The Grumman Club

Newsletter

CLUB HEADQUARTERS/ PARENT CHAPTERBethpage, New York

President, John Vosilla (516-575-3777)

CHAPTERS / MEETING LOCATIONS:

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

California - San Diego / San DiegoPresident, Cliff Robinson (760-749-8183)

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

Florida - Manasota West / BradentonPresident, Burt Stern (941-378-7082)

Florida - Mid-West / Spring Hill President, Richard Arso (352-684-0842)

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

Florida - Spacecoast / MelbournePresident, William Steenson (321-751-3446)

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

Florida - Treasure Coast / Port St. LuciePresident, Nancy Schaefer (772-878-2295)

Georgia - Peach Pit / MilledgevillePresident, Wendell Barr (478-456-1854)

Maryland - Glen Arm / BelairPresident, Frederick Kief (410-661-5098)

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

New Jersey - Garden State / LakehurstPresident, Al Larsen (732-350-1170)

New York - Bethpage Chapter & Club HQPresident, John Vosilla (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 (NC & SC) / Myrtle BeachPresident, Ronald Girardin (843-903-7116)

Texas - Houston / HoustonPresident, Angelo LaCognata, (281-326-1665)

Virginia - Central Virginia / MonticelloPresident, MaryAnne Muller (434-589-5565)

Virginia - Potomac / Locations VaryPresident, Ed Barron (202-244-6808)

April 2013 Volume 46 , Issue 4 Circulation: 3670

This Could Be Your Last Newsletter

If you haven’t sent in your membership renewal and paid your dues for 2013, this will be your last issue of the newsletter. You’ll know if you renewed by checking the mailing label on the back of this newsletter. The label shows your membership year and the name of your chapter. If you renewed for 2013, you’ll see “2013.” If you see “2012” and you think you did renew, e-mail the club (grumrc@gmail.com) or call (516-575-3777) and we’ll review our records. If you didn’t renew, send a completed renewal form (page 23 of this newsletter) and your dues to Grumman Retiree Club, Inc., 600 Grumman Road West, M/S Z49-25, Bethpage, NY 11714-5000. We’re looking forward to everyone staying on board as part of the Grumman family.

All Chapter 2013 Scholarship ProgramScholarship Application Deadline Rapidly Approaching

The deadline for submitting applications for the 2013 Retiree Club Scholarship Awards is May 15. Now is the time for you - the Retiree Club member - to remind your eligible applicant of the quickly approaching deadline. Submittal requirements are listed in the application. Act Now!

How’s Your (Grumman) Art History?

Retiree John Herman is digging into the art history of Grumman and would like some help. He’s looking for information or reminiscences anyone might have of Henry Clark. Do you remember him? He was an artist and photographer around the late thirties / early forties, according to Herman, who says Clark drew many Grumman and Republic aircraft.

Herman is compiling a complete list of Clark’s drawings, some of which are on display at the Grumman History Center. Anyone with information can contact John Herman at 516-433-6828 (days) or 631-331-3516 (evenings).

Lunar Module Workers Reunion

Marty Winkel, a veteran of the Apollo program, is enlisting attendees for a major reunion of Grummanites who worked on the Lunar Module. The reunion will be held at the Saturn V facility (Cape Kennedy), on July 20, commemorating the first landing on the moon. Celebrities participating include several Apollo astronauts. Full details of this multiday event can be found at GrummanReunion.com.

2

Scholarship Awards Luncheon

The Scholarship Awards will be presented to this year’s winners on June 26th. The awards ceremony and luncheon will be held at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Plan to be there to celebrate with the winners and their families.

The Scholarship Luncheon reservation form is on page 20 of this newsletter . . . send your reservation form in now!

**********************************************************

2013 SCHOLARSHIP 50/50 RAFFLEMembers of All Chapters May Participate!

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

drawing. Multiple winners possible.

Winners will be announced in the newsletter, after each quarterly drawing.

Send a filled-in raffle ticket (below) and a check (payable to Grumman Retiree Club Scholarship Fund), to PO Box 0748, Bethpage, NY, 11714-0748. Each raffle entry is $5. (Please indicate how many raffles you are purchasing.)

Everyone has a chance to win. This raffle benefits the Scholarship Fund only.

2013 Scholarship ProgramSCHOLARSHIP 50/50 RAFFLE TICKET

_______________________________________Name_______________________________________Address

Town _____________State ____ Zip _____

Phone (optional) ____________________

Number of Raffles Purchased _____

Scholarship Fund Contributors

The Scholarship Fund directors and the Grumman Retiree Club thank the

following for their recent donations to the fund:

Aitken, Robert Bierwirth, JohnBischoff, Willard Bloom, VictorCampbell, Francis Ciminera, MichaelFox, Richard Goldmacher, JeromeHausser, Bruce Hill, Charles

Hubbard, Kenneth Joie, ClementKeenan, Charles Kornely, MichaelLeCarpentier, Robert Leibold, FredMcCaffrey, Ronald Palazzolo, SalvatoreRagas, Donald Riddle, Dennis

Scannello, John Schwarz, Jakob Verderber, Richard

Please Keep Those (Tax Dedectible) Donations Coming . . .

Send your checks (payable to Retiree Scholarship Fund) to Scholarship Fund, PO Box 0748, Bethpage, NY, 11714-0748.

Every little bit counts . . . it all adds up!

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB NEWSLETTER

(USPS # 023-096) Volume 46, Issue 4, April, 2013, is published monthly except August by Grumman Retiree Club, Inc., 600 Grumman Road West, M/S Z49-25 Bethpage, NY 11714-5000. Periodical postage rates paid at Bethpage, NY. Subscriptions rates of $11 are paid through membership dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Grumman Retiree Club, Inc. c/o Command Printing, P.O. Box 9040, Farmingdale, NY, 11735.

3

From the President

With the crocus having already blossomed here on Long Island and baseball being played everywhere, Spring is here. Our club’s chapters are now in full swing and all of us – north, south, east, and west – can think about spending more time outside.

But I also find myself thinking about former colleagues who are affected by the recent announcement of movement of people and programs along the East Coast. You saw the announcement in the last issue and many of you have seen stories in your local newspapers, on TV, and on radio.

One of the purposes of our club is to help our communities, and our company and especially our former coworkers are certainly entitled to that help. What can we do as individuals to help those who may be negatively affected by the reorganization of the East Coast sites?

For those who may be seeking new jobs, contacts are very important. Their network of family, friends, neighbors, and others could help them find new positions. Keep your ears open. If you hear of opportunities, share those contacts with people you know who may need that information. Perhaps a former coworker will be moving into a new area, your community. You may be able to give that person tips about the community, where to look for the right home or the right schools. These changes are difficult for many people. If you can help, help.

Speaking of changes, I want to publicly thank Grace Braeuer, who was an active, dedicated member of our board of directors for many years. She had been one of the two board members representing the Bethpage Federal Credit Union, which has supported our club and the Scholarship Program so well for so long, financially and in many other ways. Grace recently left BFCU for a new opportunity. BFCU has selected Larry Seiden to replace her. I want to thank him for volunteering to join us. He follows in the footsteps of a wonderful contributor to, and supporter of our club. Grace will be greatly missed, but we wish her all the best and we welcome Larry. I also want to thank those who contributed to our call for donations to help Hurricane Sandy victims. As I said, one of our purposes is to help our communities. A number of members have been kind enough to donate. I want to make special mention of two $100 donations: one from the Southwest Florida chapter, another from Howard Schilling. All are greatly appreciated. On the subject of donations, thanks to all members and chapters for their donations to local charities, local scholarship funds, and the club’s scholarship fund. It’s so nice to read in our newsletter that, across the country, our club is working to help our communities in many ways, big and small. I also want to thank the Space Coast chapter for sharing information about estate planning, which appeared in their March chapter report. You educated all of us. With that, take time to enjoy the crocuses, or whatever blossoms in your neck of the woods.

By John Vosilla

4

Northrop Grumman News

Northrop Grumman and University of Maryland Expand Program in Cyber TechnologyMarch 15, 2013 – Northrop Grumman and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) Research Park Corporation (bwtech@UMBC) have expanded the Cync program, a cybersecurity technology incubator initiative, to include three additional companies. iWebGate of Perth, Australia, joins DB Networks of San Diego and Light Point Security of Baltimore as the latest companies to join Cync. The Northrop Grumman Cync Program is a partnership between the Company and bwtech@UMBC, aimed at commercializing technology to help provide protection against a growing range of cyber threats. Northrop Grumman funds the program and serves as a strategic partner. Cync is part of the bwtech@UMBC Cyber Incubator program on the campus, a research and technology community that is home to nearly 100 technology and life science companies.

Northrop Grumman and ATK Complete Assemblies for James Webb Space TelescopeMarch 14, 2013 – Northrop Grumman and teammate ATK have completed the fabrication of the primary mirror backplane support structure wing assemblies for NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. Northrop Grumman is under contract to NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center for the design and development of the Webb Telescope’s optics, sunshield, and spacecraft. The primary mirror backplane supports the telescope’s beryllium mirrors, instruments, and other elements. It holds the 18-segment, 21-foot-diameter primary mirror nearly motionless while the telescope is peering into deep space. Measuring approximately 24 by 21 feet, and weighing more than 2,000 pounds, the primary mirror backplane support structure must meet unprecedented thermal stability requirements. While the telescope is operating in extreme cold, from -406 to -343 degrees Fahrenheit, the backplane must not vary more than 38 nanometers (approximately 1/1,000 the diameter of a human hair).

Northrop Grumman’s Bob Klein Inducted Into Long Island Technology Hall of Fame

March 7, 2013 - Bob Klein, vice president of engineering and global product development for the company’s Military Aircraft Systems division, was inducted into the Long Island Technology Hall of Fame on March 6. The organization recognizes, honors, and preserves the accomplishments of historical figures or current leaders in science or technology who have impacted Long Island. Klein joins other prominent company inductees, including Leroy Grumman, Tom Kelly, Joseph Gavin, and Grant Hedrick. Klein joined the company in 1974 under a Grumman Scholarship. His first assignment was on the F-14 Tomcat assembly line, a program where he eventually became Chief Engineer. Currently, Klein leads engineers and technologists working on many programs, including the B-2 Spirit, E-2D

Advanced Hawkeye, E-8C Joint STARS, EA-18G Growler, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, Long Endurance Multi-Intelligence Vehicle and Next Generation Jammer.

Northrop Grumman Successfully Demos Joint STARS, Global Hawk InteroperabilityMarch 6, 2013 – Northrop Grumman recently completed a successful exchange of radar data during a Feb. 25 flight test involving the U.S. Air Force’s E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (Joint STARS) and the RQ-4B Global Hawk Block 40 unmanned aircraft system. The exchange is the first collaborative effort to stream ground moving target radar data from a Global Hawk Block 40 to a Joint STARS aircraft. Information can then be relayed from Joint STARS to ground forces.

(The above are summaries of Northrop Grumman press releases. Full text of these and others are available online at http://www.northropgrumman.com/mediaresources/Pages/newsreleases.aspx )

5

Bethpage Chapter

Calendar

Membership luncheon-meetings are generally held on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

April 24 - Luncheon Meeting - Crest HollowSpeaker: Josh Stoff, Cradle of Aviation

May 22 - Luncheon Meeting - Crest Hollow

Luncheon Reservation Coupons: page22

Mark your calendars now for:June 26: Scholarship LuncheonSeptember 18: Picnic December 11: Holiday Luncheon

****************************************************

2013 Defensive Driving Course

The cost for the 2013 AARP Defensive Driving course is TBD. Call for details.

2013 schedule:June 4th, Sept 10th, Nov. 7th

Classes are held in Plant 25. 8:30AM sign-in.

To register: call Liz McGowan (516-221-6573),

Weekdays Only!

Call between 6PM and 9PM.

Classes fill up quickly. Check you expiration date; sign up early.

*****************************************************Senior Blood Drive

May 28 and September 3, at the Crest Hollow Country Club

For details, contact the Club office (516-575-3777).*****************************************************

Bethpage Chapter Meeting

Our March meeting was called to order at 1:30PM, after a delightful lunch at the Milleridge Inn. Sergeant-at-Arms Pat Sullivan led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance, and we had a moment of silence for deceased members and for our armed forces.

The attendees applauded first-time member Vinnie Casale and regular attendee Pauline Sandmann from the Eastern Long Island Chapter.

The minutes of the April meeting, with no corrections, were accepted as published.

Our guest speaker was Larry Seiden. Larry is a nominee to our board of directors and a financial consultant with Bethpage Investment Strategies, the investment division of the BFCU. Larry has been with the BFCU for six years and has been advising and guiding clients within the financial services industry for well over 20 years. He has held the Chartered Financial Consultant designation and the Chartered Mutual Fund Counselor designation for 15 years. Many of his clients currently work for, or are retirees of, Grumman.

Larry introduced his colleagues: Todd Phillips, assistant VP of the Bethpage Strategies program, and Kevin McKenna, manager of BFCU Business Development. Kevin is also a Retiree Club director.

Larry discussed “Preserving Wealth in Retirement.” That includes maintaining a standard of living throughout retirement and leaving a legacy to one’s children, grandchildren, etc. An important consideration is: “How long is retirement?” Obviously, no one knows.

As retirees, we should be asking ourselves, “What is my game plan?” Even not having a plan is a plan in itself. Is the plan outdated? Is something put in place five or ten years ago still working? How would you know? Have you or someone else reviewed it?

Correction: In last month’s newsletter the price for Prime Time’s April 21 trip to Queensborough Theater to hear mimic Rich Little and the Four Freshmen was incorrect. Correct price is $109.

6

Larry said one might spend six months planning a wonderful trip. After 10 days, the trip is over. Do we plan that much for retirement? Larry wondered if people just take their pensions, 401Ks, 403Bs, IRAs, Roth investments, and such, and say, “I’m done. I am going to be receiving this for the next 25 or 30 years. There is no more planning to be done.” But plans have to reviewed again, and again, over time.

Larry listed some of the tools of wealth preservation: Savings accounts (interest rates are very low); Social Security; Medicare, which is changing. (How do you plan? Many feel they will just deal with it); life insurance; and long term care insurance.

Larry reminded us that inflation doesn’t retire. Some of the things you have to understand are your time horizons. Some things you might want to invest in for five years, or 10 years. What’s your risk tolerance? Are you willing to take a risk with a little of your money? To whom do you turn for advice? Larry warned that neighbors are not always the best advisers. The best source of financial information is financial advisers.

What does a capable adviser do for you to make your plan work over time?1. The advisor gathers information at your first meeting: What is your situation, income, debt, goals, etc.?2. The financial adviser will analyze all of that information.3. Once the adviser understands your situation, recommendations can be made specifically for you.4. After the recommendations and a plan are agreed upon, you can implement that plan.5. Over the ensuing months and years, you and the advisor review the plan to see if it is working.

Larry asked for questions; there were several. Larry brought handouts, which he made available to members. They are available in the club’s office and we’ll try to post them on our web page.

Bob thanked Larry and presented him with a gift of appreciation.

Committee Reports— Frank Rizzo presented the Retiree Club Treasurer’s report. Frank also reminded everyone that he and

Rich Pawlowski still had openings to do tax returns for members.

— Harry Daum presented the Scholarship Program report. He reminded us that the scholarship deadline is only a month away. He advised getting the applications in so that everyone gets a fair shake.

June 26th Scholarship Luncheon – Betty Bohlander reminded us that it will be at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Price is still $30. (Luncheon reservation form is page 20 of this newsletter.) Please include your e-mail address in the form on the line provided for that purpose, to make it easier on her to communicate with you, if necessary. Luncheon details are in the Reservation Form. Betty advised members of some alternate choices, but the members preferred to stay with the tried and true. Tables are set for 10 people. She will seat groups of less than 10 together, but add others to that table. She also requested that a group mail one check for the total amount for that group. Call Betty only in regard to the June Scholarship luncheon.

Please Note: All calls about monthly membership meetings are handled by Marion Abbott. Call the office (516-575-3777) and leave a message for her.

Nick Bazzicalupo (Prime Time Travel) announced the following one-day events:May 16: The Texas Tenors at Foxwoods: $84.May 25: Slice of Brooklyn: $87.June 2: Essex Sunday Brunch: $94.For additional information, contact the club office or Prime Time. Remember: when you call Prime Time, identify yourself as a Grumman retiree to be afforded any discounts.

New BusinessJohn again thanked Larry Seiden, and made special note of the contributions of Grace Braeuer, who had served on both the club’s board of directors and our scholarship committee. Grace has left the BFCU and the board, but John wanted to publicly thank her for all that she has done for the club. Larry will be replacing Grace on the board.

John then recognized the other B.O.D. members present: Bob Foster, Marion Abbott, Barbara Nilsen, Kevin McKenna and Carol Nelson. John also

7

Anniversaries:Diane & Joan Rehm (4/19 – 61 years); Joseph & Elinore Whitney (4/3 – 68 years); Mildred & Nicholas Peluso (4/2 – 52 years); Diane & Fred Figler (1/30 – 56 years).

Birthdays:Pat Sullivan 3/21, Violet Havel 3/23, Charlie Schmitt 3/23, Harry, Daum 3/29, and Augie Ripp 3/27. Augie is the oldest living past-president of the Retiree Club. Augie’s 97th birthday was the day of the meeting, and everyone sang “Happy Birthday” to him.

John thanked Ray Mason for his video services and for donating several door prizes, including the “Fly Navy” book. John plans to try to video tape our speakers and put the video onto our web site so that members throughout the country can see and hear our speakers.

Prize Winners:— Door prizes: Rudy Gamberini, Gloria Post, Ann Donohue, and John Proscia.— 50/50: Ernie Finamore, Gloria Post, Frank Rizzo, Augie Ripp, and Betty Bohlander.— Scholarship 50/50: Bob Foster, who graciously donated his prize to the Scholarship Fund. Thank You, Bob, for your generosity.

A motion to end the meeting was entertained, seconded, and favored by all. The meeting concluded at 3PM with the singing of “God Bless America.”

By: Marion Abbott

CALIFORNIA / Golden West

Next Meeting dates: 4/9 (2nd Tues.) and 5/14 (2nd Tues.)

The Golden West Chapter had an informal March meeting at the Camarillo Airport “Way Point Café.” We gathered for lunch and had a short business meeting while watching small private airplanes land and depart while we graded their performance. This lunch was a big change, as we did not meet at our usual facility, the “Fraternal Order of Eagles” in Oxnard. A hearty lunch and great conversation were had by all. Some old timers, who have not been attending the meetings lately, showed up and gave an update as to what was going on in their lives.

recognized Larry Feliu who was hard at work at the History Center.

At the last meeting, John had announced a request from the United Way, via the BFCU, for support for victims of Hurricane Sandy. So far, members have donated a total of $320. Of that, we had two large donations: Howard Schilling and the Southwest Florida Chapter each donated $100. The members applauded both Howie and the Southwest Florida Chapter and all those not mentioned. The club also donated $500 and the BFCU matched our donation.

Please note that last month’s luncheon coupon was incorrect for the upcoming April meeting. You can still use it, just cross out the incorrect info and write in the April info.

Our next meeting will be at the Crest Hollow Country Club. Josh Stoff, the historian of the Cradle of Aviation, will be our guest speaker.

Reminder letters have gone out advising of the cost-of-living increase, which will be in the April pension.

John reminded members that they will no longer receive the newsletter if they haven’t paid their dues.

John reported that, the day before the monthly meeting, Roy Grumman’s grandson, his wife, and their daughter visited the Bethpage site for the first time. They saw Roy’s desk, which is in the Plant 25 lobby, and on which are Roy’s drawing kit, a copy of the company’s first contract and other artifacts. (You might want to pop in - you don’t need a badge - to view these items.) They also visited the History Center. John had invited the family to join us at our luncheon meeting but the family had other plans. It was nice to meet them and hear of what they knew about the history of the family.

Harry Prodromides reminded us that the next blood drive will take place at the Cradle of Aviation, on May 28. While a doctor’s note is needed for anyone over the age of 75, this is a senior blood drive and many of us can still give even though we might be taking medications. Ask your doctor. Harry has given 88 pints (eleven gallons!) and he is 86.

8

After the lunch meeting was adjourned, the club members went on a tour of the Commemorative Air Force Museum, which is located a very short distance away at Camarillo Airport. They have a very interesting array of historic aircraft and military memorabilia on display, including several Grumman aircraft. The Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat and F8F-2 Bearcat aircraft are in good flying condition at this time, although replacement parts are becoming hard to locate when repairs are needed.

The most unusual “modern” aircraft, in perfect condition on display is a four-place Paris Jet that a wealthy donor transferred to the Commemorative Air Force at no cost. There is one major problem: the airplane consumes a very large amount of fuel, which makes it almost prohibitive to fly.

There was a lot of excitement about the arrival of “FIFI,” the only flying B-29 Superfortress, at Camarillo Airport next week. FIFI will be at Camarillo for a three-day display as part of its national tour. Rides will be available to help offset the cost of maintenance and fuel. By: Paul Aanerud, sec’y, and John Torkelsen, VP*****************************************************

CALIFORNIA / San Diego

No report of March activity.*****************************************************

FLORIDA/ First Coast Thirty-eight members attended on a sunny March 12, despite the rain forecast for today. As always, we rose for the Pledge and invocation. President Fred Bauer brought the meeting to order after we dined.

Fred mentioned the passing of Bill Heinrichs. Bill was known by many of us as the St. Augustine facility mailman. Some of us knew him in New York, as well. No services are planned. We extend our sympathy to his family.

No other reports or news from N.Y.

Our May 21 picnic at Treaty Park in St, Augustine is booked; we will discuss details at our next meeting.

The club does pick up the cost of the food and refreshments, and most folks who attend bring a small treat to share. We always have a friendly bocce tournament and welcome new players.

Treasurer Bob Rathje sent dues to N.Y. for 74 paid memberships for 2013. Several members have yet to submit dues this year; if you have forgotten, please contact the club. You will not receive this letter or the club newsletter after this month. Bob also reports our funds are in good shape.

Thanks to Marge Bauer and Janet Cassford for filling in for vacationing Jim & Karen McDonald.

Birthdays: Werner Langhauser, Ralph Davies, Chuck Osborne, Art Maguire, Barbara Mehl, Jim McDonald, Ruth Goehler, Gerri Newman, Eileen Cacace, Allen McCaffery, Tony Miller, Kay Heagy, and Shirley Jennings. Anniversaries: John & Gwen Saar, Paul & Kay Heagy, Fred & Marge Bauer, Peter & Jennifer Foster, and Tom & Alice Downs.

Eight 50/50 prizes were handed out.

Next Meeting: April 16, at the New Century Buffet, US 1 So., St. Augustine.

By: Steve Cacace, sec’y. sremkkc@comcast.net*****************************************************

FLORIDA / Manasota West

Our March 20, 2013 meeting was opened by Vice President Ted Martines leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Attendance was lower than usual, with no guests. We have two more months prior to our Summer break, so it is important to improve attendance to retain our preferred room at “Pier 22.” We had good news: our president, Burt Stern, is feeling better and hopes to attend our April meeting. Also, Bob Nyberg reported on his recent visit to see Siggy Feuersanger in the rehab center. Unfortunately, Siggy didn’t seem to recognize Bob. Ted read his recently received Grumman letter, referencing expected COLA increases this year. He

9

also introduced a CD on Grumman History that Burt Stern has; members may want to order. More info will be presented at the next meeting. The 50/50 club was won by Lucille Alloca and Ted Martines. As usual, we invite all retirees to join us for lunch, at noon, at Pier 22 Restaurant, on the beautiful Manatee River, in Bradenton, FL. We normally meet on the third Wed. of each month. By: Nancy Winding (941-355-7888) nanwinding@comcast.net

2013 Meeting Schedule: 04/17, 05/15; 10/16, 11/20, 12/11; (No Meetings: June, July, Aug, Sept)*****************************************************

FLORIDA/ Mid-West

President Richard Arso opened our March meeting with 24 members and guests present. Our guests were Janet Atkinson and Rene LaLanne. Chaplain Gus Krayer gave the invocation and led the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance.

February’s meeting minutes were read and approved.

Treasurer Gus Krayer gave his report, which was also approved.

There were no birthdays or anniversaries for March.

Citrus Sunshine chairman Gus Krayer told us no one was sick.

Hernando Sunshine Chairman Bea Hall was absent and Frank told us no one was sick.

Our entertainment was accordionist Cathy Fenamore. Cathy strolled through the group as she played, and all her music was wonderful.

We had seven 50/50 winners.

Next Meeting: April 18, 11:30AM, at Buffet City, in Brooksville, on Rte 50. Our entertainment will be National Crime Prevention and the speaker is Melissa Campbell.

Please try to attend our meetings, which are about good friends, good food, and lots of fun things to do. We hope to see you all in April. By: Joan Mehl, Sec’y. (352-686-2735) and Richard Arso, President (352-684-0842)*****************************************************

FLORIDA / Southwest President Clem Moors opened our March meeting at the Golden Corral, in Punta Gorda, with 26 members and guests. Tony Perre read the minutes from our January meeting and then read an article from Newsday about the moving of 850 Northrop Grumman employees from Long Island to Florida or California. March Birthdays: Jim Hodder and Janet Daly.

There are no anniversaries in March or April. Treasurer Willy Wolter gave his Treasurer’s report. He announced that he is sending a check for $100 to United Way of Long Island for the Sandy recovery fund. We also voted to send a check for $100 to Saint Jude Children’s hospital. Under old business, Paul Barzezicke reported that he is checking on the article from the January meeting on water contamination in the Bethpage plants during the 1970s. There is a suit in progress for those that believe they were affected. Tom Cummiskey reported that he looked into going to the restaurant at the Kings Gate community, in Port Charlotte, as a meeting place for one of our meetings. It is not being considered for our May meeting. Tony Moors brought in information for two possible trips we could consider for our May meeting: the Navigator riverboat tour in Port Charlotte, FL, and the J.C. Cruises in Fort Myers. We voted we go on J. C. Cruises’ three-hour Harbor Cruise, on May 14, 2013. As a group, we have gone on the J.C. Cruise before and have enjoyed it.

10

The cruise leaves at 11AM, from the Fort Myers boat basin. Boarding starts 10:30. Tickets ($30.68 pp) are non-refundable or transferable. We will observe Ft. Myers by water while we enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet. There is music and dancing or we can just sun bathe on their third deck.

For those planning on going, I must have your check (payable to Tony Perre) by May 7th. Mail checks to 19747 Pandora Cir, North, Fort Myers, FL 33917. I will hold your ticket until the day of the trip and meet you at the pier. There is very limited parking at the ship; there are parking meters on the street at 25 cents per hour. Bring quarters for parking. Call Tony with questions and please call or e-mail me if you plan on going so I have a count. We discussed our meeting at Tara Woods this year, and decided to have it on November 12. George Daly and Janet have agreed to make it Italian this year instead of Cuban sandwiches. More information will follow. 50/50 winners: Bob Clare, Tom Cummiskey, Jim Hodder; Willy Wolter won a box of candy. By: Tony Perre (239-731-7146) tara88@comcast.net*****************************************************

FLORIDA / SpaceCoast

President Bob Prais and Vice President John Lau opened our March 13 meeting by leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a meaningful invocation by Ed Romano. The staff of the Suntree Country Club did their usual fine job on the luncheon buffet with the beer and cheddar cheese soup getting particular raves from many members.

VP Programs John Lau briefed us on the change in our scheduled program due to the sudden illness of former Corporate VP Dan Knowles who was to address us on our pension program. We were very fortunate to obtain as our speaker Mr. John Farrell, executive director of Daily Bread, an organization providing food and a variety of supporting services to the needy in the local Brevard area.

Daily Bread was founded in 1988 when it served soup and sandwiches to 40 people. Today it serves a balanced meal to 240 to 344 people per day, some 400,000 lbs. of food each year. They receive no funds from the federal or state governments, with a third of their funds coming from thrift shop sales. Their history has been fraught with battles with local officials and some residents, with Daily Bread having to take the city of Melbourne to court to get the permit to expand their original building. They now can provide showers, haircuts, medical tests, and laundry facilities for the needy as well as meeting rooms with 14 tutors for literacy classes. Plastic mugs and plates are used to prevent litter. Violence, drugs, and profanity are strictly forbidden.

Mr. Farrell had some enlightening statistics as a result of a census that they run several times per year, data that indicated that federal statistics on the number of homeless were considerably understated. He noted that 27% of their clients were women, 7% were children and 13% were veterans. The average age is 43, with 47% working, but less than 25 hours per week. Sixty-percent of their people are homeless, but many of the other 40% live with relatives.

Daily Bread is currently working with the county on obtaining a site for a new, expanded facility as the city of Melbourne has opposed any expansion. Accessibility to people who have limited transportation available presents a problem.

John thanked Mr. Farrel for bringing us a meaningful presentation on short notice. Subsequently, we voted to make a contribution to Daily Bread, with individual members indicating their intent to augment it.

President Bob introduced Marty Winklel, a Grumman veteran of the Apollo program. Marty is enlisting attendees for a major reunion of Grumman people who worked on the Lunar Module to be held at the Saturn V facility on Saturday, July 20, commemorating the first landing on the moon. Celebrities participating include several Apollo astronauts. Full details of this multi-day event can be obtained at GrummanReunion.com

Community Relations: Chet Emery reported on sending get-well cards to Lee Brandt, Maryann Vizioli, and Mike Lenzo for their speedy recovery.

11

Our condolences were extended to the Walt Schnaderbeck family on Walt’s passing.

Treasurer’s Report: Bill Waldron reported on receiving a thank you letter from the Brevard School Foundation acknowledging our contribution. Bill said our fund transmissions were working very smoothly as we transitioned from our previous award system to our new, balanced four-year award system.

Bill reminded us that our 2013 dues ($15) are payable. Checks may be mailed to Bill Waldron, 1808 Live Oak Drive North, Rockledge, FL 32955

Historian Report: George Graefe reminded us of the mammoth Valiant Air Command air show on the weekend of March 22-24, which will feature the final appearance of the U.S. Air Force aerial team, the Thunderbirds. Numerous historic aircraft will participate as well as static displays of Grumman aircraft restored by our Gremlins.

Travel and Entertainment: Maureen Ayers reported on the delightful five-day motor coach tour to Savannah and Jekyll Island, GA, as well as Beaufort and Parris Island, SC. She reminded us that her agreement to hold places on the Ashville, Biltmore, and Blue Ridge Parkway trip required 30 people signed in advance. Coming in November is the Miami trip, requiring 30 deposits in advance.Scholarship: We are awaiting the scholarship applications from the Brevard School Foundation. The Scholarship committee meeting to select this year’s two winners will be held at One Senior Place on Friday, April 12. New Business: John and Bob encouraged members to contact them with any suggestions for guest speakers at future meetings.

April’s meeting will feature Bill Welser, president of Space Coast Honor Flight, the organization that makes it possible for our World War II veterans to visit their memorial in Washington, DC. Employee Birthdays March: James Lawler, Nick Milonas, Richard Dillinger, John McDonald, Ira Morgan, Robert Filipi, and Ronald Sidorski.

Spouse Birthdays March: Pat Belmont, Dianne

Bennett, Dolly Casko, Pat Klein, Anita Leslie, Pat Duester, and Diana MacCarthy.

Anniversaries March: James & Carol Lawler, Ted & Judy Felber, Joe & Phyllis Gioffre, Harry & Pietrina Deneau, Joseph & Patricia Ann Mullings, and Walter & Pat Duester.

We had five 50/50 winners. The grand prize winner was Sal Cioffi. Congratulations to all.

By: Bill Steenson, sec’y.

Next Meeting: April 10, 2013

2013 Meeting Schedule: 5/15, 6/19, (no meetings July, Aug.); 9/18, 10/16, 11/13/, 12/11.*****************************************************

FLORIDA / Suncoast

VP Lyn Mohr opened our March 20, 2013 meeting at noon, with nine members in attendance at the Hibachi Buffet on Park Blvd. and 49th Street in Pinellas Park. Treasurer John Newark led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by Patricia Newark giving a prayer for our retirees and our armed forces in harm’s way. Pres. Ben Hurley was home with his wife who is now recuperating.

We had four birthdays to celebrate: Patricia Newark, who was born on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17; Ed Williams, 85 on 3/20/13 - the first day of Spring, our springtime Baby Boy; Bob Barth, 82 on 3/24/13; and Jack Paras, 95 on 3/31/13. The Suncoast Singers sang Happy Birthday.

Patricia distributed special St. Patrick’s Day cookies as gifts.

We had four 50/50 winners: Caesar Colasuonno and Helen Barth, who returned theirs; and Lyn Mohr and Patricia Newark.

Next Meetings: 4/17, 10/16, 11/20, and 12/18, 2013.

By: Patricia Newark, sec’y. (727-360-7339) www.newarkjohn@rocketmail.com*****************************************************

12

FLORIDA / Treasure Coast

Our March 21 meeting was held at Manero’s Restaurant in Palm City, with 66 members and guests attending. President Watkins lead the Pledge of Allegiance with Chaplain Lawrence Regier giving the invocation.

Regier announced that a former coworker of many of us, Mike Trax, had passed away. He also announced that member Carl Caputo was in hospice. (Sadly, Carl passed away the day of our meeting.) It was also noted that long-time Sergeant-at-Arms Kay Danza has relocated to St. Augustine. We hope she enjoys her new home; we will miss her. Our speaker, Dick Scheuing, is a long-time club member and friend. During his introduction, we learned that Dick was one of the original Grumman Scholars in 1944, receiving his bachelor’s in aeronautical engineering from MIT. (He also went on to receive a master’s degree and a PhD. The PhD was from NYU School of Engineering in 1971. All degrees are in aeronautical engineering.)

Dick joined Grumman’s fledgling Research Department as a research aerodynamicist, working on supersonic flow theory. In 1955, they launched a program in theoretical and experimental hypersonics, concerning speeds of five to 25 times the speed of sound. Dick explained how a bowling alley in Plant 2, (built for workers use during WWII) was used for this project.

It was a wonderful talk, explaining how gasses under pressure, entering at one end of a 150-foot tube, could produce incredible forces at the other, all within two-one -thousandths of a second. (I can only imagine this project and its applications being applied to our Space Shuttle and F-14, among other things, and can appreciate what an interesting and fulfilling career Dick must have had at Grumman!)

Dick eventually went from group leader to deputy director of Research in 1961, director of Research in 1976, the first VP of Corporate Research in 1983, and VP of Corporate Research and Advanced Technology in 1987. Semiretiring in 1990, Dick spent two more years as a Grumman senior management consultant, helping to establish a new Grumman

organization aimed at stimulating and rewarding development of intellectual properties within the company. We so very much appreciate Dick’s speaking (and on short notice).

The Vincent Dibbles celebrated 68 years of wedded bliss in March.

Birthdays included Mary Borgen, Wayne Kay, and Ken Tolve.

We welcomed visitors Carla Seaman and Nick Maniscalco & Marie.

We had five 50/50 winners and the meeting was adjourned.

Next Meeting: April 18, at Manero’s Restaurant. By: Nancy Schaefer (772-528-8169) nmscha@aol.com*****************************************************

GEORGIA / Peach Pit Our March 19 meeting was held at the Triumph Group Plant in Milledgeville, Georgia. It began at 12:45PM. There were 39 present when President Ted Zarkowsky called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Next, he asked Chaplain-designee Mary Archer to give the blessing, which was followed by the meal and fellowship.

A motion was made by Jim Vinson and seconded by Josephine Haralson to waive reading, and to accept, the February 19 meeting minutes. There being no changes, either by proxy input or from those present, the motion carried. .Secretary Lew Iuliucci extended March happy birthday wishes to: Wilbur Spikes Jr. [5th], Gene Donovan [7th], Pat Borstell [12th], Pat O’Toole [13th], Barbara L. Stevens [19th], Geraldine Collins [20th], Dennis Klingener [20th], Tom Blenk [25th], Joe Sansotta [26th], and Elmer Baumgart [31st].

There are no wedding anniversaries to report. Treasurer Joe Sansotta gave the financial report and indicated that total chapter membership this

13

year is 60 members. Also, Cary Williams and Fred Hammerschmidt have joined the club. Welcome aboard, Cary and Fred.

Pat Borstell, not in attendance, asked Brenda Harvill to convey a message that Hans was recently hospitalized. Following the meeting, Jim Vinson contacted Hans who indicated he’s on the mend and looking forward to getting back home. Thank You, Brenda and Jim, for the input. Hans, you are in our thoughts; best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Site President Merlin Fechner expressed gratitude to retirees for their contributions to the successes achieved, over the years, making the site a world-class tier 1 products supplier. And, as a gesture of that gratitude, he played a game called, “Show Me the Money,” wherein meeting attendees, if their names were drawn from a basket, got cash. The winners were Ernie Godbee, Jack Johnson, and Earl Seagle. Thank You, Merlin, for both the recognition of retiree contributions and financially enriching 10% of us.

Lilli Kate Collins won the 75/25 Community Service Fund raiser raffle.

In Memoriam— Club member Bobby Reeves passed away on February 27, 2013.— Grummanite Lenora Fortier passed away February 19, 2013, in Milledgeville.— Grummanite Robert Knighton passed away on February 23, 2013, in Milledgeville. Each is in our prayers and member condolences are extended to their families.Community Service: Volunteerism continues.

ProgramPresident Merlin Fechner presented a very informative site overview that included a slide presentation and a Triumph video. Highlights were: considerable capital investment in additional equipment and floor space; doubled employment over the last three years; use of retiree job shoppers to reinforce the skill base [retiree job shoppers represent roughly 10% of total site population]. The overview was followed by a one-hour shop tour. Thank You, Merlin, for the hospitality, the lunch meal, the time visiting with us, and the generosity.

Thanks, also, to Tena Wheeler, Erica Cargile, and Richard Davis for their contributions for this successful meeting.

A motion to end the meeting, made by Mark McCulloch and seconded by Janet Sills, was approved. The meeting ended at 1:45PM.

Next Meeting: April 16, 12:30PM, at the Golden Corral Restaurant, on N. Columbia Street, Milledgeville.

By: Lew M. Iuliucci, sec’y. (478-452-1357) iuliucci@windstream.net ******************************************************

Maryland

The Glen Arm, Maryland, Chapter had its first evening meeting of 2013 on March 19. We all enjoyed the great buffet at the Golden Corral before going into an informal meeting. At the opening of the meeting, we had a minute of silence to remember fellow Grummanites that we lost in the last few months: Fred Keif, Bob Cutlip, and Ron Mason. We then proceeded to review and select 2013 club officers. The Glen Arm Chapter is happy to announce our Officers for 2013:

President: Rick SwinderVice President: Jim WalkerTreasurer: Joe SvachSecretary: Linda Quinn-SteinSergeant-at-Arms: Rolfe Feser

Joe gave the treasurer’s report and informed members of the current status and balance of our account. It was explained that this is an accumulated balance rolled forward from prior years plus the balance left after sending the required dues to Bethpage for this year’s currently paid-up members. Currently, we have 40 members paid-up for 2013. We also passed around a small picture booklet from our 2000 picnic and 2004 dinner. The photos brought back some old memories. After the new officers were announced, we started thinking of some ideas as to events the club might do

14

this year. A social, a picnic, and a bus trip were some of the suggestions. The evening went by quickly and, as it was getting late, Rolfe Feser called for the meeting to be closed. March Birthdays: Bill Meininger - March 15. Happy Birthday, Bill!

Remember, our club is still recruiting members. If any current members have contact info for fellow Glen Arm Grummanites who aren’t members, please pass on our club contact info. Let us know your birth and wedding anniversary dates so we can post them in the newsletter. If you have questions or suggestions, please contact: Rick Swinder rickswinder@gmail.com or 410- 977- 7829

Rolfe Feserpoppyro@verizon.net or 410- 661-2580 Joe Svach jam.svach@comcast.net or 410-836- 8393*****************************************************

New England North

New England North Chapter is on winter break*****************************************************

New Jersey

Our March 19 meeting was held at the Lakehurst Diner. Treasurer Al Larsen called the meeting to order at 1PM, with nine members present. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence for our sick and departed members and for our service men and women. Minutes of our previous meeting and the treasurer’s report were accepted as read. March Birthdays: Happy Birthday to John Janis (12th). Sunshine Report: The report given by Gloria Larsen did not contain much sunshine. Since we did not have any meetings in January or February, we learned of the January passing of Halina Adams. In

the past month, Ann Kamer and Ron Kerr passed away. Both were very long time active members. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Harry, George, Carolyn, and their families. Don Smith has had his difficulties, being hospitalized and then into rehab. We wish him and Joyce the best and hope to see them at our future meetings. Al Larsen read letters he received from members Rose Liotta, Miriam & George Frankel, Louis & Marie Punturo, Bill Stokes, John & Barbara Janis, and Hal Wexler. The letters were well received and the club wished them all the best. Old Business: Al Larsen reviewed our current membership standing with regards to paid membership and the membership attending the meetings. Also, we have been advised by the restaurant owner that - due to all the renovation work done to the private room that we use - we must have a minimum of 20 people to use the room and at a higher cost per meal. The arrangement that Al worked out with the owner was presented to the members and approved unanimously: a setup will be made at the rear of the restaurant to accommodate the club meeting. Meal ordering will be from the regular menu (hence a lower cost). In addition, to help reduce the flow of traffic, our meetings will start at 2PM, instead of 1PM. New Business: The club was informed by Al Larsen of the recent news of the proposed changes by Northrop Grumman affecting employees on Long Island. The E-2D Group will be relocated to Melbourne, FL. Another group will be relocated to San Diego, CA. All employees were advised that those people who will be asked to relocate would be notified in the immediate future. The relocations are expected to be completed by the end of the year. Ways and Means: Gloria Larsen conducted a raffle of donated gifts in which each member received a gift. The meeting was adjourned at 3 P.M. Next Meeting: April 16, 2PM, Lakehurst Diner.*****************************************************

15

NEW YORK / Eastern Long Island Chapter

President Bert Moller opened our March 20 meeting with 23 members in attendance. Sergeant-at-Arms Richie Myers led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Prez Bert read the invocation. VP Bob Albert read the February minutes, which were accepted as read. Treasurer Lynne Miller reported club still in the black; her report was accepted as read.

After our lunch (wraps, salads [Thanx, Pauline!] cookies and cake), our resident humorist, Marty Getzleman, told several jokes, which were well received.

No birthdays or anniversaries reported.

Bill Mytko report: — Pauline Sandmann got in touch; she will be moving to South Carolina to be near her sister. She was with Roy Jacobson until the end and appreciated all the prayers from her fellow Grummanites. — Roy’s son sent a thank-you card to let everyone know how much his family was comforted by the love and prayers extended to them. — Larry Comoto called: He is celebrating his 92 years and wanted to share the pleasure of a “special flight” he and 55 other veterans experienced in visiting the WWII Memorial in Washington, DC. — Joe Tag called from Delaware. He misses the old Grumman gang. He was checking on his Grumman newsletter subscription.

Prez Bert read the names of members who have not paid their 2013 dues. He asked everyone present at the meeting to contact anyone they know from the dues-not-paid list for a reminder: No dues means no newsletter.

Bert offered Grumman memorabilia (hats, patches, etc.) to our members. Tommy Block generously donated these items. (Many, many Thanx, Tommy!)

The members voted to remain at the Holiday Inn for future meetings. (Bert is checking on other lunch choices with the Holiday Inn staff).

We drew 50/50 winners: Ellen Jones, Bob Irwin, and Bob Albert – all donated back to club. (Thanx!)

Good to see Pauline back (with salad!), and Thanks to Bill & Joyce Hamilton for their “door duties.”

Next Meeting: April 17, at Holiday Inn Express (Rte. 58, East of Tanger Outlets & Riverhead Raceway.) Lunch ($14) at noon; meeting at 1PM.

Future meetings: May 15, June 19 (food drive)

Remember: No Dues ($13) = No newsletter!Contact Bert Moller (631-864-4377) for dues and

membership info.By Bob Albert******************************************************

NORTH CAROLINAEastern Carolina Chapter

Our March 13 meeting was held at the Carolina Grill, in Havelock, NC. Prior to the meeting, some members went to a museum near the restaurant, where we saw an F4, an F9 Panther, a Skyhawk fghter jet, and a helicopter that were on display outside the museum. Inside were models of planes and helicopters, from the Wright brothers to the present. It was very interesting. The restaurant and the museum are very near the Cherry Point Marine Base.

Thirty-nine members and guests attended the meeting. Bob Lamberson was program director. After we enjoyed a delicious lunch, Bob opened the meeting. Ken Gruebel led the Pledge of Allegiance and gave his usual inspirational invocation.

It was great to see Ken back after his recent heart surgery. Bob welcomed back Fred Reynolds, Pat Herrnkind, and Ken Wendell.

Bob then introduced Bill Stanton who had been a former member and recently rejoined. Bill gave us a short synopsis of his very interesting life after Grumman, which included becoming a judge and director of Contracts for a new business. Fred Reynolds gave the treasurer’s report. Fortunately, we are still in the black.

President Pete McNamee told members that Joe Mele was honored by the Order of the Sons of Italy on Long Island, 2/17/13, for Lifetime Achievement.

16

Pete read information regarding restructuring of various divisions at Northrop Grumman, beginning this year. It involves some closings and moving of operations to other areas. Hopefully, it won’t involve loss of jobs.

Pete announced program directors: April - Jim Karika and Tom Schroder; May is open, but Dottie Karika will check a boat ride with lunch on the Henrietta III in Wilmington and Mary Paulik will check the same on a boat in Beaufort; June’s directors are Rudy and Marlene Wiehl. Sunshine reported that Ron Betts had a heart procedure and was unable to attend.

Bob read the birthdays and anniversaries for March and then turned the meeting over to Tom Schroder for his usual funny performance. Tom definitely missed his calling! Our 50/50 winners, thanks to Wes Johnson, were Al Northrup (who donated back his second winning), Jim Karika, Ginger Reynolds, Flossie Johnson, Nora Reichert, and Tom Schroder. Birthdays: Kathy Kuntz (3rd), Alan Brown (7th), Katherine Torrens (8th), Janet Savastio (10th), Peter McNamee (10th), Rudi Wiehl (19th), and Marilyn Lindblad (20th).

Anniversaries: Ken & Evie Gruebel (9th, 66 yrs) and Vincent & Gretta Rizzi (28th, 65 yrs.) Congratulations! Pete adjourned the meeting and wished everyone a safe trip home and a Happy St. Patrick’s Day! By: Dottie Karika dotjimk@att.net*****************************************************

PENNSYLVANIA Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter

For those who were looking for a NEPA report in the February newsletter: there was none. Had nothing to report. This month, however, we have something. Here in NEPA we are still struggling with the freezing weather. This report is being done on Sunday, March

24, and they are predicting snow for tomorrow. Give us a break! Otherwise, things are quiet. February Birthdays: Hank Appel, Joseph Belding, Dan Fass, Barbara Knowles, Anker Petersen, Joseph Renderio, and Marianne Sparkowski.

March Birthdays: Linda Alongi, Peter M. Conigilo, Ed Drydol, Cheryl Hirsch, John P. O’Malley, Fred Rademacher, and Edward Sparkowski.

February Anniversaries: Fred & Albert Rademacher, Gloria & Joseph Renderio, and Judy & Bob Zupp.

March Anniversary: Mary & John O’Malley. There is no sickness report, as no one has contacted me about anyone who needs our prayers or assistance. It is that time of the year again, when we get back into the swing of things. Our first meeting will be on April 18, at noon, at Kay’s Restaurant in Lake Ariel, PA. Due to a mix-up with where we were going to meet, our first meeting will be at Kay’s. We will discuss another place at that meeting. So, we need as many to attend as possible. OK. That’s it for now. See you at Kay’s. By: Edward J. Sparkowski Sec’y/Chaplain(570) 698-7182; firefly417@verizon.net*****************************************************

SOUTH CAROLINA / Coastal Carolinas

Twenty-one members were present at our March 6 meeting held at Friendly’s in Myrtle Beach. We had a very pleasant lunch in the private room, which had been reserved by Nancy and Donald Webber. Considering the cold, blustery weather, it was a good turnout! After everyone had eaten, President Ronald Girardin called the meeting to order. Sgt.-at-Arms Eldon Scott led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silent prayer in memory of past members and our military.

There were no guests at today’s meeting, but it was nice to see Lorraine Girardin, Marie Smith, and Kay & Ted Hedin, as well as the other members of the club.

17

Birthday wishes were extended to Carol Joyce and Martin Fleischer.

The minutes of the February meeting were read by the secretary. A motion to accept the minutes as read was made, seconded, and approved.

The treasurer’s report was accepted as read.

Please keep John Lewis, Faye Katzenberger, and Theresa McMahon in your prayers.

50/50: First prize was won by Bob Joyce; second prize by Ron Girardin. Congratulations to the winners.

The year is moving along quickly, so be sure to mark your calendars for the May 1, 2013 picnic/meeting, which will be held at Lorraine & Ronald Girardin’s home (2035 Woodburn Drive, Myrtle Beach - directions forthcoming). Members need only bring a favorite picnic dish; all other amenities, including meat, will be provided by the club.

All Grumman, Northrop Grumman, and Northrop retirees are welcome to join us, as well as their guests.

By: Nancy Webber, Secy. (843-347-2113) nwebber90887@sccoast.net*****************************************************

TEXAS / Houston

Our February 19 meeting at the Houston Hobby 1940 Air Terminal Museum, opened with guest speaker Mr. Trent Smith, from International Global Ground Weather Bureau, leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

The 50/50 was won by Mary Zucka.

Mr. Smith explained what and how his organization arranges accommodations for private companies throughout the world, with landing fees and overnight stays. They help keep track of private organizations through out the world at all times. They also alert operators of weather conditions in the area. Mr. Smith is also a pilot, with several thousand flying hours. A very interesting afternoon.

Our March guest speaker will be a NASA engineer who travels to Russia frequently. He will be updating us on the relationship with the Russians.

By: Charles Ashford, (281-474-7260)* * * * * * *

Our March 19 meeting was held at the NASA Clear Lake Park Building, on NASA #1 Parkway, Clear Lake.

Guest speaker was NASA engineer Louis Nguyen, who led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The 50/50 drawing was won by our recorder Charles Ashford.

Tattered Wing Tips:-- Ed Denzler - recovering at the Kindred Recovery Center in Webster, TX from a ruptured pelvis.-- Kenny & Marge Bransfield are both on the recovery list. Many thanks to their daughter Donna for keeping us informed. Our prayers are with you both.

Our guest Mr. Nguyen explained integration between the U.S. and Russia, both in the environment and in language. He showed slide pictures with him and the Russian engineers and pictures of the assembly of the International Space Station from the Russian Assembly Station. The remainder of the afternoon was loaded with questions and answers making for a very enlightening and educational session.

Thank you, Louis, for your expositionand time. If and when he returns to Russia, Mr. Nguyen has an open invitation to return to the Grumman retirees meeting as guest speaker. Once again, Thank You, Louis.

Next Meeting: April 16, 2013. Members will be notified via the Houston letter about the speaker and location of the next meeting.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on April 16.

By: Charles Ashford, Sec’y. (281-474-7260)

18

Grumman History - Chapter 13Entering the Space Age (1957-1958)

Diversification. This was Grumman’s strategic response to government program cancellations, stretch-outs and crippling post contract profit reviews by the Renegotiation Board, as Grumman management clung to their philosophy of maintaining business stability, refusing to adopt the hire-and-fire practice of most aircraft companies. While continuing to pursue new aircraft, Grumman would seek business with the Army, re-enter the commercial aircraft and missile markets, pursue the potential of hydrofoil ships, and continue to grow its subsidiaries, Grumman Boats and Aerobuilt Bodies. In January of 1957, as micro-evidence of this strategy, Grumman Boats introduced the company’s first hydrofoil Sea-Wing runabout. Capable of racing at 29 mph, it had a suggested retail price of $390. On a much larger scale, Grumman identified needs for a business aircraft that could comfortably whisk executives to and from smaller airports and have a range of approximately 2,000 miles, while traveling at 350 mph. Joe Lippert, responding to Roy Grumman’s remarks at a 1956 stockholders meeting for diversification ideas, recognized that the agricultural market needed an efficient, dependable, low-cost, low-maintenance, safe, crop duster aircraft to replace the mostly used, crudely modified Stearman 75 biplane trainers.

These opportunities led to Leroy Grumman’s authorization of Design 159, the “Gulfstream I,” and Design 164, the “Grasshopper.” Dick Reade, a distributor-to-be of the crop duster aircraft, noted that farmers disliked grasshoppers while the name “Cat” connoted Grumman’s reputation for high-performance, rugged airplanes that had been established by the WWII “Cat” family of aircraft. His proposed name was adopted for this turboprop biplane, the “Ag-Cat.”

Grumman’s engineering phalanx was working 56-hour-plus weeks putting together proposals and/or designs for a joint Army-Marines attack-observation plane, a next-generation carrier-based early warning aircraft, a two-place all-weather carrier-based long range jet attack aircraft, and a long range air-to-air missile. One by one, Grumman was notified of their wins. In March of 1957, it was both the YAO-1A Mohawk and the W2F-1 Hawkeye; in December, it was the to-be named A2F-1; and then - at the very end of 1958 - it was the Grumman-Bendix team and the Eagle missile. The Grumman family was hard at work during this frenetic time, as the Plant 2 cafeteria stayed open for dinner with the women behind the counter acting as mothers, making sure all walked away with heaping plates of food (Thanks to Lou Hemmerdinger for that last bit of nostalgia).

Meanwhile, six different types of military aircraft were in production: the Tracker (S2F), the Tiger (F-11F), Cougar (F9F-8T trainer), Tracer (WF-2), Trader (TF-1), and Albatross (SA-16).

People development was a continuing priority for Grumman. Every year personnel were chosen to participate in the Harvard Business School’s “Management Development” and “Advanced

19

Grumman History - Chapter 13(continued)

Management” programs. In April 1957, Grumman was invited, for the first time, to nominate one of its people for a Sloan Fellowship. The first award was made to William Zarkowsky of Program Management, who would ultimately become president of Grumman. The excellence of Grumman’s staff was recognized by the NACA when they invited Charles Tilgner, Eugene Baird, William Zarkowsky and Robert Gustafson to membership on their advisory committees.

Against the backdrop of two shockingly successful Russian Sputnik satellite launches and the U.S. Navy’s Vanguard Program’s “kaputnik” satellite attempt in December 1957, and the successful but paltry U.S. Army Explorer 1 satellite launch in January 1958, and about one month before the National Space Act mandated that NASA would replace the NACA, Al Munier wrote Dick Hutton a memo entitled, “Formation of a Space Steering Group”. Chaired by Al Munier, this group consisted of Hank Kelly and Richard Scheuing from Research, Tom Barnes and Dick Houghton from Preliminary Design, Carl Anderson from Propulsion, and Bob McConaughy from Avionics.

The July 3rd memo stated that, “ . . . the group will assume in general the following duties and responsibilities:

a - Provide a focal point for all company efforts in this field b - Draw up a general program of attack c - Attempt to clarify problem areas d - Aid in the set up of support functions e - Guide the direction of allied projects f - Keep the company abreast of the latest accomplishments and anticipate future trends.”

The diversification strategy was now expanded. Grumman would enter the Space Age.

By: Larry Feliu and Ken Speiser

PS: On the clear, windless morning of August 20, 1958, a 140-foot crane from Crane Inc. placed a 2,900 pound, 26½ foot, glistening-white dome on Plant 5. It was constructed out of 26 plastic, reinforced, flanged sections that were fabricated in Plant 2 and then bolted together and assembled and mounted on a wooden frame in Plant 5. This assembly was anchored to a steel base on the roof. In November, the Thomas Gibson Sign Company, from Bellmore, painted the dome with the Grumman “Eagle” logo on a blue field. While its purpose was to shelter an antenna assembly used by the Avionics Department for Airborne Early Warning developments, the “Blue Ball” became a Long Island landmark, as it is to this very day.

20

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB - SCHOLASHIP LUNCHEON RESERVATION FORM

Menu Choices: Roast Beef, Shrimp Oreganato, or Farfalle ala Vodka

I wish to reserve seats at the June 26, 2013 Luncheon (Noon – 4PM) for these dues-paying Grumman Retiree Club members, their spouses and guests:

Check One Check One Full Name (please print) Phone No. Beef Fish Pasta 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 $30.00 per person for _________ people.

Table Captain:_____________________________________ Ticket Purchase Deadline:

Address: ________________________________________ June 19, 2013 _________________________________________________

E-Mail address: _________________________________________________________________________________________

Remarks: _______________________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please make all checks payable to: GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB. Please send this form and checks to: Betty Bohlander, 1621 Madison Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795.

No tickets will be issued.

To verify that your check has been received, please call Betty at 631-587-7573

In Memoriam

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

Boese, William J. Chandler, AZ 03/06/13

Breimann, John Brentwood, NY 01/28/13

Gregory, John G. Cambredge, NY 08/25/12

Hershowitz, David Baldwin, NY 01/23/13

Jacobson, Roy Ronkonkoma, NY 12/25/12

Keif, Fred Parkville, MD 12/13/12

King, Harvey W. Inverness, FL 02/07/13

Moor, Peter Sound Beach, NY 02/17/13

Nadworny, Henri C., Sr. Bloomington, IN 03/14/13

Palmer, Irwin Melville, NY 02/20/13

Schnaderbeck, Walter Satellite Beach, FL 02/25/13

Simpson, Kathleen A. Bethpage, NY 12/25/12

Stastny, Edward J. Edgewater, FL 01/25/13

Walsh, Richard F. New Bern, NC 11/30/12

Wilson, Zebulon Bayville, NY 01/13/13

Winterstein, Carl F. East Nassau, NY 01/15/13

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 emailed to the club (grumrc@

gmail.com), with “Death Notice” as the subject.

NOWPLAYINGIMAX®

NEW! Legends of Flight. This unique cinematic experience shows

how the 787 might affect the next 100 years of aeronautical design.

OPEn 9:30-5:00 PMTuesday through Sunday

Call 516-572-4111www.CradleOfAviation.org

Leroy R. and Rose W. Grumman IMAX Dome TheaterCharles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY

GN_6-10_GN_10-07 10/5/10 4:09 PM Page 1

Crest Hollow Country ClubAPRIL 24 LUNCHEON RESERVATION FORM

Member Name (print)__________________________________________Guest Names (print)____________________________________________________________________________________No. of Members attending _____ No. of Guests attending _____No. of Beef _____ No. of Chicken _____No. of Fish _____

Luncheon coupons should be mailed toGrumman Retiree Club, Inc.

PO Box 476Bethpage, NY 11714

$10 per member - $20 per guestPLEASE RESPOND BY APRIL 17

The Bristal Assisted Living offers all Grumman Retirees $1,000 off your first

month’s rent should you or an immediate family member move into any of our luxurious

communities including Reflections, for memory impaired adults*. For details call Janine Valentiner at (516) 233-3146.

*based upon availability of discounted apartments

BrisTAL LocATions

East Meadow | MassapequaNorth Hills | WestburyNorth WoodmereLynbrook | East Northport

the bristal.com

Crest Hollow Country ClubMAY 22 LUNCHEON RESERVATION FORM

Member Name (print)__________________________________________Guest Names (print)____________________________________________________________________________________No. of Members attending _____ No. of Guests attending _____No. of Beef _____ No. of Chicken _____No. of Fish _____

Luncheon coupons should be mailed toGrumman Retiree Club, Inc.

PO Box 476Bethpage, NY 11714

$10 per member - $20 per guestPLEASE RESPOND BY MAY 22

GRUMMAN RETIREE CLUB 2013 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION / RENEWAL

BETHPAGE CHAPTER OTHER CHAPTERS DUES ARE $13.00 Mail your check ($13) and this form to: Contact Your Chapter for

Grumman Retiree Club Dues Amount M/S Z49-25 600 Grumman Road West Mail your check(s) and this Bethpage, NY 11714-5000 form to your local chapter

1. Member Name (print) ____________________________________________ Badge# ____________________

2. Address __________________________________________________________ DOB: ______ ____/___/____

3. City ___________________________________________ State _____________ ZIP+4 ____________________

4. Telephone Number (____) _____________________E-Mail (please print) ____________________________

5. Spouse or Next of Kin Name (print) ___________________________________________________________

6. Method Of Payment - Please Indicate:(A) Check/Money Order # _____________ Date ______________

(B) Cash _____

7. Please Check: New Member ___________ Renewal _____________Surviving Spouse _______________

8. Donations to Either of the Following Require Separate Checks

(a ) Donation to the Bethpage Chapter $____ (b) Donation to Scholarship Fund $______

Note: All donations are tax deductible.

QUESTIONS? Call the Club office at (516)-575-3777. Visit the Club Web Site at www.grummanretireeclub.org

Your Membership Renewal IS Being Processed

If you’ve sent in your 2013 membership dues, but the address label on your newsletter still says “2012,” don’t worry. During December, January, and February, the Retiree Club office is swamped with member renewals. It takes a lot of time for our hard-working office volunteers to verify each person’s information and then update each and every member’s record. Once that work is done, the year will change on your address label. Please give us a couple of newsletter issues to change the date.

We’re on it!

Periodical Postage

Paid

Grumman Retiree Club, Inc.600 Grumman Road West, M/S Z49-25Bethpage, NY 11714-5000

NORTHROP GRUMMANBenefits Center 1-800 - 894 - 4194Investment Plan 1-800 - 894 - 4194Pension (Vought) 1-888 - 346 - 4716Health (Vought) 1-866 - 689 - 5999

BENEFITS ON LINEwww.benefits.northropgrumman.com

NewsletterEditor: Neil KlaskinNostalgia Coordinator: Charles Mooney

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

OfficersJohn Vosilla - President Bob Ripp - 1st Vice PresidentBetter Bohlander - 2nd Vice PresidentLou Kubat - SecretaryFrank Rizzo - TreasurerPat Sullivan - Sgt.-at-Arms