SIR BRANCH 35

1970 - BRANCH 35 IS FORMED

During 1970,  Branch 5 in Palo Alto realized that its membership had grown so large as to be unwieldy and Big SIR Robbie Robinson appointed a committee of six to study the feasibility of forming an additional branch. This committee reported back favorably, and on November 18, 1970, by unanimous vote, it was decided to form Branch 35 in Los Altos.

Officers for the new branch, to be known as MISSION TRAIL were named by the Executive Board of Branch 5 to serve until local elections could be held. The officers were:

• Big SIR, Hal Orion
• Little SIR, Ed Bit
• Secretary, Al Miller
• Treasurer, Trevor Hodges
• Directors, Jack O'Brien and Max Blumfield
• 28 committeemen.

A charter was issued at the September, 1971 meeting of Branch 35 after six months of meeting on a probationary status. The first official meeting of MISSION TRAILS BRANCH was held at Pieracci's Restaurant in Los Altos on March 16, 1971. The cost of lunch was $3.00 and drinks were $.75. Big SIR Hal Orion, although appointed to the post by Branch 5, was subsequently elected to the office by Branch 35 and served with distinction throughout the first full year of our Branch. In the words of George Green, former Historian, "We are profoundly indebted to, and deeply appreciative of SIR Hal's untiring efforts and devotion to SIRS, for it was to a great extent due to his efforts that the Branch grew and prospered so well." At the March, 1971 meeting Ed bolt, Little SIR, contributed our emblem,the beautiful drawing which represents MISSION TRAILS. Every line of this drawing is meaningful and appropriate: the rolling California hills, the semi-tropical vegetation — eucalyptus and palm; a well constructed adobe mission with bells and crosses; the snoozing native; the pack burro; and last but not least, the long-strided walk of the ROOSTER! Even Orion's belt constellation shows in the sky. Thanks also to CompuSIR member Bob Simon , who colorized the drawing. Fitz Fitzpatrick, former "Trail Tips" Editor, composed the music and lyrics for our theme song, 'Mission Trails":

Mission Trail, Mission Trail, you're the way,
Guiding light to a bright, happy day.
You're the high road to pleasure, fellowship, too.
And forever we'll treasure our memories of you.

Mission Trail, Mission Trail, from the start,
You belong to the song in our heart.
And though we may roam, we know you won't fail
To lead us back home, Mission Trail.

Charter Day, September 21, 1971, was an outstanding day for Branch 35. There was a capacity crowd with many dignitaries from the State Board and our sponsoring Branch 5. There were also guests from other branches, and Mayor Hansen of Los Altos honored us with his presence.

The speaker for the day was Austin D. Warburton, a native Californian and historian. Having antecedents who dated back to several noted early-day California families, he put a lot of meaning into "Mission Trail" and told the group of some of the salient historical events that occurred in this area. He received a standing ovation following his fine presentation.

Membership Chairman, Wendell Grubb, reported that Mission Trail membership was 150. These became the Charter Members of Branch 35. The list of Charter Members is attached. There are seven Charter Members living in this area, the first five of whom are active. They are: Elvis E. Frapwell, Edward H. Schnitker, Alec C. Matthews, George A. Gillespie (our Trail Bird's pianist), Leslie R. Beebe, Peirce Warrington and Henry Brawn. When asked what they enjoyed most about SIR their comments were as follows:

"Fellowship, meeting new people every meeting since old friends were mostly gone.
"Everything! Speakers, Christmas parties, golf."
"Enjoyed every single meeting very, very much. Great group of men. Enjoy playing piano for Trail Birds."
"Fellowship, meals, Trail Birds. Wonderful organization.

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30th ANNIVERSARY

Big Sir Sez

On this very special occasion of our 30th anniversary we should take time to reflect on our Branch's history and good fortune. Thirty years ago this Branch was founded on the belief that we could form a Branch dedicated to the social needs for retired men from all walks of life. To that extent we have succeeded. We have formed and promoted a Branch that has spawned spin-off activities in Golf, Bridge, Bowling, Fishing, Travel, Tennis, Singing, andComputer. All of these activities are managed by volunteers who, like myself, are looking for something constructive to get involved in after retirement. The last page of our newsletter, Trail Tips, lists over 45 of our members who unselfishly contribute their time and talents. That's what makes it work so well. Our Luncheon meetings are well attended and professionally run; our food service has been very good and, despite obstacles, we have held the price at thirteen dollars. We run our organization, which is somewhat like a small corporation on a twenty five dollar yearly contribution from our members. That, in itself, is commemorative considering the area in which we live. All of this has been accomplished by the past and present Executive Board, Staff, and Activities Chairmen. It is for all the above reasons that I am proud to be a member of SIR and, in particular, to Branch 35. I have watched previous Big Sir's and their committees struggle and solve various issues so when I took office I inherited a well founded and well run organization. I'm convinced that our Branch is one of the best, if not the best, in the State. We have much to be proud of and I see no reason why we can't continue to succeed in the years to come.

Dick Peacock
Big SIR, Branch 35

Commemorative Song

To SIR tables, food, and speakers,
To the branch called Mission Trail.
To that dear old Elks Lodge bar we love so well,
Sing the Trailbirds all assembled
With their voices straining high,
And the magic of the stretch songs casts its spell.
Yes the magic of SIR singing
Of the songs we love so well,
"Happy Birthday". "Live Life Over", "Mission Trail,"
We will serenade our members,
While golf and money last,
Then we'll pass and be forgotten with the rest,
To Little/Big Sirs
Who have paved our way:
Rah! Rah! Rah!
To volunteer guys,
Whose parties made hay:
Rah! Rah! Rah!
Activities chairmen off on a spree,
Staff chairs too, to eternity,
All have praises from such as we:
Rah! Rah! Rah!

Commemorative Poem

Our Big SIR and his Rooster gang
High tailin' it, sittin' purty--
Caught speedin' on the Mission Trail,
Goin' like sixty, at thirty.

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Highlights

• 1971 Eight activities in full swing: Bridge, Golf, Trailbirds, Dominoes, Bowling,Lawn bowling, Shuffleboard and Fishing. Charter Day in September. Bronch 35 becomes official.
• 1972 Lunch price$3.25, drinks$.75, membership 172 in June.
• 1973 Stamp Club formed.
• 1974 January attendance 182. Branch 51 formed including ten members from Branch 35. Alec Matthews first member to score hole-in-one. Parodies being used to introduce speakers.
• 1975 Trail Birds sing for other groups. Music appreciation group formed. Golf has two tournaments a month.
• 1976 Lunch price $4.25. Membership 250.
• 1978 Lunch price $5.00. Christmas Party attendance over 400.
• 1979 Bridge get-together with 23 tables, 92 players. Invitation from Branch 5 to join trap shooting.
• 1980 Lunch price $7.00.
• 1981 Membership 300.
• 1982 Joint meeting with Branch 5. Speaker Robert A. Fuhrman, Chairman and President Lockheed Missiles.
• 1983 Lunch price $8.50.
• 1984 Lunch price $9.00.
• 1985 Twenty Charter members still active. Membership limit moved to 400 from 350.
• 1986 Membership 382. Lunch price $10.00.
• 1989 Hal Orion retired from active membership. Branch 35 retired his No. 1 badge. State proposal to expand southward was defeated.
• 1991 Lunch price $12.00, Moved meeting place to Elks Lodge.
• 1993 Hal Orion passed away February 11.
• 1994 George Gillespie and Stan Chernack made Life Members of Branch 35.
• 1995 John Stoddard and Don Lawson made Life Members of Branch 35.
• 1996 25th Anniversary celebration by the Branch. 1st year of Summer picnics.
• 1997 Carried out aggressive campaign against table and seat reservations.
• 1998 Dick Bray Big SIR
• 1999 Successfully accelerated programs to reverse membership decline. Established SIR Branch #35 Website: (www.sir35.org) Appointed Public Relations and Communications committee. Member's ladies invited to join us at annual Barbecue for first time.
• 2000 Lunch price $13.00 Outstanding Christmas party. Found Pete McDonough, caterer, for excellent food at a reasonable price. Elected George Fullmer as an Honorary Life Member. Voluntary contributions changed from monthly to annual. Golf program, our most popular activity, had a drastic and improved mode of operation.

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Speakers

• 1971 Norman Mineta Mayor-San Jose
• 1971 Wm. F. Knowland Publisher-Oakland Tribune
• 1972 G, K Wickham Dir. The Olympic Games
• 1974 G. Mardikan Mayor- San Francisco
• 1975 J. Bunzel Pres.-S. J. State Univ.
• 1975 W. Bortz M.D. Palo Alto Med. Fdn.
• 1976 Martin Anderson White House, Econ. Advisor
• 1977 Glen Campbell Hoover Inst., Exec.Dir.
• 1978 Al Carlson S.C. Co. Tax Assessor
• 1978 Bill Walsh Football Coach - Stanford
• 1979 Andy Doty Comm. Rel., Stanford
• 1980 Jerome Yesavage Stanford Medical School
• 1981 John J. Taylor Elec. Power Res. Inst.
• 1982 Stephanie Brown Stanford Clinics
• 1983 Sister Madeline Rose Holy Name College, Pres.
• 1984 Leonard Koppett Editor, P. A. Times Trib.
• 1985 D.B. Cook Monterey Co,. Sheriff
• 1986 Henry S. Rowen ` Hoover Institution Fellow
• 1986 Chauncey Starr Elec. Power Res. Inst. Pres.
• 1987 Ed Zschau Venture Capitalist & fmr U.S. Cngrssmn
• 1988 Tom Campbell Stnfrd Law School & St. Senator
• 1989 Condoleezza Rice Stanford Provost
• 1990 Rita Ricardo Hoover Institution
• 1991 Floyd Culler Elec.Pwr Rsrch Inst.Pres.
• 1992 Ginetta Sagan
• 1992 Chris Mathews S. F. Examiner-D.C. reporter
• 1993 Roger Noll Stanford-Economics
• 1994 Richard Henning Celebrity Forum-Foothill Coll.
• 1995 Brent Jones S. F. 49ers
• 1996 Chris Durken P. A. Police Dept. Chief
• 1997 Ted Lempert CA State Assemblyman
• 1998 John Ralston Stanford & S. J. State-Ftbll Coach
• 1999 Stan Chernak S.I.R. Longtime Program Chrmn
• 2000 Dave Mc Elhatten KPIX/Channel 5
• 2001 Richard Staar Hoover Inst.- Sr. Fellow
• 2000 programs
• 2001 programs
• 2002 programs
• 2003 programs
• 2004 programs
• 2005 programs
• 2006 programs
• 2007 programs
• 2008 programs
• 2009 programs
• 2010 programs
• 2011 programs
• 2012 programs
• 2013 programs (ytd)

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2000 - HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR

Year 2000 for Branch 35 was satisfying to its board and members as evidenced by its gain in membership. Growth in the active roll was from 341 to 363 against a normal attrition rate and in a down-trend for social organizations in general. Several challenges were met, and changes were made, through the year. Noteworthy items are outlined below.

• Palo Alto Elks’ Lodge, where Area 16 Branches meet, suddenly terminated luncheon service and accommodation for all of our meetings. Together with the other Branches, we contracted a caterer acceptable to Elks and capable of good service to our Branches at reasonable cost; and we negotiated continued use of the facility. The July bar-b-que and magnificent Christmas Lunch were handled in stride. We undertook the added cash handling responsibility and adapted to buffet service, with a buddy system for those who need table service.

• Branch 35’s emphasis upon membership growth, accelerated in 1999 by Big Sir Ned Banton, continued in 2000. Recognition and awards are given to sponsors. The indoctrination meeting for new members is constantly refined. And follow up to ensure friendly and comfortable assimilation into Branch is currently being emphasized. Five members brought in 22 new members, the leader being Bob Bernhardt with 10. The “new blood” shows signs of multiplying. Recent membership chairmen, nominated for their especially strong leadership qualities, have served diligently.

• Persistent complaints of “no available seat” appear to have been eliminated through announced policies watching for the “lost” and setting extra tables. We held fast to the policy allowing groups of friends to reserve seating together subject to specific considerations for others.

• For the second consecutive year, we invited wives and significant others to our July bar-b-que. Previously controversial, the expansion is very popular. Draught beer and pop were provided by the Branch.

• Our collection of voluntary contributions was changed from monthly to annual as of October 1. This change spreads the costs more equitably (many were forgetting make-up contributions), the monthly cash collection is eliminated from the meeting format, and the method is preferred by a large majority. We suggest $25/year.

• Our golf program, easily the most popular activity (besides Travel) in Branch 35, drastically changed its mode of operation. The impossible voluntary workload assumed by recent Chairmen Olie Hejnal and Bill Bremer was largely dispersed among golfers under the chairmanship of Ed McQuiston. The transition is working well. Our unique flexibility in scheduling, cancellation, and payment for play, for which a substantial fund is maintained, are sustained. An ongoing effort to speed play for better relations with courses and among our members appears to be succeeding.

• A new Honorary Life Member was nominated and approved, thanks to our achievement of 350+ members. George Fuilmer was nominated for his long and brilliant service as lyricist for our Trail Birds singing group. His unfailing and unique humor has been a joy to our members, and an agreeable surprise to our speakers, for many years.

Invited speakers were very generous, providing a series of highly informative and/or entertaining programs . Big Sir Gil Murray and Little Sir Dick Peacock were effective in securing commitments for some outstanding programs. Our December Christmas Party was outstandingly decorated and conducted by Ted Hatrack and entertained by the Main Street Singers

Our Y2000 Board of Directors for Branch 35 were:

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2001 History

Our Y2001 Board of Directors and partial staff for Branch 35 were:

Year 2001 for our Branch 35 turned out to be a good year satisfying both the Executive Board and the general membership. Even though we had a high rate of attrition we were inducting 6 to 10 members each month and as a result our membership increased to 374. This was primarily due to a strong membership program that was started a few years ago by Ned Banton and has been continually fined tuned. There were very few surprise issues this year that we had to deal with and all of our activity programs were well attended.

Our financial position remains strong and we did not have to ask for any additional contributions above the annual $25.00. A detailed budget was established at the beginning of the year and that allowed us to manage all of our expenditures and still have enough left over for some special items such as our new wireless microphone system.

Buck Kendrick has kept our membership program our number one focus and the most valued of all our efforts. In order to place the proper emphasis on membership we changed the “Membership chairman” to a “Director” and made that function part of the executive committee. We still use a two-pronged approach giving much attention and follow up to both the new members and their sponsors. The sponsor’s awards have grown to include free lunches, SIR watches and special recognition at the meetings. The new members are given opportunities to join all of our activities and personal follow up is done (by the Directors) to make sure all is well.

Our Fourth of July barbeque was a great hit thanks to Ted Hatrak and his committee (including his wife). The decorations, music, and members wives participation has now made this one of our yearly highlights with over 300 attending.

The most memorial meeting of the year (September) was not a regular meeting at all but rather a celebration of our 30th anniversary. Many of our past big Sirs helped in serving lunch and gave brief highlights of their turn as Big Sir. Ted Hatrak produced the program and published a commemorative booklet for all members. Our State President “Dwight Sale” attended our meeting and helped us celebrate.

Our most popular program still remains Golf. The Chairman Ed McQuiston has done a commendable job of organizing his committee and making the program so successful that almost every tournament during the entire year is sold out.

As always the driving highlights of our monthly meetings are our speakers. Our Little Sir, (now Big Sir) Leland Means did an outstanding job of finding speakers that were both educational, and entertaining.

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2002 History

Our Y2002 Board of Directors and partial staff for Branch 35 were:

The year 2002 ended on a note of sadness with the untimely death of our beloved Big Sir, Leland Means.The helm was taken over by Little Sir, Buck Kendrick, whose proven leadership will guide the Branch into and throughout the year 2003. The year 2002 went very well for us and our membership increased again , despite the current adverse trend for all other branches. We now have 387 active and 15 inactive members. Our financial position remains strong, and at year-end our net assets were $5147,exceeding the minimum of $4000 that is deemed appropriate. The branch continues to maintain bank accounts with Bank of America and the Bank of Los Altos.

Our speakers were excellent. Buck Kendrick did an outstanding job.

Our clubs and activities are keeping our members busy and happy. We are fortunate to have many members participating in Bowling, Compusir PC and Mac, Fishing, and last, but not least, Golf.

We must also be thankful for our singing Trail Birds, who work hard to bring extra fun to our meetings.

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2003

Our Y2003 Board of Directors and partial staff for Branch 35 are:

Under the leadership of Big Sir Buck Kendrick, Branch 35 started and ended the year 2003, healthy and thriving with great group spirit, active participation and fellowship. We are the largest branch with 381 active members and 14 inactive at the end of the year.We inducted 29 new members, but had a net loss of five from January, losing 34 members who resigned, transferred, dropped or died.

The branch's financial condition continues satisfactory, as in recent years. Annual contributions, reduced from $25 to $20, reached over $6,800 or 96%. Bank balance at year end topped $12,600, slightly lower than the two prior years due to the lower contributions and subsidy for the July BBQ. A highly successful Holiday Party, staged by the Executive Committee, was $373 under budget.

We started our meetings at the Palo Alto Elks lodge at a lunch cost of $15 and after due deliberations upgraded to Rickey's Hyatt at a cost of $17, later increased to $18. As a point of interest, Mission Trails Branch 35 held its first meeting at Pieracci Restaurant in Los Altos on March 16, 1971 at a lunch cost of $3 and drinks at $0.75.

The venue change to Rickey's brought a new dimension of contract negotiations to challenge Branch leadership. Big Sir Buck Kendrick, Little Sir Bob Bernhardt and Luncheon Host Bill Young spent many - stressful hours working through contract details and understanding constraints on the hotel and on the Branch. Rickey's would commit only the smaller Cardinal Room, withholding use of the favored Camino Ballroom on short (72 hours) notice. Accuracy in estimating the number attending luncheons became critical with no downward tolerance and Rickey's committing to only a five (5) percent upward swing. Menus were limited. Bill Young met several times each month with Rickey's catering manager in an effort to smooth out issues new to both Rickey's and the Branch.

Honorary Life Memberships were awarded at year end to Past Big Sirs Richard S. Bray (1998) and Ned S. Banton (1999). The presentations were made by State President Jim Faverman and Past State President Jim Wyatt, respectively. Dick has been a major contributor, often behind the scenes, to the branch golf committee, new member orientation, and to the Trail-Tips newsletter and roster preparation. Ned completed a three year term as Area 16 Governor this year and was elected Region 5 Director. He has served on the State SIR Growth and Management Committee and will chair the group in 2004.

Our Clubs and activities continue at a healthy pace and include Bicycling, Bowling, Compusir, Fishing, Golf, Singing, Tennis, and Travel. They keep our members active and entertained. Bicycling was added this year, under the leadership of Peter Barba.

Our speakers this year were outstanding. Bob Bernhardt, our Little Sir, selected, invited and introduced them.

In December, we enjoyed a flawless Holiday Party with 253 attending at Rickey's Hyatt. Chicken Chausser, Garlic Studded Pork Loin and a Vegetable Selection comprised the menu. Asst. Secretary Bob Simon was an excellent Master of Ceremonies. Background music was provided by the Rob Roman San Jose Jazz All stars while the Gunn High School Chamber Singers, under the Director Bill Liberatore entertained with an after-lunch concert of holiday music.

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2004

Our Y2004 Board of Directors and partial staff for Branch 35 are:

Under the leadership of Big Sir, Bob Bernhardt, Branch 35 was healthy and thriving in spite of a year of transition which included rising meal prices and a recently new venue. We relinquished our “Largest Branch in Sirs” honor with a current count of 339 active members and 26 inactive members. During the year we had 11 deaths, 38 resigned, and 3 transferred out, but added 49 new members for a net loss of 3.

The branch’s financial condition remains healthy as we enter the new year. We had an increase in contributions of $400 for the year, but also an increase in expenses of $1700. This was primarily due to the purchase of a digital video projector, costs of a special program, and higher guest expenses. Most of these special expenses will not likely repeat. Our bank balance of $10,700 includes a luncheon payment reserve for immediate payment to the caterer, and contributions from members for fiscal 2005.

Our club’s activities offer something for almost all interests. We have Bicycling, Bowling, Compusir, Fishing, Golf, Singing, Tennis, and Travel. Hiking, led by Ian Thomson, was started this year. All activities meet during each month, and most are well attended.

We moved next door to Rickey’s Hayatt facility from the Palo Alto Elks’Club in June 2003 because of unsatisfactory catering, and their property was for sale. During 2004 Rickey’s too, indicated their possible sale. Meanwhile the Elks reorganized and offered the return of our long favored caterer. We also learned their sale is far from imminent. We returned to Elks’ when Rickey’s could not accommodate us in November 2004, and will make the return permanent in 2005. Prices and business terms are much easier at Elks. We will actively seek other potential venues for the future, and are trying to plan how to deal with luncheon accommodations of our large branch in this expensive area.

Our Branch currently has 6 Honorary Life Members, the full allotment for our number of regular members. Big Sir Bob Bernhardt was acclaimed an outstanding Honorary Life Member this year.

We had another superb year of great speakers.

BIG SIR Bob Bernhardt brought in more new members to Branch 35 than all others combined. He became an Honorary Life Member during the year. He led Branch #35 with enthusiasm, humor, honor and dedication. Few knew until the end of the year that he was terminally ill. One of his spectacular accomplishments was arrangement for Scott Kirby’s Jazz Piano presentation at the November meeting, his final gift to the membership. He managed to smile through his pain in that last meeting. He passed away on November 29, 2004.

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2005

Our Y2005 Board of Directors are:

Under the capable leadership of Big Sir, John Mason, Branch 35 had another healthy year. 2005 marked a full year of our return to the Palo Alto Elk’s Lodge. We were at Rickey’s for 16 months and returned to the Elk’s in Nov 2004. In retrospect it may have been healthy for us to move. It opened our eyes to the difficulties of dealing with “for profit” organizations, and the problems of feeding our large group at a reasonable meal cost. We may still face those problems in the future, but for now our present arrangements are working well.

We have a current member count of 346 active members and 8 inactive members. During the year we had 6 deaths, 14 resigned and 1 transferred out, but added 38 new members for a gain of 8. Though no longer Branch 35 officers, we benefited from the help and guidance from Region 5 Director, Ned Banton, and Area 16 Governor Buck Kendrick. We have five members serving in State offices.

The branch’s financial condition remained healthy as we enter the new year. Our bank balance stands at $16,179, up $5458 from 2004. As a result we plan to reduce the monthly luncheon price from $18 to $17 in 2006. Contributions were down $1,933 from last year. Actions are taking place to assure that every member has an opportunity to contribute. The July picnic and the Christmas luncheon were managed extremely well. Both events were on budget. The only major purchase was a VHS Wireless Microphone system.

Our Branch’s activities offer something for almost all interests. We have Bicycling, Bowling, Computers, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Singing, Tennis, and Travel. All activities meet during each month. A full description of each activity is on-line, as are descriptions of all the programs.

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2006

Our Y2006 Board of Directors members are:

Under the capable leadership of Big Sir, Bob Simon, Branch 35 had another healthy year. 2005 marked a full year of our return to the Palo Alto Elk’s Lodge. This year we settled into a routine that allowed our leaders to concentrate on good management and future growth. Our present arrangements are working well.  We became a stable organization with good leadership, good food, and exciting speakers. Membership increased, and the cost of our meal went down by a dollar. If ever we had doubts about leaving Rickey’s, next door, there are no regrets. They were sold, buildings were torn down, and new construction started, all before the end of 2006. It was a wise move to leave in late 2004, but we have not become complacent. Finding a location with enough facilities to feed our large group is not an easy task. The Elks Lodge has indicated that a temporary relocation may be needed as early as late 2007. With this in mind, an ad hoc committee started exploring alternative sites in earnest toward the end of 2006.

We ended 2006 with 351 active members for an increase of 5, and 10 inactive members, for an increase 2. During the year we had 7 deaths, and 19 resigned. We inducted 34 new members. Though they are no longer Branch 35 officers, we benefited from the help and guidance from Region 5 Director, Ned Banton, and Area 16 Governor Buck Kendrick. We have three members serving in State offices.

The branch’s financial condition remained healthy as we enter the new year. Our bank balanceas of December 31,2006 was $24,437. This figure includes recently collected annual contributions, a reserve for timely payments to our caterer, and an account for our very active golf group.The July picnic and the December Holiday Party were managed extremely well. Both events were on budget, and well attended. We purchased two hand-held microphones at a cost of $227, and computer equipment for a new name tag and attendance System at a cost of $1,594.

Branch’s activities offer something for almost all interests. We have Bicycling, Bowling, Computers, Golf,  Hiking, Singing, and Tennis. Fishing was eliminated and Travel is handled by Joe Ames for Branches 35 and 5. Most activities, except Travel, meet each month. A full description of each activity can be seen elsewhere on the Branch web site

Honorary Life Members and their Contributions

• Ned S. Banton - Region 5 Director, Big Sir 1999

• Richard S. Bray - Big Sir 1998, Roster editor, new member orientation

• Stanley Chernack - Served as branch Program Chairman for years

• Jack W.Dyer - Newest HLM, Long time Editor of monthly Trail Tips

• Fenton Foster - Recent transfer from Branch 148

• George C. Fullmer - Lyricist for ”Trail Birds” for many years

• Oldrich A. Hejnal - Golf Chairman for many years

• Donald E. Lawson - Branch Travel Chairman, State travel advisor

• Charles R. Peacock - Big Sir 2001, held several State offices

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2007

Our Y2007 Board of Directors members are:

Under the capable leadership of Big Sir Harvey Dixon, Branch 35 had another healthy year. It became a year of transition as we moved from the Palo Alto Elk’s Lodge to the I.F.E.S Hall. In addition, 2007 became a year of consolidation and membership growth, marked by innovative management ideas, and creative solutions to old and immediate problems. The Elk’s gave notice early in the year that our last meeting date would be in September. A new location with enough facilities to feed and park our large group became the immediate problem. Having found a great location, Dixon and everyone on his staff worked hard to negotiate the details with the I.F.E.S Portuguese Social Club in Mountain View. We agreed to provide a new piano and other items needed for each meeting. The first meeting was in October, which went very well, and post-meeting comments were favorable.

New developments this Year

• A.Computer based attendance system and Name Tag Printer to speed member
  check-in on meeting days. It eliminates the old plastic badges, eliminates lost
  badges and the computer keeps accurate and timely attendance records. Data can
  easily be entered or modified if necessary.
• B.Developing a pool of future key leadership positions that will be available
  and willing to serve. They will attend EC meetings, as Directors at large, the year
  before they become Little or Big Sirs.
• C. Finding and negotiating the I.F.E.S Hall site for future meetings.
• D Started a book swap.

We ended 2007 with 355 active members, 4 more than 2006. We had 8 inactive members, 3 of whom died, making 5 less than the 2006 number of 10. 18 members resigned. We inducted 32 new members and 2 were transferred out. During the year we received help and guidance from former Branch 35 officers, Region 5 Director, Buck Kendrck, and Area 16 Governor John Mason. State offices were held by Ned Banton and John Cooper.

The branch’s financial condition remained healthy as we entered the new year. Our bank balance as of December 31, 2007 was $21,886. This included $11,383 in the Operations Account, and  $10,503 in the Golf Account. This figure includes recently collected annual contributions, a reserve for timely payments to our caterer, and a reserve account for our active golf group.

The July Picnic, (177 attendees) and the December Holiday Party (260 attendees) were both well managed, on budget, and well attended. The move to the I.F.E.S hall required purchases of a piano for $1,297, risers built by members for $725, and a projection screen for $887.

Branch activities offer something for almost all interests. We have Bicycling, Bowling, Computers, Golf, Hiking, Singing ( Trail Birds), Tennis, and Book Swap (new). Travel is handled by  Joe Ames and Ed Wasson for Branches 5 and 35. Most activities, except Travel, meet each month. 

A full description of each program in 2007 can be seen on the Branch Programs page.

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2008

Our Y2008 Board of Directors members are:

Under the capable leadership of Big Sir, Stan Barkey, Branch 35 had another healthy year. We made a succesfull transition from the Palo Alto Elk’s Lodge to the I.F.E.S Hall in 2007. The same can-do attitude continued into 2008. Newly developed management techniques became routine as the Branch looked forward toward finding new members, new leaders, good meals and great speakers. For example, the new pool of future leaders, that was recently started within the chapter, proved very usefull. As Directors at large, they attend EC meetings, and are already prepared during the year when unforseen events make it necessary for them to step in.

The problem of introducing new members into the group, and their need to feel welcome was addressed. Some have found the large crowd overwhelming at first. A group of greeters (hosts) were formed to minimize the trauma by answering questions, finding table openings, and making introductions. Parking and car pooling were addressed. Estimating the number of meals to serve each month remains a problem for both the caterer and the Branch. This becomes more serious as prices increase. Using a special cell phone to call when a member is not attending is being tried this year. It allows the Membership people to be away during the calling period. Using historical data helps, but it is still an educated guess. Food costs hit home as our meal price went from $17 to $19 in April. A further sign of good Branch management, is that the $25 annual contribution has stayed the same for the last three years. The book swap that started last year remained popular this year.

Our financial condition remained healthy as we entered 2009. The balances for all accounts were the same or slightly higher than last year. The figures include recently collected annual contributions, a reserve for timely payments to our caterer, and a reserve for our active golf group.

Branch activities offer something for almost all interests. We have Bicycling, Bowling, Computers, Golf, Hiking, Singing, (Trail Birds), Tennis, and Book Swap. Travel is handled by Joe Ames and Ed Wasson for Branches 5 and 35. Most activities, except Travel meet each month. A full description of each activity can be seen on the Branch web site “www.sir35.org”

Honorary Life Members and Their Contributions

SPEAKERS

We had another superb year of great speakers, thanks to Little Sir Don Mattson

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2009

Our Y2009 Board of Directors members are:

Last year's Little Sir, Don Mattson, moved smoothly into his role as Big Sir for 2009, as the New Year began. It was to be a year of stability in most areas, yet it also brought significant change to Trail Tips and substantial additions to the Branch 35 website. Our relationship with the IFES Hall was strengthened as mutually beneficial efforts to improve the hall's facilities and streamline our monthly procedures continued.

Stability was reflected in the cost of a monthly luncheon "ticket," which held at $19 for the entire year. However, behind the scenes (for most members) there were dramatic changes related to food service. Just before the May meeting, our caterer suffered a severe stroke. The May luncheon was provided on very short notice by Armadillo Willy's and others. Subsequently, a member of the catering firm's staff bought out the business and their service was restored. At the end of 2009, Dick Knock concluded five years of service as Luncheon Host, with his last months of service constituting "a year to remember."

Branch use of the Internet grew greatly during the year. For the first time, Trail Tips, our Branch newsletter, became available via email as well as in its traditional, hard-copy form. Members were asked to indicate which version they preferred to receive, and a gradual transition to email deliver to most members was begun during the year. Also initiated was an online membership roster, available on the Branch website, complete with photographic portraits of most of our members. Also new on the website was a calendar of Branch events. Jack Dyer, who had edited Trail Tips for many years, stepped down in 2009, as did assistant editor Dick Bray. Jim Schlatter became editor with the February edition, with Bob McKenzie as assistant editor.

We lost an Honorary Life Member in 2009, with the death of Don Lawson. A new Honorary Life Member, Buck Kendrick (currently serving an Vice President of SIR) was inducted, maintaining our HLM roles at eight.

As always, there was a good effort at adding new members during the year, with some special attention being given to acquainting semi-retired men to the benefits of SIR. While 31 new members were inducted in 2009, total membership dipped from 350 to 345. A combination of resignations, deaths, and transfers to other branches, plus changes from active to inactive status more than erased the gain from new members.

Several members of Branch 35 were found in the ranks of SIR state posts during the year. Moving up to higher positions were Buck Kendrick, who became Vice President; John Mason, who took Buck's place as Director of Region 5; and Stan Barkey, who replaced John Mason as Governor of Area 16. Area 16 Activities Chairmen from the Branch were Art England (Bowling); Jerry Butler (Bicycling); Jim Dinkey (CompuSIR-PC); and Ron Grace (Golf).

SPEAKERS

Our series of speakers in 2009 maintained the excellent standard established in prior years, thanks to the programs organized by Little Sir Ken Newton.

Respectfully submitted, Bob Simon Branch 35 Historian

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2010

Our Y2010 Board of Directors members are:

As Ken Newton took the helm as Big Sir for 2010, the atmosphere in Branch 35 was one of promise. And the optimism was justified. Favorable trends begun in the months leading up to the New Year had positioned the Branch to advance on multiple fronts while maintaining quality in areas all but taken for granted by most members.

A positive status quo was reflected in the price of the monthly luncheon, which had been holding steady for some time and remained at $19 for the full year. New Luncheon Host Terry Barnhart, who took over in January, had reason to be pleased. Upward cost pressures were offset by savings realized in other areas.

Meanwhile, Trail Tips editor Jim Schlatter, who had signed on for a two-year hitch that was to end with the November issue, was implementing Ken's keen interest in converting the monthly newsletter to an "eTT," to be sent to most members via the internet at a significant savings over its traditional printing on iconic gray stock and delivered via US Mail. Gray became green as a significant majority of the members converted to the eTT. This change facilitated the expansion of the publication to six pages by the end of the year, to allow for more coverage of Branch activities and added news about our growing membership. Jim's light touch brought pleasing (as well as informative) filler items to Trail Tips, including pointers to relevant items on the Branch 35 website as well as one-liners suitable for home consumption.

Further strides were made in building an on-line Photo Roster of the members on the Brach website, as procedures were refined and routines established that would "capture" new members and round out the portraits of the camera-shy in the rank and file. Also, the membership was getting in the habit of checking the Roster as a follow-up to luncheon conversations and the like. All in all, a welcome tool for integrating all members into the Branch more cordially.

Brand new in 2010 was the concept of "topic tables," where men could be seated who wanted to engage in focused discussions about selected subjects of special interest to small groups of members. By year's end, it was too soon to tell how this experiment would play out, but enthusiasm for the concept was evident.

As 2009 drew to a close, Branch 35 had 345 active members, and by the end of 2010 that number had swelled to 383. Ken Newton reminded the membership that back in 1991 there had been a peak of 391 members in the Branch, and he expressed the hope that our roster would top 400 before long.

Branch 35 was proud of the fact that several members of Branch 35 were found in the ranks of SIR state posts during the year. Moving up to a higher positions was Buck Kendrick, who became President; John Mason, continued as Director of Region 5; and Stan Barkey maintained his service as Governor of Area 16. Area 16 Activities Chairmen from the Branch were Art England (Bowling); Jerry Butler (Bicycling); Jim Dinkey (CompuSIR-PC); and Ron Grace (Golf

SPEAKERS

Our series of speakers in 2010 maintained the excellent standard established in prior years, thanks to the programs organized by Little Sir John Richardson.

Respectfully submitted, Bob Simon Branch 35 Historian

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2011

Our Y2011 Board of Directors members are:

As Branch 35's Big Sir in 2011, John Richardson can look back on a banner year on several fronts. Perhaps first in the accomplishments of the Branch—given the emphasis the state SIR organization places on increased membership—would be a surge in new members during the year, positioning the Branch to break the 400-member barrier early in 2012. In all, 44 new members were inducted in 2011, a figure that represents 11.5% of the base of 383 active members as the year began. (A corollary figure, the guest-to-member-conversion performance, was an impressive 70%.)

Exceptional recognition of key Branch members and the celebration of a gratifying Branch anniversary set a number of 2011 events apart and gave them special meaning. At our September luncheon, we marked the 40th anniversary of Branch 35, still growing and still going strong. During the year, seven of our members achieved Senior Sir status (by having birthdays on which they reached 90 to 94 years of age) and one member became a Super Senior (turning somewhere between 95 and 99 years of age).

Topping the recognition activities, at our Holiday Party in December three of our own became Honorary Life Members, the highest honor awarded in SIR. Joining our HLM ranks were Peter Barba, Stan Barkey, and Dick Knock (please see the HLM roster below for the contributions for which their tributes were awarded). The Holiday Party itself may have set a new mark in attendance for this event, 360 members and guests, which was the highest turnout in recent memory (per available records).

Gratifying indicators of the good order in which Branch affairs were maintained during the year included: financial reserve growth from approx. $7,000 at the end of 2010 to $9,300 by the close of 2011; the continued updating and refinement of the already robust Branch website with additional local and state data; and the carrying out of an online survey of members, the results of which alerted Branch management to the skills, experience, and willingness to serve of more than 90 respondents. That old standby measuring the fiscal stability of the Branch--the price of the monthly luncheon meal--held steady at $19 throughout the year (thanks to the fact that added catering costs were offset by operating reserves husbanded from prior years).

Also on the catering front, a cold-plate menu was offered to interested members for the first time, available at the same price as the regular meal. The catering service not only agreed to this change but also committed to having all of its employees covered by Workers Compensation Insurance starting in February 2012.

A new Branch activity, Theme Tables, was officially launched in February 2011. Interested members could sign up to be seated at tables where key topics were agree to in advance. The first topic was Vegetable Gardening. In succeeding months, Fishing and Hybrid & Electric Cars were "on the menu." Early indications were positive for the ongoing popularity of this optional luncheon focus each month. As the year progressed, the Big Sir noted that the Branch Book Swap, a regular luncheon feature established in February of 2007, continued to be well-received, heavily used, and very much appreciated. Theme Tables may well enjoy the same degree of success.

During 2011, a sad saga of parking woes unfolded, as the IFES Hall accommodated a new tenant--the Palo Alto Bridge Club--that would use the facilities extensively and would require substantial parking lot privileges. Branch 35 went into a dual-track search mode, seeking additional parking in the neighborhood for our monthly meeting and exploring possible alternative sites that would meet Branch needs for both a large luncheon-seating capacity and ample parking. By year's end, neither quest had come to a satisfactory conclusion, but promising additional parking options near IFES Hall brought a degree of optimism.

SIR state positions were held by several members of Branch 35 during the year. John Mason continued as Director of Region 5, and serving as Activities Chairmen were Art England (Bowling - Indoor), Jerry Butler (Bicycling), and Jim Dinkey (Compusir-PC). Skip Ross, Branch Webmeister, continued to oversee Mac16, the mailing-list community of a wide-ranging group of Mac users initially established as a Branch activity.

Honorary Life Members and Their Contributions

Ned S. Banton………..Region 5 Director, Big Sir 1999, Member of the State
Office of the Growth and Management Committee
Peter Barba……………Biking activity founder, Membership Director, Holiday
Party arrangements coordinator, attendance system
programmer, various Executive Committee posts
Stanley Barkey………..Big Sir 2008 (after two years as Little Sir), Assistant to
Membership Director, member of Golf Committee
Richard S. Bray… …….Big Sir 1998, Roster editor, "Trail Tips" assistant editor
John W. Dyer…………Editor of the monthly "Trail Tips" for 10 years
L. Fenton Foster……...Transfer from Branch 148
George C. Fullmer…...Lyricist for "Trail Birds" songs for many years
Buck Kendrick………..Big Sir 2003, Branch inspirational leader and trainer for
many years; various state positions culminated in Sir presidency
Richard T. Knock…….Luncheon Host (five years), entailing catering oversight and
venue logistics (including a major move to a new facility)
Charles R. Peacock…..Big Sir 2001, held several State offices
Robert W. Simon…….Big Sir 2006, host for series of traditional Holiday Parties

SPEAKERS

Our series of speakers in 2011 maintained the excellent standard established in prior years, thanks to the programs organized by Little Sir Creed Morgan.

Respectfully submitted, Bob Simon Branch 35 Historian

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2012

Our Y2012 Board of Directors members are:

As 2012 began, new Big Sir Creed Morgan took the helm of Branch 35 as it faced both a very gratifying membership total and a very challenging parking problem for our monthly luncheon meetings. Our Branch had the distinction of being the largest in SIR, yet our very size represented a parking requirement that was only exacerbated when the IFES Hall entered into a facilities agreement with a large Bridge Group that also required significant parking space. (New meeting space allowed the Hall to meet the facilities needs of our Branch and the Bridge Group simultaneously, but adequate parking for this degree of building utilization was lacking.)
Prolonged efforts to identify alternative venues for our monthly meetings proved fruitless. However, extensive and thoughtful negotiations with the leadership of the Buddhist Temple just a short stroll from IFES Hall produced an agreement that allowed SIR members to use the Buddhist parking lot on meeting days, with periodic exceptions (necessitated by special Temple events). The quest for a new meeting location might not be over, but it would lack the imperative previously hanging over the Branch.
A much brighter aspect of our growing membership total was the gratifying rate at which new members were inducted into the Branch in 2012. We could report a total of 397 active members at the beginning of the year, and an impressive 36 new members who had signed on during the year. Attrition always takes it toll, however, so the largest number of active members reported during the year by our monthly newsletter, Trail Tips, was 407 (in its November 2012 edition). Crossing the 400 mark opened up the opportunity to add to Branch 35’s roster of Honorary Life Members; one Branch-nominated HLM is allowed for every 50 members. Doing the math, we were allowed to name two new HLMs, Carl Moyer and Dave Scott, and they were presented with their awards at suitable ceremonies held during the year.
One HLM, and a Senior HLM at that (he had held HLM status for a decade or more), George Fullmer, died on February 5. George was special. He had composed parodies honoring Branch guest speakers for 25 years, flying solo in that department for the great majority of those years (only sharing the responsibility for a few months before leaving us). His touch was deft, his parodies full of fun (and mischief, too).
Our Executive Committee was advised that we began 2012 with $9,364 in the bank, and our reserves remained robust throughout the year. Our relationships with our caterer and the management of IFES Hall remained strong throughout the year, and our luncheon charge held steady (at $19), as did our requested per-member annual contribution for incidental Branch operating expenses (at $25). Our Co-Little Sirs and their colleagues who identified and recruited the year’s luncheon speakers presented us with a stimulating variety of speakers and topics, in keeping with our tradition.

Honorary Life Members and Their Contributions

Peter Barba……………Biking activity founder, Membership Director, Holiday
Party arrangements coordinator, attendance system
programmer, various Executive Committee posts
Stanley Barkey………..Big Sir 2008 (after two years as Little Sir), Assistant to
Membership Director, member of Golf Committee
Richard S. Bray… …….Big Sir 1998, Roster editor, "Trail Tips" assistant editor
John W. Dyer…………Editor of the monthly "Trail Tips" for 10 years
L. Fenton Foster……...Transfer from Branch 148
George C. Fullmer…...Lyricist for "Trail Birds" songs for many years (dec. 2/5/12)
Buck Kendrick………..Big Sir 2003, Branch inspirational leader and trainer for
many years; various state positions culminated in Sir presidency
Richard T. Knock…….Luncheon Host (five years), entailing catering oversight and
venue logistics (including a major move to a new facility)
Carl Moyer……..……Multiple years as Attendance Chair, Audio/Visual Chair and
Branch 35 Director, plus numerous ad hoc services
Charles R. Peacock…..Big Sir 2001, held several State offices
Dave Scott……………Multiple years as Branch 35 Director, Branch Secretary, Assistant
Golf Chairman, and Assistant Lunch Revenuer
Robert W. Simon…….Big Sir 2006, host for series of traditional Holiday Parties

SPEAKERS

Our series of speakers in 2012 maintained the excellent standard established in prior years, thanks to the programs organized by Co-Little Sirs Ben Gikis and Joe Killian.

Respectfully submitted, Bob Simon Branch 35 Historian

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2013

Our Y2013 Board of Directors members are:

As 2013 began, Big Sir Joe Killian had good reason to feel gratified to have a strong Executive Committee and sound financial underpinnings that could—and would—support a variety of Branch activities and programs throughout the year.  To add to the optimism, total Branch membership was at or near its highest levels, setting the stage for a year of great meetings featuring outstanding speakers.

During 2012, some $3,000 was added to the Branch surplus, bringing our reserves up to about the $15,000 level as 2013 began.  Membership Director Ken Jones took a close look at the "Active Members" number, made some typical adjustments for attrition and the like, and Trail Tips was able to report (in anticipation of the January 2013 meeting) that Active Members totaled 406.  (A related analysis of luncheon participation at this stage in the life of the Branch revealed that typical luncheon attendance is around 250, with 150 or so not present.)

In February, what probably constitutes a "first" for the Branch was a report by Travel Chairman Ed Pausa that the Branch website had been hacked!  Details were not provided, and a small sampling of the general membership suggested that few were aware of the incident or affected by it.

In another possible first, 2013 was the year in which branded SIR merchandise—caps, T-shirts, and jackets—were strongly promoted to the members, who were encouraged to acquire SIR-logo clothing as a way of showing Branch spirit.  The Executive Committee underwrote the subsidizing of the cost of these items so that individual members could enjoy a small savings over the usual price for these goods.

In the ongoing effort to locate a suitable meeting site for monthly luncheons where the benefits would include adequate parking, those pursuing this goal reached an agreement with the Palo Alto Elks Lodge.  The membership was informed that meetings would be moved to the Lodge beginning in June.  The IFES Hall, where the Branch currently met, was informed, as was the luncheon caterer.  Then, in an abrupt reversal on the part of the Elks (following election of new officers for the Lodge), they abandoned their handshake agreement rather than ratifying the written contract, and Branch 35 was back at Square One in terms of a meeting location change.  The disappointment on the part of Branch leadership was considerably offset by its ability to reinstate existing agreements with IFES Hall and the caterer, such that meetings could continue to be held in the same venue without interruption.  (Also, given the agreement with the Buddhist Temple for the use of their parking lot on meeting days, the urgency of moving had been greatly reduced and a quest for an alternate location could be put on the back burner.)

The July Picnic was held at Saratoga Springs for the first time—a location that featured good food, music, and a variety of activities that appealed to members and guests alike.  A repeat visit to Saratoga Springs in 2014 was planned, given the success of the first experience there.

During the fall, the Executive Committee's focus shifted to some basic Branch needs: the advisability of forming a Medical Emergency Response Team, and securing backup commitments to cover as needed such positions as A/V Coordinator, Trail Tips Editor, Attendance Chairman, Luncheon Host, and Membership Roster Coordinator.

Throughout the year, the luncheon speakers and their topics typically met with approval and appreciation, as usual.  The year ended with a "backlog" of interesting speaker possibilities, setting the stage for yet another good year for Branch 35 in 2014.

Honorary Life Members and Their Contributions

Peter Barba……………Biking activity founder, Membership Director, Holiday Party arrangements coordinator, attendance system programmer, various Executive Committee posts
Stanley Barkey………..Big Sir 2008 (after two years as Little Sir), Assistant to Membership Director, member of Golf Committee
Richard S. Bray… …….Big Sir 1998, Roster editor, "Trail Tips" assistant editor
John W. Dyer…………Editor of the monthly "Trail Tips" for 10 years
L. Fenton Foster……...Transfer from Branch 148
Buck Kendrick………..Big Sir 2003, Branch inspirational leader and trainer for many years; various state positions culminated in Sir presidency
Richard T. Knock…….Luncheon Host (five years), entailing catering oversight and venue logistics (including a major move to a new facility)
Carl Moyer……..……Multiple years as Attendance Chair, Audio/Visual Chair and Branch 35 Director, plus numerous ad hoc services
Charles R. Peacock…..Big Sir 2001, held several State offices
Dave Scott……………Multiple years as Branch 35 Director, Branch Secretary, Assistant Golf Chairman, and Assistant Lunch Revenuer (dec. 6/3/13)
Robert W. Simon…….Big Sir 2006, host for series of traditional Holiday Parties

SPEAKERS

Our series of speakers in 2013 maintained the excellent standard established in prior years, thanks to the programs organized by Co-Little Sirs Ben Gikis and Dan Zemanek.

Respectfully submitted, Bob Simon Branch 35 Historian

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