on Sept 18 on Ron Cassano's patio. Executive Chef, Ron Masiack set the tone for our Greek dinner. We dined on grilled Turkey, Spinach & Feta cheese patties, topped with taziki. Sides included: couscous, salad, pita, hummus, marinated olives. We ended with a terrific Hungarian strudel. A great selection of appetizers, wine and beverages were available to add to the festivities. Thanks to all for a great

evening. Our next event in Nov. will be hosted by the Smiths'. [email protected].

DINE IN #3

No new report for October.

(925) 289-1265 or [email protected]

DINE IN #4

Dine-in #4 has been getting together for cocktails every other Friday afternoon

(via Zoom). All the guys seem to enjoy it because everyone has been there every time. It’s a good way to keep in touch, and we compare notes on where we have been, where we are, and where we’re going. Of course, we look forward to getting together in person.

[email protected]

DINE OUT #1

No new report for October.

[email protected], (925) 945-1065

DINE OUT - SINGLE SIRS

Tuesday, October 5th we will be dining at a new location for our group. Host Bill Barber has selected the Cheesecake Factory 1181 Locust Street in Walnut Creek. Outside dining has been arranged for our 5:00 p.m. arrival. Here is the menu for those that enjoy studying the choices in

Ron Cassano Chairman

Rich Cheney Chairman

Roger Lamm Chairman

Ken Main Chairman

Glenn Gilman Chairman SIR










advance: https://menu.thecheesecakefactory.com/ca/walnut-creek-146/

Last month nine of us bid farewell to Mt Lucky’s as they are making a change in ownership. Believe we had the dining room all to ourselves as we shared interesting conversations with one another while enjoying a variety of dinners. Thanks to Stan Hennessey for hosting the event,

If you are single at dinner time and wish to join the guys for dinner on the first Tuesday of the month, let Chairman Glenn know and a seat will be saved for you. Separate checks ensure each pays for his own meal.

Glenn Gilman, Chairman 798-155 [email protected]

Don Atwater, Asst. Chairman 673669 [email protected]

Bill Barber, Host 222-0095 bill [email protected]

MIXER

The

Mixers group is back, and our first face-to-face meeting is at 3:00 pm on July 27th at Sauced on Locust in Walnut Creek (formally the Pyramid Alehouse). We look forward to future monthly get-togethers, scheduled for the last Tuesday of the month. Contact Ray

de Wit for information or to reserve a spot. All are welcome, so watch for subsequent information on the time and date.

SIRS IN THE

KITCHEN

Well, there goes September, and now it's on to October. EC Ed and Ms Donna head for three weeks in Maui at the end of the month; maybe we can get a luncheon going in mid-October? If so, we'll announce it to our members.

Everything is dependent on EC Ed's health and the COVID status in our community. Who knows? Should things change, maybe our brain trust of Executive Sous Chefs Ron M. and Thom and I can figure something out; so, stay tuned.

Remember, Sirs in the Kitchen has 100's of recipes of all types. Get one or a dozen asking EC Ed at his email, [email protected]. Fall is almost upon us, so spruce up that weekly menu. Ed Benson, Executive Chef

FISHING - AREA 16 All SIR members and guests are welcome, and indeed encouraged, to participate in fishing trips as well as attend the monthly meetings. Contacts are Ron Lew 925-550-4166 and Carl Moyer 925-685-5243. Next meeting will be at the Legends restaurant at the Diablo Creek golf course

on Port Chicago Highway and Highway 4 on Thursday, October 28th at 8:30am.

Drought has stopped all our inland fishing because the lakes and streams are so low, but luckily, we have an ocean nearby and it has saved the day. Rich Fiscina caught a huge 35-pound salmon on his boat. Harry Sherinian caught a nice one on Ron Lew’s boat, and a few of us caught the red meat on Party Boats. Rock fishing has been terrific. Brion Beetz chartered the Sea Wolf boat for 19 of us, and we loaded it with rock cod and ling cod. Stan Wong, Pedro Contreras, Steve Paulick, and Ben LaSala got on a long-range boat from San Diego and caught yellowfin tuna over 100 lbs., and smaller yellowtail. Tom Kostik went up north to the Klamath river where he fished for salmon, catching 3. He also got some black bass from the delta, but said it was slow.

FOREIGN FILMS

Nothing new to report.

[email protected]

Ray De Wit Chairman

Ed Benson Chairman

David Bushnell Chairman

Carl Moyer Chairman

SIR


https://menu.thecheesecakefactory.com/ca/walnut-creek-146/

https://menu.thecheesecakefactory.com/ca/walnut-creek-146/






GOLF - 9 HOLES

The 9-hole golf group is in full “swing” every Weds. AM at Diablo Hills Golf Course. Following is a summary of recent play: September 1st, 2021 11 golfers teed off today starting at 9:00

AM at Diablo Hills Golf Course on beautiful morning for golf. The event contest as selected by Mike Frey, this month’s Starter, was closest to the hole on the 4th hole. Roger Lockwara won the event with a 19’, 2“ shot and Roger went on to sink the “par” putt. Mike Frey recorded the low round of the day with a “40”… just nudging out Ray de Wit who recorded a “41’’. The group recorded 19 pars and Rich Knowles recorded the second birdie of the day. September 8th, 2021 11 golfers teed off today starting at 9:00 AM at Diablo Hills Golf Course on “warm” morning for golf. The group welcomed Stan Hennessy for his inaugural round of the year…welcome back Stan. The event contest as selected by Rich Knowles, this month’s co-Starter, was closest to the hole on the 3rd hole. Ray deWit won the event with a 14’, 7“ shot and who then went on to 3 putt for a bogey….Ray !!!!. Dan Crowley who is back from minor hand surgery, recorded the low round of the day with a very nice “37”. The group recorded 19 pars a year high number of pars and Roger Lockwara and Ray deWit birdies of the day. Come join us for a round of golf. Mike Frey, Chair: [email protected] 925/699-1784, Phil Philpot, Asst. Chair: [email protected] Frank Kilarr, Asst. Chair: [email protected]

GOLF 18 Our Club Champion is Buddy May. Congratulations Buddy. With scores of 80 & 82 (combined 162) was enough to do the job. Stan Johnson is our Net Champion with scores of 93 &105, (33 index) for a total of 132, Congratulations Stan. Our “Annual” Golf Outing after being

postponed three times FINALLY came to be a reality. Our stay was at the Carmel Mission Inn with play at Old Del Monte and Laguna Seca golf courses. Our banquet was held at the Rio

Grill. As the golf was played on September 20-22, a full report will be in our November Hotline article. The 18-Hole Golf Committee has a new member as Frank Bosworth has taken on the duties Tournament Director. Watch out for new and exciting tournaments in 2022. Welcome Frank. A recent study found the average golfer walks about 900 miles a year. Another study found golfers drink, on average 22 gallons of alcohol a year. That means, on average, golfers get about 41 miles to the gallon. Kind of makes you proud. Almost feels like a hybrid. Bill Koski [email protected] 925 672 7650 Buddy May [email protected], 925 833-6098

9 HOLE MIXED LEAGUE GOLF

The 9 Hole Mixed League Golf Group held their first tournament of 2021. Three teams participated in the Scramble Event and amazingly all finished within 2 strokes of each other. A tribute to the close matching of the teams. There was a winner of course and that was the team of Dan Crowley, Paul Derby, Mardi Lockwara and Bob Olson.

Second place finish was the team of Gordon Batesole, Stan Johnson, Joe Dell’Orfano and Daphne Olson. And, bringing up third place, was Frank Kilarr, Roger Lockwara, Marilyn Steichen and Margaret Batesole.

We finished the tournament with a fine lunch at the Greenery restaurant at the Diablo Hills Golf Course. Our next tournament will be a 4 person, 2 best ball event held later in the year. Our next regular play event will be on July 8, at Diablo Hills Golf Course at 9:30 am. Hope you will join us using our on-line sign up.

The new SIR 9-Hole Mixed League Golf is open to all SIR members, spouses/partners and their guests. We encourage all interested members to contact our chairperson for any additional information you might need. It is not necessary to have a handicap to play with our group. We play for FUN.

Our games are of the 9-hole variety and played on the 2nd Thursday of each month, usually at Diablo Hills Golf Course at 9:00 or 10:00 am depending on time of year. We also try to have at least one event during the year where we travel to an area away from our home base staying overnight and playing one round of golf on arrival and one more round the next day. This fun filled venue usually includes an arrival party, informal dinner and lunch the next day before heading home. Towards the end of the year, we typically have a “celebration” dinner at a local venue.

Mike Frey Chairman

David Platter Chairman

Gordon Batesole Chairman








The usual golf format is individual play; however, we vary the format occasionally with games such as Scrambles and Best Ball.

You may sign up to play using our online sign-up page: The link is: www.sirbr8.com/sign-up-to-play/

Our objective is to have fun, meet with old and new friends and enjoy a meal together usually

at the Greenery Restaurant at the Diablo Hills Golf Course. You may contact any participating member if you have questions or concerns or need additional information. We look forward to welcoming new members, and no matter what the score– we surely do have fun!! A nicer group of golfers could not be found!!

To join our Mixed League group please send your names and email address to Chairman Gordon Batesole (Email address below). You will receive all announcements and sign-up information by email. Chairman: Gordon Batesole: [email protected] 1989 Asst.Chair¬man: Bob Olson [email protected] :

MODEL TRAINS

The Model Railroad activity is still alive – it is just on hiatus due to the pandemic. We will not build stuff together until after the pandemic is officially declared over. Meanwhile we can share via email if we want. Let me know of anything you want to share with the Model Railroad Group and I will send it around via email.

[email protected]

PICKLE BALL

We have been having lots of SIRs and guests turning out for Pickleball recently, and the fun has increased now that we are back to playing doubles. We seem to get new faces each time we meet. Pickleball is keeping us young and fit. And it provides fun and laughter! Join us!

We meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. From now

on we will be starting at 8:30 a.m. Location is Willow Pass Community Park in Concord. New to the game? You will pick it up in no time!

[email protected] 925-719-2504

PODCASTS

In September the Podcast Activity listened to and discussed podcasts about the new science around aging, what it takes to be a good biographer, and the life of Leonardo Da Vinci. Come and join us on Zoom. Check out the

Branch 8 website to see what we are listening to now. Think of the activity as a book club for those with short attention spans. We meet twice monthly on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Contact Rich Knowles for information about meeting time and date

(Zoom links). Rich Knowles (925) 370-6239 [email protected].

SIRS AT THE GAMES

Sirs at the Games is back for baseball! The pennant races are heating up, and we have great seats for the action.

We have an outing to see the Oakland A's. Tony LaRussa, the A's former manager, will bring his new team, the Chicago White Sox, to the Oakland Coliseum on Thursday afternoon, September 9. The White Sox are leading their division, and the A's are in contention in the American League West. We have arranged for a group

ticket discount for seats in the shade in the Plaza Infield section.

Rich Knowles Chairman

Nick Maufe Chairman

Rich Knowles Chairman

Steve Schramm Chairman

SIR


http://www.sirbr8.com/sign-up-to-play/







We are also beginning discussions with the Golden State Warriors for a SIR Branch 8 group to visit the Chase Center in San Francisco before the end of 2021.

Please contact Steve Schramm if you would like to reserve

tickets for you and your guests. Steve's email is

[email protected])

SIRS IN THE GARDEN

SIG, follows Branch 8 Community Outreach 2021 effort now underway to demonstrate that SIR can be a good community sharing partner. We will meet at The Gardens at Heather Farms with the Garden Manager, Jere Peck, who will offer various tasks which we will help with. We will encourage all volunteers to wear SIR Logo Apparel: a Hat, Shirt, Jacket, or a SIR logo Cov-19 Mask. Meetings for Garden assignments will be held on Wednesdays to start. Time of volunteering: 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Afterward, those of us who want to meet for lunch can gather at The Greenery, across the street from the garden. Wives & Partners are welcome to join in and attend and learn together with you. All will receive good garden guidance from a first-rate, well-educated Horticultural, hands-on Gardening professional. You will learn: Pruning, Planting, Composting, Hybrid, and Bare Root Rose trimming, plenty of "How to maintenance," about Hemerocallis Daylillies, Succulents, Ground Covers, Watering and Fertilizing benefits, and more! You can participate in the trendy and well-attended Plant Sales event even Pick up bargains for your own gardens! Get out into the Sun and the Fresh air in a beautiful garden setting admired and visited by thousands of Contra Costa residents throughout the year. Contact: Chair Tom Mohrman: [email protected] OR Co-Chair: Tony de Losada: [email protected]

HEADS-UP WALKERS

We walk every Thursday morning at 9:30 AM. We walk for one hour and then go for coffee and snacks. 9/30/2021: Lafayette: Lafayette Reservoir. Entrance on Mt. Diablo Blvd., about 1 mile west of Happy Valley Rd. Meet at the EAST (far left) end of metered parking lot. Bring 8 quarters or use a VISA or Master Card. Cafe: Noah's New

York Bagels. Leader: Stan Johnson 10/7/2021: Walnut Creek: C.C. Canal Heather Farm. Meet at the Heather Farm parking lot at the far North end of San Carlos Dr. Cafe: Sweet Affair Bakery. Leader: Steve Pierce 10/14/2021: Moraga: Lafayette / Moraga Trail SMC staging area. Meet at the staging area on St. Mary's Road approx. 1/10th mile north of the entrance to St. Mary's College. Cafe: Starbucks Moraga. Leader: Steve Schramm 10/21/2021: Lafayette: Lafayette / Moraga Trail. School St. staging area. Take Mt. Diablo Blvd. to Moraga Road. Turn left on School Street. The trail head is just past the middle school. Cafe: Noah's New York Bagels. Leader: Stu Harris 10/28/2021: 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: Lunardi's Market. Leader: Terry Mason 11/4/2021: Orinda: Tilden Regional Park, Inspiration Point. Exit Hwy 24 at Orinda, north on Camino Pablo (~2 mi.), left on Wildcat Canyon Rd., (~2 mi.) to Inspiration Point parking lot on the right. Cafe: Geppetto's Cafe. Leader: Terry Norton ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN: Dan Weller 925-935-5510 [email protected] ASSISTANT CHAIR: Dave Morse 925-938-3078 [email protected] ASSISTANT CHAIR: Jim Kawal 925-228-8821 [email protected]

Dan Weller Chairman

Tony De Losada Tom Mohrman Co-Chairmen

SIR








SIR HIKERS There are two hikes in October. More information for interested hikers will appear on the hiker’s webpage at https://www.sirbr8.com/hikers/.

Easy Hike, October 12, 2021: Rosie the Riveter National Park and Richmond Marina

A 4.50 mile very flat hike (no elevation gain) from the Rosie the Riveter Visitor

Center, Richmond along the waterfront of the Richmond Marina to the Rosie the Riveter Memorial in Marina Bay Park and onto the Shimada Friendship Park via peninsular drive before looping back around to the Memorial Park and re-tracing our steps to the Visitor Center. Hiking poles will not be needed. The whole walk is along the side of the bay with great views over to San Francisco and Oakland. There are frequent restrooms along the route and people can visit the national park visitor center if they wish, as well as read various information posters along the route. Lunch will be taken at a local restaurant overlooking the Marina.

Hike Leader: Dan Kohlman 925-406-9864

Hard Hike October 26, 2021: Acalanes Ridge North and South, Walnut Creek.

A 5.50 mile hike with an 1500 feet cumulative ascent. The hike

starts on the Briones - Mt. Diablo Trail then connects to the Camino Verde trail, skirts the Ridge Top trail to the Concrete Arrows.

• We will make our way to the Concrete Arrows used in the 1920's to guide the US Postal Service airplanes. These markers with beacon lights were spaced across the USA about 10 miles apart to guide the

pilots. They are no longer in use but remain as a marker from 100 years ago.

• This is a Hard hike. There is some loose gravel.can be mostly avoided.

Hike Leader: Ron Kosich 925-683-5354

October Coordinator: Mike Spink, 317-459-9878, [email protected] Hiking Chairman: Martin Simmons, (925) 586-2704, [email protected]

SUMS IN RETIREMENT

We will again join Branch 128’s (San Ramon) Investment Group for their 4th Wed, October 27, Zoom meeting at 1:30 PM.

The topic will be announced. Zoom instructions will be sent out later to those on the email list.

Chair - Tom Henry - Branch 174 [email protected]

Co-chair Dave Sutton - Branch 8 - [email protected]

TRAVELING SIRS

A trip is being planned for Branch 8 Sirs and their families: Bourbon, Bridles & Bluegrass. Trip includes roundtrip airfare to Louisville returning from Nashville, 8-day guided tour with a tour Manager from

arrival in Louisville to departure from Nashville, tour of Churchill Downs, UNESCO world Heritage site, tour of Great Smokey Mountains National, The trip features nine nights of first class accommodations, including: breakfast daily, two lunches and two dinners. All gratuities are included. The Trip dates are: September 16 to-24, 2021. Call Larry Yarberry for more info. [email protected] (925) 890-9245

BARGAIN WINES We are currently in limbo with respect to any wine tasting venues. Those that were ready have had to pull back due to the newest delta virus. I will continue to look at other possibilities once back from some travels at the end of September. Jim Warner, Chairman, 457-9979 Assistant: Dennis Mierzwa, 938-5343

Martin Simmons Chairman

Dave Sutton Co-Chairman

Larry Yarberry Chairman

Jim Warner Chairman


https://www.sirbr8.com/hikers/






WINE CELLAR FILLERS

CFWA is open to members, applicants, and guests and is a great way to introduce a guest to SIR. It is the only SIR wine activity that is not co-ed. We meet for a simple lunch of sandwiches and fixin's, then taste 5 whites and 5 reds or an occasional blush wine. Our price point is $7.00-ish, and

the cost of the event is around $10.00, depending on the wines selected and how many attend. A report listing the wines, their rankings, price and source will be sent to the CFWA members, and posted on the Branch 8 website. We also have an informal purchasing committee that buys the wine, usually on Wednesday before the usual Friday of the tastings. The chair and assistant chair, aided by anyone desiring to be involved, buy the wine. [email protected], (925) 939-4670 or (925) 457-7746 cel Scott Graff, Ass't Chair, [email protected], (925) 552-6097

WINE FINDERS 1

October Tasting is Just Around the Corner You read it correctly. On Thursday, October 14, 2021, we will hold our third live and in person tasting for the 2021 season. The event will take place at the home of Tom and Connie Hodgson. No carriage rides included but it will still be a nice evening. They have picked Cabernet Sauvignon as the varietal that we will be

tasting. They should be Northern California from local vintners in Contra Costa, Sonoma or Napa County. If you are a member of Wine Finders 1, watch for the e-mail announcing the starting time, directions to the Hodgson's ranch and more. Remember, you have to be vaccinated and registered with SIR in order to attend a SIR function. If you don't belong to Wine Finders 1, but are interested in finding out more about our tastings, etc. Just drop Ron Smith or Tony de Losada, an email and one of us will get back to you. CHEERS!! Ron Smith, Chair [email protected], 925-314-3066

Tony de Losada, Asst. Chair, [email protected]

WINE FINDERS 2 We are back! Had our first tasting since February 2020. Kargs hosted. We sampled Calif Zins. The wines ranked very close and the winner was The Federalist Zin brought by Stephen Deness, Second place was our Joe Karg, 2016 Campus Oaks Old Vine Zin. We enjoyed great food and conversation. The Meier's had us in hysterics telling us about their experience in trying to visit their son in the UK. They thought they had the Covid test done correctly.

However, the bureaucrats at Heathrow thought otherwise. They were quarantined for 10 days and paid a fine of $850 each. They had to retest to be released. That was a further disaster. Suggestion, do not travel to the UK. We enjoyed gathering again and seeing old friends was great. Next gathering is August 12. Ron Cassano, Head Wino [email protected] (925) 944-1238

WINE FINDERS 3

After over a year's hiatus, Winefinders III finally reconvened at Kathy & Larry McEwen's home on June 17 to sample Sauvignon Blancs. Driven inside by 90 degree temperatures, 11 members and guests were treated by the hosts to a selection of pallet cleansers of 9.5% alcohol Vinho Verdes from Portugal while the hosts got things organized. New SIRS member Jeffrey Peckham and his wife, Margo joined us for this event. The winning wine was a $6.99 Kirkland

Marlboro Sauvignon Blanc from Costco brought by Ed and Vicky Kirschner. Second Place was awarded to Leo and Gayle Dominguez's $4.99 Bay Moon from Trader Joe's. Plenty of goodies accompanied the tasting; particularly scrumptious were Vicky Kirschner's artichoke dip and Jim Sowell's camprese salad. Dessert consisted of chocolate cake topped with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge. Our next meeting will occur in August at a yet-to-be-decided place. provision. [email protected]

Ron Smith Chairman

Ron Cassano Chairman

Larry McEwen Chairman

Jim Sowell Chairman

SIR









WOODPECKERS

At the September Woodpeckers’ meeting, we looked over and discussed the plans – sent to the members last month for our new project: an End Table made from 2x4s. (see photo).

The members agreed that each one will make their own table in order to be able to put their own special touches on their table. Bob Wheaton got a head start as he had already purchased the 2x4s and cut some of them. The guys helped him sand some of the parts. By the next meeting, the guys will have purchased their materials and start making their own sawdust. Be on the lookout for revealing photos. [email protected]

WRITING YOUR

LIFE STORY.

WYLS (Writing Your Life Story) will continue to meet via Zoom on the 4th Tuesday of every month. From 1:00 till 2:30 PM. Prior to the meeting each of us writes a short story about something interesting that occurred in our past. Or often we write about something that is going on

currently. We hope these stories will answer some of the questions our kids and grandkids may have about us some day in the future. During the meeting we share our stories, have some good laughs and talk about how each other’s stories have triggered some memories about something in our past that we will write about.

Please contact SIR Tom Hodgson

[email protected] or call 925-818-1533 for more information or to join the group. 925-818-1533.

Thom Watkins Chairman

Tom Hodgson Chairman

HOW BILL SEES IT:

The Roman Numeral for forty (40) is XL. Coincidence?

(SIR Bill Phelon)

SIR





HOTLINE EDITORS

Dan Smith Steve Moore David Glazer

COORDINATOR

Chuck Joyce [email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

Rob Laback [email protected]

[email protected]

HOTLINE E-MAIL ADDRESS: [email protected]

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

PUBLISHER

Derek Southern [email protected]

WEB MASTER

SIR

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE








Senior resources



PHOTO

MONTEREY GOLF



Biography – Ron Cassano, Big Sir 2020 &2021

Born in Santa Rosa, Ca. A resident of Walnut Creek since 1969. Three daughters and four grandchildren. Married to Karen for 54 years until her death in 2018. Graduate of UC Berkeley with a BS in Accounting. Obtained CPA license in 1967, worked for small regional and national accounting firms. Established my own accounting practice in1978. Retired from my accounting practice in 2011 but I still maintain a current CPA license. Presently serving my sixth term as Walnut Creek City Treasurer. Served six years in the California National Guard. Joined SIR in 2008. Presently Chairman of Dine In #1 and Wine finders #2. Have been Branch 8 Assistant Treasurer, Treasurer, Little Sir and Big Sir. Also serving as State SIR Internal Auditor I have enjoyed my membership in SIR and look forward to many more years with you guys

Biography – Steve Schramm, Little Sir 2021

BIOGRAPHY

BRANCH 8 B.E.C.

Ron Cassano Bir Sir 2020 & 2021

Steve Schramm Little Sir

Growing up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin was quite an experience. We claimed to be the Bratwurst Capital of the World. No offense to all of the towns in Germany that made the same claim. My early years were filled with organized sports, high school debate, and eating a variety of local sausages. After a BA in Economics and a MS in Human Resources/Labor Relations at the University of Wisconsin, I relocated to California with PG&E in 1983. I held Human Resources positions in Fresno, Moss Landing, and San Francisco during my six years with PG&E. My HR career continued in the Bay Area with high tech and biotech companies. Leadership roles at these companies enabled me to work globally with regular trips to Europe for business and pleasure. My working career concluded with several project consulting roles primarily with PG&E. Since my retirement, I have completed two terms as a Planning Commissioner for the city of Pleasant Hill. My familiarity with local zoning regulations, development plans, and property rights has increased exponentially. Joining SIR Branch 8 was a natural as I enjoy golf, reading, walking, and many of the activities offered by our branch. My SIR experience has included roles as Little Sir (2019) and Big Sir (2020). Currently, I am Little Sir (again), and chairman of two activities, Sirs at the Games and Chess. I look forward to making additional contributions to our branch in the coming years. My wife, Kay, and I have been married for 34 years. We enjoy animals, and want to get another dog following a couple of years devoted to our travels. Kay is also very active, and volunteers at the Pleasant Hill Library Bookstore. We are hopeful that SIR Branch 8 will be part of our retirement picture for a long time to come.


BIG SIR COLUMN LITTLE SIR SEZ

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