San Diego Lunch Get Togethers
Admiral Bakers Field House
- Location: Admiral Bakers Field House , 2400 Admiral Baker Rd, San Diego, CA 92124
- Time:. Meet between 1130 and 1145.
- Ordering: Order individually off the menu. Everyone pays his/her own tab.
- Event: We will have the 50/50 no matter how many or how few attend.
- Dates for 2024: SECOND FRIDAY MONTHLY -
JULY 9, 2021
Great turn-out today.
JUNE 14, 2019
Great turn-out today. Looks like most have found our new location and are very pleased with it. We had 23 attending. Those who attended today were: Don Ferguson Barney Bakara, Joe Kingsbury, Bill Stephenson, Mert Weltzien, Jim Carolan, Bill Sherman, Ricky Wolvin, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Zbaeren, John "JJ" Johnson, Bob & Susan Carmichael, Jim Cowden, Jim Phalen, Joe Medina, Darrell & Jo Barber, Alan Lerchbacker, Morgan Carolan, Bert Marsh, Jm Santo and yours truly.
Ricky Wolvin, as many of you know, has colon cancer and has been undergoing aggresive treatment for it. He drove over from his place near Yuma, AZ, with Bill Sherman and Barney Bakara. Nice to have good shipmates. Ricky is looking good. He has lost a lot of weight, but is holding his own. We're all pulling for Ricky to beat this.
Had some first timers attend. Darrell & Jo Barber came down. They've been frequent attendees at our reunions, but I believe, attending our lunch is a first for them. Bob Carmichael brought his wife Susan. Haven't seen Bob for quite awhile, but good to see him once again and to have him bring his wife.
Barney Bakara was the winner of the 50/50 (first time) and he gave most ($40) of his winnings back to the fund.
I remembered to take pictures and they are posted. All you have to do is click on this link.
MAY 10, 2019
Small turn out but then again we were aware of that because a lot of the ususal attendees were either at the MDV Reunion or the DevGrp Reunion or both. They were both held at Panama City Beach, FL.
We did have nine (9) turn out and they were Mike Meoli, Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stephenson, Chuck Brooner, Kevin Kelly, Bert Marsh, Charlie MacVean, Mert Weltzien and yours truly.
I did take pictures and they can be seen by clicking on this link.
Mike showed up, after I took the pictues evidently, because he is not in any of them. Mike did win the 50/50 and gave it all back. Thanks Mike.
Until June..............
APRIL 12, 2019
I did not attend as I was at Urgent Care being diagnosed with pneumonia of the left upper lobe. Still recovering but will attend the May 10 lunch at Hugo's Cocina.
Tony Dzerco (pronounced Der-zo) took a picture so I was able to identify all but one who attended. Thanks for taking the one and only picture of the group enjoying lunch at Hugo's Cocina.
Attendees were Ricky Wolvin, Doc Cherry, John "JJ" Johson, Jim Cowden, Rick Tate, Joe Kingsbury, Joe Medina, Bill Zbaeren, Kevin Kelly, Joe Nestor, Tony Dzerco, Bill Stephenson, Donald Ferguson and Jim Phalen. I know I mised someone but do not know who it is. Not a bad turn-out.
They didn't have a 50-50, but Don Ferguson had everyone pony-up for the fund and they collected $85. Our SD Divers' Lunch Fund is growing.
Biq question now is, Do we ask to move the Retired MDV Bobby Cave mirror from OGGI's. We wll disucss at the May lunch.
MARCH 08, 2019
Well, we changed venues this time. Been at Oggi's a long time but could not come to terms on a fair price for the meal. New ownership and management won't work with us so we met at Hugo's Cocina in Ocean Beach.
We had a good turn out and the only complaint I received was from a couple of guys who thought the parking was inadequate. I don't think it's that bad and we'll return for the April 12 lunch. Good food, plenty of it and cold beer. What more could a Diver ask for?
We had an excellent turn-out for the first time at a new place. The following attended: Steven "Doc" Cherry, Bill Stephenson, John "JJ" Johnson, me, Sam Sangrey, Joe Kingsbury, Joe Medina, Kevin Kelly, JJ Duran, Chuck Brooner, Ted Griggs, Mr. & Mrs. Steve Purcell, Bert Marsh, Douglas Noyes, Mike Meoli, Don Sosnowski, Don Ferguson, Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, Charlie MacVean and Rick Tate.
Doc Cherry won the 50/50 for $45 and gave it all back to the fund. Comgrats Doc and thank you for your generosity.
I got so caught up in everything that I forgot to take pictures. Will do so next time.
This set-up where everyone pays their own certainly does make it easier on me.
FEBRUARY 08, 2019
Great turn-out. Was planning on celebrating Gunner Powell's birthday but he was unable to make it. We had 25 attend and they were: Steve "Doc" Cherry, Mert Weltzien, Don Ferguson, me, Bill Stephenson, Ed Brown, John "JJ" Johnson, Shad Yeager, Charlie MacVean, Teri Reese, Bart Marsh, Rick Tate, Don Sosnowski, Chuck Brooner, Jim Phalen, Jim Cowden, Sam Sangrey, Joe Medina, Tom Jenkins, Barney & Judy Bakara, Kevin Kelly, Mike Meoli, Ricky Lincoln and Alan Lerchbacker.
Ed Brown won the 50/50 drawing, which was $70, and gave it all back. Thanks Ed.
It was a beautiful day and we all sat outside soaking up the sunshine. I took pictures this time and you may see them by clicking here. Rick Tate thought it was a good idea to have a group shot so that shot is included on the picture page.
We will be using a new location for our lunch as indicated above. I will discuss this more in an email.
JANUARY 11, 2019
It was cooler in San Diego today, but many of us still ate outside. The buffet-style served food was set up outside and, when another group (smaller than ours) came in, those of us inside were asked if we minded moving outside. Since we all are hearty Deep Sea Divers, we of course said we didn't mind and quickly made room for the less-hearty new group to dine inside.
We had a very good turn-out to greet the first Divers' lunch of the new year. I forgot to take pictures today but the following attended: Mert Weltzien,Ricky Wolvin, me, Ed Brown, Bill Stephenson, Joe Kingsbury, Donald Ferguson, Dottie Cave (Bobby Cave's widow), J. J. Duran, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Teri Reese, Kat Wacker, Tom Jenkins, Bert Marsh, Sam Sangrey, Mike Meoli, Jerry Pereira, Chuck Brooner, John "JJ" Johnson, Shad Yeager (JJ's grandson), Barney Bakara, Bill Zbaeren, Glen Carter and Jim Phalen.
Mert Weltzien won the 50/50 drawing for the upteenth time and gave $30 back to the coffers.
Oggi's Liberty Station has changed hands and I need to negotiate a new price for the "all-you-can-eat" buffet. I sent an email out to all those in the area who attend and explained all to them. I hope to negotiate with Oggi's this week.
DECEMBER 14, 2018
We experienced a great turnout for the last San Diego Divers Lunch of 2018. We all sat outside as it was warm enough. The following attended: Ricky Wolvin, Ed Brown, Mert Weltzien, me, Bill Stephenson, Joe Kingsbury, Donald Ferguson, Tom Salmon Tony Parker and guest, Dottie Cave, J. J. Duran, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Marty Burbank, John "JJ" Johnson, Jay Crumbrie, Teri Reese, Tom Jenkins, Dan Jackson, Bert Marsh, Sam Sangrey, Jeremy Sylvest, Justin Anderson, Trey Williams Rick Armstrong, Rick Tate, Mike Meoli and Charlie MacVean.
Mert Weltzien won the 50/50 and received $60 and gave back $40 to the fund. Thanks Mert and congratulations.
ENC/DV Ret Teri Reese rejoined us after being in treatment for some serious cancer at Caring Bridge and their website is www.caringbridge.org You can read about Teri's treatment and recovery. We are happy to have her back with us.
Since we had such a large turnout, Rick Tate suggested we have one of the Oggi's employees take a group shot of us. He did and it is posted.
So, until next year, all enjoy a very Merry Christmas, Joyful Season and a safe and Happy New Year.
NOVEMBER 09, 2018
What a beautiful sunny warm day here in San Diego. And, what a great turnout of Navy Divers. Attending were Bill Zbaeren, Ed Brown, Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Rick Tate, Donald Ferguson, Joe Kingsbury, John Cantale, JJ Johnson, Mert Weltzien, Kevin Kelly, Joe Medina, Tom Salmon, Alan Lerchbacker, Chuck Brooner, JJ Duran, Sam Sangrey, Dottie Cave, Mike Meoli and yours truly
We had a first timer, Donald Susnowski. I took pictures, but somehow missed Dottie Cave and Mike Meoli came late so I missed him. You can see the pictures I took.
Joe Kingsbury won the 50/50 ($65) and gave it all back. Thanks Joe. Today was a freebie as we had extra funds in the kitty. One thing I learned is that it makes no difference whether or not there is a charge for the lunch. Navy Divers attend just for the comaraderie and to tell lies.
Got one more this year and then it's a repeat. If you are in the area December 14, drop by for lunch, a cocktail or soft drink and meet your old shipmates.
OCTOBER 12. 2018
Well, October is not that far away to obscure my memory. It was a typical nice warm sunny San Diego day and we all sat outside as well as had our buffet set up outside. Couldn't have asked for a better day and to prove it we had 18 show up.
Attendees were Ed Brown. yours truly, Ricky Wolvin, Barney Bakara, Mert Weltzien, Don Ferguson, Bill Stehpenson, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Zbaeren, John "JJ" Johnson, Tom Jenkins, Chuck Brooner, Bert Marsh, Joe & Mary Medina, Tom Salmon, Kevin Kelly and Jim Cowden.
Jim Cowden won the 50/50 which was $45 and gave back $20 to the group. Thanks Jim and congrats.
I forgot my cell phone so did not take pcitures. Will have to wait for November 9th lunch.
Will try and do better on writing these up and attaching pictures. Been vegging too long now......
SEPTEMBER 14, 2018
This one will be short and sweet. I do not remember the kind of day it was, but I do remember we had some new faces join us (because they were on the sign-in sheet) and I do remember we had our usual good time. I do not remember whether or not I took pictures. If I discover later that I did, then I will post them.
The new faces were Cully White, Roger Robinson, Chad Miller and Justin Anderson.
The regulars (or semi-regulars) were George Rekow, Mert Weltzien, Rick Armstrong, Don Ferguso, George "Gunner" Powell, Bill Stephenson, Ricky Wolvin, Tom Salmon, Alan Lerchbacker, Joe Medina, Sam Sangrey, Bert Marsh, Hugh Scully, Tom Jenkenis and (all the way from Saipan) Jack McClure. Of course, I was there.
I believe Rick Armstrong won the 50/50, but I do not remember how much.
Guess, I need to do better with my notes next time..............
AUGUST 08. 2018
Today was a hottie so we stayed inside Oggi's and sucked up the A/C. Small turnout, but we had a turn-out. Those attending were - Mert Weltzien, Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, Dottie Cave and her guest Shad Yeager, Bill Stephenson, Joe Kingsbury, JJ Johnson, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Joe Medina, J. J. Duran, Mike Meoli and yours truly.
Dottie Cave (MDV Ret Bobby Cave's widow) won the 50/50 drawing and gave it all back. Thank you so much Dottie. It all goes to a good cause.
Next lunch will be September 14th. I failed to take pictures this time, but will try and remember to take some next time.
JULY 13, 2018
Great day for a lunch with some good shipmates. One of the Oggi's managers mistakenly reserved our usual outside space for another lunch group at 1300. Since we are winding down by 1300, we decided to stay outside until 1300 and then, the few of us that were still hanging, would move inside to pre-designated tables. Hey, we're easy.
Attendees on this fine San Diego day were Steve "Doc: Cherry, George "Gunner" Powell, Ed Brown, Sam Sangrey, Mert Weltzien, JJ Johnson, Bill Stephenson, Donald Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin, Jim Cowden, Tom Salmon, Bert Marsh, Tom Jenkins, Joe Medina and yours truly. This was a "Freebie" lunch and advertised as so. Don't know why we had so few. Well, can't always fill all te seats........
Jim Cowden won the 50/50 for the first time and took home $51. Congrats Jim on FINALLY winning.
I took some pictures, but have not posted them yet. I did, however, create a picture page a few months ago and put all the pictures there. So, although there are none from the last lunch, there are plenty from previous lunches. So until I post new ones, you will have to look at some three or four months old.
JUNE 08, 2018
If I remember correctly, the sun was out and we ate outside. The following 13 showed up. Bill Zbaeren, Ed Brown, .Mike Meoli, Don Ferguson, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Richard Carlquist, Greg Richter, Joe Medina, Tom Jenkins, Teri Reese, Marcia Meoli (Mike's sister) and yours truly. I forgot to take pictures today.
I won the 50/05 (for a change) and gave it all back ($35).
Until July.............
MAY 11, 2018
Everyone was on their own due to the NDA Reunion in Anacortes, WA, May 06 - 10, 2018.
APRIL 13, 2018
Too much time has passed so I do not remember what kind of a day it was we enjoyed. However, the following 20 were there to enjoy whatever the weather was; Don Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin, Bill Stephenson, Al Cooper, Mert Weltzien, Joe Medina, Tom Salmon Herb Packer, Ed Chomas, Mark Gillchrist, Alan Lerchbacker, Sam Sangrey, Joe Kingsbury, Ricky Lincoln, J. J. Duran, Jim Phalin, Bert Marsh, Jim Cowden, Mike Meoli and yours truly.
Surprise visitor was Alphonse "The Bear" Cooper. He came to San Diego for a few days and suprised us by stopping by. Good to see the Bear again and he is looking good.
The 50/50 winner was Mert Weltzien (again) and he gave back $29. Thanks Mert.
I took pictures and will post them shortly.
MARCH 09, 2018
We had another good turnout. I used to think 15 attendees was good. Now I've slid the scale up to 20 attendees as a good turnout and 30 attending as wow!!
The following attended. Some didn't eat, but they attended and drank beers with everyone else. Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Ricky Wolvin, Donald Ferguson, Bill Stepheson, Steve "Doc" Cherry, J.J. Johnston, Sam Sangrey, Joe Medina, Joe Kingsbury, Tom Salmon, Jim Santo, John Hill and Mary Sue (??), Jim Phalin, Tony Dzerco, Joe Nestor, Bert Marsh and yours truly.
John Hill came all the way down from Coos Bay, Oregon. He attended with his friend Mary Sue. I didn't get her last name but, as long as John knows, that's all that matters.
Ricky Wolvin won the 50/50 again. He won last month. This time the pot was $85 split two ways. $45 to the winner and $40 to the fund. Ricky gave it all back. Well, he tried to keep the $5 Donald paid to purchase the tickets, but then I reminded him that Donald Ferguson had purchased the tickets.........so he gave it all back. Thank you, Ricky........or should I thank Donald?
I took pictures and the link is posted here.
Next month's lunch on Friday, April 13th, will have a surprise guest who many of you, especially you retirees, have not seen for many years. He's coming from quite a ways away and that's all I'm saying. He emailed me today and said he has his plane ticket, his rental car is booked and his hotel room is booked.
So the April lunch will be a freebie, in our guest's honor.
FEBRUARY 09, 2018
What more can I say? Another beautiful day in San Diego. Soaking up the sunshine with the following good shipmates and brother divers: Ed Brown, yours truly, Don Ferguson, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Ricky Wolvin, George "Gunner" Powell, Richard Carlquist, Jim Phalin, Tom Salmon, Joe Kingsbury, Tom Jenkins, Joe Medina and all the way from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Dario "Dee" "Taco" Velarde.
Ricky Wolvin won the $35 50/50 drawing and gave $30 back. Congrats Ricky and thank you for the "give back"
It has taken me a while to get this posted as I "lost" some of my files for a while and I stumbled on to them when I was trying to get them back.
So, I'm functional again. I, of course, took some pictures and they are posted. I've had to "play" with them some as I shifted from an inexpensive digital camera to my phone and I took some "landscape" pictures. So, I've tried to adjust properly to post.
JANUARY 12, 2018
Nice sunny day in San Diego that prompted everyone to be outside soaking up the sunshine..........in JANUARY. Pretty good turn-out of 17 which included Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, John "JJ" Johnson, Mert Weltzien, Don Ferguson, Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stephenson, Todd Rood, Rick Tate, Mike Frey and his son Ryan, Mark Dickenson, Charlie MacVean and his grandson Stephen, Sam Sangrey, Joe Medina and yours truly.
Charlie wanted to introduce his grandson to a bunch of crusty old divers. We lived up to it.
Rick Tate was the big 50/50 winner and would have taken home $40, but he donated it all back. Thank you Rick.
Of course, I took pictures and once you link to them, you can cick on the individual picture to make the picture larger. I tried to list the names of the people in each picture, but have not got that down yet. Still working on it.
We started something new regarding the lunch itself. If we have 13 or more attending then we are in buffet style. If we have 12 or less then we are in individual order mode. Either way we will always have the 50/50. Today we had 17 attending so we were in buffet mode and Oggi's really treats us right. They ALWAYS have and continue to do so.
Our longtime friend and former manager of this Oggi's property, Julie, is now homeported in San Diego and, when her schedule allows, will be there to greet us. She, of course, is now a veteran Flight Attendant for Alaska Airlines and was present today to greet us and renew "old" friendships. Many of us have not seen Julie in more than a year. Nice to have Julie back.
DECEMBER 08, 2017
Well, today was a "freebie" paid from the 50/50 extra. Pretty good turnout. We had 20 and they included Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stephenson, Donald Ferguson, Ed Brown, George "Gunner" Powell, Joe Kingsbury, Quinn Pearson (SEAL), Todd Rood, Mert Weltzien, Ricky Wolvin, Ricky Lincoln, J.J. Duran, Hal Goforth, Kevin Kelly, Joe Medina, Mark Sanders, Alan Lerchbacker, Bill Ramey (from Panama City), Jim Cowden and yours truly.
Acouple of our usuals (Steve "Doc" Cherry and J.J. Johnson) were unable to attend. We figired it was because they live up north and in the fire area so were unable to come down.
We had the 50/50 drawing and Mert Weltzien walked away with $60 and he gave $20 back. Thanks Mert.
Hal Goforth handled out some brief questionnaires since we really don't know that much detail about our shipmates. Questions included
1. Did the TV show Sea Hunt/Lloyd Bridges inspire you to become a diver?
2. Did you swim in high school or college swim team?
3. When and where did you learn to swim?
4. Why did you become a Navy Diver?
5. What and where did you make your most dangerous/frightening dive ?
6. Where did you make you most memorable dive (other than #5 above)?
7. Where did you dive with the lowest visibility?
8. Where did you dive in the most polluted water?
9. Where did you make your deepest dive (air and/or mix gas)?
10. Did you ever experience; a) the bends and need re-compression b) embolism or c) nitrogen narcosis? If so how did you survive this?
11. What impact did being a Navy diver have on your life in general?
Good way to get to know each other better. Thanks Hal.
Weather was warm, but the Santa Ana winds were kicking up, so we held the sign-ups inside the buffet outside.
Took the usual pictures and are posted so just click here. Haven't figured out how to put the names on yet, but email me and I will let you know who is who.
NOVEMBER 10, 2017
Sorry for the delay in posting this, but got caught up doing other things and forgot all about it. We had a pretty good turn-out. All the regulars, Attendees included Ed Brown, Donald Ferguson, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Bill Zbaeren, Steve "Doc" Cherry, J.J. Johnson, Tom Salmon, Hal Goforth, Jim Phalin Steve and Patti Paschall, Ricky Wolvin, Mike Meoli, Sam Sangrey, Jim Cowden and yours truly.
There were enough attending so we went with the buffet again. I'm thinking very strongly about going to individual orders and discontinue the buffet after the first of the year, We'll keep the 50/50 going, but not having to account for the meals, etc., makes it a lot esier on me and then everyone attending gets to eat what he/she wants. Good time for a shake-up. We can still use the 50/50 money to subsidize meals once in awhile or do something else with it.
Mike Meoli brought a couple vintage double hose regulators and a single hose regulator for show ad tell. Good to see the old type breathing apparatus again.
J.J. won the 50/50 pot, kept the $5 he had invested and gave back $35 to the organization. Thank you J.J.
Took pictures and you can see them by clicking on this link
OCTOBER 13, 2017
Excellent lunch again, but a very low turn-out. However, it was the usuals including Richard Carlquist, Sam Sangrey, Joe Kingsbury, Carlie MacVean, Donald Ferguson, Joe Medina, Alan Lerchbacker, George Powell, Mark Sanders and yours truly.
The turn-out was so low, we decided everyone would order their lunch off the menu and pay individually. We also decided against a 50/50 drawing.
Beautiful day though and we were all able to sit around one table. We all had a GREAT time with good sea stories. I attached pictures.
I will be out of town on Friday, November 10th, looking for venues for the 2020 NDA Reunion. So, anyone deciding to attend should plan on there not being a 50/50 drawing and you will be ordering indivdually off the menu and paying indiviually. If everyone likes this way of doing it, then we will continue it like this. Your choice.
I'll send you all a reminder in November.
If someone wants to take pictures in November and take a tally on the attendees and give to me, I will post.
See you all in December.
SEPTEMBER 08, 2017
Excellent lunch. Not a huge crowd, but good size. Attendees today were Ed Brown, Bill Stephenson, Bill Zbaeren, Joe Medina, Lonnie Hamme, Martin Stacy, Tom Salmon, Alan Lerchbacker, Don Ferguson, Jim Phalin, Tom Jenkins, Sam Sangrey, Ali Perez, Hal Goforth, Jim Cowden, Neil Cook and yours truly.
Nice warm day and everyone sat outside. The big winner for the 50/50 was Bill Zbaeren. He won $35 and gave it all back to the kitty.
I took pictures and they can be found by clicking on this link. I am putting all the pictures on one page now and if a link screws up on the current page, then just drop down to the previous month and click on that picture link. Easy Peasy.
AUGUST 11, 2017
This lunch was a freebie, meaning that we had built up enough money in the Divers' Lunch Kitty that we splurge and everyone attending gets a free lunch. We try to do these three or four times a year.
So, since it was a freebie, we had a good crowd including Steven "Doc" Cherry, Dorothy "Dottie" Cave (MDV Bobby Cave's widow), Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Ed Brown, Don Ferguson, John "JJ" Johnson, Ben Barker, Rick Bedard, Charlie MacVean, George Powell, Barney Bakara, Bill Stephenson, Joe Nestor, Tony Derczo, Joe Kingsbury, Richard Carlquist, Tom Jenkins, Ric Crumley, Joe Medina, Ricky Wolvin and yours truly.
We also had some new faces show up and they know they are always welcome. The new attendees are Ray Suler, Tom Parker and Mike Meoli. Thanks for joining us and we hope you had a good enough time so you will make it next month and many more. I have neither Ray Suler or Mike Meoli's email address. If you guys would send them to me at [email protected], I will add you to the mailing list.
Ben Barker was a first time winner of the 50/50 and he gave half back and we appreciate that. The pot to the winner was $64. $32 went back into the kitty to build it back up for another freebie. Thank you Ben and good to see you.
Weather, of course, was just perfect (as San Diego weather generally is) and the majority sat outside.
I took pictures again and emailed them out to the attendees. The pictures are uploaded. I will add names at a later date.
Until next month..............be safe.
JULY 14, 2017
Another beautiful warm, sunny and balmy day in beautiful San Diego, CA, for our monthly San Diego Divers lunch.
We had a fairly good turn-out considering it is summer and a lot are on vacation. Those attending were Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Greg Richter, Don Ferguson, Steven "Doc" Cherry, JJ Johnson, Ed Brown, Joe Medina, Mert Weltzien, Sam Sangrey, Bill Stephenson, Tom Jenkins, Rick Wolvin,Steve Paschall, Ric Crumley and me.
We had an out-of-towner and we are always pleased to see OOTs. Dave Bradrick was in attendance with a local, Ric Crumley.
Ricky Wolvin won the 50/50 drawing and received $45.00. Ricky gave back $25.00 to the kitty and that always helps. Thank you Ricky........
Bad news -- Learned yesterday that Mike Cattolico was sideswiped on his way home from lunch. Crashed his beloved 20 plus year old "Jimmy", but was wearing his seatbelt and only suffered two broken fingers. He's looking for someone to do major work on his "Jimmy". Mike is broken-hearted and will be missing the August lunch.....which will be a freebie.
Of course, I took pictures, and you can see them, copy them and save them. Just click on the link..
And finally, am in the middle of a major renovation of our kitchen so no oven, sink, dishwasher, good coffee maker (using a Keurig), and washer & dryer go tomorrow. Only have a refrigerator so beer is cold. Part of the reason this is so late.
JUNE 09, 2017
Beautiful day today in San Diego. Great turnout and everyone sat outside. Just perfect weather. Attending were:
Mike Cattolico, Donald Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin, Ed Brown, George "Gunner" Powell, Rick Bedard, Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stephenson, Jim Santo, Marc Rasmussen, Sam Sangrey, Kevin Kelly, Steve Paschall, Steve "Doc" Cherry, J.J. Johnson, Charlie MacVean, Daniel Jackson, Donn Young, Jim Cowden, Troy Erwin, Tom Salmon, Jim and Dillon (his son) Phalin, Tom Jenkins, Joe Kingsbury, Neal Cook and yours truly.
We were privileged to host Dottie Cave (Bobby's widow) and her friends Charlene Ranger (Charlie Ranger's daughter) and Charlene's son Evan (Charlie's Grandson). Evan was one of the NDA Scholarship awardees. So, we were very fortunate to have him attend.
Kevin Kelly won the 50/50 and donated his $75 winnings to the NDA Scholarship Fund. Thank you very much Kevin for your generousity.
Pictures were taken and today is the day I posted them. Just scroll down to June. Don't have the names on the pictures yet, but the names of the attendees are all listed above.
May 12, 2017
No write-up as I did not attend. Was at the MDV Reunion in Panama City Beach, FL, with MDVs Ret Bobby Moore and Ray Augustin. Good time.
I received the list of attendees from Mike Cattolico at the June 09 lunch.
Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Mert Eltzien, Bill Stephenson, Tom Salmon, Troy Erwin, Steve Paschall, Todd Rood and Donald Ferguson. Don't know who won the 50/50.
APRIL 14, 2017
Typical San Diego day. It was warm, sunny and with a gentle breeze blowing. We had the food (buffet style) laid out inside so the pigeons couldn't get to it and everyone ate outside basking in the warm sunshine. Being Good Friday and all, I am surprised we had such a good turn out. Oggi's had a Vegetarian pizza for all us Mackeral snappers. Thank you Ogg'is.
Attendees were Ted Griggs, Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, George "Gunner" Powell, Ricky Wolvin, Donald Ferguson, Ed Brown, Kevin Kelly, Mike Cattolico, Jim Phalin, Steve "Doc" Cherry, JJ Johnson, Ted Walker, Mark Sanders, Alan Lerchbacker, Jim Cowden, Tom Jenkins, Bill Stephenson, David Swingle and yours truly.
Tom Jenkins won the 50/50 drawing and walked away with $46.00. I believe this is the first time Tom has won.............FINALLY, huh Tom??
I took pictures with my phone this time because I couldn't find my camera, but I cannot figure out how to get them to the site without opening my entire cloud to the world. Working on it. Any hints?
MARCH 10, 2017
Today was a good day -- sunny, not too warm, but windy. So we mostly stayed inside so the food wouldn't blow away.
This lunch was one of our "freebie" lunches so we had a good turnout. We logged in 23 names and they were: Ed Brown, Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, John "JJ" Johnson, Lonnie Hamme, Mert Weltzien, Tom Salmon, Richard Carlquist, Troy Erwin, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Tom Jenkins, Jim Phalin, Nihil Smith, Kevin Kelly, Steve Paschall, Martin Stacy, Dale Hower, Tom Matyn, Jim Santo, Joe Kingsbury, Hal Goforth, Tim Rainer and yours truly.
Welcome back Doc Cherry. He has his schedule fine-tuned now so he will be there evry lunch. Annnnnnnd, Doc won the 50/50 drawing. Good welcome back present. He won $65 and gave it all back. Thanks Doc for keping the :freebie" fund alive.
Asd usual, I took pictures and still have taken the time to figure out how to link them to this website without giving away my entire saved personal files.
Nice to be back to Oggis with great food and excellent service. They really take care of us and have done so now for two or three years. We are happy campers.
FEBRUARY 10, 2017
Today, we were back at Oggi's. The weather was overcast, cool and windy. There was another very large group who booked the outside area, so we were moved inside. Worked out kind of nice and, although our numbers were fairly good at 18, it was very cool and windy outside.
Attending today were: Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, John "JJ" Johnson and his son-in-law, Shad Yager, Bill Stephenson Joe Kingsbury, Tom Salmon, Jim Phalin, Richard Carlquist, Lonnie Hammel, Martin Stacy, Alan Lerchbacker, Hal Goforth, Ricky Lincoln, Dave Brown, Sam Sangrey and me.
The 50/50 pot went to $45 (total $85) and was won by Tom Salmon. Tom gave $20 back to the group and we thank him for that. As a result of the winners giving back much of, or all, their winnings, we are able to have a freebie lunch in March.
I took the usual pictures and will try to post. Bear with me.
We decided, based upon later reviews I received from West Side attendees and from some of them who visited at other times, that we would not be going back and would hold ALL our lunches for 2017 at Oggi's. Happy to be back. Experiment did not work out, but was worth trying.
JANUARY 10, 2017
This lunch took us back to the West Side Tap House for our monthly divers' lunch. We decided, based on the comments at the November 2016 lunch that we aould alternate between Oggi's and the West Side.
Turn-out was strong at 17 and they were: Mert Weltzien, George "Gunner" Powell, Ben "Black Diver" Barker, Bill Stephenson, Richard Carlquist, Ricky Wolvin, Barney Bakara, Todd Rood, Mike Frey, Joe "J.J." Duran, Bill Zbaren, Alan Lerchbacker, Jeff Freeman, Ricky Lincoln, Hal Goforth, Nihil Smith ad me.
The 50/50 amount was up to $61 (total $121), but I cannot remember who won the pot and I failed to jot down on my sign-in sheet.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the venue and the main complaint again was the parking.
I took pictures and will try and get them posted. I'm really behind on the pictures, but will figure out how to post eventually.
DECEMBER 09, 2016
We held our usual 2nd-Friday-of-the-month lunch at our usual place - Oggi's - in San Diego. I cannot remember what the weather was like, but it had to be good. We very seldom have inclement weaher in San Diego. We pay for good weather.
Attendance was minimal again and the following showed up: Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Jim Santo, Sam Sangrey, Jim Carolan, Joe "J.J." Duran, Joe Kingsbury, Todd Rood, Joe Nestor and me.
We were also fortunate to have Dottie Cave (Bobby's widow) and Dave and Becky Love. All toll, they helped make up 14 attending.
Mike Cattolico won the $40 (total was $75) 50/50 drawing and donated it all back to the lunch group.
NOVEMBER 11, 2016
We held our usual 2nd-Friday-of-the-month lunch at our usual place - Oggi's - in San Diego. I cannot remember what the weather was like, but it had to be good. We very seldom have inclement weaher in San Diego. We pay for good weather.
Attendance was minimal again and the following showed up: Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Jim Santo, Sam Sangrey, Jim Carolan, Joe "J.J." Duran, Joe Kingsbury, Todd Rood, Joe Nestor and me.
We were also fortunate to have Dottie Cave (Bobby's widow) and Dave and Becky Love. All toll, they helped make up 14 attending.
Mike Cattolico won the $40 (total was $75) 50/50 drawing and donated it all back to the lunch group.
NOVEMBER 05, 2016
We tried an off-schedule lunch a week before our regualr lunch at Oggi's to test out a new location. So we had a get-together at the West Side Tap House in Point Loma, San Diego, CA. This was a different venue and everyone ordered what he/she wanted and paid individually. We did not have a 50/50 drawing. Beer was cheaper, good vairiations, and the food was cheaper so it was a good test run.
We had a pretty good turn-out for an off day Attending were; Sam Sangrey, Barney Bakara, Michael Spisak, Ed Brown, Rick Armstrong, Tom Salmon, Bruce Tuckerman, Rick Wolvin, John "JJ" Johnson, Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, Paul Castle, Charlie MacVean, Joe "J.J." Duran, Hal & Sharon Gofoth, Sam Ridgeway, Teri Reese, Kyle Gaillard and me,
The only complaint was about the almost non-existent parking. I took pictures and will see if I can post them.
Will have the January 2017 lunch here and see how it goes. The November and December lunches will be held at Oggi's.
OCTOBER 14, 2016
We held our usual 2nd-Friday-of-the-month lunch at Oggi's in San Diego. Not a great turn-out this time. We only had 12 show up. Attendees were Mert Weltzien, Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Jay Crumbie, Bill Zbaeren, Jim Phalin, Tom Jenkins, Hal Goforth, Rick Wolvin, Charlie MacVean, Sam Sangrey and me.
Cannot remember what the weather was like, but it had to be good. What the Hey.....we're in San Diego.
Tom Jenkins won the 50/50 which was $40 (total was $80) and he gave it all back to the group.
I took pictures again and will see if I can make them available this time.
SEPTEMBER 09, 2016
Sorry it took me so long to post this, but things happen.
This lunch was a "Freebie" so I cannot figure out why we had so few turn out. We only had 23 show up, and three of those were new active duty Brothers. I mentioned to some that maybe we are having too many of these and maybe should skip a month here and there. That suggestion was not well received. So, I guess we are on every second (2nd) Friday of every month.
The following turned out: Ed Brown, Mike Cattolico, Donald Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin, John "JJ" Johnson, Joe Kingsbury, Paul Castle, Jim Santo, Tom Salmon, Troy Erwin, Sam Sangrey, Michael Sangrey, Bill Stephenson, Allen Lerchbacker, Mert Weltzien, Steve Kennedy, Tom Matyn, Tom Jenkins, Willy Fewell and his son.
We also had three active duty Brothers join us. Beau Lontine - a fleet diver, and Shannon Daniel and Nate Karagan - EOD divers, Welcome aboard and we hope you will continue to attend.
Willie's son donated $20 to the fund -- and I apologize for not getting his first name.
Mert Weltzien won the 50/50 drawing and gave $20 back to the fund..
It was a great day. Very sunny and warm so we ate outside, of course. I took the usual pictures and am still working on how to make them viewable to you all and not to Russia and China.
AUGUST 12, 2016
We had a very poor turn-out for this month as only 12 people showed up. This really hurts us money-wise for the excellent deal we get on the food and non-alcoholic drinks. It also makes it very difficult for Oggi's kitchen to plan on how much food to prepare.
If the turn-out continues to dwindle, we will have to end the fixed-price buffet-style meal including the non-alcoholic drinks and go back to INDIVIDUALORDERING which will be more expensive. We've been having these monthly lunches for a long time. We started all this as a get-together to boost Bobby Cave's spirits when he was going through chemo........and it worked. We held our first one at McDini's in National City sometime in 2009, I believe, because the first recorded formal lunch I have history on is September 2010. We may have met earlier than that, but I can't seem to find a record..
Now, I'll get off my soap box. The following die-hards did attend, Mike Cattolico, Bill Stephenson, Bruce Hoffman, Paul Castle, Ed Kirkeby, Charlie MacVean, Tom Jenkins, Jim Phalin, Joe "JJ" Duran, Don Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin and me.
Mike Cattolico won the 50/50 AGAIN, but he returned his $20 winnings to the pot.
I took pictures this time and will post as soon as I figure out how to. Weather was beautiful.....sunny and warm. I do know that several of us very much enjoyed sitting around with Charlie MacVean shooting the breeze. Charlie's the real deal........nothing phony about Charlie..........a real enlisted man's Captain.
JULY 08, 2016
Same goes for July weather. Do not remember what it was, but am fairly certain it was nice and sunny and we were all outside.
Attendees for July were: Mike Cattolico, Ricky Wolvin, Don Ferguson, Joe and Sharon Warren and their two youngsters, Tom Salmon, Paul Castle, Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Glen Carter, Troy Erwin, Tom Jenkins, Bob Bobczynski, Ed Kirkeby, Jim Santo, Sam Ridgeway, Bill Harju, Teri Reese and me.
Bob Bobczynski was the winner of the 50/50 drawing and returned the $45 to the lunch fund.
Been losing it lately and failed to take pictures for July, but did in August. Sorry about forgetting to take pics.
JUNE 10, 2016
Since I'm catching up on these several months after-the-fact, I cannot discuss the weather. Also, I was not present for this lunch. Ceil and I were driving up and down the coast to and from Washington to visit friends and relatives and to just RELAX after a very busy and hectic NDA Reunion in May.
However, if it was sunny and warm, the group was outside for June and July. If it was cold and wet, then they would have been in the Great Northwest, which they weren't. So it was probaby warm and sunny and they were outside.
Anyway, the attendees for this month were, as recorded by Mike Cattolico: Tom Jenkins, Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, Mike Cattolico, Bruce Hoffman, Troy Brown, Bill Stephenson, Mert Weltzien, Tom Salmon and Steve Kennedy.
The 50/50 ended up with a $25 payout, but I do not know who won.
MAY 13, 2016
Today's lunch was held on board the USS SAMPSON (DDG 102), by invitation from CO, CDR Patrick H. O'Mahoney. We had approximately 25 attend, but we did not have a sgn-in sheet. We were well received by the CO, CDR O'Mahoney, and several of the officers and crew.
It's not often when the CO of a non-diving surface ship invites a bunch of old Navy Divers on board for a lunch and tour. I, as well as the remainder of those attending were totally impressed. The Skipper went all out, as did the Navigator, LT Larson, to make us welcome and feed us well.
We all were offered to eat lunch where we desired. Some went to the Crew's Mess, others to the Goat Locker and still others to the Wardroom. EVERYONE had a great time.
I wish to thank CDR O'Mahoney and LT Larson for inviting a bunch of old Navy Divers aboard USS SAMPSON for the tour and lunch. WE ALL HAD A GREAT TIME and IT MEANS A LOT TO US!!
I do have some pictures that were taken and am still trying to figure out how to link to them. Once I do, I will post.
Now, it's our turn to treat you to lunch at our gathering at Oggi's. More to come on that one.
APRIL 08, 2016
Another excellent turnout. Don't know if they all came to see me or because it was a "FREE" lunch. Who said freebies no longer exist? They do in San Diego. We have those every once in a while. When the kitty from the 50/50 builds up, we give it back to the attendees by offering a "free" lunch.
The following divers braved the projected rain (didn't happen) and attended. Ed Brown, Mike Cattolico, Ricky Wolvin, Steve "Doc" Cherry, John "JJ" Johnson, Bill Zbaeren, Richard Carlquist, Tom Jenkins, Paul Castle, Ed Chomas, Joe Medina, Joe Nestor Tony Dzerco, Mark Sanders, Steve Kennedy, Tom Matyn, Mert Weltzien, Sam Sangrey, Will Willis, Jim Phalin, Dorothy Cave (Bobby's widow), David Cave (Bobby's son), Douglas Noyes, John Stange and yours truly.
Guess what?? I got so busy with the NDA Reunon stuff, the NDA Scholarship stuff, the 50/50 tickets, etc., etc., I forgot to take pictures. First time ever. Didn't think about it until I got home and took my camera out of my bag.
Doc Cherry won the 50/50 drawing for $75 and, in Navy Diver tradition, gave it all back. One of the many who did NOT win was Ricky Wolvin. He tried a new technique where you pay for your tickets as soon as you get there and sign in and then take the tickets at a later time after almost everyone bought their tickets, expecting yours will be on top and easy picking. Didn't work. Guess "luck" still abides.
Next month, May 13th, we should have some out-of-towners attending. Talking about those arriving early to attend our NDA Reunion. Good one to attend. May see some you haven't seen in years.
MARCH 11, 2016
Great turnout today. Was a little concerned with the numbers because as of 1145 we only had about 11. Then by 1200, everyone cawled out of the woodworks and we had a total of 24. Beautiful day today. No one was inside. Everyone was outside soaking up the San Diego March sunshine......and lovin' it.
Attendees were Bill Zbaeren, Mike Cattolico, Paul Castle, Ed Brown, Joe Medina, John Johnson, Steve "Doc" Cherry, George "Gunner" Powell, Ricky Wolvin, Ed Kirkeby, Sam Sangrey, Bruce Hoffman, Joe Kingsbury, Michael and Annette McGuire, Mert Weltzien, Tom Matyn, Dale Hower, Steve Kennedy, Tom Jenkins, Teri Reese, Bill Stephenson, Hal Goforth and yours truly.
Tom Matyn was the winner of the 50/50 drawing for a total of $55 and he gave it ALL back. Thanks Tom for your generosity.
These lunches continue to be well-attended. Most of the time, it's the same group, but we always seem to see new people and out-of-towners. If you are living in a community where you have some active or former Navy Divers, you ought to take it upon yourself to start up lunch meetings. None of us are getting any younger and you never know when you are called. We see it here in San Diego and we miss our Brothers who are no longer with us, but at least we continued to see them and enjoy their company until they were no longer with us. Think it over.
I took the usual pictures and am still trying to link them to this site when I load them up using Picasa, but am still having trouble. Will get it sometime and, when I do, you will find the pictures for today by clicking on this link.
FEBRUARY 12, 2016
Temperatures in the mid to high 70s today so everyone was outside. Just a pefect day for our lunch. Not a soul inside, which is rare. We had some new attendees and that is ALWAYS a good thing.
Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Jay Crumbie, Paul Castle, Joe Medina and one of his grandsons Colin Medina, Mert Weltzien, Rick Wolvin, Ed Brown, John "JJ" Johnson, Ali And Gracie Perez, Emory Bishop, George Rekow, Steven Cherry, Chuck Adams, Joseph DuBois, Chuck Chalders, Jim Corey, Steve Kennedy, Hal and Sharon Goforth, Tom Matyn, Sam Sangrey and yours truly.
Nothing new happened out of the ordinary. Had a good turn-out of 24. Sam showed up late so didn't get a chance to eat. Seems like the lunches interfere with his Frday morning golf game.
Sharon Goforth was our 50/50 winner and she won $53, but being a good shipmate, she donated $35 back to the cause. Thank you Sharon and Hal and congratulations on your winning.
I took the usual pictures and you can look at them by clicking here.
I uploaded pictures but, since changing to Windows 10, am still having trouble uploading. Will work on it and make the pictures available as soon as possible.
JANUARY 08, 2016
Beautiful day today. Rain stayed away and the fairweather divers came to lunch. We had a pretty good turnout including: Tom Jenkins, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, Joe Medina, Joe Kingsbury, Jay Crumbie, Tom Salmon, Dr. Tom Neuman, Jerry Mosley, Jim Donahue, Steve Kennedy, Tom Matyn, Carl Ritnour, Mike Winter, Pat McKenna, Sam Sangrey, Don Ortiz, Bill Harju, Alan Lerchbacker, Bill Stevenson, Cesar Torres and his daughter, Ricky Lincoln, and me.
I belive there were others who did not sign in so I am unable to list here. I do know that John Harder's son attended and he had a friend who donated $5 just for the cause. I did not get either of their names and I apologize for that. Things generally get hectic with taking money for the lunch and 50/50 and taking pictures.
Bill Zbaeren won the 50/50 and would have pocketed $63, but he gave it all back. Thank you very much Bill. This and the $30 winnings given back by Mark Hath last week will go into the $200 donation our group is making to the Ronald MacDonald House in MDV Bobby Cave's memory.
Speaking of MDV Cave, Cesar Torres etched a mirror in Bobby's memory and it now hangs in Oggi's at Liberty Station. It was a donation from Cesar to his very good friend. Thank you Cesar.
I uploaded pictures but, since changing to Windows 10, continue to have trouble uploading. Will work on it and make the pictures available as soon as possible.
DECEMBER 11, 2015
Sort of a cold rainy day today so our numbers were low. The following braved the weather (at least that's what we say in San Diego): Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stephenson, Paul Castle, Joe Kingsbury, Tom Jenkins, Joe Medina, Ricky Wolvin, Joe "J.J." Duran, Mark Hath, Mike Ritnour, Pete Berdzar and me.
Mark Hath, Mark V Lodge, Inc., won the 50/50 drawing and would have pocketed $35, but he gave $30 bucks back to the kitty. Good on ya Mark and we thank you for your geneousity.
I uploaded pictures but, since changing to Windows 10, am having trouble uploading. Will work on it and make the pictures available as soon as possible.
NOVEMBER 13, 2015
We had a great turnout today. It was warm and sunny and the majority of the attendees sat outside. We did fill up the eating area outside so some had to move inside. We had a total of 38 attending.
This was out first Friday Divers' Lunch since our good shipmate and brother MDV Bobby Cave passed away. A little bit of history here......These lunches all started several years ago when (I believe) Rick Armstrong and Mike Cattolico invited a few of us old Navy Divers to lunch at McDini's in National City to give Bob a pickup. He was suffering from cancer and had gone through a few rounds of treatment and was not feeling very perky. We attended this lunch to show Bob many of us cared and to not give up. We were his life support.
We held another one a few weeks later at McDini's and decided, since they were well attended and were doing some good for Bob, to continue once every month, but move to a more central location. We found that place on Liberty Station at the Point Loma Sports Grill and Bar over by the old Chief's Club. As best I can figure out (based upon a list of attendees I have), we started there in September, 24, 2010 and Bobby Cave was the first one to sign in.
The following attended this November lunch: Bill Zbaeren, Joe Medina, George "Gunner" Powell, Tom Jenkins, Mert Weltzien, Jim Donahue, Sid Haygood, Wayne Jacobs, Paul Castle, Kyle Gaillard, Rick Armstrong, Mike Cattolico, Tom Matyn, Alan Lerchbacker, Pete Berdzar, Sam Sangrey, Bruce Hoffman, Chuck Adams, Mark Sanders, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Glen Carter, Mark Gillcrist, Jim Phalin, Bill Stephenson, Joe Kingsbury, Doug Noyes, Fernando and Penny Juarez, Bill Harju, Steve Kennedy, Marc Rasmussen, J.J. Duran, Hal Goforth, Dave Cave, Willy Fewell, Will Ary and me.
Bob's son, Dave, also attended and he gave a short presentation to all and gave out the dates and times of the memorial service and burial of his dad.
Paul Castle was a first time winner of the 50/50 drawing which amounted to $75. Paul gave back $70 to the Fund. Thank you Paul. That was extremely generous of you.
Took as many pictures as I could squeeze in and you can see them by clicking here. I know I failed to identify some of you and may have mis-identifed some of you. For that I am very sorry, but I don't get to meet and greet as many as I would like what with the taking of the money, the selling of Polo shirts and T-Shirts, taking pictures, etc., I manage to stay pretty busy. But it is all fun and worth it for everyone to have a good time.
I missed a few of you inside. I took the pictures, but, for some reason, they didn't turn out. Sorry guys.
I also apologize for some of the food (second round) coming out late, but this is the largest crowd we've ever had and, since we do not let Oggi's know how many will be attending (because we don't know), Oggi's does one heck of a job taking care of us. We all appreciate Oggi's and their staff.
OCTOBER 09, 2015
Sorry it took me so long to get this written, but this was just beofe I went to Hawaii for a couple of weeks with my wife, Ceil,and Retired MDV Bobby Moore and his wife, Becky.
It was another beautiful day in San Diego and we enjoyed the company of 25 shipmates and friends. Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, Joe Medina, Sig Bobczynski, George "Gunner" Powell, Tom Jenkins, Mert Weltzien, Jim Donahue, Sid Haygood, Wayne Jacobs, Paul Castle, Kyle Gaillard, Rick Armstrong, Sam Ridgeway, Terri Reese, Jerry Masky, Mike Cattolico, Tom Matyn, Wendell Trent, Alan Lerchbacker, Michael Timm, Pete Berdzar, Sam Sangrey and I attended.
CAPT. Ret Pete Berdzar invited Congressman Duncan Hunter's Representative, Jerry Masky, to speak to the group about current legislation. Jerry also spent considerable time speaking one on one with anyone who wanted to speak with him. I'm certain all enjoyed Jerry's visit and presentation and we welcomed him back. Thanks Pete for inviting Jerry.
Wayne Jacobs won the 50/50 drawing for $71 for his first time and he gave some back, as we all traditionally do. Wayne gave back $20 which goes to our Friday Divers' Lunch Fund. Thank you Wayne.
The food, as usual was great, service was great and our main hostess and girl Friday makes certain eerything runs smoothly. Thanks Tonya.
I took several pictures and posted them here for all to see.
SEPTEMBER 11, 2015
The day was one of the hotter ones, but everyone stayed outside to eat and talk. We had 29 attendees today and they were: Joe Dubois, Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Jay Crumbie, Ed Brown, Rick Wolvin, Bill Stephenson, Don Ferguson, Paul Castle, Mert Weltzien, Joe Nestor, Jim Phalin, Tom Jenkins, Will Willis, Steve Cherry, J. J. Johnson, Bob Cave, Dick Bird, Willie Fewell, Nihil Smith, Teri Reese, Jim Donahue, Steve Kennedy, Wayne Moffett, Kevin Kelly, Jeremy Mosley, Bill Harju, and me.
I distributed T-shirts to those who ordered them and that always helps the Scholarship Fund.
Mert Weltzien won the 50/50 pot which was $66. Mert gave back $35.
Again, I took pictures and will post later this week.
AUGUST 14, 2105
Since the website was down the day following this lunch, a write-up was never done. I will now only list the attendees and winner of the 50/50.
We had 31 attendees and they were: Mike Cattolico, Rick James, Toni Barunlos (sp?), Michael McGuire, Alan Lerchbacker, Bill Zbaeren, Jim Donahue, Paul Castle, Rick Wolvin, Nihil Smith, Otto Orzech, Tom Jenkins, Mert Weltzien, Ed Kirkeby, Joe Medina, Dick Bird, Bill Stephenson, Pete Berdzar, Steve Kennedy, Sam & Harriet Sangrey, John Sigurdson (sp?), Wayne Jacobs, Sam Ridgeway, Doug Noyes, Joe & Robbi Kingsbury, Don Ferguson, J. J. Duran, and me.
I had trouble decipering a couple of the names. So, if you know the correct spelling, please let me know and I will correct.
Mike Cattolico won the 50/50 pot of $65 and gave back $45.
I took pictures and will get them posted in the next week.
JULY 10, 2015
Good lunch and fairly well attended. We had a total of twenty-one attendees. They were Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, Len Starbeck, Jay Crumbie, Rick Wolvin. Don Ferguson, Richard Carlquist, Nihil Smith, Clayton Walker and his wife, Dick Bird, Mike Cattolico, Wayne Jacobs, Tom Matyn, Pete Berdzar, Steve Kosier, Mark Gillcrist, Bob Cave, Willie Fewell, Glen Carter and me.
Two first time attendees - Clayton Walker and Steve Kosier - left me their email addresses so I imagine we will see them again. Always a good thing to grow the group. Clayton and Steve, thanks for attending.
Richard Carlquist won the 50/50 again. Always like to see Richard win as he ALWAYS gives it all back. Thanks Richard and we all appreciate your generousity. The total was $74 so Richard gave back $47.
I took the usual pictures and will have to add names later. I know I always promise to do this and never follow through. I will make every effort to not disappoint this time.
The long time Oggi's Manager, Julie, left us to take a position as a fight attendant for Alaska Airlines. We'll miss her, and wish her the best of luck flying those Alaskan skies. I met Julie's replacement, Pete, and he's all in favor of letting things run as status quo and welcomed all of us. We are extremely lucky to have a place like Oggi's at the old NTC to welcome us into their fold and take such good care of us for our lunches.
We also are fortunate to have found another girl Friday to keep us well supplied with food and drinks and she is featured in some of the pictures I took. Of course we made her an honorary Deep Sea Diver and gave her the ball cap to wear. Thank you Courtney, for being there for us
Mark Gillcrist brought several framed pieces of art and donated them to the NDA to do with as we wish. We will save them for the NDA Reunion this coming May 2016. They are terrific pieces and I am certain many of you will want to own one or two. Thanks very much Mark.
JUNE 12, 2015
Today began with the usual June gloom marine layer covering much of Point Loma but, as it generally does, it burned off and turned out to be a pretty good day. Had a couple instances where we thought it would rain a little, but that passed.
So, all in all, we had a great turnout and most of us sat outside on the patio. Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Pete Berdzar, Ed Kirkeby, me, Tom Salmon, Don Ferguson, Ed Brown, Bill Zbaeren, Joe Kingsbury, Dick Bird, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Mike Jackson, Michael Timm, Ton Jenkins, Michael McGuire, Tom Neuman, Bill Stephenson, Steve Kosier, Len Starbeck, Mike Ritnour, Todd Rood, Wayne Jacobs, Bill Sullivan, Willie Fewell, Bobby Cave, Jim Donahue, Joe Nestor, Jeb Nestor, Tyson Hoover, Mert Weltzien and David Baise.
This lunch was a freebie. We do this every once in a while when we buildup the kitty from the 50/50s, etc. Speaking of the 50/50 drawing, Tom Salmon won the pot this time and it was a good size pot. Tom's half was $92, so he kept $10 to buy a new NDA Challenge Coin and gave to rest back to the Diver Lunch pot.
I took several pictures - tried to get everyone in attendance and hopefully did not miss anyone. I've uploaded the pictures and you can view them by clicking on the pictures link. Still have to put the names with them, but that'll come in a few days.
Hope to see most of you back in July and bring a friend....they're always welcome.
Oh yes. Added the names below of those who attended in May.
MAY 8, 2015
No write-up yet as I was in Panama City Beach, FL, attending ll the diving festivities such as NDSTC clebrating 35 years since it moved to PCB, FL, 100 year anniversary of the Navy Diver, SAT Divers reunion and culminating with the bi-annual MDV reunion.
06-17-2015 entry -- Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Ed Kirkeby, Greg Richter, Michael McGuire, Bill Sullivan, Mert Weltzien, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Willie Fewell, Tom Matyn and Steve Kennedy.
The 50/50 winner was Tom Jenkins. The pot was only $22. Not a large pot, but a pot never-the-less
No pictures were taken.
APRIL 10, 2015
Well, this event did not begin well, but we got through it. Someone gave away our reserved outside area to a civilian group so we had to go it inside. It worked, but was not that enjoyable as it was too cramped and attendees were restrained from their usual roaming.
Anyway, that being said, we did survive. Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Joe DuBois, Tom Hodgins, Ed Brown, John Hill, Bill Zbaeren, me, Richard Bird, Ed Kirkeby, Michael McGuire, Bill Sullivan, Joe Medina, Tom Jenkins, Nihil Smith, Bruce Tuckerman, Jerry Mosley, Mert Weltzien, Tom Salmon, Rick Wolvin, Willie Fewell, Bobby Cave, Wayne Jacobs, Jim Blackshire, Rick Armstrong, Harry Short, George Powell, Joe Kingsbury, Bill Stephenson, Michael Timm, Sam Sangrey, Bill Harju and Pete Berdzar.
Had several out of town guests (brothers, shipmates), which is always good. Jim Blackshire (Maryland) attended. Haven't seen Jim in many many years and it was good to see him again. Tommy Hodgins (Washington state) and John Hill (Oregon) drove down together and while in the area had lunch with us. Always good to see old shipmates.
I took pictures, as did John Hill. I'll contat john and see if he will send me his so I can included them here at a later date. The pictures I took can be found by clicking here. I still have to enter the captions and will do so later this week, but wanted to get posted.
The 50/50 winner was Joe Medina. He won $45 and donated $20 to the NDA Scholarship Fund. Good on ya Joe and I, and the NDA, thank you.
I won't be at the May 08 one as I will be attending the festivities in Panama City Beach, FL.
MARCH 10,2015
Received list of attndees from Mike Cattolico. Attendees were Mike Cattolico, Bobby Cave, Bill Zbaeren, Bill Stevenson, Bill Sullivan, Bruce and Mary Rose Laurich (sorry I missed you Bruce), Jim Kettler, Richard Carlquist, Hal Goforth, Kevin Kelly, Sam Sangrey, Tim Corey, Tom Matyn, Mert Weltzien, Jerry Mosley, and Steve Kennedy.
Had another one that signed in, but cannot rready his/her name.
Do not know who won the 50/50, but gave me $104.00 from 50/50.
No pictures as I was on vacation.
FEBRUARY 13, 2015
What a beautiful day in San Diego to have a Divers' lunch and the good weather brought a whole bunch out. Had a fantastic turnout of 32 active and former Navy Divers and that number included some first time attendees.
Attendees included me, Mike Cattolico, Bill Sullivan, Jim Donahue, Michael McGuire, Mert Weltzien, Dick Bird, Ed Brown, Ed Kirkeby, Tom Jenkins, Sam Ridgeway, Tom Salmon, Kevin Kelly, Rick Wolvin, Hal & Sharon Goforth, Harry Short, Bobby Cave, Wayne Jacobs, Bill Zbaeren, Tom Matyn, Bill Stephenson, Pete Berdzar, Steve Kennedy, Willie Fewell and J.J. Duran.
First time attendees were Ray Steele, Jerry Mosley, Lonnie Hamme, Tim Rainer, Stacy Martin and Michael Timm.
Bill Stephenson was the winner of the 50/50 drawing and gave $47 of the $52 he won back to the lunch fund. Congrats Bill on winning and thanks very much for donating back. Hoo Yah.
Took several pictures and tried my best to cathc at one shot of eah attendee. Sometimes this is very tough to do as some are inside and many are moving around from their table to the trough and back to their table. But, I do my best.
Of course, our lunches are always graced by our gorgeous Oggi's Manage, Julie Gunther, and our main stay waitress / barkeep, the lovely Tonya Novak. They are in the pictures.
One of our new attendees is Michael Timm, a retired German Navy Diver and one of the good guys. Michael owns a Dive California dive shop located at 4004 Sports Arena Blvd., San Diego, CA 92110. The link to his shop is http://www.divecalifornia.com/ and I have also posted it on the Links page on our website. Stop in and see Michael and check his shop out.
Also, Bernie Campoli is still selling the SEALAB 50th Anniversary T-Shirts. Bernie waits for orders so does not order ahead. If you are interested in a shirt, they are selling for $20 for the T-Shirt and $26 for the Polo Shirt with your name embroidered on the front. Shipping is $6 per shirt (or you can negotiate with Bernie of your order in quantity). Bernie is selling a good shirt and he won't so it forever so, if you wnt one, you better contact Bernie.
Sorry, but I will not be attending the March 2105 lunch as I will be soaking up the sun on the North Shore of Oahu with Bobby Moore and my cousin from Canada. Mike Cattolico will be handing the lunch so it's still a go at the regular place and the regular time.
JANUARY 09, 2015
Great unexpected turnout today. Seems like the guys came out of the woord work. It was a beautiful day, here in San Diego, with the sun shining, warm with a gentle onshore breeze. Couldn't ask for better.
The following 28 individuals signed in: Joe Medina, Mike Cattolico, George Powell, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Tom Salmon, Mert Weltzien, Rick Wolvin, Bob Mazzone, Ed Brown, Richard Carlquist, Todd Rood, Bill Zbaeren, Tom Matyn, Bill Sullivan, Wayne Jacobs, Bruce Hoffman, Jim Phalin, Bill Stephenson, Bruce Tuckerman, Willie Fewell, Jay Crumbie, Pete Berdzar, Sam Sangrey, Bobby Cave, Steve Kennedy and friend, Pam Wozke, and yours truly.
I took the usual pictures with my new Canon Power Shot. The old one finally gave out after about six years. Took pretty good pictures and you can find them by clicking here.
Bob Mazzone, CAPT, USN, Ret, who is also CAPT Walt Mazzone's son, attended and presented the NDA with the LAST Deep Sea Diving stained glass that his dad created. Has Walt's initials on it also. It's framed and we will auction off at the May 2016 NDA Reunion in San Diego
To top it off, Bob won the 50/50 and gave it all back to the kitty. So that bumped up the kitty by $100. Thanks Bob. We apprecaite it and you are always welcome back.
Next one is Friday, Feb 13, 2015. Hope to see many of you there.
DECEMBER 12, 2014
I must say that the last Divers' Lunch to be held in 2014 was a termendous success. Now, I don't know if it was the rain and people looking for a warm dry place to hang out or the FREE FOOD at Oggi's, but we had over 30 attending.
Since we generally collect extra money at our lunches, when our coffers get a little full, we spring for a free lunch. Heck, it's the guys' money so why not give back.
The following Diver's that signed in and attended the Divers' Lunch at Oggi's on a very wet and windy day in San Diego were; Bruce Hoffman, Alan Lerchbacker, Richard Carlquist, Mike Cattolico, David Swingle, Joe Nestor, Ed Poss, Glen Carter, Bill Zbaeren, Mert Weltzien, Kevin Kelly, Nihil Smith, Joe Kingsbury, Tom Salmon, Bill Stephenson, Joe DuBois, Don Rodocker, Sean Newsome, Tom Jenkins, Harry Short, Bobby Cave, Wayne Jacobs, Hal Goforth, Doug Noyes, Wil Killmer, Bill Sullivan, Tim Alderson, Sam Sangrey and yours truly.
My camera went on the fritz, so I had to use my "Smart Phone". Can you imagine that -- a retired Navy Deep Sea Diver, and a Corpsman to boot, using a "Smart Phone"? Isn't that what they call an oxymoron. Anyway I uploaded them to Picasa and you can view them by clicking on this link. I noticed some were blurry. My camera malfunctioned and I had to use my "Smart" phone. Guess you cannot move quite as fast as with a digital camera. Anywaym next month will be better.
I FINALLY won the 50/50 drawing and it was a big one. The total was $180 so I would have walked away with $90. But, like many of the others do, I gave it back so we had an extra $90 to cover the gratuity and put towards another freebie lunch......which should show up again around the March 13, 2015, lunch. So be on the lookout.
Great lunch. Saw many who have not been able to attend for several months due to work and other commitments. Glad to see all of you who could make it. Hope to see many of you at the January 09, 2015, lunch.
NOVEMBER 14, 2014
November's attendance was down by two, as we only had twenty and they were Mike Cattolico, me, Wayne Jacobs, Bill Zbaeren, Jim Donahue, Bobby Cave, Ed Kirkeby, Ed Brown, Jim Phalin, Nihil Smith, Harry Short, Tom Matyn, Pete Berdzar, Steve Kennedy, Mike and Cheryl Jackson (yes, his wife), Hal Goforth, Doug Noyes, Jay Wood and Bill Sullivan.
Haven't seen Harry Short in awhile so was happy to see him drop by. Incidentally, he was stumping his latest historical fiction, "APACHE KID". Harry also has three other books out. They are, "TWO WEEKS", "HIGH GROUND", and "DIVING DICTIONARY". He goes by the name of W. H. Short. Check 'em out.
We had a couple first time attendees -- Jay Wood and Bill Sullivan. Thanks for stopping by and hope to see more of both of you at our lunches.
Bill Sullivan was the winner of the 50/50, received $40, and gave it all back. Thanks Bill and you are always welcome to come back............
Was a very nice day today and everyone ate outside. Perfect San Diego weather. The usual pictures were taken and are posted.
Mike Cattolico rejoined us after his surgery last month and is doing well.
That's it for November.........hope to see many of you next month as it will be a FREEBIE.
OCTOBER 10, 2014
Sorry everyone for not getting this and the November lunches posted. No excuses - just got busy. Not a huge turn-out this month, but respectible. Lots going so expect not everypone can make every lunch. We (at least I) forget these for are shipmates to be able to get together and talk to people who understand them.....and they are far and few between..
Anyway, the twenty-two attendees this month were Bill Zbaeren, Ed Brown, me, Wayne Jacobs, Dick Bird, Tom Jenkins, Jim Phalin, Richard Carlquist, Ed Kirkeby, John :JR" Hill, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin, Greg Richter, Joe Medina, Tom Matyn, Steve Kennedy, Steve "Doc" Cherry. Alan Lerchbacker, Bobby Cave, Pete Berdzar, Jim Donahue and Sam Sangrey.
Yes, John Hill came all the way from Coos Bay, Oregon. Thanks John for dropping by and dropping off the USS Pigeon t-shirts for us to sell. Was good seeing you.
Mike Cattolico was absent (this is a rarity) as he was laid up after surgery. He survived the surgery well and we were happy to hear the surgery went well. He'll be back next month.
If I remember correctly, the day was rather cool, but still pleasant. Of course I took pictures and they are posted on our website as usual.
Well, got another month to write up so will conclude this one.
Almost forgot the most important part. The 50/50 winner was Ed Kirkeby. Ed won $52 and he gave it all back to add to the pot. Thanks Ed. We apprecaite your generousity
SEPTEMBER 12, 2014
Not a great turnout this week. Don't know if it was due to the heat or people on vacation. We did, however, get 17 to brave the 85 degree heat. Many were the usuals such as Mike Cattolico, Bill Zbaeren, Rick Wolvin, Joe Medina, Willie Fewell, Wayne Jacobs, Tom Matyn, Pete Berdzar, Chuck Adams, Ed Kirkeby, Steve Kennedy, Doug Noyes and Jim Donahue. Hal and Sharon Goforth returned from Florida and attended. Russ Fritz drive up from Baja California and showed his face.
Took a few pictures, as usual, and they are posted on the web. You can see them by clicking here.
the 50/50 pot was $26 and was won by either Mike Cattolico or Jim Donahue. They didn't know who was supposed to be holding the winning ticket as Mike forgot to give the string Jim bought to Jim so it was anybody's guess. They both agreed they would give it all back so, in the long run, it really didn't matter. Thanks guys for contributing to the fund.
The money is beginning to build again so I guess November's (NOT OCTOBER) lunch will be a freebie. Just giving you all a head's up in case some of you want to fly in for a $13 lunch and to participate in the 50/50.
Remember that October 5th is the Celebration of Life for our shipmate Captain Walt Mazzoni, Ret. The celebration begins at 1400 and will be held at the Torrey Pines Christian Church in La Jolla, CA
AUGUST 08, 2014
Well, I'm back and was present for this Friday lunch. Had a great time on Oahu, HI, for the month. Totally relaxed!! Mike Cattolico gave me the list of attendees for the 07/11/14 lunch and gave me $25 that remained from the lunch. That goes into the pot.
We had a pretty good turn out under another beautiful sky in San Diego. Temp was about 75 degrees with a nice on-shore breeze. Not enough to keep the seagulls away though, as they thought they were invited guests and tried several times to attack our pizzas and salad until we had them moved inside. We did leave the salad dressing outside. I mean, what seagull is going to dip his/her beak into a bowl of salad dressing?? Well, San Diego seagulls do and before we knew it the bowls were upended and the seagulls were feasting on salad dressing.
Attendees at this fine Navy Diver Lunch were Ed Brown, Mike Cattolico, Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Jay Crumbie, Richard Carlquist, Dick Bird, Bruce Hoffman, Nihil Smith, Mert Weltzien, Bob Cave, Gary Decker, Tom Jenkins, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Bret & Zeny Pemberton, Doug Noyes, Pete Berdzar and, of course, yours truly.
We had one new attendee, Wayne Jacobs. Wayne went through Navy 2nd Class Dive school while in the U.S. Marine Corps. So, he qualifies as a Navy Diver. Welcome aboard Wayne.
I took pictures, of course, and you can view them by going to this link. We all had to move inside as Oggi's had a conflict with lunches so I had to take these all inside and are a little crowded, but they are here for your viewing.
Mike Cattolico was the big winner of $40 in the 50/50 pot. Of course, Mike being Mike, he gave it all back so we were able to add a goodly amount to the pot. Congrats Mike and the "Friday Lunch Bunch" thanks you very much.
Incidentally, this is our first San Diego Navy Divers Lunch since the passing of our good shipmate and NDA benefactor Captain Walt Mazzone. Walt passed away August 07, 2014. We will miss our good friend and all his support of the Navy Divers Association. May Walt rest in peace.
Next one is September 12th and that will be the day after I return from New England and my high school reunion. See many of you then..
JULY 11, 2014
I was in Hawaii for the month of July and did not attend the lunch, Mike Cattolico did, however, and he logged in all the attendees. The attendees were Mike Cattolico, Tom Jenkins, George Powell, Ed Brown, Bob Cave, Pete Berdzar, Bruce Hoffman, Mert Weltzien, Willy Fewell, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson and Sam Sangrey.
Don't know who the 50/50 winner was nor how much the lucky person took home.
Sorry no pictures. Incidentally, those above are the hard-core attendees. Thank you guys for keeping it going.
JUNE 13, 2014
Lunch was held, as usual, at Oggi's and, again as usual, they did their utmost to keep us well fed and well lubricated. Tanya, our hostess with the mostess, ALWAYS takes care of us. Thanks Tanya.
Skies were sunny, temp was around 70 - 73 degrees and all-in-all a beautiful day. Many of the guys stayed inside in the air conditioning and watched the World Cup.....and drank a lot of beer.
We had about 24 show up for lunch. I say "about" because some who were not eating may not have signed in and I was kept busy with the check-ins, 50/50 ticket sales, taking pictures, and selling T-shirts and ball caps. So I probably did miss two or three.
The ones that did sign in are: Ed Brown, Bill Stephenson, Mike Cattolico, Jay Crumbie, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Don Ferguson, Bill Zabaeren, Bruce Hoffman, Nihil Smith Ed Kirkeby, Marc Rasmussen, Mark Gilcrist, Todd Rood, Steve Kennedy, Pete Berdzar, Joe Kingsbury, Jim Donahue, and me.
We also had some first timers, such as Bob & Cindi Heck from Ellenton, FL. Also W. Harry Short, Glen Carter and Rob Farber were all either first timers or had not been around for a long long time. Welcome all.
I took pictures for the lunch and they can be found by clicking on this link. I know I missed some of the attendees because my camera went south on me and I started using my smart phone and caught a couple, but know I missed several. I know I missed Pete Berdzar. Anyway, next time.
Richard Carlquist was the winner....again.....of the 50/50 and he gave it all back. So he would have split $85 with the group. Thanks very much Richard. Very generous of you.
MAY 09, 2014
Note - The May 09, 2014, lunch did not happen as we were finishing up our NDA Reunion on May 08, 2014. If you went to Oggi's for lunch, good for you keeping the flame alive.
April 11, 2014
Everyone enjoyed a free lunch yesterday as we had enough jing built up in our NDA San Diego Chapter bank account. We really don't have chapters in the NDA, but I had to name our lunch checking account something to keep the funds separate from the NDA funds.
We had another good turn out with 28 or 29 attending on, what turned out to be, a beautiful warm sunny day. The forecast had said it was going to be cooler, but it was just beautiful......as you can see when you go to the pictures which I will post in June with the June write-up.
The following attended: Bill Stephenson, Bill Zbaeren, Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, me, Nihil Smith, Joe Medina, Bobby Cave, Mert Weltzien, Dick Bird, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Tom Jenkins, Tom Matyn, Steve Kennedy, Todd Rood, Sam Sangrey, Rick Armstrong, George "Gunner" Powell, Ben Barker, Bruce Hoffman, Michael McGuire, Bruce Tuckerman, Dave Heaney, Jim Donahue, Hal & Sharon Goforth, Len Starbeck, Kyle Gaillard, Todd Rood and Tim Alderson.
The 50/50 winner was Steve Kennedy and he split the $63 pot with the group. So we banked the other $63 plus the $31 Steve donated back. Thank you Steve.
Pictures were taken and will be posted to the website in June and by clicking here you can see them........in June.
MARCH 14, 2014
Sorry gents, but I got waylaid and did not get this lunch posted. Therefore, I will just list the names and link later to the pictures.
The following were in attendance: Bill Stephenson, Bill Zbaeren, Will Willis, Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, me, Richard Carlquist, Jay Crumbie, Vic Carella, Nihil Smith, Joe Medina, Bobby Cave, Chuck Adams, Mert Weltzien, Dick Bird, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Alan Lerchbacker, Tom Jenkins, Ed Kirkeby, Tom Matyn, Steve Kennedy, Joe Kingsbury, Todd Rood, Sam Sangrey and Rick Armstrong.
Of course I took pictures of all your heroes and I will post them to the website in June. So they are posted and you can now view them. I have not yet entered the names and hope to in the near future..
The 50/50 drawing was won by Richard Carlquist. He received $60 and gave it all back to the group; so we banked $120 from the 50/50....not a bad days work. And thank you very much Richard.
february 15, 2014
Another great day in sunny Southern California. I belive the temperatures were in the high 70s or low 80s. We had a very good turn-out again. Joe Medina, brought his wife, Mary, and Doug Noyes was accompanied by his wife, Laura, and Hal Goforth brought his bride, Sharon. Others attending. and in no partcular order, were Bill Stephenson, Mike Cattolico, Dick Bird, Joe "Frenchie" DuBois, Nihil Smith, Bill Zbaeren, Bob Bornholdt, Walt Mazzone, Bruce Hoffman, Richard Carlquist, Russ Duty, George Rekow, Tom Jenkins, Ed Brown, Willie Fewell, Len Starbeck, Mert Weltzien, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Bob Cave, Sam Sangrey, Pete Berdzar and yours truly.
Geroge Rekow was in town from Arizona, vsiting his daughter, so he stopped by for lunch. Good to see you George and hope you enjoyed yourself.
Russ Duty heard of us and joined the group for the first time and signed up for distribution of the news. Hope you also enjoyed yourself Russ and come on back.
Russell VanCleve was at Oggi's with his wife when he saw all the divers and came outside to talk to us. Russell is also going on the distribution lists and we're hoping he'll return for some of the lunches that are coming up.
Remember, we meet at the same place at the same time (Oggi's on Liberty Station in San Diego at 1130) on the second (2nd) Friday of every month - rain or shine - warm or cold.
Hal and Sharon Goforth won the 50/50 drawing and received $70. Being the type of people they are, they gave $50 back to the cause. This was the Goforth's first win of the 50/50 (generally Hal buys the tickets and forgets to put them in the bucket to get drawn). Congrats Hal. Happy to see you are a WINNER!!
We have a surplus in our bank account so I talked with several and we decided to donate $500 to the Loloma Foundation of which Dr. Lance Hendricks is an active participant and a member of the Board of Directors, Dr Hendricks was one of the Medical Officers on the Moose Creek (USS Elk River IX-501) when RADM, Ret., Tom Cullison was on board. By clicking on Loloma Foundation above, you can read about their activities and contributions to the world.
Took the obligatory pictures and they can be found by clicking here.
Until next month's blurb, that's it for today.
january 10, 2014
Such a beautiful day in San Diego, CA, with the temperatures in the 70 to 72 degree range brought out an above average turn-out of 33 former and current Navy Divers. Those attending included Paul Castle, Bill Stephenson, Jerry Tompsett, Vic Carella, Don Ferguson, Mike Cattolico, Hal Goforth, Joe Medina, Jay Crumbie, Dick Bird, George "Gunner" Powell, Joe "Frenchie" DuBois, Michael McGuire, Ed Kirkeby, Nihil Smith, Ed Brown, Willie Fewell, Len Starbeck, Sean Newsome, Rob McKnight, Mert Weltzien, Tom Matyn, Steve Kennedy, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Jim Donahue, Bob Cave, Sam Sangrey, Angel Matos, Pete Berdzar and yours truly.
We enjoyed the company of one new attendee, Will Willis. Will attended Sat School on the Moose Creek in 1972 and then went directly (did not pass Go) to the Halibut when he enjoyed immeasurable pleasure with several of our shipmates. We certainly enjoyed his company and thank Bill "Doc" Boyce for pointing Will in our direction. Incidentally, Will won the 50/50 and it was a good pot. Will received $76.00 and, in good sailor fashion, donated it all back to the fund. Good on ya Will and thank you!!
Sold some tee shirts, ball caps and a coin. So that always helps out the NDA general fund. Also took several pictures, as is the norm, and they can be found by clicking on this picture link. I apologize if I mix up any names with faces as it gets so hectic (at least for me) at these lunches, I just don't get the time to get aroound and glad hand with everyone.
Next lunch will be on the usual 2nd Fridaqy of the month in February and that will be Friday, February 14, 2014 and begins aroound 1130 plus or minus. Hope to see many of you there.
december 13, 2013
Yup, we're sticking to our schedule and no matter how many "special" lunches we have during the month, we will ALWAYS have our scheduled monthly lunch. So, if you have a mind to come to San Diego and meet and eat with some of your brothers, make it on the second Friday of any month in any year.
We had an excellent turn-out today with Mike Cattolico, Bill Stephenson, Joe Medina, Ed Brown, Paul Castle, Ted Griggs, Jerry Tompsett, Jay Crumbie, Dick Bird, Reigna Rogers, Bruce Hoffman, Rick Armstrong, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Mert Weltzien, Willie Fewell, Jay Bass, Tom Jenkins, Bobby Cave, Hal Goforth, Douglas Noyes, Donald Ferguson, Len Starbeck, Steve Kennedy, Sam Sangrey and me showing up to join in the comararderie.
We were very fortunate to have Reigna Rogers join us today. Reigna is BM1/DV Don Risk's daughter. We lost our shipmate Don in September 2013. Thanks for coming Reigna. You're always welcome as are all the families of those Navy Divers here and passed on. WE ARE A FAMILY!!
Thanks again to Len Starbeck for taking the time to transport, offload, setup and tear down his Diver mock-up. It's definitely a great morale booster and appears we had a bunch who really enoyed living in the past.
Today's lunch was a freebie so if you missed it, you missed a lot. Reigna won the 50/50 which was $70 and she gave it ALL back. Following in her dad's footsteps.
Took a ton of pictures and will forego using first names in the captions as I took so many. Of course, you can see them all by clicking here. Come to San Diego and you too can don the old dress.......
december 05, 2013
This was a special lunch planned so all those who would like to visit with Tom Cullison, RADM, MC, Ret could do so. Many of the guys in San Diego were stationed at one time or another with Tom either as salvage divers in Harbor Clearance Unit ONE (HCU-1) or at Submarine Development Group ONE (DevGrp) on the USS Elk River (IX-501), also known lovingly as the Moose Creek.
The Admiral was in San Diego to attend a retirement ceremony/change of command at NavHosp Balboa and to conduct some business associated with his current duties working for the Governemnt as a civilian
Old friends attending were: Tom Cullison, Mike Cattolico, Nihil Smith, Don Ferguson, George "Gunner" Powell and his lovely wife Arliss, Joe Medina, Sam Sangrey, Tom Jenkins, Bobby Cave, Jim Donahue, Ed Kirkeby, Jay Crumbie, Len Starbeck, Bruce Hoffman, Hal Goforth, Ted Gurnee, Joe Nestor, Lance Hendricks, Ed Brown, Charlie MacVean, JJ Duran and me.
We, of course had our 50/50 drawing and Sam Sangrey walked away with the $40 in loot. We took pictures and they can be seen by clicking here.
Len Starbeck brought his MK V full dress prop for pictures. Check out the pictures. Thanks for bringing it Len. Everyone had a good time with it.
NOVEMBER 08, 2013
Well, I did attend this one so you know there will be pictures of all those studly Deep Sea Divers who attended. Those in attendance were: Mike Cattolico, Pete Berdzar, Nihil Smith, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin, Willie Fewell, Don Ferguson, George "Gunner" Powell, Joe Medina, Mert Weltzien, All Dadd, Sam Sangrey, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Chuck Adams, Michael "Mac" McGuire, Tom Jenkins, Rick Armstrong, Bill Stephenson, Bobby Cave, Jim Donahue and me.
We had a 50/50 and Mike Rudin won the $30. We put the other $30 in the bank. Needless to say, I took pictures of all those in attendance.
october 11,2013
I was on vacation so was unable tio attend and report on the lunch that was held today. I do however have tyhe names of those attending. The attendees were Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Bill Zbaeren, Ed Kirkeby, Sean Newsome, Nihil Smith, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin, Willie Fewell, Don Ferguson, Bernie Campoli, Walt Mazzone and Tom Matyn. Yes, you read correctly, Bernie Campoli flew all the way out here from Florida just to attend this lunch. Kudos Bernie. Sorry, no pictures this time, Guess no one else owns a camera.
Late Note (08-21-2014) - Bernie Campoli forwarded me a group shot he took at the lunch. The group shot includes CAPT Walt Mazzone (passed 08-07-2014). Walt is in the 2nd row and 2nd from the right (directly behind Mike Cattolico)
The 50/50 was $59 and Tom Matyn was (first time for him) the winner and he GAVE IT ALL BACK. Hoo Yah Tom.
september 13, 2013
Another great turn-out with several surprises. Pete Berdzar invited Rob McKnight to attend and play his pipes. Rob entertained us with his renditions of the Navy Marine Corps and Army hymns...and they were good. He also piped an excellent Amazing Grace, Waltzing Matilda, and several others. A real treat.. Thank you Rob and Pete.
Attendance was not the greatest, but was good. Attending were Joe "Frenchy" Duboois, The Docs - Steve Cherry and Len Starbeck, Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Rick Bedard. Bill Zbaeren, Walt Mazzone, Hal Goforth, Sam Ridgeway, Richard Carlquist, Nihil Amith, Rick Armstrong, Ed Mulhern (thanks for bringing Pete), Pete Berdzar, Joe Kingsbury and me.
Newbies were Rob McKnight (Bag Pipes), Jim Collins - SeaBee, and Brett Dawe - Australia.
Jim Collins - SeaBee stationed in Hawaii, but visiting in San Diego to help his mom and dad move attended. Jim is waiting to get his permissions to attend Navy Dive School and join the UCTs in the SeaBees. Also, we were privileged to have a young man from Australia, Brett Dawe, who is here for two years working on the ASW Warefare base involved in setting up various war exercises. Thank you all for attending and we hope you had a good time and will join us again.
Took the usual pictures. Too bad we cannot put sound to these pictures as you would definitely enjoy the chatter.
Pete Berdzar (with Ed Mulhern providing the muscle) brought his two Miller Dunns for show. Thanks Pete.
As usual, Oggi's put on a fabulous spread and our girl Friday (Tonya) is back from fifteen days in Egypt and back to helping us. Welcome back Tonya....we are happy you are back.
Brett Dawe, our mate from down under, won the 50/50 ($73) and gave $20 back to the fund and put the remainder on the bar. Way to go Brett. You are always welcome......
August 09, 2013
What a beautiful sunny warm day in San Diego. Guess we needed a day like this to bring out the divers because we had 33 sign in. Those signing in were Mike Cattolico, Ed Kirkeby, Rick Wolvin, Jay Crumbie, Dick Gross, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Alan Lerchbacker, Joe Medina, Chuck Adams, George Powell, Ed Brown, Jim Carolan, Joe DuBois, Mike Jackson, Mike Ruden, Richard Carlquist, Dick Bird, Bill Zbaeren, Bruce Hoffman, Mike Ritnour, Gary Decker, Len Starbeck, Pete Berdzar, J.C. Mayfield, Bobby Cave, Kevin Kelly, Pat Hudnall, Tom Jenkins, Doug Noyes, Nihil Smith and Sam Sangrey.
Rick and Pat both came in from Texas. Different travels, but both making the effort and the trip. Good to see both of you. Thanks for coming.
Pete Berdzar invited Tommy Marquez, Miltary & Veterans Caseworker for Congressman Duncan Hunter. I had a chance to talk with Tommy and must apologize for unloading on him about the shape in which our country finds itself. Tommy put ten years in the Navy and is our representative for this area. He spoke with many of the guys and really did a good job. Thanks for showing up Tommy and you are always welcome back. He did give his card to me and I will send it out to the local divers/veterans in an email blast.
J.C. Mayfield, whom we have not seen in quite some time and who was a frequent attendee, showed up and it was really good to see him again. If you go to the pictures I took this time, you will see pictures of J.C. as well as some of his jams and jellies and a couple of his flyers. I purchased a few jars of J.C.'s jams and jellies, one of them being a Habanero hot sauce and am looking forward to tasting the heat. I also scanned in J.C.s Homesteaders Pantry flyer which provides you all with a brief history of J.C.s returning to the earth. Take a look at it. Very interesting. If you are interested in his jams and/or jellies, shoot me an email and I will put him in touch with you.
Of course, we held our monthly 50/50 drawing and had quite a sizeable pot this time. The total pot, to be split 50/50 with the winner, was $166. The winner would receive $83. Well, Bill Zbaeren held the lucky ticket and only took $20 and GAVE BACK $63 to put into the SD NDA bank account. Good on ya Bill and we thank you!!
Good time had by all. I again apologize for missing some of the names on the pictures I put out there and for failing to get pictures of all of you.. But, if someone contacts me, I will correct and/or add the name(s), but not the opictures....too late for that..
Until our next SD Lunch on Friday, September 13, 2013, you all stay safe.
july 12, 2013
Had a pretty good turn-out today. Twenty-four showed up including Mike Cattolico, Murray Warren, Gary Decker, Ed Brown, Joe Medina, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Len "Doc" Starbeck, Nihil Smith, Rick Armstrong, Vern Malone, Alan Lerchbacker, Hal Goforth, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Bobby Cave, Willy Fewell, Bill Stephenson, Sam Sangrey, Dave Heaney, Ed Chomas, Steve Kennedy, Pete Berdzar and me.
Weather was its usual, beautiful; sunny, warm San Diego day. We, of course, ate outside.
Pete Berdzar brought a copy of Terrance R. Parker's book, "20,000 Divers Under The Sea". Must be a new book because I could not find it on the web.
Ed Chomas won the 50/50 drawing and should have taken home $53, but he graciously donated it all back to the NDA SD Lunch fund. We'll split it with the TJ Trujillo fund. Way to go Ed and THANK YOU!!
Took pictures, of course. Just click on the link.
Thanks, as usual to Tonya and her crew for taking such good care of us with food and drink. She is the best!!!
Till next time.........
June 14, 2013
Today was Flag Day and we had a great turnout. We ended up with approximately 41 divers that showed. Four divers, attached to MUDSU-1 in Hawaii, were not aware of our buffet so thay had alrady eaten when the food came out. Those attending from MUDSU-1 were ND2 Eric Somers, ND2 Aaron Jones, ND2 John Roth and ND3 Kevin Marchi. Thanks for stopping by and joining in and thank you for supporting your Navy Divers Association (NDA) by buying several ball caps. Your money goes directly to the NDA and supports this website, etc. You guys are always welcome.
Before I get into listing the names of those attending, I do want to say I was very proud and honored to meet John "The Electric Grape" Kleckner's son, Diego. He is on a bird farm for a few weeks after completing his first year at the Naval Academy. He was able to stop by with another cadet, Colston Polly. Diego looked good is white uniform. Thanks guys for stopping by and meeting a bunch of the guys your dad served with. He looks just like his dad...a much younger John. Thanks John for putting me in touch with Diego. You've got a good son.......you must be proud.
Also, had another first timer, Bill Harju, join us. Thanks Bill and looking forward to you coming back.
This was the second lunch where the presence of TJ Trujillo and Jack Tomsky was sorely missed. Good sailors.
We added to a fund we are amassing to present to TJ's widow, Vy, and daughter, Christina. We were able to collect another $383.00 to add to the $275.00 I already have.
Our 50/50 was up to $165.00 to be split 50/50. The first time winner was Richard Carlquist and he donated his half ($83.00) to TJ's pot. So we thought it would be the right thing to do to match it. So, we put the entire $165.00 in the pot. Thank you Richard for your generousity and congratulations on winning the pot.
This lunch was a free lunch because we had enough in reserves to do it. That being said, the following attended Mike Cattolico, Steve Kennedy, Joe Medina and his grandson Colin, Ed Brown, Rick Bedard, Bill Zbaeren, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Mike Jackson, Juan "Ram" Ramos, Jim Phalin, Bill Stephenson, Ted Griggs, Richard Carlquist, Kevin Kelly, Gary Decker, Tom Matyn, Sam Ridgeway, Mert Wetzien, George "Gunner" Powell, Willie Fewell, Len Starbeck, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Doug Noyes, Bill Harju, Dick Bird, Pete Berdzar, Sam Sangrey and his son Michael, Colston Polly, Diego Kleckner, Rick Armstrong, Nihil Smith, Joe Kingsbury and yours truly.
I took pictures of everyone I could find (don't believe I missed anyone) and you can find them by clicking here. I haven't put the names under the pictures yet, but will try to over the next couple of days.
Thanks again to Tonya, our server and girl Friday, Julie the manager and Oggi's for putting out great food and takling care of us. We do appreciate you.
May 10, 2013
I didn't attend this one as I was driving across our beautiful country with MDV Ret Bobby Moore to attend the MDV Reunion in Panama City Beach, FL, on May 11, 2013.
Mike Cattolico was in charge and he paid the bills and made the list of those attending. There was a good number that showed up considering the number of us that were on the road headed east. Thanks Mike for heading this up.
Those attending were Mike Cattolico, Bobby Cave, Gary Decker, Mert Weltzien, Ed Brown, Greg Richten, Dick Bird, Steve Cherry, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Al Dadd, Hal Goforth, Dave Heaney, Ed Chomas, Kevin Kelly, Willie Fewell and Sigmund Bobczynski.
No pictures were taken.
april 12, 2013
We didn't have that great of a turn out today in beautiful sunny San Diego. The temp was in the upper 60s under blue skies with the sun shining brightly. Low turnout was probably attributed to many of the guys heading for the beach to work on their summer tans.
The ones that did turn out were Tom Salmon, Mike Cattolico. Kevin Kelly, Bob Cave, Bill Stephenson, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Gary Decker, Bill Zbaeren, Victor Carella, Ed Brown, Mert Weltzien, Steve Kennedy, Ed Chomas, Ton Jenkins, Joe "JJ" Duran, Mike Ritnour and yours truly.
Victor won the 50/50 for the first time and donated all $55 back to the SD Divers Lunch Bunch. Thanks Victor. Come around for one of the freebies we have every so often.
I took pictures again and they are linked to this page. Only missed one shot and that was of Joe "JJ" Duran. Must have been the camera. But, he was there with his new shiny trike that he will be riding across country to attend the MDV reunion May 11, 2013, in Panama City Beach, FL Some of us will be absent next month as we will also be attending the MDV Reunion. Those that I know will be absent will be me, Frenchy DuBois and JJ Duran. But, I am certain Mike Cattolico will do a greta job running the show so make certain and attend.
I also didn't get a picture of Steve Kennedy. Sorry Steve.
Still got four on the Binnacle List, but they are improving. Louis "TJ" Trujillo is at home and doing much better. Jack Tomsky is still in rehab in Escondido, but is gettting around in a wheel chair now and improvig with every day. Chuck Hardy is still rehabing in East County.
Heard yesterday that Pete Berdzar was back in the hospital and was expecting to get out to attend today. Well, he didn't make it. Please everyone - keep these guys in your thoughts and give them a call, visit or send a card or email. They really do appreciate hearing from you and seing you. It adds to their recovery.
As usual, excellent lunch and everyone who wanted to, had their fill and were able to take some home. Thanks Oggis for treating us so well. Hoo Yah.
march 08, 2013
It was a rainy day here in San Diego, but Oggi's sets an area aside for us inside and sets the food on the bar - buffet style. Works well for us. So we sun lovers here in sunny Southern California never let wetness spoil our day. Life is tough!!
It was a freebie today (on the NDA - San Diego Lunch Bunch bank account) and we had a fairly good turnout for a rainy day. Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Ed Kirkeby, Jerry Pereira, Bobby Cave, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Jim Phalin, Dick Bird, Len & Jan Starbeck, Bill Stephenson, Joe Kingsbury, Sam Sangrey, Kevin Kelly, All Dadd, Doug Noyes, Hal Goforth, Mike Spisak, and yours truly.
Jerry Pereira rode his brandy new HD down from Ventura. Pretty bike. I'm certain he had a wet ride back north because it started to dump just as he left, but he was dressed for it. Joe "JJ" Duran has a brandy new trike - his burned up on the freeway on his return trip from the MK V unveiling in October. It burned to a crisp. But, JJ's waiting for fair weather to ride his beauty so he has missed the last two lunches. Don't worry Joe, it's not supposed to rain in April.
Lunch was good. Doug Noyes won the 50/50 raffle (first time for him). The take was $50 and he gave back $25. Thanks Doug.
I took pictures again and they are linked to this page. Still have to put captions with them, but will get that done.
Ricky Wolvin contacted me last week and informed me that Danny Saulmon will be in town this next week and we are going to try and get together at Oggi's for a meet and greet.
Got four on the binnacle list - Jack Tomsky, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Chuck Hardy and Pete Berdzar, Jack is in rehab in Escondido trying to get over pneumonia. TJ is at Scripps Memorial, La Jolla, and is on a ventilator. He's having a tough time suffering from asbestosis and fibrosis. Pete is at the VA Hospital in La Jolla undergoing some tests. Chuck is rehabing in East County.
Lets keep these guys, as well as all of our brothers who are suffering and shut in, in our thoughts and prayers. I'm certain they will; all appreciate our doing so.
february 08, 2013
We're finally back to our Friday lunch "home" at Oggi's and everyone is feeling good about it. The physical arrangement in the restaurant provides us with a perfect venue for doing what all divers do best...mingle and tell sea stories. The dining/group area that management dedicates to us at these lunches allows us to move about freely and see everyone as well as have a place to sit and eat.
As an added plus, Oggi's manager, Julie, along with one of her new managers Kat, is fantastic in catering to us. Oops, almost forgot to mention Tanya...our bartendress extraordinaire as well as the monthly puller of the winning 50/50 ticket. Thanks Tanya.
If you're missing these lunches, you are really missing a good thing. Give yourselves a break on the second (2nd) Friday of every month and attend one. You will not be sorry you did. Incidentally, next month, March 08, 2013, the lunch will be a freebie so you do not have to pay a dime to eat. Just contribute to the 50/50 drwwing and get a chance to win half the pot.
Yesterday, we were privileged to again have Dr. Hal Goforth, CAPT, USN, Ret., and this time he brought along several paperback and hardback copies of his book "Defender Dolphins - The Story of Project Short Time". Hal's non-fiction book is a "...brief history of the U.S. Navy's first mammel swimmer defense system...". Hal was gracious enough to have a book signing and, I believe, sold all the copies he brought with him. Looks to be a good read.
Along with the good read, Hal also put in plenty of pictures including some of Dr. Sam Ridgeway, CAPT, DVM, USN, Ret, who incidentally was also present and I was fortunate enough for Sam to autograph one of his pictures in the hardback copy I purchased for myself.
Incidentally, Hal's book is available on Amazon as well as through Hal. I will be adding a link on this website on the "Links" page. The link will take you to a brief history on Hal and his "Project"
Other famous divers in attendance were Bill Stephenson, Len "Doc" Starbeck, Mike Cattolico, Gary Decker, Ed Brown, Joe Kingsbury, Sam Sangrey, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Tom Salmon, Alan Lerchbacker, Glen Carter, Sam Ridgeway, Hal Goforth, Willie Fewell, Don Rodocker, Ted Griggs, Ted Noyes, Phil Gallery, Ed Mulhern, Kevin Kelly, Pete Berdzar and me.
Alan Lerchbacker's lovely wife popped in toward the end of the lunch to add some class and beauty. I apologize for not remembering her name, but that is one of my many faults...not remembering names.
Mike Cattolico won the 50/50 drawing for $40 and gave it all back to the fund. Congrats Mike as I think this was his first time to win the 50/50 drawing.
Mike also brought along a mini-airhorn, which didn't sound very "mini" in the enclosed space, to get everyone's attention a time or two. It almost gave Bobby Cave a heart attack as Mike cranked it on about a foot away from Bobby's ear just as Bobby walked through the door.
Of course, I took the mandatory "proof you attended the lunch" pictures and they are linked.
That's it for this month. Hope you all enjoy the pictures and the verbiage and, for those of you in other parts of our great country who don't already have regular get-togethers, you should seriously try and get together with your shipmates and take some pictures. Send me a write-up and I will create a page for you on whioch I will post your write-ups and pictures.
We only go around once and we're not going to be here forever....just take a look at the "Departed" page. I know you all know a shipmate you haven't seen for years that you would like to see again and swap sea stories. Well, get 'er done.
January 11. 2013
Things got a little screwed up last month so we planned to (actually did) cancel the lunch due to a location glitch. However, divers being divers, they wouldn't take "no" for an answer so several (about 15) showed up at a secondary location - Oggi's in Mission Valley (MV).
Oggi's on Liberty Station, our usual lunch event location, had to close unexpectedly in December just a few days before our lunch. I was out of town for the week and things weren't looking good for the monthly lunch. Well, Julie (Oggi's location Manager) took the bull by the horns and worked on getting another place for us to meet. Unfortunately, many of us did not get the word and therefore the reduced attendance.
Those that did attend the December lunch, however, told me they had a good time.
Oggi's MV bent over backwards to accomodate us both in December and January and told us they would welcome us back should we have a glitch again. Kudos to Oggi's MV as they did a bang up job. They get an "A" in my book.
Incidentally, Oggi's MV is located in the shopping center where you will find COSTCO, IKEA and Home Depot - to mention a few. They're at 2245 Fenton Parkway.
Attending the January 11 lunch were Gary Decker, Kevin Kelly, Pete Berdzar, Al Dadd, Hal Goforth, Don Ferguson, Ed Brown, Willy Fuell, Mert Weltzien, Bill Zbaeren, Dick Bird, Bob Cave, Mike Cattolico, Ben Barker, Bill Stephenson, Tom Jenkins, Len Starbeck, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Jim Phalin, Ed Kirkeby and David Ball.
We had our usual 50/50 and I do not remember who won the pot. We took in $95 and gave out $50 to the winner. We also raffled off a MK V Helmet Decal (Lg), a couple of T-Shirts donated by Len Starbeck, and a mug from the 2012 NDA Reunion.
We should all be back at our old haunt in February. I took a couple of pictures this time and you can see them by clicking this link.
NOVEMBER 9, 2012
Attendance today started out real slow. We only had about 15 attending around 1200, then the flood gates opened and we ended up with thirty (30) divers and diver support personnel showing up for the November lunch including Mike Cattolico, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Pete Berdzar, Jim Phalin, Mike Jackson, David Ball, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Gary Decker, Mert Wetlzien, Bill Stephensen, Jay Crumbie, Ben Barker, Sam Sangrey, Brian Maloney, Christain Anderson. Doug Ellen, Tom Jenkins, Bill Zbaeren, Ted Griggs, Dick Bird, Doug Noyes, Steve Chance. Will Ary, Rick Armstrong, John Durham, Angel Matos, Joe Kingsbury and Bobby Cave.
Joe DuBois, who has not won the 50/50 raffle for a couple of months, came back with a vengence and won his 10th pot of gold and would have pocketed $69. Joe, however, was feeling guilty and gave back $44 to the NDA - SD Lunch account.
Took the usual pictures. They are posted and you may look at them by clicking on this link. Absolutely nothing sophisticated about us.
Another great buffet by Julie, Tanya and their staff. They are number one in our book.
Only one more SD Lunch this year and then we move into 2013. I've listed the dates through June 14, 2013. Remember, if you cannot remember the exact date, it is ALWAYS the 2nd Friday of the month.
october 12, 2012
We had a much better turn out than last month. Twenty-seven (27) divers and diver support personnel showed up for the October Lunch including such greats as Mike Cattolico, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Pete Berdzar, Jim Phalin, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, David Ball, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Gary Decker, Kevin Kelly, Mert Wetlzien, Paul Castle, Bill Stephensen, Jay Crumbie, Barney and Judy Bakara, Willie Fewell, Steve Kennedy, Tom Matyn, Tom Salmon, Ben Barker, Harold Eynon, Sam Sangrey, Bruce Hoffman and Len Starbeck.
Gary Decker, another first time winner, won the 50/50 pot and pocketed $53. This was one of the better 50/50s we have had.
Took the usual pictures. They are posted and you may look at them by clicking on this link. Absolutely nothing sophisticated about us.
Another great buffet by Julie, Tanya and their staff. They are number one in our book.
Reminder that tomorrow, Saturday, October 13, 2012, there is a Veteran Honor Ceremony for SMC/DV Jose "Joe" Flores, USN Ret. at the Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial. The ceremiony is at 1230.
september 14, 2012
Well, better late than never, as the old saying goes. Although this posting is one month late, you can still read below to see who attended and click on the link to see their pictures.
We had a much lower turn out than we have been having over the past several weeks and only had twenty-one (21) divers and diver support personnel show up for the September Lunch. They were Mike Cattolico, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Jim Phalin, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, David Ball, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Bill Zbaeren, Gary Decker, Ed Mulhern, John Benya, Kevin Kelly, Tony Basile, Harvey McDonald. George Powell, Willy Fewell and Ted Griggs.
Tony Basile was out from New Jersey visiting his son who lives in the San Diego area. Tony is an old shipmate from HCU-1 when it was in Subic. Good to see you Tony.
Ed Brown won the 50/50 pot this time (first time for Ed). The pot was up to $41 so Ed would have taken home $21, had he not given $21 back to the fund. Good on ya Ed and we thank you.
Oggi's again put on a fantastic feed and I am not aware of any complaints from those who feasted on the good fixins. Tanya and Julie made certain we were not without food or drink.
August 10. 2012
The following thirty-four (34) divers and diver support personnel attended the August Lunch - Mike Cattolico, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Mert Weltzien, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Steve Kennedy, Jim Phalin, Alan Lerchbacker, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Bobby Cave, David Ball, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Sam Sangrey, Mark Gilcrist, Bill Zbaeren, Gary Decker, Tom Jenkins, Bill Stephenson, Ed Kirkeby, Carl "Mike" Ritnour, Don Ferguson, John Benya, Sam Ridgeway, Marc Rasmussen, Kevin Kelly, David Swingle, Ed Ross, Glen Carter and Kelvan Hall.
The weather was just perfect for an outside function so we had our meal served buffet style again outside. It was a little warm, but nothing a Deep Sea Diver can't handle...except for those wimps who went inside to the air conditioned comfort of Oggi's.
Because we are so frugal, we have money in the bank and we used some of it this time to pay for the lunch. So the lunch was free to all who attended. Ya think that's why the numbers are up??
Back to taking pictures again and they are all right here. I didn't finish putting all the names in yet, but will be working on it throughout the week. Be patient.
Received a new batch of Deep Sea Diver and Saturation Diver ball caps the day before the lunch so brought them down and they sold fairly well.
Next lunch is Sep 14, 2012. See many of you then.
July 13, 2012
Will add names of attendees. No pictures taken.
june 8, 2012
Will add names of attendees. No pictures taken.
MAY 11, 2012
There was a lunch and, I understand, an excellent turn-out. I did not attend as I was attending the NDA Reunion in Bremeton, WA.
april 13, 2012
The following 29 divers and diver support attended our monthly lunch here in San Diego. Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Stephenson, Mert Weltzien, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Steve Kennedy, Jim Phalin, Len Starbeck, Bobby Cave, Joe Kingsbury, Bruce Parks, Rick Wolvin, Tom Salmon, Joe DuBois, Tom Matyn, Bill Zbaeren, George Powell, Justin Zabor, Ric Crumley, Dario Velarde, Frank Velarde (Dee's dad), Tom Jenkins, Don Ferguson, "Whiskey" Bill Johnson, Bruce Hoffman, Alan Lerchbacker, Rick Armstrong, Ben Barker and yours truly. If I missed anyone, then you didn't sign in.
The weather was unsuitable for an outside function so we had our meal served buffet style inside and it worked out very well. We set up our sign-in table and lunch pay and 50/50 buckets in a corner and everything went smoothly. Ogii's reserved a couple of booths for us and we essentially "took over" the belly tables. Worked out very well - crowded but fun.
Bill Zbaeren won the 50/50 pot and donated it all back. The pot was up to $80 so Bill won $40 and $40 went towards the bank. But, the $40 didn't stay in Bill's hands very long. You know how it is with Divers...money just burns a hole in our hands so, as I said earlier, Bill gave it ALL back. Thanks Bill.
Of course I took pictures so if you don't remember what these guys listed above look like, just go to this link.to view the pictures. I am still having trouble finding the time to put the caption(s) under each person. So, I will keep trying and hope to get back to normal after the May 6-10, 2012, NDA, HCU1, SEALAB Reunion in Bremerton.
We were contemplating canceling the May lunch because several of us will be attending the Reunion in Bremerton. But, after talking with Oggi's management, we agreed we would keep the date and Oggi's would honor the $10.25 meal with a soft drink/ice tea. All attendees will be ordering off Oggi's regular menu as NO buffet will be set up. I will send out an email before I leave for the Reunion. Mike Cattolico will have the tickets and bucket for the 50/50 drawing, if you all still want to do the 50/50 in May.
March 9, 2012
Thirty-three (33) divers and diver support attended the March Lunch - Mike Cattolico, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Ben Barker, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Mert Weltzien, Willie Fewell, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Steve Kennedy, Jim Phalin, Len Starbeck, Alan Lerchbacker, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Rick Tate, Bobby Cave, David Ball Joe Kingsbury, Bruce Parks, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Tom Salmon, Bruce Tuckerman, Joe DuBois, Joe Nestor, J.J. Duran, Sam Sangrey, Tom Matyn, Mark Gilcrist, Bill Zbaeren, Kyle Gaillard, Alonzo Galloway, Ed Mulhern, Bruce Hoffman, Wendell Trent, Keith Thompson, Gary Decker, Rick Bedard, Tom Jenkins, Rick Armstrong and Jerry Pereira,
The weather complied for an outside function so we had our meal served buffet style again outside.
Kyle Gaillard won the 50/50 pot this time. The pot was up to $82.00 so Kyle took home $41. He actually missed the initial drawing even though we shouted it out inside and outside for about five minutes. Since no one responded, a second ticket was drawn and I, David Ball, was the winner. Just then Kyle came forward and asked if we had held the drawing yet and, lo and behold, Kyle had the ticket that was initially pulled. I gave the money to Kyle. Only fair.
Sales of all items was brisk.
Next lunch is April 13, 2012.
February 10, 2012
Thirty divers and diver support attended the February Lunch. These included Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Stephenson, Mert Weltzien, Willie Fewell, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, Steve Kennedy, Jim Phalin, Len Starbeck, Alan Lerchbacker, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Rick Tate, Bobby Cave, David Ball Joe Kingsbury, Bruce Parks, Richard Carlquist, Rick Wolvin, Tom Salmon, Bruce Tuckerman, Joe DuBois, Joe Nestor, J.J. Duran, Sam Sangrey, Tom Matyn, Mark Gilcrist and Bill Zbaeren.
We again had excellent weather for an outside function so we had our meal served buffet style again outside.
Dick Bird won the 50/50 pot this time (first time). The pot was up to $135.00 so Dick won $65. In accordance with the unwritten tradition, Dick kept $40 and gave back $25 to go in the bank account.
Of course I took pictures so if you don't remember what these guys listed above look like, just go to this link to view the pictures. I am still having trouble finding the time to put the caption under each person. So, I will keep trying and hope to get back to normal after the May 06-10, 2012, NDA, HCU-1, SEALAB Reunion in Bremerton.
Of course, we had the general on-going market selling T-shirts, ball caps, and challenge coins. Pete Berdzar also sold T-shirts and brought along his 1917 Siebe Gorman Six-Bolt Admiralty Pattern hard hat for show and tell. Mike Cattolico had his autobiography available for signing and purchase.
Next lunch is March 9, 2012.
January 13, 2012
The January 13, 2012, Lunch was well attended with 31 in attendance. Those attending were Mike Cattolico, Ed Brown, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Stephenson, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Mert Weltzien, Willie Fewell, Gary Decker, Tom Jenkins, Pete Berdzar, Dick Bird, George "Gunner" Powell, Steve Kennedy, Jim Phalin, Ed Mulhern, Len Starbeck, Tom Matyn, Alan Lerchbacker, Jack Tomsky, Fernando Lugo, Bert Marsh, Paul Castle, Pete Berdzar, Rick Armstrong, and Jerry Pereira.
We were fortunate to have some new attendees so our list keeps growing. The new attendees were Jay Crumbie, Chuck Waddell, Brett and Zeny Pemberton, All Dadd, and Richard Cariovesy (spelling ??). Always happy to see new people and hope they keep coming back.
Jerry Pereira rode his bike from Ventura again and Lugu drove down from Fresno to pick up Capt. Jack. Ed Mulhern drove from Mission Bay to Chula Vista to pick up Capt Pete Berdzar. Just an example of shipmates helping shipmates.
The weather was perfect, about 73 - 75 degrees and bright sun. Nice and warm for an outside function.
We had our meal served buffet style again and , as usual, Oggie's really treat us right. The food is really good, plenty of it and it is not too pricey. So we have found a home. Kudos to Oggi's and their staff.
Ed Mulhern won the 50/50 pot this time (first time). The pot was up to $127.00 so Ed won $65. In accordance with the unwritten tradition, Ed kept $25 and gave back $40 to go in the bank account.
Of course I took pictures so if you don't remember what these guys listed above look like, just go to this link to view the pictures. I didn't get a chance to put the name captions below the pictures, but will in the next week or so.
Also sold T-shirts, ball caps, and challenge coins. Pete Berdzar also sold T-shirts and brought along his 1917 Siebe Gorman Six-Bolt Admiralty Pattern hard hat for show and tell. Len Starbeck just returned from Iraq and had several T-Shirts to also sell. Mike Cattolico had his autobiography available for signing and purchase.
Next lunch is February 10, 2012.
December 9, 2011
The December 9, 2011, lunch was a freebie paid from the money in the San Diego Divers Lunch account generated from the 50/50 drawings along with the generousity of many of the previous attendees who contribute more to the lunch pot than they need to.
We had another fantastic turn-out with 30 in attendance. Those attending this time were Bill Zbaeren, Mike Cattolico, yours truly, Ed Brown, Tom Salmon, Joe Kingsbury, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Stephenson, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Mert Weltzien, Rick Wolvin, Willie Fewell, Gary Decker, Sam Sangrey, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Pete Berdzar, Ed Chomas, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin (the non-diver one), Donald Rodocker and his lovely wife, Carla, Dick Bird, Dan Jackson, George "Gunner" Powell and Steve Kennedy.
We were fortunate to have some new attendees so our list keeps growing. The new attendees were Ed Kirkeby (I'm pretty certain this was his first time), Randy Miller, and Rob Farber. Always happy to see new people.
We had our meal served buffet style and Rob and Julie at Oggie's really treat us right. The food is really good, plenty of it and it is not too pricey. So we have found a home. Kudos to Oggi's and their staff.
Our long lost Girl Friday, Lauren, found her way back and we are very very pleased to have her waiting on us again.
Yours truly won the 50/50 pot this time (first time). The pot was up to $110.00 so I won $55. I kept $20 and gave back $35 to go back in the bank account.
Of course I took pictures so if you don't remember what these guys listed above look like, just go to this link to view the pictures.
Also sold T-Shirts, Ball Caps, and Challenge coins. Pete Berdzar also sold T-Shirts and had several historical books he brought along for people to skim through as well as his 1917 Siebe Gorman Six-Bolt Admiralty Pattern hard hat.
Next lunch is January 13, 2012.
November 11, 2011
Amidst all the Veterans' Day activities ongoing in San Diego, there were still 22 divers who managed to join together at Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. for lunch and good company. Attendees included Mike Cattolico, Gary Decker, Bill Stephenson, Lonnie English, Keith Thompson, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Kyle Gaillard, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Zbaeren, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Brian Thompson, Jim Phalin, Tom Jenkins, Bobby Cave, Douglas Noyes, Steve Kennedy, Jason Webster, Tony Eddleman, Ed Brown and me.
Kyle Gaillard and Doc Cherry each brought first timers Jack Smith and Dale Russell, respectively. Jack is a retried MDV who enlisted in 1950 and lives in Escondido,
Took a bunch of pictures again and they are available here. We sold ball caps, t-shirts and coins for the NDA and took in $167. You can see the set up in the pictures. Also take a look at the buffett and the fare.
The buffett went very well again and everyone seems pleased with the venue and the price. So, we'll stick with it until we decide differently. Rob & Julie @ Oggi's are doing a great job changing the food items around and the cost at $13 apiece (food, soft drinks & tea, tax & tip) is more than fair.
We ran our usual 50/50 and Jason Webster was the winner of $45. He immediately donated $20 to the pot. So we banked $70 from the 50/50 along with another $64 from generous donations, over and above the cost of lunch, from many of you.
Hope to see a good turnout again next month - the 2nd Friday.
October 14, 2011
Sorry there was no write-up or picture for this month's lunch. I was unable to attend and thus no pics or narrative.
Mike Cattolico gave me a list he maintained of the 25 who attended the 10/14 lunch. Those attending included several new divers whom we have not seen before. Hope they continue to attend. Everyone adds to the mix.
Attendees included Tom Matyn, Steve Kennedy, Jack Tomsky, Fernando Lugo, Mike Cattolico, Donald Rodocker, George Powell, Pete Berdzar, Willy Fewell, C. Krikorian, Teri Reese, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Bruce Parks, James. P. Funge, Ed Kirkeby, Bill Stephenson, Mert Weltzien, Gary Decker, Bill Zbaeren, Ed Brown, Tom Salmon, Larry K. Brady, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin and Ben Barker.
Mike ran the usual 50/50 but didn't tell me the name of the winner. We banked $50 from the 50/50 and I deposited the cash today.
September 9, 2011
Great turn-out again of about 25 active, retired and inactive divers for the San Diego Divers lunch at Ogee's Pizza & Brewing Co. on Liberty Station.
We were missing a lot of our "regulars" this time, but several others stepped up to the plate to fill in. If we ever get all of these guys together, we are going to have one helluva party. Attending were Joe DuBois, Randy Beason, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Willy Fewell, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Pete Berdzar, Rick Wolvin, Kyle Gaillard, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Ed Mulhern, Kent McQuerter, Jason Webster, Joe Kingsbury, Lonnie English, Dr. Tom Neuman, Bob Bregman, Dennis Wiley, Craig Simon, Anthony Eddleman, Chris Stearns, Jason Shafer, Carl "Mike" Ritnour, Jim Phalin, and me. If I missed any, please let me know.
Nice to see some new faces and there were a bunch we have either never seen or haven't seen in a long time. Thanks all for attending. You all are the reason we are successful.
Capt. Pete Berdzar, HCU-1, again brought his 1917 Siebe Gorman Six-Bolt Admiralty Pattern hard hat all polished and ready for show. Always nice to have some show and tell. Thanks Pete.
Took a bunch of pictures as usual and they are posted which is indicative of the Good attendance
We ran our usual 50/50 and Anthony Eddleman was the big winner raking in $47 and he immediately donated back $20 to the treasury. Anthony is one of active duty brothers and it's really good to see the active duty divers show up. And, especially good to see them win...once in awhle.
Since our bank account has been building up, we decided to have a freebie. The association paid for the food and soda, tea, etc. Beer and liquor, as usual, are still on each individual's tab. We had a great buffet and everyone seemed to enjoy it more than ordering one on one as we had been doing in the past. Ogee's did a great job.
I picked up more Diver's T-Shirts so I had all the sizes and some new gray ones for sale. Pete Berdzar also brought his T-shirts and had them hagning up very professional. Good looking Tees with various imprints.
Another one next month.
August 12, 2011
Great turn-out again of about 30 divers for the San Diego Divers lunch at Ogee's Pizza & Brewing Co. on Liberty Station.
Many of the "regulars" such as Steve Kennedy, Mike Cattolico, Joe DuBois, Bobby Cave, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Sam Sangrey, Bruce Tuckerman, Dick Bird, Randy Beason, Mert Weltzien, Bill Stephenson, Willy Fewell, Joe Medina, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, J. C. Mayfield, Bill Zbaeren, Alan Lerchbacker, Pete Berdzar, and David Ball attended. Also attending for the 1st or 2nd time were Kyle Gaillard, Alonzo Galloway, Dan Jackson, Jay Bass, Marc Rasmussen, Jerry Pereira, Bob Bregman, Ed Kirkeby, Bruce Parks, Sig, Bobczynski, Mark Gillcrist, and Justin Zabor. If I missed any, please let me know.
Steve Kennedy brought his dad, WWII Vet Lou Kennedy. Good to see a WWII vet attending. Thanks for attending Lou. You're always welcome.
Nice to see some new faces and get some new email addresses so I can add to the distribution and keep 'em coming. Thanks all for attending. You all are the reason we are successful.
Capt. Pete Berdzar, HCU-1, brought his British Mk V all polished and ready for show. Always nice to have some show and tell. Thanks Pete.
Mike Cattolico continues to autograph and sell his new autobiography, "Take a Stand - A Story of Tenacity, Courage, Brotherhood, and Commitment". Mike is selling them for $14.95 a copy.
Took a bunch of pictures this time and they are posted. I didn't get the time to put the captions on, but will do so over the next few days. Heck, you all know who you are anyway. You can view them by clicking here
We ran our usual 50/50 and I do not remember the name of the winner, but he won $50.
Our bank account is building up again so next month's lunch, September 9, 2011, will be a freebie. It will include the food and soda, tea, etc. Beer and liquor are still on your tab.
July 15, 2011
Great turn-out of about 30 divers for the San Diego Divers lunch at Ogee's Pizza & Brewing Co. on Liberty Station. We decided to go back as we had good feedback from the June lunch. Lauren, our girl Friday, was out of town, but we were very competently waited on by two other Ogee staff members. Everyone was impressed!!
Many of the "regulars" such as Steve Kennedy, Mike Cattolico, Rick Wolvin, Joe DuBois, Bobby Cave, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Sam Sangrey, Donald Rodocker, Bruce Tuckerman, Dick Bird, Ed Mulhern, Randy Beason, Ben Barker, Steve Frailey, Mert Weltzien, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Dr. Tom Neuman, Bill Stephenson, Rick Armstrong, and David Ball attended. Rick Armstrong brought along a few of the Divers he's associated with and I belive they are Eric MacDonald, Glen Carter, Kyle Gaillard and Chuck Sheridan. If I missed any, please let me know.
A blast from the past joined us and it was a treat. Capt. Pete Berdzar, HCU-1, showed up with his British Mk V all polished and ready for show. Good to see you Pete and looking forward to you being a regular.
I missed meeting several of the new and some of the regular guys and also, missed getting their pictures. Some of the pictures are missing names so you can always contact me and let me know what name should replace the question mark. I'll do a better job next month. Some of the guys I missed were those that Rick brought along and some others I noticed on the sign-in sheet - Dave Heaney and Ed Chames. Sorry for the spelling, but had trouble reading the sign-in. I'll straighten it out next month.
Mike Cattolico had his table set up for his book signing for his new autobiography, "Take a Stand - A Story of Tenacity, Courage, Brotherhood, and Commitment". Mike is selling them for $14.95 a copy. Contact Mike for a signed copy soon, as it looks like a good read and should sell quickly.
I also forgot to include Len Starbeck's table where he was selling "Old Navy" T-shirts with some pretty awesome prints on the back. One had a large Mk V and one had the reprint of the full deep sea dress front and back.
Didn't take too many pictures this time, but posted the ones that I did. You can view them by clicking here
We ran our usual 50/50 and Joe "Frenchy" Dubois was the winner of $36. He immediately donated $16 to the pot. So we banked $52 from the 50/50. I also received a $5 donation from someone.
JULY LUNCH DATE CHANGE -- Please note we will NOT be meeting July 8th. The date has changed to the 15th. Same place and time.
June 10, 2011
Great turn out of 30 divers. We held our lunch at Ogee's Pizza & Brewing Co. on Liberty Station since our last meeting place closed its doors after the lunch last month. Lucky for us, our "Girl Friday Lauren, was hired by Ogee's and she was our server. Ogee's is located just a hundred feet or so from the USS Recruit.
Steve Kennedy, Mike Cattolico, Rick Wolvin, Joe DuBois, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Wendell Trent, Bill Zbaeren, Willie Fewell, Joe Kingsbury, Tom Jenkins, Bobby Cave, Chuck "Doc" Hardy, Capt. Jack Tomsky, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Sam Sangrey, Joe Medina, J.C. Mayfield, Fernando Lugo, Donald Rodocker, Bruce Tuckerman, Dick Bird, Ed Mulhern, JJ "Bos'n" Duran, Tom Matlin (Riverine Forces), Randy Beason, Ben Barker, Steve Frailey and David Ball, all enjoyed another beautiful June gloom day in San Diego, CA. It was a little cool and kept most of the attendees inside.
Mike Cattolico had a table set up for his first book signing for his new autobiography, "Take a Stand - A Story of Tenacity, Courage, Brotherhood, and Commitment". Mike is selling them for $14.95 a copy. Contact Mike for a signed copy soon, as it looks like a good read and should sell quickly. I'm starting mine tonight.
Well, no pictures were taken last month, but plenty were taken this time. You can view them by clicking here
We ran our usual 50/50 and Dick Bird was a first time winner of $50. He immediately donated $25 to the pot. So we banked $75 from the 50/50.
David Ball had ball caps, t-shirts and coins for sale.
May 21, 2011
So, as many of you who attended the May 13th lunch now know, the PL Sports Grill and Bar closed for good last Saturday. Lauren (our Girl Friday and waitress) and the Manager went to work for Oggi’s Pizza & Brewing Co. on the opposite end of Liberty Station (the old NTC). I went over there yesterday, checked the place out and spoke with the owner and the day manager and got some good vibes. I believe we will enjoy our lunches at Oggi's as much as we did at the PL Grill. I told them we would be in on the 10th of June.
We can sit outside or pull some tables together inside. So, there is plenty of room and the owner and manager will work with us. We can still sell Tees, ball caps, and challenge coins and no problem taking pictures. Also, no problem running our 50/50.
The menu is much more extensive than the menu at the PL Grill and there are plenty of beers on tap and a full bar. The link is above. Click on it and go to their menu and see what you think.
I'd appreciate it if as many as possible attend on June 10th so you can all check the place out and cast your vote as to whether or not we want to make Oggi's our home for a few months.
May 13, 2011
There was a lunch at the PL Sports Grill & Pub. Approximately 20 attended. Rick Wolvin sold the new T-shirts he was instrumental in having made up. I did not attend as I attendedthe MDV Reunion in PCB, FL, as a guest of Bobby Moore, MDV, Ret.
April 8, 2011
34 shipmates turned out for our monthly San Diego Divers lunch. This was a free lunch paid out of the previous 50/50 drawings and the money remaining from generous lunch bill over payments by many over the past three or four lunches. Many of the usual attendees showed up again - David Ball, Tom Salmon, Steve Kennedy, Bill Stephenson, Mike Cattolico Rick Wolvin, Joe DuBois, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Juan Ramos, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Zbaeren, Dick Bird, Joe Medina, Mert Weltzien, Bobby Cave, Bruce Tuckerman, Tom Jenkins, Jim Phalin, Dario Velarde and Rick Bednard.
We also enjoyed the company of veteran divers & first time attendees - Ed Chomas, Ed Mulhern, Dave Heaney and Mark Gillcrist. And, for the first time ever, we were proud to enjoy the attendance of ten (10) active duty 1st and 2nd class divers attached to LOGSU, Navy Amphib Base, Coronado. These gentlemen were Navy Divers First Class (ND1) Jason Webster, Ben Gyger, Ryan Dean, Jon Trusty, Travis Eldridge, and Julio Cerecer. Also Navy Divers Second Class (ND2) Tony Gearheart, Gabe Buttler, Chris Scully and Taylor Nevius.
ND1 Webster is the son-in-law of MDV (Ret) Ray Augustin and ND2 Scully is the son of MDV (Ret) Hugh Scully II.
We had the usual 50/50 drawing and the pot won by Bill Stephenson was $70. Bill donated $50 back to the San Diego Diver lunch fund.
David Ball took pictures and they can all be viewed by clicking here. He also sold NDA Challange Coins and MDV, DMT, Diving Dicksmith, 1/C Diver, and Diving Officer ball caps. The money all goes to the NDA. Coins and ball caps sell for $10 apiece.
March 11, 2011
We had another great turnout of 24 shipmates and friends for the monthly San Diego Divers lunch. David Ball, Tom Salmon, Steve Kennedy, Bill Stephenson, Mike Cattolico Rick Wolvin, Joe DuBois, Gary Decker, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Wendell Trent, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Bill Zbaeren, Willie Fewell, George "Gunner" Powell, Rick Armstrong, Joe Kingsbury, Bobby Cave, Chuck "Doc" Hardy, Jack Tomsky, Andy Tomsky, Mike Rudin, Mike Jackson, Sam Sangrey and Donald Rodocker, al enjoyed another beautiful sunny 72 degree day in San Diego, CA.
Steve Kennedy joined us for his first time. Rick Armstrong won the 50/50 drawing and took home $62. Rick, however, gave back $30 to the kitty. We now have $939 in our account. We will, therefore, have a free lunch next month, April 8, 2011, at the PL Sports Grill & Pub at the usual time.
IMPORTANT: When I went to pay our tab, Lauren, our waitress, told me that a gentleman, who wishes to remain anonymous, paid our entire tab including the drinks. Our tab was over $240.00. I overhead the gentleman talking later and will only say that he's an active duty Navy LT whose name I do not know. I don't know if he will ever read this page, but if he does, we wish to thank you very much sir and would like to return the favor some time. You are an outstanding Military man!!
We all hoisted our glasses to welcome TJ Trujillo and Willie Fewell back from their brief stints in the hospital and to our shipmates, Harry "Bud" Mills, Mike Stott and Rick Twigg, who are no longer with us.
Of course we took the usual pictures and they can all be found by clicking on photos.
Just as some of use were leaving, Jason Webster, active duty Navy Diver stationed at the Amphib Base, introduced himself and said he and several of his shipmates would join us next month. That's what we need in the NDA, young active duty divers to carry on the torch.
Hoo yah deep sea............
February 11, 2011
On a beautiful sunny 72 degree no-clouds-in-the-blue-sky day in San Diego, twenty-two (22) Navy Divers enjoyed lunch, beer, cokes, ice tea and good camaraderie. Three were attending for their first time. They are Gary Decker, Jim Cowden and Tom Salmon.
The following additional shipmates attended: Bill Stephenson, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Bobby Cave, Steve "Doc" Cherry, Donald Rodocker, Chuck "Doc" Hardy, Joe Medina, Willy Fewell, Alan Lerchbacker, Jim Phalin, David "Doc" Ball, Bruce Tuckerman, Rick Armstrong, Mike Jackson, Mike Rudin (non diver) Sam Sangrey and Dario Velarde.
The usual 50/50 drawing was held and Joe "Frenchy" Dubois again was the winner of the $55 and gave back $20 to the fund. Hoo Yah Frenchy. Got to do something about Frenchy and his son. Between the two of them they have won four of the pots. Of course, they are always generous in giving back some of the earnings.
For those of you who are into pictures, just click pictures.
David Ball and Joe Medina sold Diver Coins and MDV, DMT, Diving Dicksmith, 1/C Diver, and a new item - Diving Officer" ball caps. The money all goes to the NDA.
Reminder that the next lunch is March 11, 2011. Same place and time.
There will be no scheduled May 13, 2011, lunch due to many of the MDV and others attending the MDV reunion in Panama City Beach, FL, on May 14, 2011.
January 14, 2011
I was unable to attend today's lunch, as I ws suffering through 75 degree heat on Oahu, Hawaii. That's why this write-up is late and why there are no pictures. Twenty-four (24) Navy Divers enjoyed getting together. I noticed three names on the list attending for their first time. They are Christian Anderson, Mark Struiksma and Tom Estrem.
Also the following shipmates attended: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Don Ferguson, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, J. J. Duran, George "Gunner" Powell, Bobby Cave, Ben Barker, Steve Cherry, Donald Rodocker, Chuck "Doc" Hardy, Bill Zbaeren, Joe Medina, Juan Ramos, Willy Fewell, Alan Lerchbacker, Jim Phalin, Dick Bird, & Wendell Trent.
The usual 50/50 drawing was held and Joe "Frenchy" Dubois was the winner of the $55 and gave back $35 to the fund. Hoo Yah Frenchy.
Joe Medina sold Diver Coins and MDV, DMT, Diving Dicksmith, and 1/C Diver ball caps. The money all goes to the NDA.
Reminder that the next lunch is February 11, 2011. Same place and time.
We will probably forego the May 13, 2011, lunch due to many of the MDV and others attending the MDV reunion in Panama City Beach, FL, on May 14, 2011.
December 10, 2010
Another great day of camaraderie and lunch. Thirty (30) local Navy Divers enjoyed getting together. We had four divers join the bunch who had not attended before. They were Paul Castle, Randy Beason, Rick Bedard and J. C. Mayfield.
I took pictures again and they are posted here. I guess I'm really getting bad because it looks like this time I missed Gunner Powell, J. C. Mayfield & Ben Barker. Tough to keep track of these guys.
The following shipmates attended: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, CAPT Charlie MacVean, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, J. J. Duran, Randy Beason, Bruce Tuckerman, George "Gunner" Powell, Sam Sangrey, J. C. Mayfield, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Ben Barker, Joe Kingsbury, Steve Cherry, CDR Jack Tomsky, Fernando Lugo, Mike Jackson, Donald Rodocker, Rick Armstrong, Chuck "Doc" Hardy, Bill Zbaeren, Paul Castle, Mike Rudin, Rick Bedard, Juan Ramos, Pam Ramos & David Ball.
Louis "TJ" Trujillo had to go to the Emergency Room before the lunch with symptoms of a stroke. Juan and Pam Ramos left as soon as they arrived (they came down from Los Angeles) to visit TJ. He was admited late Friday afternoon. I spoke with Vi Trujillo, TJ's wife, today and she said he was diagnosed as having had a mild stroke. I visited him Saturday and he looked good - tired, but good. Vi said he will be at Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla, CA, for another couple of days. He is in Room 633.
On a lighter note, we had our usual 50/50 drawing and Bill Zbaeren won $75. He gave it all back to the fund. Hoo Yah Bill.
Doc Ball sold Diver Coins and MDV, DMT, Diving Dicksmith, and 1/C Diver ball caps. The money all goes to the NDA.
Reminder that the next lunch is January 14, 2011. Same place and time.
We will probably forego the May 13, 2011, lunch due to many of the MDV and others attending the MDV reunion in Panama City Beach, FL, on May 14, 2011.
FLASH: The December 10, 2010, lunch is on us for those who have attended at least one previous lunch. The money to pay for it comes from the 50/50 drawings we have and the generousity of many of the attendees of previous lunches where they put in more than their lunch, tax and tip. So, we have been banking $40 to $60 extra from past lunches.
November 12, 2010
31 Local Navy Divers enjoyed another very successful lunch for good food, good beverages, and good company. We're still not seeing any of our female counterparts nor any of our active duty brothers and sisters. But, we're still hoping they will decide to join us in the near future.
I took some pictures, but unfortunately it appears I missed Wendell, Doug and Jim Phalin...at least I believe I did. Maybe they're in the piuctures and I missed them.
The following shipmates attended: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Dr. Tom Neuman, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, John DuBois, Alan Lerchbacker, William "Tuck" Tuckerman, George "Gunner" Powell, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Don Rodocker, Dick Bird, Sam Sangrey, Willy Fewell, Bobby Cave, Tom Jenkins, Ben Barker, Joe Kingsbury, Dario "Dee" Velarde, Jack Tomsky and his grandson Andy Tomsky, Joe Medina, Mike Jackson, Mert Weltzien, Donald Rodocker, Jim Phalin, Chuck Hardy, Bill Zbaeren, Doug Noyes, Mike Rudin, Sean Newsome, Wendell Trent & David Ball.
Bobby Cave presented a "Well Done" plaque to Mike Cattolico for all the work he has put into getting these lunches started and kept going.
We had our usual 50/50 drawing and John DuBois won $73. He gave back $13, plus he donated generously to the food and drink bill.
Doc Ball sold Diver Coins and newly purchased MDV, DMT, Diving Dicksmith, and 1/C Diver ball caps. The money all goes to the NDA.
Reminder that the next lunch is December 10, 2010. AND IT'S FREE TO ALL WHO HAVE ATTENDED AT LEAST ONE BEFORE. You all have a month's notice so you should be able to crank 12/10/10 into your plans.
October 8, 2010
Local Navy Divers enjoyed another very successful lunch. Fifteen of the good ol' boys showed up for good food, good beverages, and good company. We're still not seeing any of our female counterparts nor any of our active duty brothers and sisters. But, we're still hoping they will decide to join us in the near future.
The following shipmates attended: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Don "Ferg" Ferguson, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Alan Lerchbacker, William "Tuck" Tuckerman, George "Gunner" Powell, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Don Rodocker, Dick Bird, Sam Sangrey, Willy Fewell & David Ball.
Reminder that the next lunch is November 12, 2010. That's the day after Veteran's Day. You all have a month's notice so you should be able to crank 11/12/10 into your plans.
September 24, 2010
Another very successful lunch. Sixteen showed up for good food, good beverages, and good company.
The September lunch attendees were: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Tom Jenkins, Don Ferguson, Bobby Cave, Mike Cattolico, Mert Weltzien, Joe "Frenchy" DuBois, Alan Lerchbacker, William Tuckerman, George "Gunner" Powell, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Bill King, Don Rodocker, Ben Barker & David Ball.
The dates when the lunches are held were brought up and Gunner recommended we meet the "same day" every month so people could plan. Several have emailed me that they would like to have made the lunch, but had planned to be out of town. I evidently was not notifying everyone in time for them to make plans. So, the second (2nd) Friday of each month was brought up and we all voted on it. Same place. Same time
August 27, 2010
We all got together for lunch again. Twenty-four of us showed up for good food, beer & drinks and good company.
The August lunch attendees were: Bill Stephenson, Rick Wolvin, Dick Bird, Tom Jenkins, Don Ferguson, Bobby Cave, Mike Cattolico, Jack Tomsky, J.J. Duran, Wendell Trent, Michael Jackson, Joe Nestor, Joe Medina, Sam Sangrey, Chuck Hardy, Mert Weltzien, Rick Bedard, Mike Rudin (non-diver), Fernando Lugo, Rick Armstrong, Joe DuBois, Alan Lerchbacker, William Tuckerman & David Ball
July 30, 2010
Several local retired, active and inactive Navy Divers and support people have been getting together for lunch to renew old friendships, talk about the "good times" and just have a good lunch together. We are now meeting once a month and the July meeting drew divers from as fas as Los Angeles and Las Vegas, NV.
The July lunch attendees were Don Ferguson, Ricky Wolvin, Bill Stephenson, William Tuckerman, Bob Schelke, Joe Medina, Don Rodocker, Juan Ramos, Louis "TJ" Trujillo, Dick Bird, Mike Jackson, Wendell Trent, Mike Cattolico, Joe Dubois, Chuck Hardy, Bobby Cave, Sam Sangrey, Mike Guerrea, Paul Grdina, Ben Barker, Mert Weltzien, Bruce Bourdon, and yours truly.