PAST BIG SIRSHISTORY OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
SONS IN RETIREMENT, INC. BRANCH #128
San Ramon Valley Branch #128 of Sons In Retirements was established under the sponsorship of Branch 101 (Livermore) and advisor, Len Bolgen, who was then Area Governor. Herb Jacobus, Harry Mucciolo, and Dave Tobias were all instrumental in the initial organization and recruitment of new members. The first meeting was April 1, 1985 at the Brass Door in San Ramon. About a dozen men showed up. They were informed that they had to sign up 25 men in order to obtain a temporary charter.
The next month they met at the Willow Tree in Dublin at which they signed up the requisite 25. Volunteers were asked to take over officer duties. Al Keefer volunteered to become Big Sir, Ed Yosh Little Sir, Joe Chambless Secretary, and Val Hathaway Treasurer.
Growth was slow. 100 members, enough for a permanent charter, was reached in March 1987. A permanent charter was awarded in May 1987. First election of officers was held in October 1987 with the following results:
Big Sir: Al Keefer Little Sir: Ed Yosh Secretary: Joe Chambers Treasure: Dave Tobias
Meetings were held at the Branding Iron in Danville for a couple of years but, due to space limitations in the Danville/San Ramon area, a permanent meeting place was selected at the Royal Vista Country Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon (cross street - Alcosta Boulevard). Luncheon meetings are held the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
Committees consist of, but are not limited to; Attendance, Audit, Awards, Baseball, Bicycling, Bowling, Branch Historian, Bridge, Bulletin Editor, Chaplain, Computer, Fishing, Golf, Kite Flying, Membership, Poker, Skiing, Spring Dance, Holiday Dinner Dance, Fall Barbecue, Sunshine, Tennis, Tour Directors - (Long trips and Short trips), and any other committees that may be formed in the future. In 1996 membership reached the approved maximum of 225. A membership waiting list was established.
Branch 128 is a member of Area 24, headed by an Area Governor. The other 5 branches are as follows: