Message from  our President

ALL future communication to members will be by this website and at meetings.  Anyone with knowledge of members or potential members without such access to website please inform President J.W. Adams (845) 226-5235, of their name(s), phone number and if possible, their address.  

Your President, John Wayne Adams

8/15/2023: IBM Retirees Luncheon Third Thursday August 17, 2023, 1 PM Dutchess Diner

Hello All .. Just a reminder the last luncheon meeting of the summer is as usual at the Dutchess Diner Route 9 across from Galleria mall.  Our June 

and July luncheons were very enjoyable and we miss the rest of our members.  If you haven't attended and plan to attend this last one please let me know by tomorrow, Wednesday, so I can have the DD staff add another table, or two.  The next regular meeting will be September 21, 2023, the third Thursday and at the Crown Heights Clubhouse open 1230 at the latest.  Bye, Wayne 

7/20/2023: Thursday Luncheon 1 PM at Dutchess Diner Rt 9 heading North across from Galleria Mall

Hello Members .. Just spent several hours getting AOL passwords & other "security" issues resolved and am in a very bad mood.  Boy Scout Summer Camp in Connecticut for a week of RAIN and three somewhat sunny days completed Saturday and am still alive and now dried out.  Well, enough of my issues.  I will call Dutchess Diner tomorrow and reserve a ten-place table as done in June.  If more than ten members and guests show up they said (In June) they can handle table moves.  The June attendees all said they really enjoyed the luncheon and will come again in July.

   We will have a minimal "meeting" followed by dining and chat.  I expect a similar August luncheon and a back-to-normal September meeting at the Crown Heights Clubhouse with doors open around noon and meeting start with Social Hour & Short meeting, Speaker, door prize and 50/50. The Speaker will be announced in an upcoming email.  Continuance of our Group will depend on September attendance and income from dues and 50/50 so please attend and buy 50/50 tickets.  I'll bring usual cold bottled water and donuts.  Members are invited to bring other items to share - food/drink/photos & their stories, etc.                                 LOL, Wayne & Suzumi Adams (Phone 845-226-5235)

6/11/2023: Thursday Luncheon 1 PM at Dutchess Diner Rt 9 heading North across from Galleria Mall

Hello Members .. The Luncheon Meeting is still "On", but only myself, Tom Townsend, Lorraine Compilli & her guest are so far only ones who have contacted me.  Others are welcome to join if you want .. 1:00 PM to about 2:30 PM.  

    A meal and a chat with friends .. no official speaker or door prize, etc.  Will have a moment of silence for the ailing, & members who've passed.


   Suzumi very busy & may not attend.  LOL, Wayne

5/31/2023: IBM Retiree Group June Luncheon Meeting Dutchess Diner 

Hello All,  

   We hope your Memorial Day weekend was properly fulfilling and happily successful as was ours.  Mine was very busy and managed to "march" in our annual Hopewell/East Fishkill parade and return that short journey in a restored 1930 Ford coupe - nice ride.

   And now for our June meeting which has been decided at last meetings to be a luncheon at the Dutchess Diner across Rte 9 from the Galleria Mall on usual 3rd Thursday of June (15th) at 1 PM.

   So that I can make reservation I need those planning to attend to respond a commitment-to-attend no later than Monday, June 5th.

   To provide proper payment to the restaurant and staff I ask all to order a lunch and include a minimum of $3 tip for the hard-working wait-staff.  Depending on your response/email for enough people I will ask to reserve their back area for a private meeting.  If only a few will attend, we'll lunch in the general area.  Suzumi & I hope many of you will attend to finish our "fiscal year" with a good time.

   In any case we will schedule the next meeting for September 21 at the Crown Heights Clubhouse, with speaker arranged by our dedicated arranger Lorraine Campilli. 

   If you haven't paid your $10 dues please consider doing so but it is not necessary to attend the luncheon to which you may bring an adult guest(s) which you must list in your email rsvp.  Thank you - especially those attending this passing spring - Wayne & Suzumi. 

5/17/2023: IBM Retiree Group's meeting TOMORROW at Crown Heights Clubhouse 05/18 1PM 

Hello All .. The meeting will be as "normal" as our tradition with a Speaker Robert Ullrich, American Historian on "Fun, Factoids, and Tidy Tidbits of History".  It's total audience participation.  We'd like everyone to bring some short item of our history - your own family item, something from media or a book.  Humor or drama.  A famous quote.  It's your minute, or 2 or 3.  We'll have usual door prize and 50/50 if we sell enough tickets; donuts and cold bottled water.  And BYOB, coffee/tea whatever is allowed.  I've been informed the speaker does have a projector so that issue is resolved.

    Please come and support your group so we don't just fade away.

                               Wayne & Suzumi Adams 

05/13/2023: Thursday May 18, 2023 general member meeting - come one - come all !!!

Hello Members .. The regular May meeting at Crown Heights Clubhouse will convene 1300 (1 PM) with door open prior to 1200 (Noon) "Social Hour".   Suzumi & I will bring usual donuts and cold bottled water.  Others may bring their own hot (or cold) beverages or snacks of any kind.  (Chocolate-Covered Grasshoppers anyone??).  We will have a speaker:

Robert Ullrich, American Historian, on "Fun, Factoids and Tidy Tidbits of History". How about, "It's raining cats & dogs"?   Bring your favorites to share.  It's total audience participation.  The speaker will need someone to bring a projector (Computer type??) and mine isn't working.  If someone has one we can borrow PLEASE let me know.  If you have one but cannot attend I will come to your home for it and return it afterwards.  We had only a total of 10 members last meeting, and a very good speaker,  so hopefully more can attend.   See you ALL next week, Wayne & Suzumi Adams.   

04/15/2023: April Meeting

Hello--

The Mid-Hudson Valley, IBM Retirees Group, will meet

this Thurs., 20 April, at 1 p.m., at Crown Heights Clubhouse,

34 Nassau Rd., Pough. Speaking on "Understanding Alzheimers

& Dementia" will be Joan Carl, Community Engagement Manager, H.V.

Alzheimers Assoc. Please pay your $10 (2023) dues at the door.

Hope to see you Thurs.

Lorraine

03/13/2023: MARCH MEETING CANCELLED - No speaker and svrl folks health problems 

Hello Illustrious Members,  Sorry to say no meeting for March so hope to see everyone bright and cheery April 20th.  Darn!  I wanted to show off my shiny new hearing aids!!  Lovely snow today - first ran snow blower about 6AM til only wet snow areas left which clog it.  Then shovel that mess til about 10AM and in for breakfast.   Then shovel front steps and a bit of lawn onto which spread seed for critters - Cardinals beautiful on the snowy limbs.   Bye, Wayne & Suzumi 

03/04/2023: IBMR meeting of Thursday, March 16, 2023-03-16 1PM (1300) at Crown Heights Clubhouse 

Hello All, It's been an "interesting" winter with finally some snow last day of February.  Our meeting is (Weather permitting!?!) to be held as usual with a speaker to be announced by next email.  In the mean-time PLEASE try to contact friends, relatives, fellow IBMers from our past that haven't been to a meeting recently (November or December party) to rejoin us.  As we have only sufficient funds for a few meetings please bring Jan-Dec $10 dues and

plan to purchase 1 or 2 sets of 50-50 tickets every meeting if your budget allows.  With low attendance we'll be desperate for income unless we get some other funds such as donations.   Our March theme will be St. Patrick's Day and we'll bring a lot of decorations we have on hand already.

As we need to downsize our decoration items some will be on sale.

   Hope to see you all soon, Wayne & Suzumi Adams  

01/16/2023: IBMR 2022 Final report

Hello All .. Suzumi & I hope everyone had a VERY Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Based on informal polls of November & December we will have a 2023 meeting 1:00 PM March 16 at the Crown Heights Clubhouse.  We will have a speaker thanks to Lorraine Campilli.  I believe she has scheduled one; but, as some time has passed and schedules change, I will ask her to assure that speaker is still available by mid February when I will then send another message announcing the March speaker.

   We will have usual door prize and 50-50 and if that meeting is successful with a sufficient number 

of attendees we will have an April meeting, with speaker, when dues of $10 per person will be requested.   Elections only if someone wants to be President, etc. Other positions also open.

   The cost at Shadows on the Hudson was $1,349.80 ($74.99 ea of 18 people) incl tax & tips.

   We didn't have the planned 20 members and guests at the Christmas Dinner at Shadows so we ended the year with $343.57 in our savings account and $103.25 in cash and change in meeting bag for a total of $446.82.  Meeting expense is $60 room rental & $10 door prize.  50-50 tickets still 3 for $5 so we can break even if we sell $140 worth or 28 sets of 3 tickets.  If we sell that many the first prize

could be $50 and second $20 or another combination for a third prize.  So buy a lot of tickets!!!

    Sincerely, Wayne and Suzumi Adams.   


P.S. When the funds are depleted we can change to such as luncheon at such as Dutchess Diner !!

1212/11/2022: Christmas Dinner Party at Shadows on the Hudson reminder

Hello All .. Please join Suzumi and I on Wednesday, December 14, at NOON at the Shadows on the Hudson, 176 Rinaldi Blvd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601;  Phone (845) 486-9500, Host Dominique Hollister,

Assistant of Catering.  We will dine soon thereafter and later rejoin in their meeting room for a very short discussion on future of our Group around 2:00 PM.   As of Sunday evening the weather for Wednesday is Mostly Sunny with a high of 36 degrees "F" about 3:00 PM.  Above freezing, but there could be some lingering ice in shady areas so please be cautious.   Dress nice casual with safe footware.  Call me (845) 226-5235 Home, (845) 590-1099 Cell if you need.  Gratiity is included but you may tip more if you feel service is exemplary.  You may purchase beverages at their bar (Likely order at your table - that & at bar one should tip.). 


 See you all (Total 18) soon, Wayne & Suzumi Adams 

 

P.S. Please call me if you need to cancel - right up to the last minute. 

11/14/2022: IBM Retirees ++ Meeting this Thursday 1230+

Hello all .. Some bad news Joe McGrath fell, broke hip, had surgery, having therapy, he & Joan not at meeting & likely not at Dec. Party.

    Please attend meeting this Thursday and if you plan to attend Party bring checkbook or cash.  As we won't know yet if we'll have required minimum 30 diners AND won't know price until we count the votes be prepared to pay the full price $66.17 or $40 or $30 EACH.  So be a Good Scout and Be Prepared.  If we don't have 30 diners but are close the Group could pay for a couple "no shows" or we can plan such as cater food for party at our clubhouse or simply have a luncheon at such as Dutchess Diner - partially paid by our funds.  So please come and vote.   If you cannot come and want to vote I'll fill in your ballot via a phone call to me BEFORE the meeting no later than THIS Wednesday 10 PM.          


The suspense is quite stressful !!!  Wayne 


   P.S.  Joan & Joe are NOT on this email as daughter wants them not bothered.

11/08/2022: CHANGE for IBM Retirees Group NOVEMBER 17, 12:30 to as late as 4:30 

Hello all .. As our "Horses for Heros" speaker has a serious health issue our "Program Director" has arranged for Mr. Bradford "Brad" Kendall, Dutchess County Clerk to speak on the new Enhanced Driver's Licences which as you may know come in various security capabilities for such as boarding airplanes, and other info.  It should be interesting and helpful.


    Also PLEASE come to this most important meeting of the year for voting on CHRISTMAS Party, continued existance of our Group into 2023 (First meeting March) and other issues.  We need a large number of members past and present to attend.   Door of Clubhouse will be open around noon for setup.  Speaker at about 1:00.   If you cannot attend PLEASE call me (845) 226-5235.    Thank you, Wayne & Suzumi.

11/03/2022:November Meeting, December Christmas Party and FUTURE OF MHV IBM 

Hello All .. I had a big email it took hours to create set to send but have changed to just this sample for your vote prep as follows .. There will be paper ballots at the November meeting for members having paid 2022-

2023 Dues each member prior to, or at, Nov. 17 meeting.  There are several items on ballot so carefully vote

for each item YES or NO.  Please commit  -  no blanks or "maybe's".   If you cannot attend please call me (845) 226-5235, and I will accept your votes and instruct you on such as mailing any dues check and separate Party check(s, if you will have guest checks.).     You MUST be a dues-paid member for the disbanding item.


DO NOT VOTE BY EMAIL.   Call (845) 226-5235 for Comments/Questions/Chew-Me-Out/Venting/etc.

 I will provide paper ballots & pens at the meeting.


The Ballot SAMPLE:


_____  I (we) WANT the Group to continue in 2023 and will as best I (we) can to attend March to June and                    September to December Third Thursday/Month traditional events as held in the past.   Sign and date at least one name:_______________________________________;    2022-___-___


_____  I (we) understand the Group must have officers such as President, Vice President, Secretary and

            Treaurer and needs committees for Program (Speakers, et al), Refreshments, Door and 50/50

            prizes and will, if physically able, seriously consider assisting in a position or back-up to it.

            Sign and date at least one name: _______________________________________:   2022-___-___   


_____  I (we) Believe the Group should have the Christmas Party and then DISBAND and donate all remaining

            funds to non-profit (Write in it's official name): ____________________________________________

            The Treasurer will mail check to the most-named accredited organization.

            Sign and date at least one name: ______________________________________:    2022-___-___


Votes:  The Christmas Party is being negotiated with Villa Borghese (VB) of Wappingers Falls and they require a minimum of 30 diners.   Our Treasury has about $1,800.   Quote: $66.17 each diner includes Service Charge of 20% and Tax (NOT Tip at your descretion.).   Our Group pays for music by Harvest Duo.

   

             As VB is expensive I (we) recommend the Treasury pay part of the meal cost as:

                           (Write in Yes, or No or amount in EACH of the following blanks.)

            12>4PM  THURSDAY: December  8, 2022 ____;  OR  ____  December 15, 2022.   <- IMPORTANT!

            For each member & guest diner ____  $10,  OR  ____ $20,  OR Maximum $26.17 ...

     OR  For each   Dues-Paying    diner ____  $10,  OR  ____ $20,  OR Maximum $26.17. 

            Note: We will book the usual "Harvest Duo" Musicians for the party.

                     Also, 2021 party-goers liked & cost of food but not the setting at the Elks of Poughkeepsie.


   The November meeting is scheduled for a speaker from "Theraputic Riding Center" - a Tribute, "Horses

Working with Wounded Vets" of the U.S.A. military.  The Crown Heights ClubHouse doors open ABOUT

12 Noon with 1230 Social Hour/Opening/Prizes/Meeting of above voting followed by the Speaker who MAY 

talk 2 PM to as long as willing including Q&A on the subject.  Our acting Speaker Committee Chair-Person 

is negotiating with 12 speakers at this writing - most, or all, at no cost to us; and will offer a vote on which

seem most popular.  Our November and December DOOR PRIZES will be double the usual at $20 each,

and as usual the 50/50 prize will be half the amount collected at 3 tickets-for-$5 each, with the other half 

going to the Treasury if so decided by the members holding 50/50 tickets.


   Finally, Suzumi & I will conduct the November and, if held, the March meeting and the Christmas 

Party; but following March are not committing.  If Group is to continue after March, I am willing to remain

the treasurer with estimated balance between $500 & $700 by then.  A Speaker (or Entertainment) 

Committee Chair Person will "provide" no-, or low-cost, speakers or other entertainment each event.

We hope other members will step up to running for office knowing Suzumi & I will try to attend all events

and help Officers & Committees with opening Clubhouse, chair/table/decor setup/take down, etc.   But NOT ALL BY OURSELVES as throughout 2022 so far !!!


    Well, another 3-hour missive to y'all and hope I've covered everything w/o upsetting anyone!?!  


                      Your President, and wonderful obviously better half - Wayne and Suzumi Adams 

10/17/2022: MH IBM Retirees Group meeting of 1 PM (1300) October 20, 2022. PLEASE ATTEND !!!

Hello all.  This is late as I've been awaiting information of which I have only part.  We will have a speaker from the NYDC Office of the Aging by Brian Jones.  As Suzumi & I are basically "running" our Group with no other officers or activity committees I will start charging the club for our "work".  We can be replaced by Group vote which any paid member can so move at new-business part of meeting.  That is if anyone wants the "jobs".  I propose per meeting $30 President duties, $20 VP, $10 Treasurer, $10 Secretary, $10 Refreshments (Currently Donuts & cold bottled water) and $20 split for any committee(s).  Any paid member could step up and take on any of those duties and receive that "pay".  Currently the President & Spouse do ALL which includes table (+table cloth) & chair setup and bring the donuts & water, "run" the door prize and 50/50, and post-meeting cleanup.  And open/close clubhouse.  Current committee duties are speaker/entertainment, refreshment & prizes. 

   Meeting expenses are door-prize, donuts, water, clubhouse ($60/meeting) and speaker or other entertainment (No cost Oct.). 

   I also propose use of our $1,800+ treasury to pay part of the Christmas Party early-mid December.  I am

trying to get same Elks Club as last year and will ask our members for best date/time to seek.

   You may perceive I'm attempting to deplete our treasury so we can disband Group by end of 2022, if no-one

wants our "jobs" or steps up with such as Speaker Committee.  These are definitely my "thoughts" - yours??


   It's after 1 in AM and I have serious oral surgery 10 AM, so I'm my usual OLD, MEAN & GROUCHY!! 


         Sincerely, Wayne Adams, President (& Suzumi Adams temp VP per President "Appointment") acting

                          together as ALL the officers & Committee Chairs by we two old folks.  

9/12/2022: September Meeting is finally set with a speaker 

Hello all.  It's been hectic.  I was told a couple days ago the Auction folks had a big auction all day Thursday this & next month so I spent several hours til finally got a speaker on Financial Education tho for a rather high fee of $350.  However, the October & November speakers will be free if the Nov. speaker is available.  As usual, we'll open the doors about noon with Social Hour 1300-1345, door prize, 50-50 (Please buy tickets!) and short meeting with speaker scheduled to start 1400-1500++.

   I'll bring 24 donuts and cold bottled water.  Any member is allowed (encouraged??) to bring any other snacks for sharing.  We need some member(s) to step up and use our hot pots to make coffee or tea.  The "Group" will pay for 'fixins', cups, sugar, etc.   Hope to see everyone on this list!!  


Wayne & Suzumi 


We need "committees" for Speakers, Refreshments, Beverages, Officers and Christmas Party; so please consider helping our "Group" to finish this year with a great party and 2023 meetings starting in March.


8/11/2022: Meeting of August 18, 2022, is ON but w/o speaker at this time 

Hello Members and Officers,   I've had to redo my email list as I learned somehow (Me or the 'magic' of computers??) several folks addresses were dropped.  Suzumi & I will open the Crown heights Clubhouse door about NOON for setup and the SOCIAL Hour starts at 1300 (1 PM) with short meeting at 1400 (2PM) followed by door prize cash-from-treasury (Unless someone wants to bring a give-away of minimum $10 value!) and 50-50 if at least 10 sets of 3-for-$5 tickets are sold.  Several folks have emailed they're not coming as we have no speaker or other entertainment and I'm sorry about that and will try not do this again for July or August meetings.  Several potential speakers have minimum attendance requirements so hard to find for a few members.  I will bring a couple dozen donuts and cold bottled water in hopes we have that many members attend - especially since several members have not been on email list.

   In addition to new knee I now have one new eye lens (2nd in Sept.) so my "rebuild" is progressing nicely tho $$$.  I hope all members and families are enjoying our summer in spite of the draught and heat.  Our annual adult canoe trip of 15-20 miles on Delaware went well.     Wayne and Suzumi Adams. 


P.S. Sorry for run-on sentences - too lazy to re-write.

8/07/2022: August Meeting will be held but without speaker 

Hello all, As 9, or 11, unsure of 2 the way they phrased their note, folks have emailed me they would attend, and my first cataract surgery seems to be fine; Suzumi & I will open the clubhouse about noon August 18th, the third Tursday of the month.  As too few are attending to warrant a speaker I am putting off the one I have until the September meeting.  We will have a small door prize (Unless someone brings a "bigger" one!) and obviously a small 50-50.  I will bring cold bottled water and a couple dozen donuts in case hopeully more folks show up.  Thus, the whole gathering will be a short meeting with as long as wanted social hour.

   Your comments will be appreciated.   One member suggested we all bring our Monopoly games or some other such passtime.  OK by me but my set may be a bit dusty and not sure it's all there.            


  Wayne, and Suzumi

7/24/2022: IBMR "news' and possible August meeting 

Hello all - As some of my health issues not resolved (soon?) my PCP didn't sign my Scout camp medical form so I didn't go.  My cataract surgery for left eye is August 2, and right eye a month later.  I AM going on our annual adult-men-only (No woman in right mind would want to go with us so we don't invite.) CANOE trip this coming week-end.  As for an AUGUST (18th?) IBMR meeting SIX (6) members have stated they would attend and Suzumi & I would also.  So, if TWO (2) more respond I'll try to get a speaker and have a meeting of ten (10) total and more may come if they choose even if don't respond.  HOWEVER, I must get message from at least 2 (2), by August 3rd.   LOL, Drive Safe, Wayne (& Suzumi) ..

6/28/2022: There will be NO July meeting and I need your input to decide if we are to have an August Meeting 

Hello all,  We have a potential new member I've added to the mailing list and hope he joins.  Our currently being scheduled meeting will be SEPTEMBER 15, at the Crown Heights Clubhouse.  I'll ask the Antiques lady to be our speaker and you should plan to bring in some not too large object for appraisal.  I'll let you know of her object limitations when I learn of them.   If enough of you contact me with a promise you will attend an AUGUST meeting

by July 15, I'll try to find a speaker or entertainment.  BUT, I need you to let me know you want it.

      Bye, Wayne Adams .

6/10/2022: Meeting of June 16th, 2022 

Hello everyone, We hope you are all enjoying our New York weather.  Sorry to announce that Richard Fitzgerald passed away May 30th.  He had not attended since last year and will be missed.  Our meeting will be as usual with doors open about noon for setup of moving tables/chairs, etc.  Social Hour 1PM to 2PM with usual door prize and 50/50, short meeting, update of Treasurer's report followed by presentation of Martial Arts in which you may participate or just watch.  I will bring a couple dozen donuts and cold water.  July meeting will be either 14th or 28th as I will be at Boy Scout Summer Camp on July 21st so will poll you folks for choice.    See you all soon, Wayne and Suzumi Adams. 

5/15/2022: May & June Meetings

Hello all,  It's ben hectic but finally booked May 19 Meeting "Honeybees in Your Garden: A Dance with Evolution" with honey samples (NO bees in attendance), and June 16 Meeting of a Martial Arts Demo on moves to protect yourself.  You may participate or just sit & Watch.  I will bring cold bottled water and 2 dozen donuts and teabags & sweeteners but if you want hot water someone will need to hook up our in-clubhouse urns, fill and turn on.  I will ask if anyone wants to be an officer and

if we want July and August meetings in lieu of no more January and February meetings as most seem to not want.


We will have 50/50 & Door Prize as usual.


I will pay for coffee if someone brings it and presents a bill.   I, as also treasurer, am generous till funds run out.


We are no longer under IBM so donations of cash/check/coffee/deserts have no limitations.  Bye, Wayne


4/05/2022: April 21 General Meeting 1PM to 4PM and likely longer 

Hello everyone.  Hopefully you will all come and understand several changes we've had to make.  Our speaker Anthony Musso will be welcomed once again with his presentation on his book, "Mothball Fleet on the Hudson".  I'm assuming it will be about "retied" vessels of the military and maybe civilian.  These vessels are generally serviceable, needing only some repairs and modernization and could be very interesting with some of their histories.


     Please let me know if you are coming - just a brief, one-line email or call to (845) 226-5235, will be appreciated. 


      As you may know our staff has taken some "hits" and I am your President and acting Secretary, Treasurer & water-boy.

Therefore, we need some of you folks to step up to the challenge of the following:

     Secretary:  Take attendance and "minutes" of each meeting and give brief oral report at following meeting.  Collect info on members such as in hospital, deceased, joining, leaving us, etc.  Arrange for flowers, Get-Well card to such members.

     Treasurer:  As long as I am a member I will - if re-elected as such, maintain the treasury, pay bills, etc. as the account is in my name and task is not difficult.  I will also maintain our inventory list (Party novelties, 50-50, etc.).

                 WE WILL DISCUSS MEMBERSHIP DUES AT THIS MEETING.

                 Jim Cosgrove will no longer be our treasurer for health reasons.

    Vice President:  Sal Cioffi is our "First VP" and if he runs and is re-elected, will remain so.  He needs a "2nd VP",


     Committees by appointment by officers all need a Chair-Person and assisting members:

     Entertainment Committee Chair:  Several current members have done that task recently such as Rich & Carol. This position arranges speakers, music, parties (Christmas/New Years ++).


      We do NOT have a May or June Speaker.  Suzumi is willing to do a floral arrangement demo when the flowers in our yard become available


     Fund-Raising Committee: Handles such as 50-50, Donations, Door Prize.


     Drinks & Snacks Committee:  Handles Coffee, Tea, Water, Cake, Cookie, Donut meeting choices/procurement. Joe Incoronato will no longer provide the hot beverages due to health reasons. I will bring cold bottled water and 2 dozen donuts to the April Meeting from "club-group" funds. 


  Members in need of our prayers:  Jim Cosgrove & Joe Incoronato and likely others.


 Other Activities:  Kara McKenna has a request for members for a bridge club and I will separately forward her email.


  Thank-You to Gary for posting in our internet site.    Sincerely, Wayne Adams


3/16/2022: March 24th (Thursday) Meeting will NOT occur 

Hello All,  As only 6 emails were received from members and two of those stated the 3 members involved were NOT coming I am sadly NOT going to open the Clubhouse until the April 21 meeting when I plan to have a normal meeting, open at noon.  I will send another email by April 14 with details so please plan to attend.  Pray, or think kindly, of the war victims around the world,  Prez J.W.Adams  

3/10/2022: March 24 & April 21 Meetings 

Hello all, We hope everyone is well, CV19 free, and anxious to resume meetings.  As the Clubhouse has one of its regular groups booked for March 17, I have booked our meetings for March 24, the 4th Thursday of the month.  I'm sorry this note is so late - many reasons.  On March 24 I will open the Crown Heights Clubhouse ONLY IF A MINIMUM OF TEN (10) FOLKS REPLY TO THIS NOTE THAT WEATHER WILLING THEY WILL ATTEND.  We will have no speaker and must entertain ourselves.  If someone proposes to me something of interest I will so consider.  I will bring cold bottled water more than number of replies.

    We will have 50-50 if we sell at least $100 in tickets.  I MAY bring a door prize.  If someone else wants to donate a door prize

that will be nice - could be cash or an interesting object (No weapons or home-made food please.).  Anyone can bring commercial cookies or donuts - let me know so we don't end up with duplicates.  BYOB = Bring your own beverage(s) - remember, I'm bringing cold bottled water.  Our Coffee-Tea member Joe is no longer providing due to health reasons anyone want to volunteer??   Door will be open by 1130 by Ken or myself and we will set up tables/chairs to be ready for 1 PM meeting, with planned close of 4 PM or whenever we're done.   SO - Please RSVP by March 20, which will give me time to assure all of above - food, drinks, door-prize, entertainment issues resolved based on your replies.  Thank you very much for your co-operation and masks are optional.  As we already have the temperature tool we will take temperatures as a precaution.  FYI, I tested positive 2-3 days after our December dinner party but wife, son didn't and I received no word of any of you folks getting "IT".   ???       April meeting is "on" and back to normal and still seeking speaker or other entertainment.


   Hi Gary - please post this as usual and hope you love your new home and it's weather..

   Hi Jim, please call me to discuss my coming to your home to learn how to do IBMR taxes - I have no such experience.

   Hi  Anyone esp CPAs, If you want, and have experience with NGO taxes, you can have that fun task.

   Anyone complaining of my grammar automatically becomes secretary.  Likewise Finance & Treasurer; & Presidency

. 

If SEVERE weather is predicted I will send out a note about 24 hours prior to meeting on decision to cancel. 


          BYE ALL .. Please be well and drive safe,   President/Secretary/Treasurer, Wayne;  & Suzumi Adams..


01/28/2022: February 17th Meeting Canceled ... March next possibility - depends on you folks' votes 

Hello all,  I begin this email on a sad note - Our fabulous Coffee-Man Joe Incoronado, has retired due to health reasons and hope he can somehow visit with us in future.  This leads me to ask for a volunteer, or two, to take over that beverage duty.  I, as president, secretary and treasurer will NOT take on any more duties.  I will bring bottled water to all meetings.


     Now, for the MARCH meeting (February cancelled due to previous responses re the January email from all you dear folks.)

I will open clubhouse for no fewer than > 15 < total members and guests - myself & Suzumi included in the 15. Also. if, in next few days, I hear from > 20 < total members they will sincerely try to attend March 17, meeting, I will try to have a speaker or entertainment.  THEREFORE. I command (presumptuously) you put fingers to keyboard and let me know that you will attend.  LOL J.W. Adams, POTIBMRG  (Aha - more letters than POTUS).


01/17/2022: January 20th Meeting Canceled

Hello all.  I'm sorry to disappoint the three (3) people who responded they would come (Suzumi & I would have made it 5.) and do respect the seven (7) who, representing themselves and their spouses, make ten (10) votes stating they would not come, AND the four (4) who said we should cancel but didn't say whether they would, or would not, come - that the meeting is CANCELLED.

    Now, that raised the question of February.  Several of the above also stated we should cancel the February (And 2 also March.) meetings.  Some that we should simply drop the winter months (January, February and maybe March) and run meetings in April including July and August straight through December instead of the usual no hot summer months as the Crown Heights Clubhouse is air conditioned as are most of our cars.

   Therefore PLEASE, more than the above January 13 respondents/email, let me know if you (& spouse) will come to February and/or

March meeting(s).   Simply reply such as sample: "Feb=2 No, March=1 Yes" (The sample numeral is for quantity of people.). 

   MINIMUM 15 total coming, for either month, the meeting will be held.  Suzumi & I will make that 17 - a reasonable number.    

   Obviously for any meeting if weather is predicted to be terrible I will cancel by email by Tuesday prior to Thursday meeting. If a late

prediction change a cancel email will be sent as soon after Tuesday as it's known; and any question please call (845) 226-5235.

 

Your un-illustrious President, J. Wayne Adams & LOL to all 

01/14/2022: January Meeting

Hello everyone .. As the current COVID-19 issue seems to have hit a new high I'm asking all to send a reply YES they will attend January 20th meeting - or call 845-226-5235 to discuss.  If less than 20 total folks respond by 8PM Monday 17th, I will send a CANCEL meeting email - and hope to resume with February meeting.  I base this on contacts by several members, personal friends and our VP that it's the wise decision.  If the JANUARY meeting is to be held it will be WITHOUT a speaker - just us - and I will send an email January 19th to that effect.  So, expect at least one more email prior to January 20th meeting date.  HAPPY NEW YEAR!  Wayne & Suzumi, 


01/02/2022: Christmas Party & Finances 

Happy New Year to all,  Attached is my set of minutes of the party and the cost of same(click here).  It went well and I'm reasonably happy with the outcome.  I'm sorry several people couldn't come for whatever reason and hope they ("you", if you're reading this,) are well and w/o a health issue.  I have fully recovered from the CV19 Delta or Omicron (hope it was Delta - the worse one) and no-one else got it from either the party or shopping where I got it.  I left out the balance in our treasury as I expect a change, or 2, in next couple weeks.  As you will see in my financial part of attachment the party cost more than anticipated and any next party will need to be better planned.


   As to the future, I will continue as President & Treasurer & Secretary until someone volunteers to take over any or all of those tasks; BUT my wife, Suzumi, and I, will NOT do any whole party "thing" ourselves.  No considerable help - no party!  That's partly my fault as I failed to insist on help for the Christmas Party.  

 

  As to 2022 "Speakers", I have not tried very much yet using the list given to me - so if anyone of you have obtained any - especially for January 20, please let me know asap so I don't double speakers.  Any one of you can suggest a speaker or topic and may contact that person, or group, but don't schedule until you contact me to avoid doubling.  Our officers permit me to inform you we try to keep any speaker, musicians, et al, fees to $200, or less.  Your efforts will be appreciated by all our members.  Government officials are a good source of FREE speakers and have had some from NY Dutchess agencies. Author Anthony Musso is another great speaker.

           :LOL and have a wonderful year .. Wayne, Suzumi  & Rob Adams .

12/06/2021: Final on the drinks bar issue

Hi folks,  According to Shannon of the Elks club there will be NO extra bar charge for our party.  Folks wanting to purchase an alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) beverage will be allowed to walk to the bar and buy any drink they offer for cash (+ tip if so inclined) - If bartender is on duty which should be the case.

    You folks who don't look your age may be asked for ID.   Forehead temperatures will be checked at the door and expect rain as 70% predicted for Saturday as of today,  Sorry, out of my control.  At least it's not snow predicted.  

Your President, John Wayne Adams

12/01/2021: FINAL Christmas Party Food selection info 

Hello all ... As cost to add a 4th item to the selection is only $1/plate we've decided to add sausage and peppers (6 people requested) and change from roast turkey to roast beef (8 people suggested) as no-one demanded turkey.  We will also provide a decorated sheet cake as aforementioned.  The cake and extra menu item of $32 total & 7 new white paper tablecloths will come from the treasury - less than $100 total.  Please buy 50/50 tickets at 3 for $5.  The door prize will be cash - the amount a surprise. 


   The round tables are said to hold 8 to 10 diners.  Due to Covid recommendations we should keep total to 8 per table if that is reasonable.  An open bar will cost $50 so if AT LEAST half of us want alcohol we'll tap the treasury again so if that's what you want, please email or phone me BEFORE next Monday.


Wayne Adams (845) 226-5235 


  P.S.  All meals come with vegetables, potatoes, salad, rolls-n-butter, coffee, tea, water.

  P.P.S.  For open bar I'll need 14 more requests added to my vote.


Your President, John Wayne Adams


2021 Christmas Party

Date: December 11th, 2021

Where: Elks Club, 29 Overocker Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 (click here for map)

Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Price: $32.00 each member or guest (tax & tip included)*

* PAYMENT FOR THE PARTY MUST BE MADE AT THE NOVEMBER MEETING, AS WE MUST NOTIFY THE ELKS CLUB OF TOTAL NUMBER ATTENDING TWO WEEKS BEFORE DEC. 11 th.

11/30/2021:  Christmas Party update (Please read)

Hello all, due to several requests we are considering change from main item(s).  Right now, we have 2 meat & 1 vegetarian choices.  For adding a 4th item, the price increases and I will find out tomorrow how much.  If we decide to add one, I'd like the officers (all from last election even if you've "retired".) to let me know if the extra cost should come from the "treasury".


    The current choices are Roasted Turkey or Chicken Marsella and Penne-Ala-Vodka - all with usual "sides".  Most requests suggest we drop the Chicken and add a Beef selection AND if we add a 4th make it sausage & peppers.       YOUR THOUGHTS - PLEASE!

Your President, John Wayne Adams

11/28/2021:  Christmas Party update and November Meeting 'Minutes'

Hello all, Suzumi & I hope you all had a good Thanksgiving and are getting ready for the Christmas Party Dec.11, at the Elks Lodge at 29 Overocker Road, Poughkeepsie (845) 454-6660 from 1PM to 5PM.  We will be entertained by The Harvest Duo from 2PM to 5PM.  As of

this writing we will have 28 people which includes the 2 musicians who will eat during their break.  We will post weather information on the

https://Sites.Google.Com/Site/MhvIbmRetireesClub/   (NOT case-sensitive - I added the capital letters for easier reading.)  If any doubt

you may call me on our cell phone (845) 590-1099.   If you have any food restrictions, I suggest you call Shannon (Monday thru Thursday) at above number to learn if they can accommodate your needs.  If they cannot, please call me to cancel for a refund or make some kind of arrangement.  We will start with Opening Pledge, Announcements of member/friend happening, SHORT business meeting, door prize (Free tickets) and 50/50 (Ticket sales limited to 3 for $5.).  Followed by buffet meal of Turkey, Chicken, or meatless pasta.  I will have more detail on the food choices in the Web site when finalized.  All options will have usual salad, sides, bread, beverage and desert.


    The "minutes" of November meeting are based on my recollection (terrible memory) as follows:   We gathered at Crown Heights Clubhouse between noon (setup) and about 4:30 (cleanup) with usual forehead temperature readings at entry, a 1:00 to 2:00 social hour, brief business meeting, door prize of $20 Red Line Restaurant gift card, and 50/50 ($80 Income) with $30 First & $10 Second prizes and $40 to our treasury.


    Our speaker was Brian Jones of the Dutchess County Office for the Aging, who gave an excellent talk on aging - followed by a question-and-answer session

.

    The Treasurer's report stated $3,992.30 in the Hudson Valley Credit Union account in Treasurer's name (J.W.Adams temporary) and

it is hoped we will have some member to step up to the task soon.  There is also a bag taken to each meeting with ABOUT $200 from which to pay the folks who bring refreshments and into which is placed the Club's share of 50/50, donations, other expenses.  For the Christmas Party we have already paid Elks Club $300 for the reservation and will be re-deposited after the party.  As of this writing the annual dues per member will be $10 due first meeting one attends in 2022, first meeting January 20.  No speaker yet.


    We have received several suggestions for 2022 meeting for which we may be unable to obtain a speaker or other entertainment and these are playing card games, board games such as Checkers, Monopoly, Risk, etc.  An outdoor bar-b-q on the property for which we must obtain permission from the Crown Heights Club.  Please let us know of any other suggestions - esp, if you have a speaker in mind.


Your President, John Wayne Adams


IBM Retirees Nov Meet & Dec Dinner Info

 

Hello Fellow members and officers,

  Sorry such late notice.  The November 18 Group Meeting at the Crown Heights Clubhouse will have the usual social hour 1PM to 2PM, short business meeting, Door Prize and 50/50 and followed by speaker Brian Jones of the County Office For the Aging on subjects of interest with a Q&A session.

    We will collect $32 Cash or Check, made out to "John W. Adams", for each member and for each guest (No reasonable limit on number of paid guests.) for the Christmas Dinner Meeting at the Elks Club on Overrocker Road, Poughkeepsie, from 1PM to 5PM on Saturday, December 11.  Music by the Harvest Duo we've enjoyed in the past.  No discount for couples and no extra charge for non-members.

   We hope you will all come to enjoy the meal, socialize, and discuss future of the Club.  I MUST know total attendees by November 25th, so if you don't pay at November 18 meeting, please mail the check by November 22 or call me (845) 226-5235.

   Your President, John Wayne Adams


Additional message from our President:

Hello All .. I've included Mary Jane Riley to the officer list as she is arranging our party at the Elks Club, Overrocker Road, for December 11th (NOT the 18th as previously announced), for 1PM (1300 hrs) to 5PM (1700 hrs).  The price is $32.00 each member or guest - no price difference this year, Tax and Tip INCLUDED.  A great price.


   The current problem is that I cannot find phone number for The Harvest Duo music pair that has played for us many times.  They seem to be on the internet but the info lacks way to contact them and they're not in my phone book.   THUS, we still have no speaker for Nov. meeting and no music for party and time is VERY short.   PAYMENT FOR THE PARTY MUST BE MADE AT NOVEMBER MEETING AS WE MUST NOTIFY THE ELKS CLUB OF TOTAL NUMBER ATTENDING TWO WEEKS BEFORE DEC. 11.   If I receive a check for full amount by November 24th that will be acceptable.    

 

   Also, I want to apologize for the too-crowded-table comment I made that everone at the table agreed with the lady that refused to keep to minimum of six.  I've been informed that two of the "over-six" folks did NOT agree with her and both insist we should not allow more  than a reasonable amount at a table.  THEREFORE,  round table limit is SIX.  We'll set up a long table each meeting for larger group(s) which we'll set limit at 10 .. 4 per side & 2 at the 2 ends.  If that is not enough please come early and help set up a pair of tables in some reasonable arrangement,  Set-up is not easy for us old folks - it takes time and effort.  And we must put those, we move out, all back   We officers want everyone happy, safe, and polite.  Thank you, your president, Wayne Adams .

Minutes from October 21st Meeting

The October Group meeting was much more "on time" than September, with much the same member attendees with 25 signed-in folks.  I thought I counted more than that which means we missed a couple entrees (not food entrees).  Oh, well, so be it. 


    The meeting started out with a very embarrassing moment when I politely asked folks to wear masks and sit no more than six to a table as was the then current masking rule for our use of the Clubhouse.  I was rudely told by one "lady" she wouldn't and the more than six at that table sided with her rather than their elected president.   Hmmm!   Well, as I was not feeling well, or at all presidential I let it pass.   Let me be perfectly clear that will not happen again!  I have talked with the Club director and she said they have recently decided masking is up to each individual and as we check temperatures at entry that will be our rule.   

   

      As to quantity at table she suggested we let large groups share a long, rectangular, table with occupants keeping as separate as reasonable.  I'm, OK with that.    All that being said, I will NOT tolerate rudeness from any member either to myself or to other officers or regular members.  You WILL be asked to leave and Club director said I do have that authority.


     The door prize and 50-50 were held with winners listed and photographed by Ken Crowe.  I do not have that info at present.

Our speaker was our very own Rick Seyfried of Merrill Lynch, who gave an excellent talk on crypo=currency, IBM Stock and the current market - followed by a spirited Q&A session.  Joan, supported by Joe, McGrath gave Rick high marks for his advice to them over recent past.  Several folks, including myself, appeared ready to sign up with him - so that should keep him happy to be a member.

End of "minutes" .. Anyone accept or second???


 YO, Officers ..  Thank you Cosgroves for prompt payment to Clubhouse.

========== 

    Someone needs to arrange for a November meeting speaker.  Mr. Anthony Musso and the folks at Dutchess County Office of the Aging

have said in the past they can usually come up with a speaker on short-term notice.   Someone please step up to that.


     Mary Jane Riley (845) 473-6682, is currently arranging for our December 18 (I believe) buffet dinner at the Elks Club at Over-something Road.   Price I believe in high twenties.   Someone needs to assure that is all set AND contact/contract our regular entertainers and send method of  payment to Mary Jane and the entertainers.  I'm right now just not up to it - something about a knee.   DO WE NEED AN OFFICER'S MEETING.  As of now I can attend any PM next week   I'm aching now so if I've missed anything please email or call.

Keep safe .. Wayne .. {|8<((#


    Wayne Adams, President & temporary Secretary, MHV IBM Retirees Group.

Message from our President on 9/22/2021

The MHV IBM Retirees Group folks met for first time in over a year at the Crown Heights Clubhouse, Poughkeepsie, New York, at 1:00 PM, Thursday, September 16th, on a beautiful late-summer day.  25 Officers and members happily greeted each other, socialized, enjoyed refreshments and later enjoyed an interesting and beautiful electronic violin concert by Mr. James Teal of Teal Music, NYC.  We held traditional Door Prize and 50-50 lottery with this-time-only all funds to the three winners.

       We ask all members to attend the October 21st meeting to discuss Christmas Party in EARLY December (Location/Cost/Entertainment), agree to future dues as we are no longer constrained by IBM Club rules, and any other issues pertaining to the future of our Club (Whoops .. our Group! ).  We are no longer under the auspices of The IBM Corp., and may not use the IBM initials and the word Club in our title - rather are using the word Group at IBM's suggestion.  The officers and I hope very sincerely to see all of you at our October meeting. 


President (John) Wayne Adams - Please call me Wayne as do all my friends.