CLUB HEADQUARTERS/ PARENT CHAPTERBethpage, New York

President, Betty Bohlander, (516-575-3777)

CHAPTERS / MEETING LOCATIONS:

California - Golden West / Pt. MuguPresident, Fred Syrett (805-647-4934)

California - San Diego / San DiegoPresident, Pete Belay, (858-484-7307)

Florida - First Coast / St. AugustinePresident, Fred Bauer (904-819-9817)

Florida - Manasota West / BradentonPresident, Ted Martines (941-926-8891)

Florida - Mid-West / Spring Hill President, John Cornacchia (813-995-2902)

Florida - Southwest / Locations VaryPresident, Carolyn Moors (239-283-8294)

Florida - Spacecoast / MelbournePresident, Bob Prais (321-242-5782)

Florida - Suncoast / Pinellas ParkPresident, Benjamin Hurley (727-527-7281)

Florida - Treasure Coast / Port St. LuciePresident, Dan Knowles (772-288-2758)

Georgia - Peach Pit / MilledgevillePresident, Janet Sills (706-485-0839)

Maryland - Glen Arm / BelairPresident, Rick Swinder (410-977-7829)

New England - New England North / Dorset, VT President, Bill Egner (802-446-2062)

New York - Bethpage Chapter & Club HQPresident, Betty Bohlander, (516-575-3777)

New York - Eastern Long Island / RiverheadPresident, Bert Moller (631-864-4377)

North Carolina - Eastern Carolina / Locations VaryPresident, Peter McNamee (252-288-4569)

Pennsylvania - Northeast PA / So. SterlingPresident, Charles Dowd (570-491-2125)

South CarolinaCoastal Carolinas / Myrtle BeachPresident, Robert Joyce (910-575-2309)

Virginia - Central Virginia / MonticelloPresident, Fred Meiners (434-589-2882)

June 2016 Volume 49, Issue 6 Circulation: 2,363

A Love Affair with Grumman . . .

Interesting reading. See the Bethpage Chapter report, beginning on page three, for the May meeting guest speaker’s story of his time at Grumman. Commander Jim Roth, USN (Retired), spent many years at Grumman as the Navy’s representative for post-production airplane acceptance. He had many adventures while at Grumman, and he holds a unique “Rank” in the annals of the Grumman Iron Works.

Don’t miss his story and his comments.

***************************************************************************Nostalgia Returns!

Our Nostalgia aricle publications resume with this Newsletter. This month’s article, The Proposal, The Cop, and the WOW! Moment”, starts on page 16.

******************************************************************************************Our Scholarship Awards Luncheon . . .

will be held on June 29. Make your reservations now. Luncheon reserva-tion form is on the next-to-last page of this Newsletter.

******************************************************************************************The Retiree Club Annual Picnic . . .

is scheduled for September 7, at Marjorie Post Park, in Massapequa, NY. Mark your calendar and sign up for the picnic now. Picnic coupon is on page 19.

Everyone, from every Chapter, is welcome!

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Scholarship ProgramSCHOLARSHIP 50/50 RAFFLE TICKET

_______________________________________Name_______________________________________Address

Town _______________State ____ Zip _______

Phone (optional) _____________________

Number of Raffles Purchased _____

Scholarship Program Contributors

The Scholarship Fund Directors and the Retiree Club thank the following for their donations:

Abbott, Marion Aitken, RobertAnders, Ronald Arena, AldoBerlin, Nathaniel Blackton, CharlesBush, Richard Cammer, CharlesCarnesi, Anthony Danos, Stavros

Dawkins, B. H. De Pinter, EdmundDi Falco, Dominic Dudek, EdwardDunton, Harlow Egan, JohnFarkas, Milton Goldmacher, JeromeGregory, Chester Guarino, William

Guion, Ralph Hejl, JosephHickey, Joseph Hill, CharlesHutchings, Douglas Jacknis, PhilipKeenan, Charles Keenan, RobertKelley, Harold Kielbasa, Joseph

Kindel, Kenneth Klaum, ThomasKnapp, Fred Lewin, NormanLoonam, John Lynch, RobertMaginniss, Rosemary Manthey, WilliamMartin, Edward Martin, Robert

Mason, Patricia Mirchin, SeymourMoore, Thomas Morcerf, FracisMorcerf, Francis Nannon, GerardNewman, Thomas Nofi, ElaineNoonan, Harold Page, Marjorie

Pederson, Paul Savasta, RobertSchlege, D.F. Schwab, JamesSchwarz, Jakob Shaughnessey, PeterSmith, Kenneth Steel, HelenStrakosch, Ruth Townsend, John

Vonseggern, Marie Wright, William

Glen Arm Chapter for William Meininger

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Applications for our 2017 Scholarship Awards Program will be available in the Fall, and may be obtained at Chapter meetings, at our web site (www.grummanretireeclub.org), or by sending a request for application, together with a stamped, self-addressed envelope, to the mail address below. Again, thank you. Your continuing, generous support has enabled us to have our 19th successful year of Scholarship Awards. It is the members’ responsibility to provide the application and encourage our grand kids to participate! Remember: the only awareness our grand kids have of our Scholarship program is through you, the members.

******************************************************Scholarship Program

QUARTERLY 50/50 RAFFLE

Members of All Chapters May Participate!

Enter often. Multiple winners possible. Max prize: $500 for any one person, in any one

drawing.

Winners announced in the Newsletter.

Send a filled-in raffle ticket (below) and a check (payable to Grumman Retiree Club Scholarship Fund), to: Retiree Club Scholarship program, PO Box 0748, Bethpage, NY, 11714-0748.

Each raffle entry is $5. (Please indicate how many raffles you are purchasing.)

This Raffle benefits the Scholarship Fund only.

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Bethpage / Parent Chapter

May 25, 2016

It felt like Summer had finally arrived at the Crest Hollow CC, as our monthly crew showed up hungry. After a great lunch, the meeting began with Betty Bohlander leading the Pledge of Allegiance. A moment of silence was then observed for our departed friends and for the wellbeing of the men and women in the service of our country who fight and die for our freedom.

President Betty Bohlander introduced guest speaker Commander Jim Roth, USN, (Ret.). Jim started his talk by calling his career in the Navy his, “Grumman Love Story,” adding that in so many ways, his life was entwined with Grumman. The very first plane he flew in advanced flight training school was the Grumman F9F Panther, Grumman’s first fighter jet aircraft, which launched his “love affair.” He commented that when he put his feet on the Grumman rudder pedals, he felt comfortable. Upon graduation, having conquered airsickness, his grades were so high that he was asked to be an instructor in Pensacola, FL where he flourished for the next two years. Teaching all the young hotshots the basic discipline necessary to survive, Jim also ingrained that discipline into himself. He needed it because his next assignment was in the fleet, flying the A4 Skyhawk, whose mission during the intense cold war period was to carry a nuclear weapon for delivery inside the Iron

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB NEWSLETTER

(USPS # 023-096) Volume 49, Issue 6, June 2016, is published monthly except August and September by Grumman Retiree Club, Inc., Northrop Grumman Corp, M/S Retiree/BP15, 925 South Oyster Bay Road, Bethpage, NY 11714. Periodical postage rates paid at Bethpage, NY. Subscriptions rates of $13 are paid through membership dues.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Grumman Retiree Club, Inc. c/o Command Direct / 310 Oser Ave / Hauppauge, NY 11788-3608

Scholarship Awards Program

As you read this, winners for 2016 will have been selected. You can meet the recipients of your generosity at our annual Awards Luncheon, on June 29. Your contributions are the engine that allows our Scholarship Award Program to be an on-going Retiree Club Program for all members.

Scholarship Program donations are tax deductible.

Every little bit counts . . . It all adds up. Please keep your (tax deductible) donations coming . . . Send your checks (payable to Retiree Scholarship Fund) to: Scholarship Fund, PO Box 0748,

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Blood Drive

Next Scheduled Blood Drive: June 16.

Please call the office (516-575-3777) if you wish to donate.

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Bethpage Chapter Calendar

Luncheons/MeetingsMembership luncheon-meetings are held on the 4th Wednesday of the month, unless otherwise

noted.

All luncheons in 2016, including the Scholarship and Holiday luncheons, will be held at the Crest Hollow CC.

June 29 - Scholarship Luncheon

Mark your calendar for these meeting dates: September 7 - Picnic September 21; October 19; November 15 - TUESDAY December 14 - Holiday Luncheon

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Curtain. This assignment required overwhelming self-discipline. After hundreds of carrier landings, it was time for a stint at shore duty so he was advised to take an assignment in a new squadron that would start flying the newly designed A-2F Intruder designed and built by Grumman. He accepted and the love affair intensified: he again had his feet on Grumman rudder pedals. When the airplane was re-identified as the A-6, he trained in A-6 shells, which were airframes without any weapon systems. Jim said that they were trained on the weapon systems by technicians from Grumman who had been dispatched to their home base in NAS Oceana.

Jim could not praise the A-6 too highly, especially the fact that the cockpit was a two seater, meaning a dedicated pilot and a dedicated weapon system operator. When proficient in A-6 operation, NAS Oceana successfully trained one US Marine A-6 squadron and two US Navy squadrons, one on each coast. The Viet Nam War required additional squadron trainings.

His assignment at the Navy/Grumman Calverton facility as the Navy Representative-in-Charge (RIC), Navy Plant Representative’s Director of Aircraft Acceptance, and Navy Chief Pilot, began in January 1969. This was at the height of the A6-E production, the retrofit of A-6As to Es, the introduction of the EA-6A jamming aircraft, and just prior to the F-14 award.

For the next six years, until he left, he flew 2000+ acceptance flights in all of these planes and was now fully into the Grumman love story. What more could enhance this Grumman love affair? The Ultimate: at an F-14 Navy Evaluation team meeting in 1972, Jim met, fell in love with, and eventually married his now wife of 44 years.

Jim’s career concluded in August 1975. At his retirement party at Grumman, he was awarded the one and only “Honorary Grummanite” plaque ever presented by Grumman.

Jim concluded this fascinating talk with a story about the only harrowing flight he ever had, which

was in an F-14 over Orient Point. One of his engines suffered a flameout after hitting a goose. He successfully landed at Calverton with no other issues. Jim noted that along with the destroyed engine it was found that the good engine throttle linkage was ¾ damaged and he felt that if this had not been a Grumman Iron Works product, all would have been lost.

Jim told us his entire career is documented in two books he wrote, in 2006 and 2009. Jim then held a brief Q&A session and was given a Retiree Club medallion and a rousing round of applause.

Betty Bohlander, Cmdr Jim Roth

Business - President Betty Bohlander:• Betty Bohlander asked if there were any changes to the April Membership meeting notes. With no changes offered, the minutes were accepted as written.• Our Houston, Texas chapter has closed due to lack of members. Since all chapters are mandated by the Club Constitution to return all unspent monies to the Club upon dissolution, the Chapter returned $580. However, since all chapters are 501c3 Not-for-Profit organizations, the Chapter opted to donate the money to the Club Scholarship Fund. Sincere Thanks to the Houston Chapter members for their generosity.• The Club received a Thank You letter from Margaret Hilbert, who received one of our $2000 scholarship awards last year. Margaret wrote, “To the members of the Grumman Retiree Scholarship Fund: Last Spring I was awarded a Club Scholarship and it

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1. Approximately 500 people have not yet paid their 2016 dues. “Did You Forget?” notes will be sent to them, which usually yield checks from 20% of the people. Naturally, their Newsletter has stopped and that spurs them to action too. 2. We are planning to have a 50th Club Anniversary Celebration at the Cradle of Aviation next year, probably in October. Look for details soon.

Get Well Wishes – Pat Sullivan announced that there were two Get Well cards sent. One was sent to Carol Nelson and one to Harry Daum. WE all hope you feel better, soon, folks!

Pat announced that the Club funds one $2000 Scholarship Award. This is in addition to the multiple awards funded by the BFCU annually.

Pat also spoke about the 30th annual Club Picnic scheduled for September 7, at Marjorie Post Park, in Massapequa: Great food, great “horse racing”, and great bonding. Put the date aside.

Treasurer ReportsFrank Rizzo was not present to give the Club’s treasurer’s report.

Linda Perrotta presented the Scholarship Fund Treasurer’s report, which was accepted as read.

Linda announced that the Scholarship Luncheon (June 29th) Reservation Form is in the Newsletter. Linda asked everyone to provide all the names if a full table is requested, but ONLY one check for the entire group.

Linda said that there will be a Quarterly Mail-in Raffle award at the Scholarship Luncheon and reminded everyone that participation in the raffle is NOT an eligible charitable donation.

Travel: As was the case in April, Nick Bazzicalupo was unable to speak due to a prior engagement so the joke of the month was again offered by Secretary Lou Kubat, who told an appropriate “Pilot” joke. Still no competition for Nick!!

has greatly helped me to pursue my educational goals. I just finished my first year at the University of Virginia, where I made the Dean’s List in both semesters and was able to take many interesting courses. I also joined the swim team and a sorority. Thank You for making my first year possible. Sincerely, Margaret Hilbert”. Thank you Margaret. We hope that we get more feedback from the award winners as they traverse their college careers. • Jim Eng (Northrop Grumman Aircraft Systems) told the club that he received an email regarding an F-14 at the Valiant Air Museum, in Titusville, Florida where a display F-14 was stuck in the “kneeled” position. They were asking if Jim knew of anyone who had technical publications on the F-14 that would describe how to get it “unkneeled”. Apparently Jim was able to find someone to solve the problem. Betty asked the audience if anyone had these types of manuals. No one responded.

Betty was asked for a status update on the History Center. She replied that its fate is still unknown and she will advise everyone when the Club learns of a definite decision.

Everyone hopes that the facility remains. It had been suggested to Betty that the files be reduced to digital copies. Betty agreed that it was a great idea but suggested that it would take time and the proper equipment to accomplish, and would require volunteers to come forward to offer their time to accomplish this daunting task. She also suggested that members visit the History Center if they have not already done so. It is open on Monday and Wednesday, from 9:30AM to 2:30PM. Please call [516-349-5941] before visiting to make sure that someone will be there.

Betty also said that she still gets questions about the Defensive Driving Course. It was discontinued a few years ago and there are no plans to revive it. Local libraries offer the defensive driving course for a reasonable fee.

Committee Reports – First VP Bob Ripp, Bob opened the various Committee Reports but first noted:

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Birthdays: Louise Kubat, 78 (5/7); Frances (Ruthie) Murray, 88 (5/2); Peter Murray, 87 (4/23). Happy Birthday to all.

Anniversaries: Peter & Frances Murray 65 yrs. (4/7); Jim & Lita Strohecker 63 yrs (5/25); and Ben & Lorraine Kenney 47 yrs. (5/25).

Out of Town Visitors- We always welcome Pauline Sandmann from Riverhead. Prize Winners Community Relations 50/50: Karen Aker, Grace Cox, Pat Sullivan, and Jane Klinger.Door Prizes: Caroline DeMorris, William DeMorris, Ed Schembor, and Pat Spinoso. Scholarship 50/50: Barbara Oliveri

The meeting was adjourned with the singing of “God Bless America”..By: Lou Kubat, Sec’y.

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CALIFORNIA / Golden West Our May 10th meeting was held at the Eagles Lodge in Oxnard, Ca. Thirteen members attended.

Sergeant-at-Arms John Urgo led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lunch was served and was followed by a business meeting where plans were made for our picnic, on June 14th, at Conejo Park in Thousand Oaks.

Two member birthdays this month: Stanley Szydlowski and Bill Schieffer.

50/50 winner was Don Coler.

By: Fred Syrett, President

Meetings: We meet on the second Tuesday of the month.

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CALIFORNIA / San Diego

The San Diego Chapter did not meet in May.

Contact: Bill Roeckl, Sec’y. [billroeckl@cox.net]

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FLORIDA/ First Coast

May, 2016

Our Spring picnic took place under cloudy skies. About thirty folks enjoyed hanging out and eating hotdogs supplied by Pete Foster and Tom Walsh. Bob Karpinski brought a pot of Chili which many enjoyed. Art Goehler and Bob Rathje grilled and served the burgers. Thanks also to those who brought a variety of salads desserts and goodies. No one went home hungry. The semi-annual Bocce Blast took place with Bruce Betts and Steve Cacace taking first place. Second place went to Vic Smits and John Saar. Third place: Bob Rathje and Tom Walsh. On a sad note, Dick Schneckenburger passed away April 20.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Next Meeting: June 21, at Ichiban buffet on US 1 in St. AugustineThis will be our last meeting before summer break.

Future meeting: Sept. 20 will be our return meeting. Reminders will be sent out at an earlier date with pertinent information. By: Steve Cacace [sremkkc@comcst.net]

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FLORIDA / Manasota West

The Chapter did not meet in May.

Next Meeting: September 14, at Noon, at the Pier 22 Restaurant overlooking the Manatee River in Bradenton, FL. We invite Grumman and Northrop Grumman retirees, or those currently working, to stop in and enjoy the conversation. Contact: John Zinna [941-705-2690 or ezjohn1028@gmail.com]

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FLORIDA/ Mid-West

May 19, 2016

A small group of us, 10 in all, gathered together at the City Buffet in Brooksville for lunch. It was Gus and Charlotte Krayers’ turn to host the meeting.

Gus called for the reading of the minutes of our last meeting. They were read. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Rich Arso and seconded by Madeline Arso. The minutes were accepted by all.

The Treasurer’s Report was presented. A motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report was made by Elaine Johnson and seconded by Pat Shay. The report was accepted by all

Sunshine Report by Madeline Arso: We are sad to hear that Joan Mehl is very sick. We passed around a card for her and it was signed by all.

We had two birthdays while we were away: John Cornacchia (3-20) and Elaine Johnson (4-14).

Bill & Pat Shay celebrated their 50th anniversary. Way to go, Bill and Pat!

We broke for lunch, which was followed by a very nice slide show by Bill & Pat Shay of their trip through the Southwestern United States.

Next Meeting: October 20, 2016 at Pine Island beach, to be hosted by Rich & Madeline Arso.

See you in October.

By: Kathy Cornacchia

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FLORIDA / SouthWest

President Clem Moors led our May meeting in the Pledge of Allegiance and prayer before our meal at Golden Corral, in Punta Gorda. Ten of us enjoyed a super spread of many dishes. Of course, we did not neglect the lemon meringue and chocolate cream pie on the full dessert display with chocolate fountain. Clem read our March Meeting minutes, as submitted to Bethpage.

Present for our birthday song were: Mallo Wolter, Bob Sidaris, and Clem Moors. We discovered that the Sedaris and the Wolters were married on the same day in June, 59 years ago. Quite a coincidence!

Under old business: Clem was contacted by the Crime Prevention Task Force, asking if we would like to have them again at a future meeting. This will be discussed in the Fall.

Our treasury is solvent and the same.

We shared our summer plans: a. The Wolters will have a family reunion in the Poconos, to celebrate their anniversary and then stay to enjoy the Summer. b. The Sidarises will be taking a two-week fall-foliage cruise from Bayonne NJ, on Celebrity, for two weeks. The trip will include a stay in Quebec. c, The Harringtons will stay in Florida and enjoy their local bridge games at the Cultural Center. d. Ethel and Clara will stay in Florida and perhaps enjoy more shows at Broadway Palm. e. The Moors will soon be on the road in their RV, to a wedding in Ohio and a visit to the grand-girls

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on Long Island.

We’ll keep Tony Perre in our prayers as he undergoes more treatment.

Next Meeting: October 11, at Tara Woods, Route 41 North, in Fort Myers.Our last meeting of the year will be at the Golden Corral, on November 8.

By: Clem Moors [clemtony@juno.com; 239-283-8294]

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FLORIDA / Space Coast

May 25, 2016

In spite of the annual Spring exodus of snowbirds and Northern graduation attendees, there were 62 members and guests in attendance for our annual scholarship awards meeting. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, President Bob Prais led us in prayer with a silent moment dedicated to our recently departed member John Lopopolo.

After our Suntree Country Club buffet, VP John Lau proudly introduced our very special guest speaker, Dr. Desmond Blackburn, PHD. Dr. Blackburn, recently selected to be Superintendent of Schools for Brevard County Public Schools, came to our meeting to provide sage advice and guidelines to our two new scholarship winners. A native of Mt. Vernon, NY, Dr. Blackburn has lived and been educated in Florida since 1988, many times coaching basket ball while holding a variety of educational positions.

Dr. Blackburn proved to be an exceptionally talented speaker, keeping our retirees on the edge of their seats as he combined seasoned advice for our scholarship winners with sometime self-demeaning humor. Some highlights were:• Practice is over - in Churchill’s words, “This is the end of the beginning”

• You’ll find, as I did, the older you get, the smarter your parents get.• Network is as important as knowledge - not who you know, but who knows you.• Study people as much as books - the world lacks leadership.• Learn other languages - go abroad.• Look back to help others - like the retirees in this room have done today.• Keep parents and helpful friends close.

In his ten months as chief executive officer of the Brevard County Public School System, Dr. Blackburn has started an ambitious program of examination and re-organization of our massive system (71,232 students) and has won the support of many of the parents.

Following Dr. Blackburn’s charge to the students, Scholarship Committee Chairman Jim Glover introduced the Space Coast Retiree’s Chapter Scholarship winner, Ashley Sanchez, giving us some background on her extensive scholastic accomplishments and extra curricular activities. Jim presented her with a commemorative plaque, which detailed some highlights of the original Grumman Corporations stellar achievements. Ashley already has an Associates Degree from Eastern Florida State College and will be entering the University of Central Florida in the Fall to major in Mechanical Engineering.

We were very fortunate in presenting the George M. Skurla Scholarship to have both Marie and George M. Skurla, Jr. at the meeting to participate in the ceremony. George awarded the plaque and related interesting moments from both his father’s and his own careers while advising not to be afraid to change your majors or goals. The recipient of the scholarship, Julianne Chapet, is uniquely qualified for a Grumman award since her brother is on the E-2 program and she will be working as an intern on the E-2D in St. Augustine this summer. She will be majoring in mechanical engineering at FSU this fall. We do not anticipate any hurdle stopping Julianne: she placed fifth in women’s pole-vaulting in the Florida State competition!

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Marie Skurla closed out the ceremonies in her traditional way with a grand assortment of Grumman memorabilia and college ’T’ shirts for both young ladies. We cannot close the book on this year’s awards without issuing a five star “Attaboy” to Jim Glover for all the work he put in chairing the selection process and organizing the distribution of the awards. Thanks, Jim.

Treasurer Bill Waldron detailed the activity in both our regular and scholastic accounts, noting in particular some significant contributions to our scholarship fund, so necessary to keep our unique four-year award program alive. We, and our eight current recipients, thank all our donors, large or small.

Grumman Gremlins: Major current effort by our Gremlins is directed at reconstruction and replication of structure suffering from corrosion on the F-100 Super Sabre. Meanwhile, the Canberra bomber has been completely primed and is awaiting selection of final coat colors - RAF or USN. And to add a final diversified note, our leather working Gremlins are re-working the upholstery of the B-52 bomber.

Old Business: Last month, we reported on our Chapter’s response to a local charity, “Daily Bread,” which operates a Soup Kitchen currently feeding 234 people every day and which had lost several major donors. The club responded immediately with a donation of $200 and invited our members who wished to add individual contributions to see our Treasurer. Bill Waldron detailed the magnanimous response totaling over $900!!!. It does make you proud to belong to such a caring organization.

50/50 Drawing: There were five 50/50 winners. The Grand Prize consisted of a gift certificate for two at the Suntree Country Club Champagne Brunch and two bottles of wine…Pinot Grigio and Merlot,

Employees Birthdays May: Ed Stone, Vic Belmont, and Anne Korothy

Spouses Birthdays May: Gloria Schreiber, Margaret Dauber, Pat Postupack, John Korothy, Anne Milonas, Peggy Graefe, Joan Orlando, Judy Lowen, Elaine Prime, Barbara Leahy

Anniversaries May: Ron & Carol Sidorski, Thomas & Ruth Feeney, Jess & Lou Ann Busterna, Tom & Lilia Lewis, Ed & Geraldine Stone, Charlie & Lee KelleyNext Meeting June 15, 2016

No Meetings in July and AugustSeptember 21, 2016 (Suntree Country Club)

10/19, 11/16, 12/14

By: Bill Steenson, Sec’y.

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FLORIDA / Suncoast

Our 4/20/16 meeting was opened at Noon, at the Hibachi Buffet in Pinellas Park, FL, by President Ben Hurley. Sergeant-at-Arms John Kucin led the Pledge of Allegiance. Secretary Patricia Newark gave the Invocation, with a special prayer for our Armed Services personnel in harm’s way.

Welcome back to our Vice President, Lyn Mohr. Good to see your smiling face.

Anniversaries: Ben & Anna Hurley, Tony & Sofia Giouvalakis.

Birthdays: John Kucin in April. He is now 66. John Newark, known affectionately as Hurricane John as his birthday is June 1st, the start of Hurricane season in Florida. Ben Hurley, 85 on July 20. The Suncoast Singers sang Happy Birthday to all.

We had two happy 50/50 winners: Sofia Giouvalakis and John Kucin.

Future meeting dates: October 19, November 16, and December 14, 2015.

Have a Beautiful Summer Vacation everyone.Well see you in the Fall.

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By: Patricia E. Newark, Secy.[lionpattysecretary@yahoo.com, 727-360-7339]

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FLORIDA / Treasure Coast

The May19th meeting was held at the Martin Downs Golf Club.

President Dan Knowles led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Chaplain Larry Regier gave the invocation.

Dan introduced Billy Mack, who was employed by Grumman while still in his late teens. Billy spoke about starting on a new project: the “Hydro Foil Boat”. He was on the team that tested the boat by sailing it down the East Coast of the United States. They went from Maine to Miami. He was also sent to Israel. Billy was transferred to Stuart in 1965.

Dan Knowles adjourned the meeting.

Anniversaries: None Birthdays: Gene Rathgeber

Visitor: Anne Kaloski (Cutchogue, L.I.) The Martin Downs Golf Club no longer has a Caterer. As a result, our group will not meet in June at the Golf Club. But Dan and Bob will try to find another catering facility. Everyone will be notified as soon as possible. By: Janet Cuce [772-344-1838); jjcuce@comcast.net]

Post meeting addendum from Bob Watkins:We have just learned that another Grumman Lady, Sue Maloney, passed very suddenly, on May 21st. Sue and her husband Ken were both long time Grummanites, known to many of us. We extend our deepest sympathy to Ken and their family.

.Next Meetings: June 16.

No meetings in July and August.

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GEORGIA / Peach Pit

Our May 17, 2016 meeting, which was held at El Tequila Mexican Restaurant, Milledgeville, GA, started at 12:30M. There were 12 present when President Janet Sills called the meeting to order and asked Sergeant-at-Arms Designee Vince C to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain Designee Mary Archer gave the Blessing, which was followed by the meal and fellowship.Old Business:A motion to accept the April 19, 2016 Meeting Minutes was made by Paul Bernichon and seconded by Jesse Griffin. There being no changes offered, either by proxy, or by those present, the motion passed.

New Business:1. President Janet Sills welcomed those present and gave the Community Service Donation Plan Ballot count results: The Secretary received cast votes from 30% of the 47 members. 93% of the votes cast accepted the Plan as presented [i.e. Yes/A], while 7% voted No [i.e. Rejected the Plan as presented]. Then, members present, who had not previously cast their ballots, did so with only Yes/A votes received. Therefore, the membership approved our year 2016 Community Service Plan. Accordingly, a motion to accept the Report, made by Earl Seagle and seconded by Mike Johnson, concluded voting and enables disbursement of Funds starting with Scholastic disbursements on Memorial Day [May 30, 2016], to the Mary Vinson Memorial Library, followed by a disbursement on Flag Day [June 14, 2016], to the Georgia Military College [GMC] Scholarship Fund. 2. May Happy Birthday wishes were to: Joyce Brady [31st]; Pat Donovan [29th]; Ernie Godbee [1st]; Gary Hagland [5th]; Tom Main [12th]; Dorothy Minicozzi [15th]; and Pat Sansotta [30th]. 3. May Wedding Anniversary wishes were

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extended to: Hans & Pat Borstell [28th]; Willie & Geraldine Collins [27th]; Jesse & Gloria Griffin; their Golden/50th [29th]; and Bill & Barbara L. Stevens [22nd]. 4. Members having medical issues are: Betty Bertoli, Bill Holsenbeck, and Julianne Nussberger. All are in all our thoughts and our best wishes go out to them for a speedy recovery.

In Memoriam: John Ed Griffin, who passed away on 5/12/16 in Hancock County, is the brother of Club member Jesse Griffin. John is in our prayers and condolences are extended to his family.

Jesse Griffin won the 75/25 Fundraiser raffle and donated the winnings to the Community Service Fund. Thank You, Jesse.

Community Service:a.] Volunteerism continues as members, and spouses aid various causes.b.] A Chapter Funds disbursement to the Mary Vinson Memorial Library will be made on Memorial Day, Program:There was no formal program. But, members shared information on various topics. A motion to end the Business meeting was made by Brenda Miller and seconded by Mary Archer. The motion carried and adjournment was 1:20PM.

Next Meeting: June 21, 2016, 12:30PM, at El Tequila Mexican Grill, (168 Garrett Way, Milledgeville, GA 31061). It will be a non-Business, pre-summer break, Social Meeting. Administrative notes will be issued for the June Social and for the July/August break, listing Birthdays, Anniversaries, and Community Service donations

By: Lew M. Iuliucci, Sec’y. [iuliucci@windstream.net or 478-452-1357]

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Maryland / Glen Arm

Chapter did not meet in May.

Next Meeting: June 21, 6:30PM, at the Golden Corral, in Aberdeen MD

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New England North

No report of Chapter activity.

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NEW YORKEastern Long Island Chapter

President Bert Moller welcomed 21 members to our May 18th meeting. After the group recited the Pledge of Allegiance, Prez Bert offered a prayer for our departed members and service people in harm’s way.

VP Bob Albert read the minutes of previous meeting and Treasurer Pauline Sandmann reported club finances. Both the minutes and the Treasurer’s report were approved as read.

Bert told group that he received a CD from test pilot Ralph Donnell, about the initial flight of the F-111. Bert offered it up for anyone to listen.

Bert also told us of his latest trip to CitiField to Grandson Steve Matz pitch!

Three 50/50 Winners were drawn. Two gracious winners returned their winnings to the Chapter. Thanx!

The meeting was adjourned.May Birthdays; Catherine Bolomey, Marguerite Gibbons, James Henderson, Leo Jasinski, Nick Maniscalco, Andrew Swallow, and Peter

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VanHensbroek. Congrats to All!

No Anniversaries reported.

Any Birthdays or Anniversaries should be reported to Bob Albert [631-585-7987].

To report any deaths, illnesses, etc, contact Bill Mytko [1-864-225-4927 or ermytko@yahoo.com]

Next Meeting: June 15, at the Coram Diner (Route 25 & Route 112, Coram NY) – Lunch ($15) at noon; meeting to follow.NO meetings in July and August.

Future Meetings: Sept 21; Oct 19. All meetings will be held at the Coram Diner.

Happy Fathers Day!

By: VP Bob Albert [631-585-7987]

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NORTH CAROLINAEastern Carolina Chapter

Our May 10 meeting was held at the “La Casetta Restaurant” in New Bern, NC. Twenty-five members and one guest were treated to a wonderful Italian dinner with drinks, zeppolis, and cannolis for dessert. Bernie Kuntz and his wife Kathy took care of the arrangements.

Rudy Ramcke led the Pledge of Allegiance and gave a very heartfelt invocation.

Pete welcomed everyone and told us:1. Joe Mele, our Chapter Vice President, is moving to Maryland to live with his daughter.2. Evie Gruebel, who recently moved to Florida after losing her husband, Ken, died recently. A memorial service for Evie is planned for Friday, June 10th, at the First Presbyterian Church in New Bern.

He also asked members to consider volunteering for some of the officer vacancies that may occur by September, especially the Chapter Vice President office which is now vacant. Treasurer Bob Lamberson said our treasury is still in good shape. He brought four airplane models that Joe Mele donated for anyone to take. Pete also spoke about the recent air show at Cherry Point that had many Grumman planes on display, including active EA6Bs and various vintage WWII aircraft. We were all happy to have Marty Olstad & Mary at the meeting after Marty’s surgery. Dottie told members that her Mom had a mild heart attack and is recuperating in rehab.

Pete then called on Tom Schroder to entertain us with his litany of jokes.

Bob Lamberson called the 50/50 winners: Dolores Brown, Pat Johnson, & Allen Brown. Jim Karika told us:1. He received an e-mail from Fran Kaufman who worked with Jim, retired in 1990, is 90 years old, and lives in Arizona near her son. She enjoys reading the retiree newsletter and seeing names that she remembers. 2. Jim & Dottie are the proud grandparents of Alexandria Karika, who graduated from the US Naval Academy in Annapolis on 5/27. She will be going to flight school, in Pensacola, FL, to become a Navy pilot

Birthdays: Nidda Mc Namee - 5/10; Bill Stanton - 5/18; Pat Johnson - 5/20; Dolores Brown - 5/25; Dick Guarino - 5/28 Anniversaries: Walter & Joan Muench - 5/1; Jim & Dottie Karika - 5/7; Stanley & Arlene Ramsden - 5/9; Michael & Janet Savastio - 5/24; Tony & Carol Peralta - 5/30; Larry & Diane Spallanzani - 5/30.

Next Meeting: June 7, at “The Clamdiggers Inn” in Pine Knoll Shores, with Rudi & Marlene Wiehl as Program Directors.

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Pete suggested our September 13th meeting be held at McCarthy Court in New Bern. Pete wished the ladies a belated Happy Mother’s Day and wished everyone a safe trip home. By: Dottie Karika (dotjimk@att.net)

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PENNSYLVANIA Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter

May, 2016

It was a bright and beautiful day here in Northeast Pennsylvania. Sun was out, slight breeze off the lake, nice blue sky, and temps in the low to mid 60s. Ideal weather for a luncheon. Our get together was at the Boat House in Hawley. Fred Rademacher (Albert had a Doctors appointment), the Dowds, and the Sparkowskis were present for lunch.

We had a great time talking about the upcoming Summer season. We talked about our camping trips for this year and trips we have taken in the past.

When our food arrived, the conversation turned to various restaurants we used to go to when we went on Business trips for Grumman. We spoke about some of the entrees they served and how they were decorated. We even wondered what happened to a lot of the eateries that were frequented by Grumman employees around the Big G when Grumman closed and how many survived or went under.

It was an enjoyable luncheon with good people.

Birthdays for April - Betty Heppler, Kathie Herling, Carol Lee, Barbara St Dennis, and Margaret Wroblewski.

Anniversaries for April - Joseph & Jane Belding, Ed & Cheryl Hirsch, and Richard & Sally Petrusa.

Next Luncheon: June 16, Noon, at the Alpine Restaurant, in Honesdale. By then, some of our snowbirds should be back and some of our area people will attend now that the warm weather is here. ** To those who may have never been at the Alpine: Come on down . . . you are in for a treat. ** To those who have been there and have not been recently, come and renew an enjoyable experience.

Well that’s it for now. . . .We need more members to come out and join us so that I can make this report a little more interesting and longer.

See you at the Alpine. By: Edward J. Sparkowski, Sec’y. /Chaplain[570-698-7182; firefly417@verizon.net]

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SOUTH CAROLINA Coastal Carolinas Chapter

Our May 4th meeting was held at Lorraine & Ron Girardin’s home. It was our annual Club Picnic, so there was no official meeting and therefore no minutes were taken. We all had a wonderful time, and it was so good to see everyone. Thank You so much, Lorraine & Ron, for opening your home for this annual event again!!!! Happy Birthday wishes to Nancy Webber and Robert Joyce. Happy Anniversary to Barbara & Gary O’Loughlin, and to Carol & Robert Joyce.

Congratulations to both couples!! As there are no meetings during the Summer months, Birthday and Anniversary wishes go out to the following:

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For June:Happy Birthday wishes to

Faye Katzenberger and Artie Rapenport.

Happy Anniversary to Lorraine & Ronald Girardin.

For July:Happy Birthday wishes to

Marilyn Seidler, Kathy Fleischer, Richard Seidler, and Marge Rapenport.

Happy Anniversary to Kathy & Marty Fleischer.

For August:Happy Birthday wishes to

Teresa Ditta, Judy Scott, and Eldon Scott.Happy Anniversary to Barbara & Ed Raulsome.

Next Meeting: September 7, 2016, Noon, at Sunny Side Up Diner, 10068 Beach Drive, Calabash, NC. [910-579-5101] All Grumman, Northrop Grumman, and Northrop retirees are welcome to join us. Guests are also welcome.

By: Kathy Fleischer, Sec’y. [843-215-0525, kjpulcrano@yahoo.co

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VIRGINIA / Central Virginia

Our May 11, 2016 meeting was held at the Edelweiss German Restaurant in Staunton. On our way East, to the restaurant, we had heavy rain and ran into FOG as we were crossing the Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains. As we got to the restaurant the skies cleared and we were met with a bright, sunny, and much warmer day in the Shenandoah Valley. A very welcome sight.

After our opening prayer for all those missing, for safety on the road, and with thanks for the food, we delighted in the German fare as many of us remember similar meals at relatives in days gone by. All was devoured! Essen Gut!

Attendees: Harold (Ed) Case; Ed Samson; Rich Benske & Jackie; Frank & Beverly Purstell; Fred & Marjorie Meiners; Maryanne Muller; and Frank Edwards.

Maryanne brought a friend, Dot Marsh (a former employee at NGC/Sperry) who will be joining us at our meetings. Frank Edwards remembers Dot from when they both worked at the Sperry plant in Charlottesville, VA. - Small world. Business:1- We’re still collecting cell phone numbers for reference. Please send to Frank Purstell @ spurs@ gmail.com.2- We reviewed the menu for our June Potluck meeting.3- Treasury was reported as being solvent.4- Rich Benske is doing very well after his heart attack. Next Meeting: Note date change: June 1, 2016. This will be our annual end of season potluck luncheon and will meet at the home of Fred & Marjorie Meiners, 110 Wright Ct., Palmyra, VA.

By: Marjorie Meiners, Recording Sec’y.

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In Memoriam

We extend heartfelt sympathy to the families and friends of those who have passed away.

Biggs, David S. Seal Beach, CA 04/25/2016

Cava, Isabel Westbury, NY 02/22/2016

Clark, George E. Mastic Beach, NY 04/06/2016

Giannelli, Carl L. St. Augustine, FL 12/14/2015

Kokoska, Ferdinand Farmingdale, NY 03/20/2016

Kutner, Marianne (Sutter) Grangeville, ID 04/19/2016

Maloney, Susan Houston, Texas 05/21/2016

Starr, George Leesburg, FL 04/14/2016

St. Gean, Bertha (Bert) Torrance, CA 08/10/2015

Valente, Robert “Bob” Bel Air, MD 05/24/2016

Zepf, Walter Windsor, CT 05/05/2016

When reporting a death, provide the person’s Name, Date of death, and the City & State of residence prior to death. Notices of member deaths should be e-mailed to the Club (grumrc@gmail.com), with “Death Notice” as the subject.

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NOSTALGIA

The Proposal, the Cop, and the “WOW! Moment

The ProposalI started with Grumman in June 1968, coincidentally on my seventh wedding anniversary. That Fall, I was assigned to the software development team on the VFX proposal. We developed preliminary designs for the airborne and system integration lab software, and material for the technical proposal, as well as manpower estimates and schedules.

One factor that added to the complexity of this proposal effort was that Hughes was also developing a huge amount of software for the F-14/Phoenix Missile System. We would have to share the same on-board computer, which they were supplying. This, we correctly predicted, would lead to many complex management and technical problems. Consequently, for the proposal, we developed several alternate software configurations, (utilizing separate computers) that we believed would be more manageable and better suited to the problem at hand.

The proposal was submitted to NavAir late that Fall. Following NavAir review and evaluation, Grumman entered into a grueling series of oral presentations and negotiations. These started in late December and continued on past New Year’s Day. I can’t remember exactly when they finished, but I do recall working both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

There was a common pattern to the days while this was going on. The team in Washington met with the Navy all day long. The avionics part of the team was led by Joe Rodriquez. Questions on software were passed to Larry Driscoll, who relayed them to us, usually after the close of normal business hours. NavAir asked tough questions and it took a lot of work to get satisfactory answers. These “afterhours” efforts precipitated lengthy, detailed technical studies. Often, we stayed, working till way past midnight and I recall several sessions that lasted to 3AM! Sometimes, several nights in a row.

When we were satisfied with our answers to the Navy’s questions of the day, we would summarize them and have them ready for the next morning. We’d report to work early and would pass the answers on to the Grumman Washington team via Larry Driscoll. We would then spend the “normal” part of the working day at our regular assignments, or, alternatively, documenting in detail the previous nights efforts, in case those questions and subjects had to be revisited.

The Cop One event, which I will never forget, transpired during this exercise.

As I was driving home, exhausted from a week or more of nearly around-the-clock work, I must have dozed slightly at the wheel. All of a sudden, I was aware of flashing red lights in my rear view mirror. I thought, “Oh, No! Now what!” I pulled over and a Nassau County patrolman sauntered up to my car and informed me that I had been driving erratically and was not staying in my lane!

After ascertaining that I was not “under the influence”, he asked why I had been driving so poorly. I told him that I was working for Grumman; I was on a very hot job for the Navy; I was exhausted; I had been working nearly ‘round-the-clock for over a week!

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He then said something to me that I had never heard before, but which I was to hear many, many times over during the next thirty-plus years of my Grumman career - and which I am sure all Grummanites heard hundreds of times also - “Hey, you work for Grumman! Do you know my _______ (cousin, uncle, brother, father, etc.)?”

The WOW! Moment This tale has several happy endings. We had a nice chat about Grumman and what his relative did. I didn’t get a ticket! (In fact, he followed me as far as the county line to make sure I was safely on my way home.)

And - best of all - we won the F-14 contract and we were all busy for many years to come!

By: Charlie Mooney, Perm No. 103320

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A Note to Our Readers . . .

With this Newsletter, and in the absence of the very well received Grumman History chapters, we return to publishing our Nostalgia articles. As History articles are made available to us by Jim Eng, Nostalgia and History will be alternately published. (Jim is a Club member and current NGC employee, who has volunteered to attempt to pick up in the Grumman History series where Ken Speiser left off prior to Ken’s passing.)

Although we have a few as-yet-unpublished Nostalgia pieces in our files, we need more - many more. So, please consider this Note as our request for you to gather your Grumman memories together, and prepare an article to share with your fellow Grummanites.

Please send your Nostalgia to us either at the Club email address (grumrc@gmail.com) or directly to the Newsletter Editor (nbklaskin@optonline.net). The subject of your email should be: Nostalgia Submittal. Nothing more than those two words. That will ensure that your email stands out in the midst of the usual email inbox clutter.

Nostalgia may also be submitted via US Mail (to: Retiree Club Newsletter, Attn: Retiree Club, Northrop Grumman Corporation, 925 South Oyster Bay Road, Bethpage, NY 11714). However, hand-written articles will be very slow to be published, because we have no one to do the time consuming work of typing hand-written material into our computers, and we -as volunteers - are not ready to devote a lot more time than we already give to the Newsletter (just like Our Beloved Readers, we have real lives outside the Retiree Club, too!).

Thanks in advance for your thoughts, your time, and your efforts . . . .

Charlie Mooney, Nostalgia CoordinatorNeil Klaskin, Editor

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RETIREE CLUB PICNICWednesday, September 7, 2016

Majorie Post Park – Massapequa, NY

10AM Continental Breakfast, Noon Luncheon $10 members/ $20 non-members

Send Check (Payable To Grumman Retiree Club) and coupon (below) to:

Grumman Retiree Club, Inc. PO Box 476, Bethpage, NY 11714-5000

Reservation Deadline: August 31 TICKETS WILL NOT BE SOLD AT THE PARK

Retiree Club Picnic

Payment for _____members & _____non-members

Club Member name: ____________________________

Address:______________________________________

______________________________________________

Phone Number _______________________

Scholarship Awards Luncheon - Reservation Form

Menu Choices: Roast Beef, Sea Bass Oreganato or Chicken Milanese

I wish to reserve seats at the June 29, 2016 Luncheon (Noon – 4PM) for these dues-paying Grumman Retiree Club members, their spouses and/or guests:

Check One Check One Full Name (please print) Phone No. Beef Fish Chicken Retiree Guest

1. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

2. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

3. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

4. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

5. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

6. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

7. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

8. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

9. _____________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

10. ___________________________ _____________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

11. ___________________________ ______________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

12. ____________________________ ______________ ____ ___ ____ _____ _____

- ALL TABLES SEAT TWELVE. A MINIMUM OF TEN IS REQUIRED TO RESERVE A TABLE. - SEVEN DAYS NOTICE IS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO RECEIVE A FULL REFUND. - PLEASE SEND ONE CHECK TO COVER LUNCH FOR YOU AND YOUR GUESTS.

Attached please find $_______representing $35.00 per person for _________ people.

Table Captain:_____________________________________ Ticket Purchase Deadline:

Address: ________________________________________ June 22, 2016

_________________________________________________

E-Mail address: _________________________________________________________________________________________

Remarks: _______________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please make all checks payable to: GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB. Please send this form and checks to:

Marion Abbott, PO Box 476, Bethpage, NY 11714

No tickets will be issued.

Periodical Postage Paid

Attn: Retiree ClubNorthrop Grumman Corporation925 South Oyster Bay RoadBethpage, NY 11714

NORTHROP GRUMMANBenefits Center 1-800 - 894 - 4194Investment Plan 1-800 - 894 - 4194Monday - Friday 9 AM TO 6 PM ETBenefits On Line:www.benefits.northgrum.comOneExchange: 1-855 - 832 - 0976Monday - Friday 8 AM TO 9 PM ET

https://medicare.oneexchange.com/ngc

NewsletterEditor: Neil KlaskinNostalgia Coordinator: Charles Mooney

Grumman Retiree Club, Inc.Phone: (516) 575-3777Fax: (516) 575-8715Website: www.grummanretireeclub.orgE-mail: grumrc@gmail.com

OfficersBetty Bohlander - President Bob Ripp - 1st Vice PresidentPat Sullivan - 2nd Vice PresidentLou Kubat - SecretaryFrank Rizzo - TreasurerNick Bazzicalupo - Sgt.-at-Arms