Some of our Club employees are well known to members who see them every day in the public spaces. But other vital people work in the quiet of our basement offices. This month we want to introduce our Controller, Syed Haque, a talented multitasker who takes care of more than the dollars and cents. Born in Pakistan, Syed came to Florida when he was 15. He started in the hotel business as a desk clerk, but there was no keeping him down. He trained as an accountant, and became controller of Embassy Suites in Florida. Moving to the Hilton, where he worked for Merv Griffin, he suddenly felt the call of the wild. So he came to California. Once here he took a degree in Computer Information Systems and after working in De Anza College he came to the Club in 2000. He has instituted many checks and balances into our accounting procedures. With the help of his good staff, he was able to present data and systems that enabled the Club to pass its first formal audit with flying colors. He wants to see more high tech innovations in our systems, with greater efficiency of operations. When he’s not watching football, or playing tennis and golf, he loves to program. So it was natural for him to redesign and start maintaining the Club’s website. Why does he want to stay with the Club? It’s the usual answer: the great members and working colleagues and a warm atmosphere of constant learning.

        Many of our members are not aware that upstairs in the Club there are over twenty hotel rooms available for rental at highly competitive prices. Some were extensively remodeled a few years ago, and the remainder are now scheduled to be upgraded within the current academic year. This has been a slow process as we meet requirements that will let us add bathrooms to each of these rooms. All will be redecorated in line with the Club’s return to its Craftsman tradition. Whether you have personal guests, or your department or division is housing a visitor, call the Club (extension 3) or check our website for available rooms and prices.

       Once again the Club will celebrate autumn with great food and wine and dancing at our annual Oktoberfest. $35 per person, all-inclusive. More details next month, but mark October 17th as the date to have your dirndls and lederhosen ready!

       Park early and leave late! Avoid the crowds by coming into the Club for lunch on game days. Then join your friends for a friendly glass in the bar when it’s over and Cal has won (or even if, sob, we lose). Salad bar, sandwiches and burgers available, with seating in the Great Hall and bar, according to this schedule:

       Sep. 6,27, Oct. 4: 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.

       Oct. 25, Nov. 10: 10 a.m.- 1 p.m.

       If the game is to be on TV, call for Club hours.

       Our cartoon will return next month

       More and more people are discovering the convenience of the Club’s morning breakfast special. From 7 to 10 a.m. you can come by the Kerr Room and for $2.99 enjoy juice, eggs, coffee, and toast. Pick up a newspaper on the way to campus and relax after that commute or uphill bike ride.

       At the end of this month the members of this group will be receiving a mailing about the October 9th meeting. Our guest will be Professor Paula Timiras. Her research specialty is aging and we’ll have a chance to ask her questions. The group is open to all widows of members. For more information, call Phyllis Schafer at 510-704-9951.