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We take RSVPs to events very seriously, because we want everyone in the group to have confidence in each other, and to be able to plan events based on this confidence.

After all, don't you want people to show up if they say they'll show up, and don't you prefer people you can truly count on?

Please feel free to drop any of them a note about anything concerning Bay Area Linkup. Each one of our "buddies" has a lot of experience, and would like to help you feel as comfortable and confident as possible.

You can also find the Bay Area Linkup "buddies" listed in events and searches. Just look for the green B next to someone's name. That's the "green light" to go ahead and contact them with questions.

April C B - San Mateo - picture joined June 27, 2006

"Aloha! BAL is the greatest thing since...I don't know what! If you're the shy type, I suggest your first event be a small outing and introduce yourself. Most people I've met take months or a year before they venture out...so, no worries. Mahalo"

Profession: health care/educator Interests: Fellow community activists, favorite charity? Shin Buddhism is mine. I tried Shao Lin martial arts once. Enjoy most things outdoors, Cal football, sailing, runs/hike, a good red wine, savor the senses, steadiness, reading [NY Times] ballet, dance partner

Benjamin B - San Francisco - picture joined July 27, 2005

"I joined in July 2005, since then, I've hosted over 100 events. I've had great experiences with BAL, and I'd more more than willing to help anyone with questions. :-)"

Profession: Possibly Furloughed or Terminated State Employee, CPA Interests: Hiking, international travel, fuzzy wool socks, sharing favorite activities with friends, reading, restoring my 1921 Craftsman style home, theatre, tweaking the establishment, wine tours, exploring GG Park, Giants games, beach walks.

Blaine B - Oakland - picture joined June 16, 2006

"As a librarian I LOVE to answer questions. Try me!"

Profession: Reference/Film Librarian Interests: Science fiction and fantasy novels, international relations, birding, travel, history and politics, shortwave and Internet radio, folk music of Asia and Eastern Europe, documentary film

Bonnie B - San Francisco - picture joined March 21, 2004

"Hey, little buddy."

Profession: QuickBooks ProAdvisor Interests: swimming, movies, scrabble, camping, rafting, entrepreneurism, Sharks hockey, travel, board & card games.

Brenda B B - San Mateo - picture joined July 14, 2006

"I've been a member for over a year and almost all of my experiences have been extremely positive. A great way to get out of the house and enjoy the company of great people - RELIABLY! Feel free to ask any questions."

Profession: Healthcare Interests: Music (especially piano, which I play moderately), reading (fiction mostly but prefer something edgy), conversations on varied topics, nature walks, movies. New interests: raw foods and wii.

Carol S B - Berkeley - picture joined March 13, 2007

"Welcome to BAL! Please be sure to let me know if you have any questions about how to utilize it well of if I can help in any way :)"

Profession: Medicine Interests: World travel, photography, anthropology, cooking (especially Thai), ethnic restaurants, independent and foreign films, other types of performances, reading fiction, walking and a bit of hiking, and gardening. And meeting new people!

Chet B - Fremont - picture joined October 24, 2006

"Hello & Welcome to BAL If you have questions/ concerns about Bay Area Linkup, or simply want to hear about my experiences, drop me an e-mail through the system and I will be in touch. Meanwhile go ahead and browse for events that intrest you. Good Luck."

Profession: Business Development Manager Interests: Cinema (foreign, indie, action), Music (rock, reggae, jazz, world), Discussion (current affairs, world affairs, philolosophy), hiking, camping, day trips, reading, meditation, international travel, entrepreneurship, technology, micro brews, wine tasting

Christine Y B - San Francisco joined July 7, 2004

"I have met diverse individuals and enjoyed many activities via BAL, both in the SF Bay area, as well as Manhattan, NY. "

Profession: RN Interests: outdoor activities, art, music, dancing, film, technology, ballet, travel, food, trying new recipes, anything intriguing/interesting/unique/humorous/creative/quirky

David Michael B - Palo Alto - picture joined September 11, 2005

"If you need help with anything... just ask. I got the lowdown."

Profession: computers, software, databases Interests: I'm into most sports and outdoor activities including volleyball, hiking, backpacking, skiing, wakeboarding, rollerblading, scuba. And I have a definite love for dancing and living life passionately. Although I'm somewhat shy and rarely razz people =P

Debra G B - San Mateo - picture joined January 5, 2004

"Welcome to BAL! I moved to CA a little over 4 years ago, and immediately found BAL. This group has been instrumental both in introducing me to wonderful new friendships and to new activities/places. I look forward to meeting you soon!"

Profession: Product Manager - Biotech Instrumentation Interests: exploring the bay area and beyond, hiking, kayaking, reading, night life, traveling, skiing, cooking and baking, good food, wine, and beer, making new friends, lots of laughter and good conversation!

Diana D B - Walnut Creek - picture joined November 7, 2006

"Hello, and welcome! Bay Area Linkup is a great way to expand your social networking. See an event you'd love to join? Do! Don't see an event you'd love to see? Host it yourself! It's that easy. Have fun!"

Profession: Client Services Manager Interests: I love the water - scuba, sailing, kayaking. Also like to hike, golf, camp, ski, bike. Combine my other love - travel - with any of those (+ good food) and I'm a happy girl! I'm a "Survivor" cast wannabe. Reading, writing, movies, beer/wine festivals.

Donna C B - San Francisco - picture joined September 29, 2005

"As the moderator of the 50 +/- Social Group, I've learned the ropes and would be happy to chat with you about any aspect of BAL. All ages welcome!"

Profession: Teacher - Librarian Interests: cultural events in Golden Gate Park and other SF venues, weekend excursions away from the city, volunteering through "One Brick, " Flea markets and farmer's markets, small movie houses, moderator 50 +/- Social Group

Doug F B - San Mateo - picture joined June 14, 2007

"Like it says...I'm here to hellp...give me a shout."

Profession: I'm with the government, and I'm here to help. Interests: hiking and mountain climbing, biking, skiing, SCUBA diving, Sudoku and crossword addict, photography, outdoors, books, travel, ballroom dancing, cultural activities (symphony, theater, opera), movies, sports, fine dining

Eji B - San Jose - picture joined April 27, 2006

"Hello, Welcome to BAL, a great tool/medium to network, explore new places, and meet new people. Let me know if you have any question about signing up for events, or a general how BAL works. Best, Eji"

Profession: Purchasing Agent Interests: Spontaneity, Simple living, spending time outdoors. Frisbee, music from around the world. Dancing, African drumming, live music, cooking with friends, listening to community & non-commercial radio

Francis B - Palo Alto - picture joined March 30, 2009

"By no means an old hand at this but happy to help. Suggest jumping right in and hosting an event *you* care about. Quick way to meet fellow travelers. "

Profession: Executive at technology startup Interests: Contemplative music:Leonard Cohen, Keith Jarrett, Philip Glass, taking dogs and kids on hikes, silent conversations, watching dreamy fish movements in aquariums.

Gary G B - San Francisco - picture joined June 21, 2006

"Welcome new members! Glad to help you get acquainted any way I can."

Profession: Property Management Interests: Nature, hiking, bicycling, cooking, traveling, gardening, yoga, spinning, kayaking, frisbee, art appreciation, and cultural events.

Geoff B - Oakland - picture joined June 5, 2006

"If you have questions about how the linkup works, I am happy to share my own experience as both an attender and a host of events."

Profession: Contributing to a kinder and more creative world through a range of skills and talents Interests: Spirituality, economical living, digital photography and videography, movies, literature, container gardening, creative cooking, loving my adult children, healthy friendships, good conversation, and growing in the awareness that it's not all about me.

Ginny G B - San Mateo - picture joined November 21, 2005

"Welcome! I hope that you'll find BAL events as much fun and varied as I have - it is a great way to meet people with similar interest and to explore new areas. Looking forward to possibly meeting you at one of the events!"

Profession: Product Manager Interests: music (preferably live!), squash (the sport as well as the vegetable), gardening, aqua aerobics, kayaking, cooking and entertaining, reading (fiction, scifi, fantasy), wine tasting, travel

Gordon B - Oakland - picture joined May 20, 2005

"Welcome. You may wish to participate in events of interest before your first hosting event, but don't be intimidated. Find an activity that you find interesting, compelling and enjoyable, then start adding people to that activity by hosting."

Profession: child psychiatrist Interests: road biking, reading, movies, poetry, buddhism/taoism, hearts & sudoko, watching tennis, golf & table tennis, shootin' pool, & swimming

Greer B - Berkeley - picture joined January 26, 2007

"Welcome to Bay Area Linkup! Here you'll learn about what's happening in our lovely part of the world, plus, how to connect with others who enjoy similar hobbies and interests. Feel free to join the network of hosts by organizing an inspired event."

Profession: Professional cook Interests: Seasonal cooking from farmers' markets, walking in Berkeley neigborhoods, hosting devotional gatherings, making friends, eating out at ethnic spots, day trips to Big Sur and Monterey, listening to KFOG, biking in The Berkeley Hills, and beach vacations.

Harry B - Palo Alto - picture joined September 11, 2005

"Seems like an exciting group! Looking forward to get more involved."

Profession: Product Line Marketing Manager Interests: Camping, hiking, rafting, kayaking, canoeing, roadtrips, exploring new restaurants and skiing. I am new to the area and would love to meet more people in the area.

JD B - Oakland - picture joined August 8, 2006

"Drop me a line!"

Profession: Software Engineer Interests: Improv, monster movies, backpacking, surfing, Iyengar, cooking/entertaining, beginning salsa, hiking, woof, motorcycles, Eustace Tilley, board games, mycology.

Jennifer H B - Palo Alto - picture joined April 2, 2009

"Welcome to Bay Area Linkup. If you need assistance getting started, I'd be happy to help you navigate the site and answer any questions you might have."

Profession: Education Administration Interests: Hiking, great wine, movies, fine dining, cooking, travel, photography, exploring areas of the Bay Area, theater, snowshoeing

Katrina V B - Oakland - picture joined May 7, 2004

"Hello, Sunshine! Though it may be foggy in SF, there's much to be cheery about. This includes one of the best social sites in the SF Bay Area."

Profession: Realtor. . . realist. . . fun-raiser Interests: The propagation of laughter and merriment, people, places around me NOW, dance, laughter, good company, real people, peace, jazz, outdoor events, fireworks over Lake Tahoe, striving to be the change I want to see in the world.

Kevin R B - Walnut Creek - picture joined August 21, 2007

"Welcome to BAL. Every event is what you make of it. Luckily, I've met allot of great people through BAL and made new friends. See you around!"

Profession: Employee Benefits Interests: Among my many varied interests are hiking, skiing at Tahoe, wine tasting, beer tasting, learning new things, smiling. Working on listening more than talking.

Larisa B - San Mateo - picture joined July 22, 2006

"Welcome, welcome! Come join in the fun. This is a great group of people, so no need to be shy. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to field them."

Profession: writer Interests: word play, sustainable living, walking in beauty, gardening with CA natives, reading, learning, international travel, German board games, WC Swing, blues, fine coffee & crosswords

Laura L B - Marin - picture joined November 26, 2003

"Welcome to BAL, a wonderful way to meet new friends and broaden your horizons on numerous levels. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or want support around hosting your first event, etc. Have fun!"

Profession: Marriage & Family Therapist/legal assistant Interests: Hiking, camping, kayaking, learning Spanish, live music, singing, theater, film, dancing (swing and cajun/zydeco esp.), cooking, tennis, yoga, spiritual exploration, belly laughs.

Lea B - Los Angeles - picture joined April 1, 2004

"Welcome to BAL! You will really love this great online resource. RSVP to several events, and dive right in."

Profession: Entertainment writer, Rasa Yoga teacher and Feng Shui practitioner Interests: writing, yoga, Feng Shui, classical music, great films, theater, travel, skiing, Tahoe, poker, biking, tennis, Irish playwrights, wine tastings, meditation, the sky is the limit!

Linda M B - Palo Alto - picture joined March 28, 2008

"Hello, this is a great group and everyone I've met through these events has been very nice. Let me know if you have any questions. I'm pretty new to Linkup as well. All the best! -Linda M."

Profession: clinical research Interests: fiddle & accordion music, British pub singing, French / Quebecois music and language, travel, leisurely walks on beaches, landscape photography, old sailing ships, independent & foreign movies, good books, science, philosophy, adventures.

Lynn S B - Oakland - picture joined April 6, 2007

"Bay Area Linkup has been a great asset to me as a new resident to the area. It has allowed me to meet people and do things I would not have known to do and I am so glad I found it! Welcome to BAL and if I can help in any way, contact me!!"

Profession: Program Specialist Interests: Still new to Bay Area and looking for its best kept secrets. I love independent films, outdoor markets, hiking, casual bike riding, spectator sports, theatre, live music, a nice glass of wine and lively conversation with new friends.

Maria K B - San Francisco - picture joined September 16, 2006

"Welcome to Linkup!"

Profession: Non-profit Interests: Hiking, being outdoors, the ocean, spiritually, cooking, exploring, traveling, people watching, thinking, writing, watching movies, laughing, and being happy!

Mark B - Walnut Creek - picture joined October 17, 2005

"Welcome! Please don't be a stranger. Let's get out and have some fun!"

Profession: Sales Marketing Interests: I was born in Michigan, but have lived in California most of my life. Cannot get enough of life, travel, nature and the outdoors. Love to go on road trips, beach combing, cave exploring, camping, hiking, biking, or just checking out a late matinee.

Mary Ann B - Palo Alto - picture joined October 8, 2005

"Welcome to yet another wonderful aspect of the Bay Area & cyberspace!"

Profession: health care provider and educator Interests: Movement of many forms, be it outdoor activities, such as ocean kayaking, hiking, camping, running, mountain biking, snowboarding, yoga, dancing; eclectic appreciation of art, such as theatre, music, dance, writing, film, photography, sculpture, travel!

Matt D B - Walnut Creek - picture joined June 22, 2006

"Just let me know what you need and I'll do my best to help!"

Profession: Insurance & Financial Services - New York Life Interests: Viewing movies (Film Noir from the 1940s & '50s; films by Michael Mann, Quentin Tarantino; & other stylish movies), urban exploration (dining, arts, shopping, nightlife), music (live jazz & DJs), wine tasting, street fairs, & cultural events.

Maura B - Berkeley - picture joined September 24, 2005

"Welcome to Linkup! Looking forward to meeting you. Maura"

Profession: Writer, investor/broker/business owner Interests: Writing, reading, art, design, organic farms & markets, wine, music, dancing, hiking, travel, environmental issues, green building, coastal adventures, dance, sculpture, ecology, orienteering, Originally from Britain & Ireland. Love Europe.

Michael H B - San Francisco - picture joined February 22, 2004

"Welcome to Bay Area Linkup, as moderator of Camelback hikers which is a strenuous and fast paced hiking group. Feel free to contact me about one of my events or outdoor events in general as I have participated in many since I joined."

Profession: Electricial and Refrigeration Engineering Electrician Interests: snowboarding, hiking, traveling, movies, whitewater rafting, kayaking, camping, people watching, running

Michelle A B - Marin - picture joined February 15, 2005

"Feel free to ask me anything. I've hosted a number of events and would be happy to give you tips and encouragement to begin hosting."

Profession: Social Worker - LCSW Interests: hanging out with relaxed & friendly folks, getting back into cycling & fitness, films, tech gadgets, books, camping, cooking & wine, the open road, hiking, learning Spanish, new places and activities, the outdoors, c25k.

Pamela T B - San Francisco - picture joined February 22, 2004

"Welcome, I've attended events in the East Bay & SF & have really enjoyed the variety of activities & diversity of people. Just started hosting events which is fun too!"

Profession: Human Resources Interests: snowboarding Tahoe north shore, mt. biking in Marin, backpacking in Yosemite, tennis (3.0), racketball, salsa dancing, SF ballet

Patricia R B - San Francisco joined March 3, 2006

"Hi, I joined in March & hosted my first event shortly thereafter. I contacted a couple of BAL "buddies" & they were very helpful in guiding me through the process. I'd like to do the same for someone new. So please feel free to contact me w/any questions"

Profession: healthcare worker/dialect coach Interests: theatre (esp. small venues) exploring museums & galleries, languages in general & Spanish in particular, all things Latin American, fiction/non-fiction, current events, film, history, visual arts & design, pub trivia.

Paul J B - Berkeley joined June 6, 2006

"Bay Area Linkup is a great way to meet dynamic and friendly people while participating in events that are so much fun. I have made friends from all walks of life thanks to BAL. I am a better person for having joined"

Profession: Lawyer Interests: Playing and listening to jazz and folk music, attending professional sporting events, studying romance languages, hiking in National Parks, working out, playing guitar and bass, reading non-fiction from the NY Times Bestseller list.

Paula M B - Walnut Creek joined May 22, 2004

"Welcome to Linkup! There are some great folks in this group. I'm not as active as some, but I've organized lots of events, so if I can help answer your questions along with other Buddies, let me know. Have fun getting out & and meeting your co-members!"

Profession: Full-time editor; part-time iconoclast and volunteer gelato taster Interests: Jazz, burlesque, world music, art, books, independent film/theater, modern ballet, the offbeat (fire shows) and live performances in general. After many yrs in SF, I'm now in Walnut Ck and am exploring still more events on both sides of the Bay

Roger B - Marin - picture joined October 20, 2004

"Welcome to linkup! We're looking for more Marin-ites to build up our activity base 'up North'. Care to join up?"

Profession: Software Technologist Interests: Film, Mountain Biking, Ideas, Yoga, Fireside Chats, Jung, Camping, Dogs & Cats.

Russ B B - San Jose - picture joined November 23, 2003

"Hello! Welcome to Bay Area Linkup! I encourage you to participate often & let others have fun attending events you host. If you wish to better understand how it all works, I have hosted a number of events, and can explain things, so please email me! "

Profession: Winehiker Interests: Hiking, wine, food, cooking, gardening, baseball, cycling, frisbee, camping, backpacking, mountaineering, snowshoeing, paddling, reading, travel, outdoors, jazz, blues, bacon-wrapped scallops, Eartheism & sustainability, all things natural & good.

Sabrina R B - San Jose - picture joined August 14, 2007

"If you have any questions about link-up, perhaps I can help."

Profession: teacher (3rd grade) Interests: Tennis, dancing, hiking, rock climbing, water sports, boating, reading, traveling, cultural foods, clubbing, theatre and all outdoor sports.

Sam L B - Oakland - picture joined October 21, 2006

"Welcome! I look forward to seeing you at events and enjoying the wonders of the Bay Area with you. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have. Welcome, again."

Profession: Professor (Social Science) Interests: dialogue, writing, art (especially abstract sculpture), social justice, non-human animals, free-form dancing, music (all kinds), philosophy, running, hiking, swimming, learning, travel (especially urban)

Stephanie G B - Berkeley - picture joined June 5, 2005

"Hi! I know it sounds kind of complicated, but it's really not, and it's a lot of fun! E-mail me if you have questions."

Profession: Administration/HR in an SF law firm, staff recruitment, training and event planning Interests: Walking/riding bikes by the water, sampling the great ethnic food the bay area has to offer, wine-tasting, live music and theater, singing, swimming, rafting, sailing, cooking and trying new recipes, BBQ.

Stephen V B - San Francisco - picture joined March 7, 2004

"You'll find BALU to be a great venue once you get the hang of it. And as with most worthwhile things in life, it's what you make of it. There are no dumb questions, and I'll try not to give dumb answers!"

Profession: High tech CEO Interests: writing (plays and fiction), theatre, live music, fitness, travel, cooking, philosophy, dogs, hanging out

Stephen Y B - Berkeley - picture joined October 23, 2007

"If you'll be my buddy, I can be your long lost pal.."

Profession: EFL Student Interests: classical opera, ballet + music, pre-contemporary Western painting, tribal sculpture, Chinese antiques, science, environmentalism, evolutionary psychology, Campbell's view of religion as metaphor for psychology and life, sailing as passenger, etymology

Taylor B - San Jose - picture joined October 21, 2006

"Hi New Member: Contact me if you want me to "show you the ropes" of this wonderful treasure we call BAL!"

Profession: Health insurance industry Interests: sports & outdoor activities (hiking, volleyball, tennis, racquetball, cycling); reading captivating magazines (The New Yorker, The Economist), singing and listening to music, environmental & wild/domestic animal advocacy, talking politics.

Veronica R B - San Jose - picture joined January 14, 2009

"Welcome to BAL! This is a great opportunity to combine your interests and socializing with people who are fun, interesting and reliable. If I can be helpful in any way, don't hesitate to ask. Welcome and enjoy!"

Profession: Health Psychologist Interests: hiking, Nature, dancing, singing, cooking, people, beading, foreign & indie films, socializing, ethnic food, animals, home improvement projects, philosophy