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If you're new to Bay Area Linkup and would like some advice or encouragement on how to get started, please make use of our "buddy system." The people you see listed below have volunteered to help out by corresponding with the new people on Bay Area Linkup, to share their experiences and offer guidance and support.

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.

Alan B - San Jose - picture - joined September 11, 2005

"Welcome"

Profession: Network Operations Engineer Interests: Hiking, golf, volleyball, tennis, reading, movies, transcendental meditation, international travel, Texas Holdem, 80s music dancing, Warriors basketball, A's or Giants baseball, bicycle riding, current events and politics.

Ashley W B - Oakland - picture - joined November 11, 2004

"This is a great buncho folks After you feel a bit more at home, please consider hosting an event--they're the lifeblood of this group. I know lots of inexpensive and memorable things to do if you're new to the area."

Profession: contract writer Interests: theatre, movies, thrift shopping, walking, fiber art, swimming, eating out cheaply, living lightly, singing

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

"I joined in July 2005, since then, I've been to over 120 events, hosting over half of them. I've had great experiences with BAL, and I'd more more than willing to help anyone with questions. :-)"

Profession: Personification of everything evil about State employees, 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.

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), fine wine and dining, conversations on varied topics, nature walks, movies. And I'm a hockey mom.

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), hiking, camping, day trips , reading, meditation, discussion (world affairs, philolosophy), international travel, entrepreneurship, technology, micro brews, wine tasting, music (rock, reggae, jazz, world).

Cynthia C B - San Mateo - picture - joined August 2, 2006

"BAL is the best - you will meet some great people, plus have the flexibility to do what you like to do and find others who enjoy the same things."

Profession: Professional student and laborer Interests: Movies (film noir, mystery, classic, silent, independent), reading good books and talking about them, dancing, walking, live music, traveling, swimming, Charades, Scrabble, playing Hearts and low-stakes poker. Seeing, learning new things.

Dan R B - Marin - picture - joined September 22, 2006

"Hiya newbie! This is such a great way to do the things you like to do, with a group of people who share your enthusiasm. I would be glad to share my experiences with you, and maybe share a hike with you someday. Blessings, Dan"

Profession: Facilities Planner and Massage Therapist Interests: Hiking, camping, road bicycling 25 to 50 miles, alpine or nordic skiing, outdoor social events, attending musical events, cooking, living consciously, and spiritual practice

Dave M B - San Jose - picture - joined May 31, 2004

"BAL has been a great way for me to meet a diverse group of interesting people who have many common interests. If I can assist you in any way to take advantage of this great resource, let me know. I'll be glad to help any way I can."

Profession: Technical Support Engineer Interests: Golf, skiing, backpacking, whitewater rafting, the Giants, good food, good wine and general fun!

David D B - San Francisco - picture - joined August 22, 2005

"Hi, Welcome to the club! I've led and attended many BAL events of all kinds, so feel free to ask me anything. David D."

Profession: Environmental writer, editor, historian, naturalist Interests: Exploring natural parks and history, hiking slow enough to see wildlife and flowers, running, rafting, independent films, classical music and classic rock, trying new restaurants, writing on Bay Area environment.

Debbie K B - Palo Alto - picture - joined October 28, 2003

"I'm here to help, so feel free to ask."

Profession: legal Interests: hiking, kayaking, anthropology, fossil hunting, birding, anything outdoors

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!

Debra R B - San Jose - picture - joined October 31, 2005

"Welcome to BAL! BAL affords you easy access to activities & people that improve your quality of life! Attend a few events, then post an event you really enjoy. You'll meet new friends with like interests. The people on BAL are great! You can rely on them!"

Profession: Law and Investments Interests: Socializing, music, theatre, hiking, fine dining, wine tasting, the beauty of nature, reading, art, decorating, travel, exercise, business and law.

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 love hiking, golf, camping, skiing, biking. Combine my other love - travel - with any of those (+ good food) and I'm a happy girl! Fan of "Survivor". Reading, writing, movies, live performances.

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: Library Media Teacher 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 - Walnut Creek - 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, Sudoku and crossword addict, photography, outdoors, books, writing, travel, ballroom dancing, cultural activities (symphony, theater, opera), movies, sports, fine dining

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.

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.

Gwen B - Palo Alto - picture - joined July 4, 2006

"Welcome to Bay Area Linkup. Curious to know more? Wondering about what the experience is like? Please feel free to drop me a note. Warmly, Gwen"

Profession: life coach, designer Interests: inline skating, hiking, dancing, painting, concerts in small venues (esp. rock and blues), adventure travel, cooking and dining out, "stripper name" Scrabble, tootsie pops, Star Trek, trying new things

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.

Heather L B - Sonoma - picture - joined May 24, 2007

"Welcome, this is fun and easy. Send me a message with any questions you have and I will do my best to answer them. I hope to meet you at an event soon. Heather"

Profession: Child Development Instructor/Trainer Interests: Dancing (partner styles - salsa, swing, night club, country), outdoor activities (bicycling, hiking, running, kayaking), live theater, music (anything danceable, bluegrass, folk), independent and foriegn film.

Jim B - San Francisco - picture - joined December 9, 2005

"Hi! Welcome to Bay Area Linkup. This is a totally unique way to find folks who are interested in the same things that you are. Shoot me an email if you want to chat. Or call me a 415.337.4566."

Profession: Personal Financial Planning (fee-only) Interests: Int'l ecomomics & politics, kids & child rearing, modern & classic literature, dance & theater, world geography, close friendships, Corvairs, motorcycle riding, environmentalism, organic foods & cooking, progressive politics, Re-Evaluation Counseling

Katrina V B - San Francisco - 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 as it's called. Every event has been fun. Sign up for stuff you like and don't be afraid to try new things. The T-shirt in my photo came from a fun BAL event that I would have never thought of. See you around!"

Profession: Insurance Sales Interests: Among my many varied interests are dancing with fugawi women, wine tasting, beer tasting, learning new things, smiling.

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, practicing yoga, walking in beauty, gardening with CA natives, reading, learning, international travel, German board games, dancing, 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.

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: I'm new to the city and looking for its best kept secrets. I love independent films, outdoor markets, hiking, spectator sports, theatre, concerts (from classical to folk), a nice glass of wine and lively conversation with new friends.

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.

Markus B - Marin - picture - joined October 10, 2007

"Hey, the water is great. Jump on in!"

Profession: Massage Therapist Interests: movies, art, photography, music, travel, massage, spirituality, pilates, yoga, mountain biking, my awesome nephew Mason, dogs/animals, experiencing new things

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!

Mary G B - San Francisco - picture - joined August 11, 2006

"Welcome to BAL! "

Profession: Communications Interests: Dining with friends, exploring cultures & cuisines of the world, live & improv music, multimedia for social change, kiva.org, feature writing, scenic hikes, biking, tennis, running, dancing, car/shoe design, eclectic learning adventures

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: masseuse/part-time curmudgeon 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

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, independent film/theater, modern ballet, the offbeat, and live performances in general. After many yrs in San Francisco, I moved to Walnut Creek last year and am exploring still more events on both sides of the Bay.

Rebecca M B - Palo Alto - picture - joined April 9, 2004

"Welcome new members! BAL is a terrific way to find people who share your interests and passions. It is also an organization where the more you put into it the more you get out of it. If I can answer any questions, please don't hesitate to ask."

Profession: Marketing Interests: hiking, running, strength training, healthy living, reading, symphony, opera, world music, NPR, history, languages, the world, cooking, little kids (but not cooking little kids!) rain, living with gratitude, tea

Robin D B - San Jose - picture - joined January 30, 2004

"Welcome Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about hosting or attending an event. Also if you see an event that you think I would like please let me know. Thanks"

Profession: Medical Director/Principal engineer Interests: writing, music, fitness, running, cycling...all verbs?.., Check my music out on itunes.com power search Robin bek

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 Mystic 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, Eartheism & sustainability, all things natural & good.

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)

Scott DS B - San Francisco - picture - joined February 27, 2004

"Welcome to BAL, a wonderful way to meet new friends and do things that you probably would never ever think of doing. I now kayak, cycle just to name a few. BAL is a great "Off line" community or friends!"

Profession: Creative Specialist - Flash Animation, Adobe Suites Interests: Illustrator - cycling, kayaking, Cooking, Good Wines, New friends, PowerPoint Guru and animation. "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." - Dr. Seuss

Stanley B - San Francisco - picture - joined March 22, 2004

"Hi new members. Welcome to Bay Area Link Up. If you have any questions as to how things work and about what to expect, send me a message. Once you make it out to the events, I'm sure afterwards you'll be very glad you went."

Profession: MR. DOO WASH Interests: golf, travel, dining out, tennis, motorcycles, wine tasting. Got suckered into trying World of Warcraft, now addicted.

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/relaxing with friends and family.

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

Steve G B - Palo Alto - picture - joined January 18, 2006

"Hi! I've found LinkUp to be a great organization and would be happy to help you get started with it."

Profession: software development analyst for small San Jose start-up Interests: all kinds of outdoor activities, particularly those that allow me to commune with nature (hiking/backpacking, skiing, ww rafting/canoeing), yoga, discussing and debating philosophy/politics, but only to learn and have fun with others sharing similar goals

Steve W B - Palo Alto - picture - joined February 11, 2008

"I can personally attest to Bay Area Linkup as it has greatly enhanced my life. Using it and connecting with others, I have increased my circle of friends by sharing my special interests with them. "

Profession: Computer Geek & Professional Massage Therapist Interests: Hiking locally in the Santa Cruz Mountains as a docent and for pleasure. I love nature and the forests, exploring and identifying vegetation, fungi and critters. Computers and technology, concerts, Jazz, African, rhythms of any kind. Holistic Health.

Sue E B - Palo Alto - picture - joined July 22, 2006

"Welcome to Bay Area Linkup! I hope you enjoy your experience, and I'm happy to share with you how great my own experience has been with the group."

Profession: marketing data analyst Interests: I love hiking in the area, and also out of town hiking/camping trips. I also love old movies from 1930s/40s, historical sites and museums and reading, eating out, meeting interesting people.

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: Google On-site Health Concierge (for Blue Shield of CA) Interests: Sports (volleyball, tennis, racquetball, cycling); reading captivating magazines (The New Yorker, The Economist); visiting SF's Green Apple Books while playing a game with myself: attempting to get out of there without buying half the store; laughing.

Terry P B - San Francisco - picture - joined June 23, 2006

"Welcome! I like to help others enjoy the diverse attractions of the Bay Area, especially the spontaneous and open ones--the simpler the better! Feel free to contact me if you'd like my ideas on this. Best regards, Terry"

Profession: Psychologist Interests: Silliness & interesting conversation, including Spanish. Outdoor activitiies from biking, to running, hiking, rollerblading, and urban exploring. Food, from buying, reading about it, picking it, and cooking it. Aesthetically, from architecture to museums

Thomas B - Palo Alto - joined November 19, 2005

"I've been in SF Bayarea for more than 20 years. Maybe there is something I can help. I speak English, Mandarin and Taiwanese."

Profession: Financial Services Interests: hiking, camping, bridge, GO game, fish keeping, classical music, reading (astronomy/ anthropology/ evolution/ history/ literature)

Tina B B - San Francisco - picture - joined February 18, 2004

"Welcome to the BAL community! Hosting events is a lot of fun, and a great way for other members to get to know you. If I can be of assistance in helping you plan your first event - drop me a line."

Profession: Operations Manager; Clairvoyant Interests: playing the violin badly, fencing, learning japanese, movies (all genres), music, theatre, museums, current and past events, traveling, reading (fiction mostly), sightseeing, foreign entities (ghost hunting)