CORPORATE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION & IRS EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE CORPORATE BYLAWS

A Non-Profit Public Benefit Corporation for Retired Men Devoted to the Promotion of Independence and Dignity of Retirement


THE SIR MANUAL

PREFACE & ACKNOWLEDGMENT TABLE OF CONTENTS STANDING RULES - General STANDING RULES - Branch

STANDING RULES - Special Activities STANDING RULES - State

BRANCH ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION BRANCH BYLAWS

CORPORATE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION & IRS EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE CORPORATE BYLAWS

GUIDELINES INDEX


INSTRUCTIONS

THE SIR MANUAL is the property of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated. It is available on the SIR Web- site to all members of the SIR organization as the official copy. A hard copy or electronic issue is in the possession of and maintained by each Branch Secretary. All other copies at all levels of the SIR organ- ization are considered personal copies and are maintained by the individual holders. The standards, content and procedures covering maintenance of this Manual and copies thereof are explained in the Standing Rules 1-5 and 11-11.3.



Pages in this Manual that were revised since Edition 6/12/18 are dated 8/7/18, 9/12/18 and 10/30/18.

The changes are on pages in bold type: Corporate Bylaws

Pages 3, 7 & 9.

Branch Standing Rules Pages 1, 3.2, 3.6, 4, 4.1, 5, 6,

7, 8, 9, & 23

The State Pages 45, 53 & 57


Revised pages only for this Edition are for easy printing and on this website where the SIR Manual is found.


Summary of Rules Changes

are on the SIR Website where this SIR Manual is found.



~ EDITION 11/12/18 ~ .

PREFACE

Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, was founded on July 23, 1958 by Damian L. Reynolds, Claus J. Hink, Wallace B. Plummer and Lorenz H. Hansen. It was incorporated under the laws of California governing non-profit mutual benefit corporations on February 13, 1959, as a tax exempt corporation for retired men. Branches were also incorporated under that law until 1991.


In 1990 and 1991 the Corporate and Branch Articles of Incorporation were amended to incor- porate Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches as non-profit public benefit corpora- tions under Title 1, Division 2 (commencing at Section 5110) of the California Corporation Code.


One distinguishing characteristic of a non-profit corporation is the fact that no part of its income can be distributed to its members, directors or officers. Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, is such a corporation and can use its income only in furtherance of its public purpose.


The Articles of Incorporation of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated provide, in part:


“The specific purpose of this corporation is to provide for the welfare of retired men . . . who are pursuing a common goal, the enjoyment of their later years with dignity and pride. . . through association with other retired men who also face the particular problems that confront men upon their retirement.”


Corporate and Branch Bylaws, Standing Rules and Guidelines are adopted as may be neces- sary to protect and preserve the integrity and goals of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and to provide for uniformity in the administration of its activities. The State Board of Directors is the governing body of the Corporation.


Each Branch authorized by the parent corporation, Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, is char- tered as a separate corporation. Upon being granted its charter, the Branch is empowered to adopt such rules, not inconsistent or in conflict with the Corporate or Branch Bylaws or the Standing Rules, as may be necessary to govern its activities in furtherance of the objectives of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated. The Branch Executive Committee is the governing body of the Branch.


The provisions of the Standing Rules and Bylaws in THE SIR MANUAL were adopted original- ly to become effective January 1, 1992. The effective date of subsequent changes is to be in- dicated parenthetically at the end of each Rule or Section affected.


A Non-Profit Organization for Retired Men Devoted to the Promotion of Independence and Dignity of Retirement


ACKNOWLEDGMENT


The provisions contained in the Bylaws and Standing Rules are the product of the untiring efforts of dedicated members of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, since it was organized in 1958. Deeply in- grained are carefully considered principles found necessary to protect and further the objectives of SIR.


Over the years, these provisions have been reviewed, recast, polished and expanded to meet new and ever changing conditions. SIR has made revisions to the Bylaws at many Annual Meetings. The Rules and Procedures have been in a constant state of revision.


SIR made major revisions to the Bylaws and Rules in 1983. The 1990 reincorporation of SIR from a non-profit mutual benefit corporation to a non-profit public benefit corporation triggered another major revision made by two committees. Starting in 1990, Rules Committee Chairman, Sir Louis J. Heinzer, former Legal Advisor led the effort of reorganization, rearranging and renumbering the Rules. In 1991, an ad-hoc committee headed by President Weston M. Alt, utilizing the work of the Heinzer committee as a base, undertook more complete restatement of the Bylaws and Rules and Procedures to make them more cohesive and understandable and to eliminate redundant and unnecessary wordage with as little substantive change as possible.


In 1998, then Travel Chairman and future President, Jim Faverman spearheaded a complete rewrite of the travel rules to conform to insurance requirements and good business practice.


Since 1998 the efforts continued to make the Manual more useful, caused Bylaws revisions to make them more general relying on rules for specifics, removal of “Guidelines” from the Manual moving the material into rules or other documents outside the Manual plus a continual revision of rules to make them more clear and effective with another rewrite of travel rules a good example.


Starting in 2001 under the direction of President Dwight Sale and Assistant Secretary Gary Gruber the production and distribution of the Manual underwent a complete overhaul. This Manual is now distrib- uted almost exclusively from the SIR website and went from voluntary website distribution to mandatory in 2005. In addition, a strict production protocol was developed which ensures that every page of the Manual has the same look and feel and that changes are identified in a uniform manner.


Thus, THE SIR MANUAL is not the product of any one member or committee, but rather, the sum of the efforts of the members of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, since its founding. Its provisions reflect the total dedication and intelligence of those members to a most worthy cause.


Edited and revised from the December 2, 1991 version by D. B. Sale 12/31/06

TABLE OF CONTENTS


TITLE - STANDING RULES

DIVISION 1. GENERAL Rule Page

Article 1. Definitions .................................................................. 1-2 1

2. General Provisions..................................................... 3-14 2-2.2,3

3. Amendment of Rules and Bylaws............................... 15-16 2.2-3

4. Logo........................................................................... 20 3

5. SIR Awards and Certificates ...................................... 23-28 3.1-3.3

6. Nonprofit Corporations ............................................... 30 3.3

7. Membership List......................................................... 32 3.4

8. Voting ........................................................................ -- 3.4

9. Forms ........................................................................ 36-36.3 3.4

10. Financial - State ......................................................... 37-38 3.5-3.6

11. State Standing Committees……………………………..39-39.1 4

DIVISION 2. THE BRANCH

Part 1. Organization

Article 1. General...................................................................... 40-46 4

2. Membership ............................................................... 50-60 5

3. Applicants for Membership......................................... 65-72 6

4. Maximum Membership............................................... 74 7

5. Dual Membership....................................................... 80 7

6. Transfer of Membership ............................................. 85-88 7

7. Inactive Members....................................................... 90-94 8

8. Required Attendance ................................................. 100-102 9

9. Termination, Expulsion and Suspension .................... 105-111 10

Part 2. Branch Officers

Article 1. General...................................................................... 120-125 11

2. Election of Branch Officers......................................... 130-138 12

3. Installation of Branch Officers .................................... 140-141 13

Part 3. Duties of Branch Officers

Article 1. Branch Executive Committee ..................................... 150-155 14

2. Big Sir ........................................................................ 160-169 15-15.1

3. Little Sir...................................................................... 170-172 16

4. Branch Secretary ....................................................... 175-181 16-17

Secretary’s Records ............................................. 182-190 17-18

Maintenance of Branch Records .......................... 200-204 20

5. Assistant Branch Secretary ........................................ 210-212 20

6. Branch Treasurer ....................................................... 215-222 21

Insurance Coverage ............................................. 223-224 22

Income Tax Returns............................................. 225 22

Financial Records ................................................ 227 22

7. Assistant Branch Treasurer........................................ 235-236 22

8. Branch Director .......................................................... 240-241 23

9. Fiscal Matters............................................................. 245-246 23

10. Audits......................................................................... 255-258 23

11. Supplies..................................................................... 265-267 24

12. Branch Bulletins ......................................................... 270-273 24

Revised 11/9/10, 6/5/12, 11/13/12, 1/15/13, 6/4/13, 8/5/13, 11/12/13, 04/08/14, 6/3/14, 6/2/15, 11/18/15, 4/5/16,6/7/16

Deleted Change numbers 1/14/14 - a -

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DIVISION 2. THE BRANCH (Continued) Rule Page Part 4. Formation of a New Branch

Article 1. Conditions.................................................................. 280 25

2. Formation Procedure ................................................. 285-305 25-27

Part 5. Revocation or Suspension of Branch Charter

Article 1. Grounds for Action ..................................................... 315 28

2. Procedure .................................................................. 320-321 28

3. Final Action ................................................................ 325 28

4. Interim Management .................................................. 327 28.1

Part 6. Changing Name of Branch....................................................... 335 29

Part 7. Non Responsibility Declaration ................................................ 345 29

Part 8. Branch Short Bus Trips............................................................ 350-353 29.1

Part 8. Luncheon Costs for SIRinc Officers ......................................... 354 29.1

DIVISION 3. SPECIAL ACTIVITIES

Part 1. SIR Travel Code

Article 1. Definitions .................................................................. 360 30

2. General...................................................................... 365-376 31-32

3. SIR-Qualified Travel Agencies ................................... 380-382 33-34

4. Branch Travel Program Administration....................... 383-388 34-35

5. Branch Travel Event Process..................................... 405-409 35

6. Travel Event Insurance .............................................. 412-416 36

7. Travel Event Funds.................................................... 420-424 37

8. Travel Literature......................................................... 429-436 38

9. Enforcement .............................................................. 440-442 39

10. State Travel Committee ............................................. 450-454 40

Part 2. State Golf ............................................................................. 500-530 41-41.1

Part 3. State Bowling ........................................................................ 550-560 42-42.1

Part 3.5 Recreational Vehicle (RV) Committee ................................... 575-585 42.1-42.2

Part 3.6 State Bocce Committee………………………………………….590-592 42.2-42.3

Part 4. SIRARC (Amateur Radio Club).............................................. 600-603 43

Part 5. Information Systems Committee (INFOSYS) ......................... 604-604.1 43

Part 6. Growth and Membership Committee ..................................... 605-606 43.1

Part 7. Rules Committee ................................................................... 607-610 43.1-43.2

Part 8. Audit Committee.................................................................... 611-611.3 43.2

Part 9. President’s Advisory Committee ............................................ 612-613 43.3

Part 10. Insurance Committee ............................................................ 615-619 43.3

Part 12. General ............................................................................. 650 43.3


Part 13. Budget Oversight Committee................................................. 660-662 43.4


Revised 11/9/10, 6/5/12, 6/4/13, 11/12/13, Deleted Change numbers 1/14/14


-b-

TABLE OF CONTENTS


DIVISION 4. THE STATE


Part 1. State Organization


Rule Page

Article 1. Membership ............................................................... -- 44

2. State Officers ............................................................. 755-758 44

3. Election of Officers..................................................... 765-774 44-45

4. Regional Director ....................................................... 780-787 46-46.1

5. Area Governor ........................................................... 790-802 47-47.1

6. Installation of State Officers ....................................... 805 47.1

7. Meetings .................................................................... 810 48

Part 2. Duties of State Officers

Article 1. President.................................................................... 815-819 48

2. Vice President............................................................ 825 49

3. State Secretary .......................................................... 830-839 49

4. Assistant State Secretary ........................................... 840-847 50

5. Chief Administrative Officer........................................ 850 50

6. State Treasurer .......................................................... 865-871 53-53.1

7. Assistant State Treasurer........................................... 875-876 54

8. Regional Director ....................................................... 880-884 54

9. Area Governor ........................................................... 890-898 55

Part 3. General Provisions .................................................................. 915-923 56

Part 4. SIR Websites........................................................................... 950-959 57


TITLE - BRANCH ARTICLES AND BYLAWS


DIVISION 1. BRANCH ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION 8 Pages

DIVISION 2. BRANCH BYLAWS Section Page Article 1. General...................................................................... 1 1

2. Definitions .................................................................. 5-10 1

3. Membership ............................................................... 15-20 2

4. Officers ...................................................................... 25-26 2

5. Officer Responsibility ................................................. 30 2

6. Meetings .................................................................... 35-36 3

7. Executive Committee ................................................. 40-45 3

8. Committees................................................................ 50 3

9. Amending the Bylaws................................................. 55-60 4

Revised 11/10/09, 8/6/12, 11/13/12, 1/15/13, 6/4/13 8/5/13, 11/12/13, 8/4/14,11/1/16 Deleted Change numbers 1/14/14

- c -

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE - CORPORATE ARTICLES AND BYLAWS DIVISION 1. CORPORATE ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

[5] IRS EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE & IRS 501(c)(4) Ltr 6 Pages


DIVISION 2. CORPORATE BYLAWS Section Page Article 1. Purpose ..................................................................... 100 1

2. Geographical Limitations............................................ 110-112 1

3. Definitions .................................................................. 120-122 1

4. Membership ............................................................... 130-134 2

5. Officers ...................................................................... 140-149 3

Vacancies in Office............................................... 150-156 4

Removal from Office............................................. 160-162 5

Procedures for Removal....................................... 165-168 6

6. Meetings

General ................................................................ 180-182 7

Annual Meeting .................................................... 184-187 7

Regular and Special Meetings ................................... 187.1-191 7

7. Powers of the State Board ......................................... 200-204 8

8. Committees

State Executive Committee........................................ 220-223 9

State Standing Committees.................................. 224-225 9

Chairman - Removal from Office……………………227 10

State Audit Committee.......................................... 255-257 11

Special Committees ............................................. 265 12

9. Parliamentary Procedure ........................................... 280 12

10. Amending the Corporate Bylaws ................................ 290-291 12


GUIDELINES


Branch GL 40.1 - 40.4

Big Sirs GL 160.1 - 160.6

Little Sirs GL 170.1 - 170.2

Branch RV Committees GL 575 - 583

Regional Directors GL 780.1 - 780.10

Area Governors GL 890.1 - 890.10


Formation of New Branches (Deleted 11/14/06) Honorary Life Membership (Deleted 9/9/03) Logo (Deleted 6/10/08)

Travel (Deleted 4/15/03)

State Golf Committee (Deleted 9/9/03) State SIRARC (Deleted 6/3/03)

State Bowling (Deleted 4/12/05)


INDEX 5 Pages


Revised 11/10/09, 8/6/12, 6/4/13, 8/5/13, 8/4/14, 11/8/15, 11/1/15 Deleted Change numbers 1/14/14

- d -

TITLE 1 - STANDING RULES DIVISION - GENERAL

Article 1 - Definitions


RULE 1. This compilation of the Standing Rules, Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation shall be known as THE SIR MANUAL.

a When there is a conflict between the wording and/or intentions of a Bylaw and a Standing Rule, a Bylaw takes precedence. (New 6/5/12)


RULE 2. Unless the provisions of the context otherwise requires, the general provisions and definitions set forth in this Division shall govern the construction of the provisions of the Standing Rules and Guidelines:

a. The State organization of the Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, shall be designated as "Sons In Retirement, Incorporated”, the "Corporation", the "State Organization", the "Corporate Body" or “SIRinc”. (Revised 11/14/06)

b "SIR" may be used to refer to Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, the Corporate body, its Branches or its members.

c. "State Board" means the State Board of Directors, the governing body of the Corpo- ration.

d. "President" means the President of the Corporation.

e. "Vice President" means the Vice President of the Corporation.

f. "Shall" and "must" are mandatory.

g. “May” and "can" are permissive.

h. The singular includes the plural and the plural includes the singular.

i. "Active member" means "member". (Revised 9/24/02) (Revised 10/30/18)

j. "Rule" means a "Standing Rule," an action by the State Board governing the opera- tions of the State and the Branch Corporations.

k. "Regulation" means an action by a Branch Executive Committee governing the oper- ation of the Branch.

m. (Deleted 6/5/07)

n. Pages denoting a date “Revised”, “Amended”, or such term are to be read as “Effec- tive”. (New 4/23/99)

o. (Deleted 4/13/04)

p. “Excused” means approval of absence/s from a Branch luncheon. (Revised 6/5/01) (6/7/11)

Article 2 - General Provisions


RULE 3. The titles and subheadings have been included to assist the user in locating the vari- ous provisions and shall not be used in construing the provisions to which they refer.


RULE 4. The provisions of the Corporate and Branch Bylaws and Standing Rules are manda- tory. (Revised 6/5/07)


RULE 5. Guidelines do not have the force and effect of the Standing Rules but should be fol- lowed except in circumstances where it would be imprudent to do so.


RULE 7. No member of the Corporation or any Branch shall be given nor receive any gratuity nor shall any State Board or Branch officer have the authority to give a contribution or gratuity from the funds of the Corporation or Branch.


Plaques or similar awards honoring Branch or State members, committee chairmen or members for outstanding service to Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, are not considered gratuities under this Rule.


RULE 8. In General, the chain of corporate communications shall be:


a. Individual member through his own Branch Executive Committee.

b. The Branch through its Area Governor.

c. The Area Governor through his Regional Director.

d. The Regional Director to the President or the State Board.

e. Reverse a, b, c and d for communications in the opposite direction.


RULE 9. Specific reports or correspondence as provided by the Standing Rules or the distri- bution instructions on a SIR form shall be directed to the person so specified. If an item calls for distri- bution to the Area Governor and that position is vacant or he is unavailable for an extended period of time, that report or form shall be sent to the Regional Director for action. (Revised 6/10/08)


RULE 10. A State appointee of the President shall serve at the pleasure of the President and the appointment shall not extend beyond the President’s term. (Revised 9/9/03) (1/17/12)


RULE 10.1 (Deleted 6/6/06 - text incorporated in Rule 130)

Article 2 - General Provisions (Continued)


RULE 11. There shall be included in the SIR MANUAL only the following:


a. A frontispiece, Preface, Acknowledgment, Table of Contents, Index and such titles and headings as may be appropriate. (Revised 7/7/04)

b. Corporate and Branch Articles of Incorporation, and the IRS Exemption Certificate. (Revised 6/5/07)

c. Corporate and Branch Bylaws.

d. Standing Rules.

e. Guidelines, providing that no guidelines heretofore or hereafter promulgated shall take effect until 30 days after it has been submitted to the members of the State Board, and provided further that if any member of the State Board objects to a pro- posed guideline, in writing to the President within the 30-day period, the guideline shall not take effect unless and until it is approved by the State Board.

f. Such other material as may be specifically authorized by the State Board.


RULE 11.1 The official SIR Manual shall be published on the SIR Website promptly after ap- proval of any new or revised rule, bylaw or guideline.

(New 7/7/04) (Revised 11/8/11) RULE 11.2 (Deleted 11/8/11) RULE 11.3 (Deleted 11/8/11)

RULE 12.

a. No member is required to participate in State events. However, every member shall be provided an opportunity to do so to the extent that facilities are available on a first come, first served, basis.

b. This rule is applicable to all State events, including State travel events. It is not ap- plicable to events scheduled for limited segments of the membership such as bowl- ing and golf tournaments, or State sporting events such as SIR Day at the SF Giants or other teams, or to State RV rallies.

(Revised 1/23/07) (Moved from Page 2.2 - 11/13/07)

Article 2 - General Provisions (Continued)


RULE 13. Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches shall not support, promote. en- dorse or otherwise act to benefit, directly or indirectly, any other entity, cause, or crusade; or any chari- table or civic project no matter how worthy, including donations to the Red Cross, blood banks and the like, or any political preference, affiliation, group, or organization other than SIR. Speakers at lunch- eons or other meetings of the Branch or State shall be made aware of this position so as to avoid any semblance of soliciting contributions or business, or endorsing any political, religious or ideological concepts. SIR groups composed exclusively of active SIR members that provide entertainment to oth- ers may appear before other than SIR groups so long as their main objective of the appearance is re- cruiting. (Revised 6/5/12)

Actions prohibited by this rule shall include, among other things:

a. Inclusion of material referred to above in Branch bulletins or distributing or making available such literature at Branch or State meetings or events.

b. Solicitation of business or solicitation for volunteers, collection or distribution of funds, materials or other assistance by any person or persons at any luncheon or other meeting of the Branch or State.

c. Inclusions of statements, displays or other verbal or graphic material referred to above at luncheons and other meetings or events of the Branch or State.

d. The lending of credit by means of holding harmless or pledging indemnification or the like to insure another entity against losses, liabilities, fees, taxes, or other obligations arising, in whole or in part, because of that entity’s actions or omissions.

Subdivisions a, b and c above do not apply to acts necessary to promote an authorized activity which is directly related to the fulfillment of the purposes and objectives of Sons In Retirement, Incorpo- rated. This includes State events such as SIR Day at the Giants, Oakland A’s, Golden State Warriors, Sacramento River Cats, and other events approved by the State Board of Directors. Acknowledgement of gratuitous printing of Branch bulletins and rosters is permitted subject to the limitations contained in Rules 178 and 271.

(Revised 11/15/05)(04/08/15)


Rule 13.5 Notwithstanding the provisions of Rule 13, and for new member recruitment purposes, an Area Governor in concurrence with that Region’s Director may approve, upon application from a SIR Branch, the Branch’s non financial/non insurance liability support of a social group of women, formally organized or not, regarding social, recreational activities. This support may be in the form of SIR bulle- tin, Newsletter notices, and mutual recruitment efforts at retirement seminars offered by businesses and corporations which benefit both SIR and the Social Group of women. Examples could be, but are not limited to such liaisons as “Red Hat Ladies,” a ladies group such as “Daughters of Leisure (DOLS)” made up of mostly wives of SIR, or any group of SIR spouses engaged in similar activities to SIR.

(New 12/13/13)

RULE 14. Alcoholic beverages may be served or provided, whether or not for compensation, only when there is full compliance with all federal, state and local laws, rules or regulations. To meet the re- quirements of our Liquor Liability Carrier, any branch serving alcohol at their meetings or events must have two certified bartenders. Certification would be obtained through a responsible beverage server certification program. Expense of the program is to be absorbed by the branch. Documentation would be the certificates of completion. Failure to meet this requirement could result in the branch losing its Liquor Liability insurance. (Revised 04/08/14)


Article 3 - Amendment of Rules and Bylaws


RULE 15. All changes in the Standing Rules must be adopted by the State Board except for (1) temporary changes adopted by the State Executive Committee as provided in the Corporate Bylaws and (2) clarifications and other minor changes adopted by the State Rules Committee as provided in Standing Rule 608. (Revised 11/13/07) (Moved from Page 3 - 11/13/07) (Revised 11/8/11)


RULE 16. Changes in the Standing Rules proposed by a Branch Executive Committee, or by an individual member of the Branch, shall be submitted by the Branch Executive Committee through its Area Governor and Regional Director to the President for his consideration.

(Moved from Page 3 - 11/13/07)


Repagination, moved from page 2.2 11/12/13 (Revised 04/08/14)

Article 3 - Amendment of Rules and Bylaws (Continued)


RULE 17. (Deleted 6/6/17)

Article 4 - Logo


RULE 20. The logo of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, as displayed on its official letterhead, is registered as a copyright under the laws of the United States and may be used only as authorized as provided in this rule; provided that it shall not be authorized for display on any item produced, handled or sold for the personal gain of any member of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated.

The logo may be used on official letterheads, envelopes, Branch bulletins, rosters, announcements of Branch functions, paraphernalia, certificates, plaques and memorabilia.

A Branch Executive Committee, by majority vote recorded in its minutes, may authorize the use of the logo in connection with the promotion or conduct of a specifically designated official event conduct- ed by or on behalf of the Branch. The State Executive Committee may authorize the use of the logo in connection with the promotion or conduct of a specifically designated official State, Regional or Area event of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated. It may be authorized, as provided herein, for display on other items produced, merchandised, marketed or sold.

The design of the logo may be enlarged or miniaturized to any dimension deemed desirable con- sidering the circumstances in which it is displayed; provided the same proportional scale of the official logo is maintained as nearly as practical.

When the logo is to be displayed in color, the following colors should be as those described below or similar.

PhotoShop


a.


Head, comb and wattle


Red

Red

255

Green

0

Blue

0

b.

Beak

Yellow

255

255

0

c

Body and tail feathers

Brown

216

80

37

d.

Neck, legs and feather accents

Lt Brown

220

150

0

e.

"SIR" letters fill

Blue

0

0

255

f.

Banner border and lettering

Yellow

255

255

0

g.

Banner fill, copyright symbol and "Incorporated"

Black

0

0

0

(Revised 6/10/08)


Revised 6/10/08, 6/6/17 - 3 -

Article 5 - SIR Awards and Certificates


RULE 23. Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, through its State Certificates Chairman, issues the following State awards and certificates:

a. Honorary Life Membership

b. Branch Charter Certificates

c. Presidential Awards

1. Senior SIR Certificate

2. Super Senior SIR Certificate

3. Century SIR Certificate

4. President’s Appreciation Certificate 5. (Deleted1/14/14)


RULE 24. Honorary Life Membership (HLM). The purpose of the HLM is to recognize excep- tional and extraordinary service by a member to SIR. It is not to be treated lightly or awarded merely on the basis of good fellowship. The award will be meaningful if bestowed only to those who, upon careful review and scrutiny, are found to have clearly earned it through faithful and outstanding service to the organization for five years or more. Failure to meet these strict requirements and high standards will destroy the purpose and meaning of the honor and will cause the request for HLM to be rejected.

a. HLMs requested by a Branch are first recommended by a two-thirds vote of the Branch Executive Committee. Form 45 - Application for Honorary Life Membership - and supporting documentation are then forwarded to the Area Governor and Re- gional Director for their approval, and a copy to the Chairman of the State Certifi- cates Committee, who will monitor the progress of the approval process, before the form is presented to the State President for the final approval. The facts related in the supporting document should only concern SIR Branch service. Non-SIR activi- ties and achievements are immaterial and will not be considered in determining the worthiness of an application. (Revised 11/1/16)

b. Approval of the Form 45 shall not result in the number of HLMs in a Branch with less than 100 members being more than two, or more than two percent of the total active membership for a Branch with 100 or more active members, on the date of applica- tion.

c. A State HLM shall be awarded to each Past State President. In addition, the State Board may, on its own initiative, with a two thirds vote of the State Board, award an HLM to other active members, based on outstanding or exceptional service per- formed by an active member at the Corporate level of SIR. Should the recipient of the State awarded HLM have been awarded a Branch HLM previously, the Authority code shall be changed from “BR” to “PP”(Past Presidents) or “SB” (State Board) and the State HLM shall supersede and replace the previously awarded Branch HLM and shall no longer count against the Branch’s 2% Rule. (Revised 2/21/07)(1/14/14)(11/1/16)

d. The recipient shall be presented the certificate specifying the facts upon which the honor has been bestowed in a matted and framed holder. The State shall also pro- vide a distinctive lapel pin indicating the recipient has received the honor. (Revised 2/21/07)(1/14/14)

e. The conferring of the HLM is reserved to the State Board. An active member of SIR can only receive one HLM, either through his Branch or as a State-initiated action, except as stated in c. above.(Revised 2/21/07)(1/14/14)

f. When an HLM is conferred upon a Branch member, he shall be presented with an appropriate certificate, provided by the State Board, which sets forth the facts on which the honor has been bestowed. The President, or present or past State Officer designated by the President shall present this certificate, although the Big Sir may recommend a person that meets these qualifications to the President. The Branch shall provide the member with an official lapel pin indicating he is a recipient of the honor and the certificate shall be appropriately matted and framed. (4/5/17)


(Revised 6/10/08)(1/14/14)(11/1/16)(4/5/17) - 3.1 -

Article 5 - SIR Awards and Certificates (Continued)


g. In situations where a Branch has determined that a past HLM recipient can no longer attend or participate in branch functions, the Branch Executive Committee with two-thirds approval may request that the Area Governor approve assigning that member HLM Emeritus status so that he would no longer count toward the Branch’s HLM limit. This Branch request shall be initiated by letter to the Area Governor over the Big Sir’s signature outlining the circumstances that prompt the requested action including steps taken to contact the HLM. The Area Governor shall approve or dis- approve the request by return correspondence with a copy to the State Certificates Chairman. If approved, the individual shall remain a member of that Branch and be reflected as HLM Emeritus in that Branch’s and State Roster membership records. (Revised 6/10/08) (11/8/11) (6/4/13) (1/31/17) (Revised 10/30/18)

h. An HLM shall be permitted to transfer from one Branch to another in accordance with the Standing Rules, provided that a member whose HLM initiated by a Branch shall no longer be counted by the initiating Branch in determining the number of HLMs au- thorized for it and shall not be counted in determining the number of HLMs author- ized for the new Branch to which he transfers.

i. An HLM shall remain an active member of his Branch until death, transfer, resigna- tion or permanent relocation, but shall not be subject to attendance requirements. (Revised 6/4/13) (1/31/17)

j. When a Branch-initiated HLM has been an HLM for at least 10 years he will automat- ically be elevated to Senior HLM in the Corporate HLM records and the State Roster, and he no longer counts toward any Branch’s HLM limit. (New 11/11/08)


RULE 25. Branch Charter Certificates. Upon a request by the President, the State Certificates Chairman will prepare an appropriate charter using the then current charter template and forward it to the awarding President or his designee for framing and awarding and will furnish a copy to the State Secretary for the Branch file. See Rule 300 for detailed procedure. (Revised 4/6/10)


RULE 26. Presidential Awards.


a. Senior, Super Senior and Century SIR Certificates. SIR active members upon attain- ing the age of 90 are entitled to be awarded the Senior Sir Certificate; upon attaining the age of 95 are entitled to be awarded the Super Senior Sir Certificate; and upon attaining the age of 100 are entitled to be awarded the Century Sir Certificate. The Big Sir of the Branch must submit a Form 6 - Senior Certificate Order Form - directly to the State Certificates Chairman for processing. The Certificate will be sent back to the Big Sir for framing. The Big Sir or his designee shall present the award. The awards shall be presented at a suitable SIR function or regular monthly luncheon. (Revised 6/10/08) (6/7/11) (6/3/14)(4/5/17)


Revised 11/8/11, 6/4/13, 6/3/14, (4/5/17) - 3.2 -

Article 5 - SIR Awards and Certificates (Continued)


b. President’s Appreciation Certificate. Past State Officers, Past State Committee Chairmen and Past Big Sirs are each presented with the President’s Appreciation Certificate for their service to SIR. The presentations to the State Officers and Chairmen are done by the State President or his designee, and the presentations to the Past Big Sirs are done by the Area Governors. This Certificate is prepared by the State Certificates Chairman at the request of the President. The President may also contact the State Certificates Chairman to obtain any special certificate that he deems appropriate. (Revised 6/10/08)


RULE 27. Branch Certificates.


a. A Branch Executive Committee may obtain a Certificate of Appreciation (Form 7) from the SIR Website and issue it to guest speakers, entertainers, or Branch mem- bers as it deems appropriate. (Revised 11/12/13)

b. (Deleted 11/12/13)


RULE 28. (New 1/14/14) (Deleted 04/08/14)


(Revised and Re-Paginated 1/14/14) (04/08/14)

Article 6 - Nonprofit Corporations


RULE 30. As a nonprofit corporation, a Branch cannot conduct, advertise or otherwise promote any transaction such as a sale or exchange of a product, service or similar activity in which any of the proceeds inure to an individual member as distinguished from the Branch as a corporation. For exam- ple, the listing in a Branch publication of an item for sale by a member is prohibited unless all of the proceeds from the sale are to go to the Branch.


Advertising or listing in a Branch publication, or otherwise promoting the sale or exchange of prod- ucts, services, or the like, of any person or entity other than a member in which all of the proceeds there from does not inure to Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, or a Branch thereof, is prohibited unless authorized by the Standing Rules or Corporate Bylaws.


The provisions of this rule do not apply to authorized travel, golf or bowling activities that are con- ducted in accordance with the Standing Rules.

Article 7 - Membership List


RULE 32. A membership list is a corporate asset. Without the consent of the State Board or Branch Executive Committee, as appropriate, a membership list or any part thereof may not be used by any person for any purpose not reasonably related to a member’s interest as a member without the consent of said State Board or Executive Committee. (Revised 11/16/04)

A membership list or any part thereof may not be:

a. Used to solicit money or property unless such money or property will be used solely to solicit the vote of the members in an election to be held by their corporation.

b. Used for any purpose that the user does not reasonably and in good faith believe will benefit the corporation.

c. Used for any commercial purpose except for uses necessary to promote or authorize the activity which is directly related to the fulfillment of the purposes and objectives of Sons In Retirement, Inc. (Revised 11/16/04)

d. Sold to or purchased by any person.

e. Used for purposes in competition with the corporation. (New 11/16/04)


Article 8 - Voting


RULE 34. (Deleted 11/11/08)


Article 9 - Forms


RULE 36. Forms provided through the State are controlled by the State Executive Committee. No creation or elimination of, or amendment to, such a form should be effected without it being first re- viewed by the State SIR Forms Subcommittee. The State SIR Forms Subcommittee shall then submit its recommendations regarding the form to the State Executive Committee for approval.

(Revised 9/13/05)(1/17/12)


As needs arise, routine maintenance and minor updates to existing forms may be accomplished by the SIR Forms Subcommittee Chairman, in consultation with the Rules Committee Chairman and other interested parties, without direct approval of the State Executive Committee. (New 6/6/06)(1/17/12)


RULE 36.1 (Deleted 9/13/05)


RULE 36.2 The individual responsible for completing a form is responsible for the distribution of that form in accordance with the distribution instructions on the form or in a rule enabling the form. (New 4/13/04)


RULE 36.3 All SIR forms may be submitted electronically, including Expense Claim Voucher Form 15. Supporting receipts and other necessary documents shall be scanned and forwarded along with the electronically transmitted form. (New 6/5/12)

Article 10 - Financial - State


RULE 37. The establishment of bank accounts for State Committees must receive prior ap- proval from the State Treasurer or Assistant State Treasurer. Standard financial and banking proce- dures for State Committees like Bowling, Golf, RV, SIRARC and any other State Standing Committees that receive and disburse funds pertaining to their activities and expenses are:

(Revised 11/13/07)

a. There shall be a Committee Treasurer appointed by the Committee Chairman.

b. Funds received by the Committee or a representative of the Committee shall be re- ceived by the Committee Treasurer in the name of the Committee.

c. The Committee Treasurer shall deposit and/or distribute such funds through an in- sured depository approved by the State Treasurer in an account bearing the title "Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, ‘Committee name’ " with the SIR State Treasury federal identification number. This shall not apply to money received that is neces- sarily paid to a provider in connection with an event on the date it is received nor shall it apply to funds paid for travel that involves air or sea transportation and goods and services in connection therewith, which payments must be handled as provided in Rule 369. (Revised 11/11/08)

d. There shall be three authorized signatures on the account -- the Committee Chair- man, Secretary, and Treasurer. All checks or withdrawals from the account for $500 or more shall bear the signatures of any two of the three authorized signers. (Revised 1/28/03 by the Excom) (Confirmed 4/15/03)

e. At least every three months, the Committee Treasurer shall prepare a financial report showing the receipt, disbursement, and amount on hand of all funds in his posses- sion. A copy of this report shall be sent to the Committee Chairman, State Treasur- er, and President. (Revised 1/28/03 by the Excom) (Confirmed 4/15/03)

f. The funds and accounts of the Committee shall be audited annually not later than January 31 by the State Audit Committee. The audit report shall be submitted to the Committee Chairman, State Treasurer, and President.

Article 10 - Financial - State (Continued)


RULE 38. State-related expenses incurred by SIR members must be authorized by the State and be filed on Form 15 - Expense Claim Voucher during the year of expenditure, by the quarter, preceding April 15th, July, 15th, October 15th, and not later than January 15 of the following year except with prior authorization, and submitted to the State President or his designee per Rule 816.

Approved vouchers will be sent to the State Treasurer for payment. Revised (1/17/12, 6/4/13)

a. All reimbursable expenses except mileage must have receipts or explanations for more than $20.00: (Revised 6/4/13) (10/30/18)

Mileage: Personal motor vehicle usage at the reimbursable rate shown on the 1. Expense Claim Voucher. (Revised 6/10/08), (6/5/12), (6/4/13)

1. Tolls: Bridge and road tolls.

2. Lodging: For trips over 100 miles one way, and early morning meetings requiring night driving. (Revised 6/4/13) (11/21/14 by Exec Comm, Effective 1/1/2015)

3. Meals: Actual cost including gratuity, but not including alcoholic beverages.


Other items as follows:

(a) Postage: Mailing and other delivery charges. (Revised 6/4/13)

(b) Copies and Printing: Purchases of printed supply pursuant to one’s SIR responsibilities. Copies or documents produced on personal copier or printer, at $0.10 per side. Explain. (Revised 6/4/13)

(c) Supplies: Such as envelopes, blank labels, etc. (Revised 6/4/13)

(d) Area meetings and Branch Training: Coffee and donut holes purchased by the Area Governor for Branch personnel attending the annual Branch Officer Training session and the Area meetings required by Rule 895, and meeting room rental fees when a free meeting room is not available. (Revised 6/4/13)

(e) Miscellaneous: (Revised 6/4/13)

b. Non-reimbursable expenses include the following:

1. Attendance at own Branch meetings or other functions.

2. Meals for spouses.

3. Alcoholic beverages.

4. Set-up or printing of personalized stationery.

5. Computer hardware, software or supplies unless pre-authorized by the State President or his designee.

c. Expenses of committee members must be approved by the Committee Chairman either by signature on the expense report, or by electronic approval such as email.

(Moved from Page 3.5 - 11/13/07)

Revised (6/4/13), (11/21/14 by Exec Comm, Effective 1/1/2015)

d. State expenses of Area Governors shall be approved the appropriate Regional Director either by signature on the expense report, or by electronic approval such as email.

(New 1/6/16 By Ex. Comm.)



Revised 6/10/08,1/17/12, 6/5/12, 6/4/13, 1/6/16

- 3.6 -

Article 11 – State Standing Committees


RULE 39. Standing Committees are the Committees established by a State Board Rules change not so named will not be considered as a Standing Committee. (Revised 8/7/00)


RULE 39.1. The following are the established Standing Committees. The President shall ap- point a Chairman for each committee, except the Information Systems Committee (INFOSYS) who’s Chairman is also the Chief Administrative Officer elected at the Annual Meeting. The ac- tions and makeup of each committee shall be governed by terms of the applicable Standing Rule or Bylaw.


1. State Amateur Radio Club (SIRARC)

2. State Golf Committee

3. State Bowling Committee

4. State Recreational Vehicle (RV) Committee

5. Information Systems Committee (INFOSYS)

6. Growth and Membership Committee

7. State Travel Committee

8. Rules Committee

9. State Audit Committee

10. Nominating Committee

11. President’s Advisory Committee

12. State Insurance Committee

13. State Budget Oversight Committee

14. State Training & Development Committee

15. State Bocce Committee

16. State Sporting Events


DIVISION 2 - THE BRANCH PART 1 - ORGANIZATION

Article 1 - General


RULE 40. Only active members of SIR and their guests are entitled to participate in activities of the organization. The number of guests shall not exceed the total number of participating SIR active members plus participating wives, companions and relatives of participating active members, and wid- ows of deceased members. A “relative” is defined as a parent, sibling, child or grandchild of a partici- pating member or companion. (Revised 11/10/09)


RULE 41. Regular monthly luncheon meetings are to be held by each Branch as required by the Branch Bylaws. Not more than two Holiday parties or Ladies Day functions per year may be held in lieu of regular luncheon meetings. (Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 42. Voluntary contributions may be solicited. (Revised 1/9/01)


RULE 44. Membership requires no initiation fees. Authorized expenses of the Branch may be defrayed through dues or voluntary contributions. The amount of dues or a suggested amount for vol- untary contributions shall be approved by the BEC. Fund raising events are not allowed.

(Revised 11/17/00) (Revised 8/5/13)


RULE 45. No Branch or Branch Activity shall conduct a raffle or lottery in violation of California State or Federal laws. (New 11/18/03)

-4-

Article 1 – General (Continued)


RULE 46. Expense Claim Voucher - Form 15 for Branch expenses shall be submitted for ap- proval to the Big Sir or if unavailable, the Little Sir. Expense reimbursement policy pertaining to purely Branch business shall be consistent with the SIR policy as detailed in Rule 38, or individual Branches may set their own policy by regulation. (New 11/15/05)

Article 2 - Membership


RULE 50. Membership shall be open to men retired from full-time gainful occupation or only working part-time regardless of age, race, color or religion.

(Revised 1/11/93) (Revised 11/8/11) RULE 51. (Deleted 10/30/18)

RULE 52. Part-time work should not detract from eligibility for membership if employment does not adversely affect one's ability to attend Branch luncheon meetings.


RULE 53. An active member is a member in good standing in a Chartered Branch or a member in good standing that has transferred from a Chartered Branch to a Provisional Branch.

(Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 54. (Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE 55 RULE 55. A Branch BEC may grant a member attendance relief who is unable to attend luncheon meetings due to prolonged illness, acting as a caregiver to a family member or companion, or an extended absence from the Branch locale. A member that is granted attend- ance relief is still considered a member and subject to Branch rules. (New 11/04/2014) (Revised 4/10/18) (New 11/04/2014) (Revised 4/10/18) (Revised 10/30/18)


Rule 55.1 (Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE 56. Each active member shall be identified with a Chartered Branch, except one who has transferred to a Provisional Branch. (6/3/03)


RULE 57. Each member shall be assigned an identification number that shall appear on a badge furnished to him. The badge shall also contain his Branch identification name or number or both, and his name in large type. The badge may include the organization, company or vocation from which the member retired, but not the position held.


RULE 58. (Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE 59. An active member is entitled to vote on all matters brought before the Branch mem- bership for decision and to hold office in the Branch. (Revised 6/5/07)


RULE 60. Members are obligated to attend all regular luncheon meetings unless prevented by illness or absence from the Branch locale.

Article 3 - Applicants for Membership


RULE 65. An applicant for membership in a Branch must be sponsored by a member of the Branch.


RULE 66. It shall be the responsibility of the sponsoring member to ensure that the applicant is fully qualified.


RULE 67. (Deleted 6/12/2018)


RULE 68. Applications shall be submitted on the proper form and filed with the chairman of the Membership Committee. The application shall bear the signature of the sponsoring member.


RULE 69. All applications for membership shall be screened, processed and approved by the Membership Committee as to the applicants’ qualifications and eligibility. Applicants may be inter- viewed if necessary.


RULE 70. If a member objects to the acceptance of an applicant, he shall advise the Member- ship Chairman the reason for his objection. The application and any objection thereto shall be re- viewed by the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 71. When an applicant has been accepted by the Branch Executive Committee, the Membership Chairman shall notify the applicant of his acceptance and the identification number as- signed to him. He shall be introduced in a ceremony prescribed by the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 72. Applications shall be processed through the Branch Executive Committee without delay and approved applicants shall be inducted within 90 days of application submittal.

(New 11/11/08)

Article 4 - Maximum Membership


RULE 74. Any restriction in the size of a Branch is against the principles and intent of Sons In Retirement and is therefore prohibited. Branches shall not establish maximum memberships nor inhibit recruitment and induction of new members by any means, including through waiting lists and moratori- ums on application submittals. Any exception to this rule proposed by a Branch Executive Committee shall be submitted through its Area Governor and Regional Director to the President for consideration. The exception must be approved by the State Board. (New 11/11/08)


RULE 75. (Deleted 6/10/08) RULE 76. (Deleted 6/10/08) RULE 77. (Deleted 6/10/08)


Article 5 - Dual Membership


RULE 80. Membership in more than one Branch at the same time is permissible. The member is required to pay dues to both Branches, if applicable. (revised 10/30/18)


Article 6 - Transfer of Membership


RULE 85. An active member may transfer his membership to a Provisional Branch or to anoth- er Chartered Branch by submitting a Membership Application to the Membership Chairman of the Branch to which he desires to affiliate. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 86. An active member who transfers to an active or Provisional Branch shall retain his active status and is not required to attend a branch meeting before being accepted for membership in the branch. (Revised 6/3/03) (11/13/12)


RULE 87. Sponsorship by a member of the Branch to which a member is transferring is not re- quired. (Revised 6/10/08)


RULE 88. Upon his acceptance by the Branch Executive Committee, the Secretary of the Branch to which the member is transferring shall so notify the Secretary of the Branch from which he is transferring and request his membership record. (Revised 9/13/05)


RULE


90.


(Deleted 10/30/18)

Article 7 - Inactive Members

RULE

90.1

(Deleted 11/16/04)


RULE

91.

(Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE

92.

(Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE

93.

(Deleted 6/10/08)


RULE

94.

(Deleted 10/30/18)


Article 8 - Required Attendance


RULE 100. A member shall be required to attend one-half of the regular Branch monthly luncheon meetings within the previous twelve consecutive month period unless the Branch BEC has approved a different attendance requirement(s).


A member shall be notified in writing, e-mail, and/or telephone by his Branch if he is in violation of the Attendance Rule 100 and is subject to the termination of his Branch membership. See Rule 107. (Revised 6/7/18) (Revised 4/10/18) (Revised 10/30/18)


RULE 101. Certification of attendance by a member at another Branch meeting will be consid- ered as a credit to his attendance record. Individual Branches may limit the number of make-ups dur- ing a 12-month period.


RULE 102. Attendance by a State elected or appointed officer, State Advisor or State Commit- teeman at a meeting of the State Board, a meeting of a State standing committee or a meeting required by the Bylaws or Standing Rules, shall be a credit to his requirements.


The attendance by any other member at such a meeting may likewise be so credited by the Branch Executive Committee.

Article 9 - Termination, Expulsion and Suspension


RULE 105. The breach of any Rule, Bylaw or Regulation, or refusal to conform thereto, may be cause for membership termination, expulsion or suspension.


RULE 106. Upon the finding by the Branch Executive Committee of a member’s breach of any Rule, Bylaw or Regulation, or refusal to conform thereto, the Branch Executive Committee shall deter- mine if termination, expulsion or suspension of the member shall occur.


RULE 107. Notice of said pending termination, expulsion or suspension shall be delivered to the member either personally or by first-class mail sent to the last known address of the member shown on the Branch records not less than 15 days prior to such meeting of the Branch Executive Committee. Such notice shall include all of the following:


a. Give the reason for the action being taken against him.

b. Notify him of his right to be heard by the Branch Executive Committee, either by ap- pearance, or in writing at least five days before the next Branch Executive Commit- tee meeting. (Revised 9/13/05)

c. Specify the date, time and location of the meeting of the Executive Committee.


RULE 108. The termination, expulsion or suspension of a member of a Branch shall be accom- plished by a two-thirds affirmative vote of the Branch Executive Committee at a regular meeting, or special meeting called by the Big Sir after a notice requirements and hearing have been fulfilled.


RULE 111. (Deleted 4/13/04)

PART 2 - BRANCH OFFICERS


Article 1 - General


RULE 120. The Branch Officers are the Big Sir, Little Sir, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treas- urer, Assistant Treasurer and from two to six Directors.


RULE 121. The Branch Officers constitute the Branch Executive Committee (BEC).


RULE 122. No Branch Officer shall serve concurrently as a State Officer, except that upon appli- cation to the President, the President may make an exception to this rule. (Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 123. No Branch Officer or member shall receive any compensation or fee for his services. He may be reimbursed by the Branch Executive Committee for expenses including, but not limited to, mileage, meals, postage, duplicating and telephone calls incurred and paid for by him, if authorized and approved by the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 124. The Branch Big Sir, Little Sir, Secretary and Treasurer for the incoming year shall attend an annual training session conducted by the Area Governor for the next year. The session shall be conducted in the latter part of the current calendar year. This Branch Officer training need not be limited to four Branch Officers, and if any of those designated above is unable to attend, the BEC shall appoint a replacement. (New 11/13/07)


RULE 125. Each Branch should establish a Chairman of a Committee for each of the four RAMP functions (Recruitment, Activities, Member Relations, and Publicity). These Committees should report to the BEC and are intended to focus on their specific area of membership related responsibility, and to bring continuity to their functions with turnover of Branch leaders.

(NEW 6/02/15)

Article 2 - Election of Branch Officers


RULE 130. Following his election and prior to the end of the year, the Big Sir-elect shall make appointments to all Branch committees to serve at the pleasure of the Big Sir during his service year. In particular, the Big Sir-elect shall appoint a Nominating Committee of three or more members of his Branch, other than himself or the Little Sir elect, to select a slate of nominees to stand for election as Branch Officers in the coming year to serve during the calendar year following election. In addition, the Nominating Committee shall propose to the BEC an Area Governor candidate to serve during the next calendar year, to assist the BEC in its AG nomination responsibility under Rules 155 and 796. Refer to Rule 255 for the appointment of the Auditing Committee. (Revised 6/6/06)(1/13/15)


RULE 130.1 The Branch Nominating Committee shall develop and maintain a succession planning list for Branch Officer positions and the Area Governor position. (New 4/5/17)


RULE 131. Members appointed to the Nominating Committee shall have served at least one year as a member of the Branch Executive Committee or as chairman of any other committee. The Nominating Committee, by May 31, shall inform the Big Sir of the proposed slate of Branch Officers.

If the election of officers will not be held in August (per Rule 134) due to an August scheduled event, this May 31 date shall be changed to April 30. Replacement candidates for incumbents in Secre- tary/Assistant Secretary and Treasurer/Assistant Treasurer positions shall be capable of creating, stor- ing, and transmitting data by electronic means. The names of all nominees including the Area Gover- nor Candidate shall be published in the July Branch bulletin or, if none, by written notice to each mem- ber. (Revised 6/5/07)(1/17/12)(1/13/15)


RULE 131.1. One of the committees the Big Sir appoints is the Membership Committee. In addi- tion to any duties the branch and/or the Big Sir assigns to the Membership Committee the Membership Committee Chairman shall arrange for the monthly completion of the State Form 27 in accordance with instructions on the form. New (7/15/15)(Revised 11)/18/15

RULE 132. & 133 (Deleted 6/5/07)


RULE 134. Election of the officers shall be held at the August luncheon meeting. In the case of a scheduled event in August, the election should be moved to July. Additional nominations may be made from the floor. A nominee from the floor must signify his agreement to accept the office if elected. Vot- ing for Branch Officers shall be by secret ballot. However, for any office for which there is but one nom- inee, voting may be by voice or by a show of hands. (Revised 6/5/07)(1/13/15)


RULE 135. (Deleted 6/5/07, and text moved to Rule 134)


RULE 136. The Branch Secretary shall prepare Form 20 - Branch Personnel, providing the meeting place information and personal data of specific Branch personnel within 5 days after the Au- gust Election of Branch Officers or prior to September 1 whichever date is earlier. One ORIGINAL or email attachment of the Form 20 shall be forwarded immediately after preparation, even though all po- sitions may not be filled, to the Chairman of the State Roster Subcommittee and copies to others as indicated on the form.

(Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)(1/15/13) RULE 137. (Deleted 9/13/05)

RULE 138. After submitting the Form 20 following Branch elections, the Branch Secretary shall monitor the data reported thereon. Any changes that subsequently occur to the data should promptly be reported by entering only the changed information on a blank Form 20 and mailed to the Chairman of the State Roster Subcommittee and to others as indicated on the form. Alternatively, notification by email is acceptable. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


Revised 6/5/07,1/17/12,1/15/13,1/13/15, 7/15/15, 11/18/15, 4/5/17

- 12 -

Article 3 - Installation of Branch Officers


RULE 140. The officers-elect of each Branch shall be installed at either the November or De- cember meeting of the Branch prior to taking office January 1st of the ensuing year. The Big Sir, a past Big Sir of any Branch, a member of the State Board of Directors, an Area Governor or a Past President, shall be the installing officer. Elected officers that were not installed in November or December, or ap- pointees to fill vacancies, shall be promptly and properly installed.

(Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 141. The Installing Officer shall instruct the elected or appointed Officer(s) to stand before him. He shall then ask the following:


"Do you accept the office to which you have been chosen, and do you assume the responsibility to perform faithfully the duties of your office and to be bound by the Corporate and Branch Bylaws and the Standing Rules of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated?"


After receiving affirmative response, the Installing Officer shall announce:


"I hereby declare you installed to serve during the ensuing year and until an elected or appointed successor has been installed. Congratulations."

(Revised 11/15/05)

PART 3 - DUTIES OF BRANCH OFFICERS


Article 1 - Branch Executive Committee


RULE 150. The Branch Executive Committee, subject to the State and Branch Bylaws and the Standing Rules, and with due consideration of the Guidelines, shall direct the exercise of all corporate powers of the Branch and the conduct of all its activities and affairs.


RULE 151. The Branch Executive Committee may adopt such regulations, not inconsistent or in conflict with the Corporate or Branch Bylaws or the Standing Rules, as it deems necessary to govern the activities of the Branch.


RULE 151.1 All activities on behalf of the Branch and not in conflict with Rule 13 and Rule 650 or any other rule, must be approved by the Branch Executive Committee. The approval must be effected by an affirmative vote of a majority of the Executive Committee at a regular or special meeting. The approval shall not be effective unless it is properly recorded in the minutes of the meeting. Also refer to Rule 405. (Revised 6/5/07)


RULE 152. A Branch regulation shall be adopted at a regular meeting of the Branch Executive Committee and the text thereof shall be set forth in the minutes.


RULE 153. A Branch regulation so adopted shall continue in effect until amended or repealed by the Branch Executive Committee, by a majority vote at a regular meeting of the body, the action being recorded in the minutes.


RULE 154. The Branch Executive Committee may delegate the management of any Branch ac- tivity to any eligible active member or members or committee, provided that such activities shall be ex- ercised under the ultimate direction of the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 155. The Branch Executive Committee (BEC) of each Branch in the Area shall nominate by July 31 of each year the member it proposes for Governor of its Area. The nominee may be the can- didate proposed by the Branch Nominating Committee or another candidate of the BEC’s choosing. A candidate for Area Governor must be willing to serve and must be or have been a member of the (BEC) for at least two years at the time he assumes the office. A past or present Big Sir is the pre- ferred qualification. The Regional Director may waive the preceding qualifications at his discretion. The nomination shall be made on Form 44 - Candidacy for Area Governor. The form shall be submit- ted to the current Area Governor by July 31. To formally document the election, the Area Governor- elect shall promptly execute Form 44A - Notification of Election. (Revised 11/11/08) (Revised 11/8/11)(1/13/15)

Article 2 - Big Sir


RULE 160. In general, subject to the control of the Branch Executive Committee, the Big Sir shall control all of the affairs of the Branch in accordance with the Corporate and Branch Bylaws and Standing Rules, with due consideration being given to the Guidelines.


RULE 161. The Big Sir shall be responsible for the execution of, and compliance with, the Stand- ing Rules.


RULE 162. When present, the Big Sir shall preside at all meetings of the Branch and its Execu- tive Committee except when, at his request, that function is occasionally performed by the Little Sir.


RULE 163. The Big Sir and the Branch Secretary, or other officer authorized by the Branch Ex- ecutive Committee and duly recorded in the minutes, may execute any document or other instrument authorized by the State Board.


RULE 164. The Big Sir is an ex officio member of all committees except the Nominating Commit- tee on which he shall not serve in any capacity. Revised (7/15/15)


RULE 165. The Big Sir shall represent his Branch at the Annual Meeting of the Members of the Corporation and vote on propositions to amend the Branch and Corporate Bylaws and in the election of the prescribed Corporate Officers. (Revised 6/5/07)


RULE 166. In the event that a Big Sir cannot attend the Annual Meeting, the Branch Executive Committee shall appoint an alternate from the other elected Officers of the Branch. Also refer to Corpo- rate Bylaws Section 185. (Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 167. By the 10th of each month, the Big Sir shall submit a completed Form 27-Monthly Branch Membership Report-which includes membership and luncheon attendance data for the previous month in accordance with the distribution instructions on the form. There shall be an agenda item for review of the most recent Form 27 at each BEC meeting for the purpose of reviewing progress towards reaching annual goals specified on the form. The Big Sir shall report to the BEC his recommendations for action to be taken to achieve the goals not being met. The December Form 27 is to be submitted to the new Officers as well as the previous year Officers. New(11/9/10)


RULE 168 The Big Sir shall submit to his Area Governor by April 5, July 5, October 5 and Janu- ary 5 of the following year a report describing why or why not his branch is inducting new members at the rate required to meet the goals specified on Form 27. Each report shall include his recommenda- tions for action to be taken to achieve the Form 27 goals not being met. The January report shall be submitted to the new Area Governor as well as the previous Area Governor.

New (11/9/10)


RULE 169 The Big Sir shall represent his branch at the Annual Meeting of Sons in Retirement Inc. As a voting member of the Corporation, he shall cast his ballot on any proposal put forth in the meeting that requires a vote of the membership. Should he be unable to attend personally, the Branch Executive Committee shall appoint an alternate from the Branch elected officers to attend in his stead (Ref. Corp. Bylaw sect. 185). Not later than 30 days prior to the scheduled meeting date, he shall in- form his Area Governor, Regional Director, and the State Secretary, the name and Branch position of the Branch Representative who will be attending the Annual Meeting. (New 04/05/16)


Rule 169.1 The Big Sir or his appointed alternate may submit form 15 to the Branch Treasurer for reimbursement of travel expenses as authorized in Rules 38,46, and 219.

(New 4/5/16)


Article 3 - Little Sir


RULE 170. In the absence or inability of the Big Sir, or at his request, the Little Sir shall perform all of the duties of the Big Sir. When so acting, he shall have all of the powers of, and shall be subject to, all restrictions placed upon the Big Sir.


RULE 171. The Little Sir may be a member of any committee except the Nominating and Travel Committees on which he shall not serve in any capacity.


RULE 172. The Little Sir shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Big Sir or the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 173. The Big Sir elect or his designate shall represent his Branch at the yearly October Training Session. (New 11/12/13)


Article 4 - Branch Secretary

RULE 175. The Branch Secretary shall prepare and keep, or cause to be kept, in a separate file, the minutes of all Branch Executive Committee (BEC) meetings, whether regular or special. The minutes of all such meetings shall contain the names of SIR members present, the presence of a quor- um and the proceedings. SIR Form 53 - Request for Approval of Branch Travel Event, shall be filed as an addendum to the Branch minutes for all travel activities and events approved by the BEC. The minutes of special meetings shall also contain how the meeting was authorized and noticed. The minutes shall be prepared within 10 days of the above meetings and the Secretary shall promptly mail a copy to the Area Governor and Regional Director.


The minutes do not need to be approved by the BEC prior to forwarding. If in any given month no BEC meeting was held, the secretary, in lieu of minutes, shall send a note by the end of that month to his Area Governor and Regional Director stating that no BEC meeting was held by his Branch for that month.

(Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 175.1 The Branch Secretary shall keep in a separate file, all documents relating to each Branch travel event, which includes copies of the minutes of the Branch Executive Committee meeting in which the travel event was approved, the Form 53 - Request for Approval of Branch Travel Event, SIR-qualified list of Travel Agencies, documentation to show the travel agency's insurance is current when the travel event is taken, SIR Contract Form 50, SIR Form 52 - Travel Event Financial Report and SIR Form 51 - Travel Event Foreign if applicable, and SIR Form 59 - SIR Travel Event Checklist. The- se travel files shall be maintained for two years after the travel event has taken place. (New 6/7/05)


RULE 176. In the absence or inability of the Big Sir and Little Sir, the Branch Secretary shall per- form all of the duties of the Big Sir and Little Sir. In the absence of, or at the request of the Branch Sec- retary, a Member of the Executive Committee may preside at an Executive Committee or luncheon meeting. (Revised 9/19/00)


RULE 177. The Branch Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, in a place designated by the Branch Executive Committee, a list showing all the information on the original Membership Application Form 2. (Revised 4/6/10)

RULE 178. The Branch Secretary shall arrange for the production of a Branch roster each year in order to comply with our IRS agreement. It shall be furnished to the Chairman-State Roster Subcommit- tee by March 1 of each year by either (1) a printed hard copy via US Mail, or (2) an Excel, Word or

pdf electronic copy that can be printed without any further manipulation (pamphlet style printing not ac- ceptable) A copy of this roster shall also be distributed to the Branch’s Area Governor and Regional Director. The roster is to contain at least the member’s name, spouse’s name, telephone number (in- cluding the telephone area code), mailing address and email address. (Revised 6/5/07) (6/7/11) (1/15/13) (11/8/17)


Paid advertising in the roster is prohibited. Acknowledgement of a gratuitous printing shall be confined to the back cover and shall contain only the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the entity and a concise description of the entity, such as: “a gambling casino, bar and restaurant”; “a full-service bank”; “a supermarket-pharmacy-deli”; along with their logo is permissible. Acknowledging more than three entities is prohibited. (Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 179. The Branch Secretary shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings provid- ed by the Branch Bylaws. (Moved from Page 16 - 11/15/05)


RULE 180. The Secretary of the current Branch of an Honorary Life Member, Senior Honorary Life Member, Century Sir, Super Senior Sir and Senior Sir shall notify the State Certificates Chairman of the transfer, death, resignation and any change of address, telephone number or email address of the above.. (Revised 6/10/08-1/18/11)


RULE 181. The Branch Secretary shall have electronic or hard copy access to the SIR Manual and “The Schedule of SIR Branch Operations” at the Branch Executive Committee meetings for ready reference. (New 7/7/04-Revised 1/18/11) (1/17/12)


Secretary's Records

RULE 182. The Branch Secretary shall maintain the following active records for the duration shown. (Revised 4/13/04)


a. (Deleted 4/13/04)

b. Minutes of Executive Committee meetings, for at least five years. (Revised 6/5/07)

c. Bulletins, for at least five years. (Revised 4/13/04)

d. (Deleted 11/16/04)

e. A copy of each current regulation of the Branch and the date of its adoption together with a record of each regulation repealed and the date thereof, permanently.

(New 4/13/04)

f. Branch Rosters, for at least five years. (Revised 6/5/07)


RULE 183. The Branch Secretary shall maintain a separate permanent file containing the follow- ing less active records.

a. (Deleted 4/13/04)

b. The original or copy of the Branch Charter, and Branch Articles of Incorporation and each amendment thereof. (Revised 4/13/04)

c. The written confirmation of tax exemption issued by (1) the United States Internal Revenue Service and (2) The State of California Franchise Tax Board.

d. Written confirmation of the employer identification number issued by the United States Internal Revenue Service.

e. Records of where and when the Branch was organized; the number of the Branch; the name of the Branch when organized together with any change in the name; the Charter date; the date on which the Charter was presented to the Branch; and the date of incorporation and the incorporation number. (Revised 4/13/04)


Revised 6/7/11, 1/17/12, 1/15/13, 11/8/17 - 17 -

Secretary's Records (Continued)


RULE 184. The Branch Secretary shall keep and maintain for two years such other records as may be prescribed in the Standing Rules. (Moved from Rule 200 - 11/17/00)


RULE 185. The Branch Secretary shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Standing Rules, the Branch Regulations or the Big Sir or the Branch Ex- ecutive Committee.


RULE 190. When a Branch Charter is surrendered or revoked, the Branch Secretary shall turn over to the Area Governor all of the Secretarial records. Other Branch records may be discarded.



(New 6/9/09)

a. The Area Governor shall forward to the State Secretary the following records if avail- able and then discard whatever remains.

1. Branch Charter.

2. Branch Articles of Incorporation.

3. Tax Exemptions from IRS and State of California.

4. Employer Identification Number assignment from IRS.

5. Branch Record of Organization.

6. Minutes of Branch Executive Committee meetings (recent five years).

7. Final or most recent copy of Form 28 - Monthly Cash Report.

8. Documents pertaining to closing down of the Branch including any infor- mation about merging with another Branch.

9. Bank statement annotated to indicate disposition of final bank funds.

10. Any other records that in the Area Governor’s judgment are relevant enough to be retained in the State Secretary’s Branch files.


~ This page is intentionally blank ~

Maintenance of Branch Records RULE 200. (Moved to Rule 184 - 11/17/00)

RULE 201. Records of terminated members may be destroyed six months after the individual ceases to be a member.


RULE 202. All records of each Branch are the property of the Branch, and shall be maintained by the responsible officers in a neat and orderly manner. (Revised 7/7/04)


RULE 203. When new officers are elected, the outgoing officers shall present all records to the incoming officers by not later than the meeting in January. (Revised 7/7/04)


RULE 204. Immediately after the transfer of all records to the incoming officers as stated in Rule 203, the Branch Secretary shall notify his Area Governor of the transfer. (Revised 7/7/04)


Article 5 - Assistant Branch Secretary


RULE 210. The Assistant Branch Secretary shall assist in the maintaining of Branch records, and in the absence of the Branch Secretary shall perform the duties of, and be governed by, the same rules as the Branch Secretary.


RULE 211. (Deleted 11/16/04)


RULE 212. The Assistant Branch Secretary shall have such other powers and perform such oth- er duties as may be prescribed by the Standing Rules, the Branch regulations, or by the Big Sir or the Branch Executive Committee.

Article 6 - Branch Treasurer


RULE 215. The Branch Treasurer shall keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, accurate accounts of the properties and financial transactions of the Branch, including accounts of its assets, liabilities, receipts and disbursements.


RULE 215.1 The opening of a Branch bank account, including accounts for the Branch commit- tees in need of separate accounts, shall be authorized and controlled by the Branch Treasurer or Big Sir with the approval of the Branch Executive Committee. Approval must be recorded in the BEC minutes and kept on file with the Branch Secretary and Branch Treasurer as long as the account is ac- tive. Any Branch account must be in the name of the Branch or its committee, such as “SIR Reynolds Branch 1” or “SIR Reynolds Branch 1 Golf Committee” account. A copy of the Branch Articles of Incor- poration may be provided to the bank along with the Branch federal identification number, known as the Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) that is assigned by the IRS. This information is contained in local Branch files and/or on the SIR Website under SIR Documents - Organization Information - Branch EIN Numbers. Banks and Savings and Loans used by Branches must be fully insured by FDIC, or in the case of Credit Unions, the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). (Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 216 By the 10th of each month, the Branch Treasurer shall submit a completed Form 28- Monthly Cash Report as of the end of the previous month including the total number of Active Branch members reported at the BEC meeting for the previous month in accordance with Form 28’s distribution instructions. Form28 does not need to be approved by the BEC prior to distribution nor does the check- ing balance shown on Form 28 need to be confirmed with a bank statement dated later than the end of the previous month.. The December Form 28 is to be distributed to the new Officers as well as the pre- vious year Officers. (Revised 11/9/10)(6/4/13)


RULE 217. All money received or collected by or on behalf of the Branch shall be held in the custody of the Branch Treasurer. He shall deposit all such money in the name of and to the credit of the Branch with such depositories as may be designated by the Big Sir or the Branch Executive Com- mittee. (Revised 1/28/03 by the Excom) (Confirmed 4/15/03)


RULE 218. The Branch Treasurer shall disburse, from Branch funds, the amount required to pay the pro rata assessment determined each quarter by the State Treasurer. Quarters start January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1. The amount assessed shall be paid no later than the 15th of the first month in the quarter for which the assessment applies. Also refer to Rule 866. (Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 219. The Branch Treasurer shall disburse, from Branch funds, such other amounts nec- essary to defray the expenses of the Branch upon approval of the Big Sir or Little Sir.

(Revised 11/13/01)


RULE 220. The Branch Treasurer is responsible for the collection of voluntary contributions and or dues, in accordance with Rule 44. (Revised 11/12/13)


RULE 221. The Branch Treasurer shall have such additional responsibilities and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the Big Sir or the Branch Executive Committee.


RULE 222. (Deleted 11/15/05 effective 1/1/06)

Insurance Coverage


RULE 223. The office of the Branch Treasurer is covered by a fidelity bond or criminal insurance policy in the amount established by the State Board. If additional or other type of coverage is desired by any Branch such coverage must be secured by the Branch at its own expense.

(Moved from Page 21 - 11/13/07)


RULE 224. Should a Branch receive income from the sale of alcohol, said income must be re- ported monthly as a separate line item on the Branch Form 28. Total annual sales receipts for liquor sales are to be reported to the Chairman of the State Insurance Committee.

(New (04/08/14)


Income Tax Returns


RULE 225. The Branch Treasurer shall not file Income Tax Returns.

a. (Deleted 6-6-94)

b. If a Branch receives a federal income tax return Form 990 or any request from the IRS or the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the Branch Treasurer should im- mediately refer such documents to the SIR State Treasurer for final disposition and should not respond to the IRS or FTB on their own. (Revised 11/18/15)

c. Annually, the SIR State Treasurer shall file Form 199, or any subsequent similar form with the California Exempt Corporation Annual Information Return, with

the California State Franchise Tax Board for the parent corporation. The return shall include all chartered Branches regardless of the amount of annual gross receipts. (Revised 11/18/15)

d. Branches should not request information or otherwise deal with either the IRS or FTB. Branches should address any questions or concerns to the SIR State Treasur- er. (Revised 11/18/15)


Financial Records


RULE 227. The Branch Treasurer shall maintain the following financial records for seven years:

a. All tax returns.

b. Monthly financial statements.

c. Bank statements. Revised (6/7/11)

d. Check stubs.

e. Invoices paid.


Article 7 - Assistant Branch Treasurer


RULE 235. The Assistant Branch Treasurer shall assist in maintaining the Branch financial rec- ords and, in the absence of the Branch Treasurer, shall perform his duties, governed by the same Rules as the Branch Treasurer.


RULE 236. The Assistant Branch Treasurer shall have such other powers and perform such oth- er duties as may be prescribed by the Branch Executive Committee.


(Revised 6/7/11), (04/08/14), (11/18/15)

- 22 -

Article 8 - Branch Director


RULE 240 The Branch Director is an integral part of the Branch Executive Committee. He has equal voting rights with other members of the committee and shares equal responsibility for the conduct of all Branch operations and activities. A Branch Director shall serve one-year terms and be restricted to three consecutive terms, excluding any partial year immediately pre- ceding the first such year. If a Branch Director vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligibility is reestablished. Upon request by the Big Sir, the Regional Director or the State President may make an exception to this rule. (Revised 9/12/18) (Revised 10/30/18)


RULE 241. A Director may be assigned specific duties and responsibilities by the Big Sir or the Executive Committee.


Article 9 - Fiscal Matters


RULE 245. Expenses for continuing group activities in which all members do not participate, such as bowling, golf, bridge, and the like, must be borne totally by those participating.


RULE 246. Special activities, including in lieu luncheons, dinners or picnics, shall not be intend- ed to be profit-making. (Revised 6/6/06)


Article 10 - Audits


RULE 255. Following his election and prior to the end of the year, the Big Sir-elect shall appoint an Auditing Committee, consisting of two or more members who have not served as officers during the current (audit) year, to make an audit of the books and records covering the financial transactions of the Branch during the current calendar year. Refer to Rule 130 for the appointment of the Nominating Committee. (Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 256. The annual audit shall include an audit of the funds of all activities of the Branch, in- cluding, but not limited to golf, bowling, travel, bridge and the like.


RULE 257. A report containing a résumé of the audit(s) shall be submitted to the Area Governor, and to others as indicated on the form, by February 10 following the audit year on Form 29 - Branch Audit Report - and including a copy of the December Form 28 - Cash Report - for the audit year. (Re- vised 6/10/08)


RULE 258. Should the President at any time deem it advisable or necessary to audit the finan- cial transactions of any Branch he may appoint a state auditing committee to do so.

Article 11 - Supplies


RULE 265. The Branch Secretary shall obtain forms and other supplies from SIRinc, most of which are available via the SIR Website. A Branch may purchase, at its own expense, supplies not available from SIRinc. (Revised 11/14/06)


RULE 266. (Deleted 11/14/06) RULE 267. (Deleted 11/14/06)


Article 12 - Branch Bulletins


RULE 270. Communication is necessary within each Branch to keep the members informed of the Branch and Corporate activities. To meet this need, each Branch should have a monthly bulletin or other means of communication to transmit information to Branch members. (Revised 9/13/05)


RULE 271. Paid advertising in the bulletin is prohibited. Acknowledgement of gratuitous printing shall be contained to the back page and shall contain only the name, address, telephone number, and email address of the entity and a concise description of the entity, such as: “a gambling casino, bar and restaurant”; “a full-service bank”; “a supermarket-pharmacy-deli”; along with their logo is permissi- ble. Acknowledging more than three entities is prohibited. (Revised 11/15/05)


RULE 272. The Branch Bulletin Editor shall cause each monthly Branch bulletin to be sent to all Branch active and inactive members, the Branch’s Area Governor, Regional Director, Big Sirs in the Branch’s Area, the Editor of SIR Happenings and the State President as well as others the Branch Ex- ecutive Committee may designate. (Revised 9/13/05)


RULE 273. To ensure that every member receives notice of State events, each Branch shall make available to its members literature supplied to it concerning each State event and shall include information concerning the event in its bulletins issued during the period in which deposits for the event are being accepted. (New 9/13/05)

PART 4 - FORMATION OF A NEW BRANCH


Article 1 – Conditions


RULE 280. A Charter shall be granted to a new Branch by the President upon a determination that it is meeting at a place within the boundaries of SIRinc, that the required procedures have been followed, that the applicant Branch has completed the required Provisional period of at least six months and attained the required number of active members within two years. Upon application, the President may extend the Provisional period. (Revised 11/14/06)


Article 2 - Formation Procedure


RULE 285. Twenty-five members or men with qualifications to become members may apply on Form 33 - Application to Form a Provisional Branch - through channels of corporate communications to the President for the formation of a Provisional Branch. (Revised 11/14/06)


RULE 286. The Area Governor shall confer with the appropriate Regional Director(s), Governors of contiguous Areas, and the Big Sirs of other Branches in the Areas to determine the effect of the pro- posed Provisional Branch on existing Branches. If approved, the Area Governor shall obtain Form 33 from the SIR Website or Assistant State Secretary, have them completed and forwarded to the Presi- dent through the Regional Director. (Revised 11/14/06)


RULE

287.

(Deleted 11/14/06)

RULE

288.

(Deleted 11/14/06)

RULE

289.

(Deleted 11/14/06)

RULE

290.

After approval by the President, the Form 33 will be forwarded to the Assistant State

Secretary who will assign the Provisional Branch number, using an inactive (Interim Managed Branch) number from the State inactive branch list. One copy of the Form 33 will then be sent to the Area Gov- ernor for delivery to the Branch and one copy will be sent to the State Secretary for his file. (Revised 11/14/06)(4/5/16)


RULE 291. (Deleted 11/14/06)


RULE 292. The minimum number of active members required for a Branch to be chartered is 50. This requirement shall not be obtained through temporary transfers and shall be attained within two years of the organization date of the Provisional Branch. (Revised 11/14/06)


RULE 293. (Deleted 11/14/06) RULE 294. (Deleted 11/14/06)

Article 2 - Formation Procedure (Continued)


RULE 295. The Branch Officers to serve during the Provisional period shall continue to serve following the granting of the charter until their successors have been duly elected and installed. Their duties shall be as prescribed for Branch Officers. (Revised 4/6/10)


RULE 296. During its Provisional period, a Branch shall be governed by the Corporate and Branch Bylaws and the Standing Rules. A member of a Provisional Branch shall have the same privi- leges and responsibilities as a member of a Chartered Branch except where the performance of an ac- tivity requires membership in a Chartered Branch such as in the case of voting at the Annual Meeting. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 297. All funds contributed to a new Branch shall be deposited in the name of the new Branch in a State or Federally licensed institution providing public banking services using the sponsor- ing entity's identification number. (Revised 12/6/93)


RULE 298. The sponsoring entity shall arrange for the advancement of necessary funds, but not less than $100.00, to cover the organizational expenses of the new Branch. Repayment of such ad- vances at the end of the Provisional period shall be by agreement between the Executive Committees of the new Branch and the sponsoring entity. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 300. After a period of at least six months from the date of approval of Application Form 33 by the President, the Provisional Branch has been conducting its regular monthly luncheon meetings, and has a minimum of 50 active members and all other requirements have been met, chartering shall be implemented as follows.


a. The Big Sir of the Provisional Branch shall so state in writing including his preference for an award date to the Area Governor, who shall indicate his approval and forward it through the Regional Director to the President for approval.

b. If the Provisional Branch is to be given the existing Branch number of an “Interim Management” Branch, the President shall notify the Big Sir, the Area Governor, the Regional Director, and the State Secretary of his approval or disapproval.

c. Upon approval, the President shall terminate the Provisional status of the Branch in writing and approve the granting of a charter for the new Branch and so notify the State Certificates Chairman who will prepare the charter and forward it to the award- ing President or his designee for framing and awarding and will furnish a copy to the State Secretary for the Branch file.

d. If the Provisional Branch is using the Branch number whose corporation had been dissolved or if it is a new Branch number/corporation then the President shall notify the Assistant State Secretary who shall take actions necessary to incorporate the Branch. Alternatively, if the Provisional Branch is using the Branch number of an in- active (Interim Managed Branch), then the Assistant State Secretary shall notify the new Branch Secretary to file a Branch name change with the State Secretary per Rule 335. (Revised 4/5/16)

e. The official Branch Charter Date is the date of the President's notification terminating the Provisional status of the Branch.

(Revised 4/6/10)


Revised 4/6/10, 4/5/16 - 26 -



~ This page is intentionally blank ~

PART 5 - REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION OF BRANCH CHARTER


Article 1 - Grounds for Action


RULE 315. The breach of any Standing Rule, Bylaws or Branch Regulation, or refusal to con- form thereto, may be cause for the revocation or suspension of a Branch Charter by the State Board.


Article 2 - Procedure


RULE 320. Upon the finding by the State Executive Committee that a Branch has breached any Standing Rule, Bylaws or Branch regulation or has refused to conform thereto, the President, upon rec- ommendation of the Committee, may refer such findings and recommendation to the State Board.

(Typo 11/8/11)


RULE 321. Notice of a meeting at which the pending revocation or suspension of a Branch is to be considered shall be delivered, either personally or by first class mail sent to the last address of the Big Sir shown on Branch records, not less than 15 days prior to such meeting.

Such notice shall:


a. Give the reasons for the action being taken against the Branch;

b. Notify the Branch of its right to be heard, either through appearance of a representa- tive or by a letter to be received at least five days before the meeting, and;

c. Specify the date, time and place of the meeting.


Article 3 - Final Action


RULE 325. Revocation or suspension of a Branch Charter shall be accomplished by a two-thirds affirmative vote by the State Board at a regular or a special meeting called by the President after the required notice and hearing has been fulfilled. In the event that there is no one in authority to notify be- cause of resignations or similar circumstances the revocation or suspension may be accomplished without a hearing. Revised (6/7/11)

Article 4 - Interim Management


RULE 327.

a. The President, Vice President, State Secretary, State Treasurer, Assistant State Secretary and Assistant State Treasurer shall succeed to and constitute the Interim Branch Executive Committee of a Branch, vested with all of the powers and respon- sibilities of a Branch Executive Committee in any of the following situations: (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)

1. During such time as the Charter of the Branch is suspended.

2. Upon the revocation of the Charter of the Branch.

3. Upon surrender of the Charter of the Branch by action of the Branch Executive Committee with the approval of 80% or more of the Branch members present and voting. (Revised 9/9/03)

4. During such time as the State Executive Committee determines that the Branch is in the state of bankruptcy.

5. During such time as the State Executive Committee determines the Branch to be inactive. Failure of a Branch to hold a monthly luncheon meeting for a period of four consecutive months shall be conclusive evidence that a Branch is inactive.

6. During such time as the State Executive Committee determines that the BEC can no longer function because Branch Officers have resigned or otherwise refuse to perform their duties. (New 6/7/11)

a1. Area Governors involved in the transferring of members brought about by a Branch surrendering their Charter shall, for the Branches in their area, report to their Re- gional Director, the Branch number receiving transferees and the number of mem- bers that transferred. (New 9/9/03)

b. Upon the happening of any of the above events, all funds, property and other assets of the Branch will be immediately vested in the Interim Branch Executive Committee and held by that committee for management and such disposition as it deems nec- essary and proper. The Interim Branch Executive Committee may require such ac- tion of the former Branch Officers as may be required to carry the provision of this rule. After outstanding obligations like expense accounts, pro rata charges or other accounts payable have been met, the Treasurer of the Interim Branch (State Treas- urer) shall report same to the State Board. The State Board of Directors, at its sole discretion, shall then direct the State Treasurer to disperse such remaining funds. The State Board of Directors may use these general guidelines:

1. If a significant number of members from the Interim Branch have transferred to a single Branch and the transferee situation to other Branches is unclear, then the funds will be transferred to that single Branch.

2. If a significant number of members have transferred to more than one branch and the situations are clearly defined then the funds should be split among those Branches on the basis of numbers of transferees. Any amount, so de- termined, that is less than $5.00 shall be retained by the State Treasury.

3. If the State Board has determined that the transferee situation is unclear then the funds are retained by the State Treasurer.

(Revised 9/9/03)

c. The State President, Vice President, Secretaries, and Treasurers shall serve as the Big Sir, Little Sir, Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer respectively, of the Interim Branch Executive Committee. Upon the disposition of the Branch Corporation, the Interim Branch Executive Committee shall, by resolution, dissolve itself, and notify the Assistant State Secretary. (4/5/16)

d. The provisions of any Standing Rule prohibiting dual membership shall not apply to any member serving on an Interim Branch Executive Committee pursuant to provi- sions of this Rule. (New 8/1/94)


Revised 6/7/11,4/5/16 - 28.1 -

PART 6 - CHANGING NAME OF BRANCH


RULE 335. To change the name of an incorporated Branch, the general procedure is as follows -


a. The Branch Secretary shall contact the State Secretary who will prepare a Certificate of Amendment of Articles of Incorporation and send it to the Branch for execution.

b. The Big Sir (as President) and the Branch Secretary will sign the form and make two copies.

c. The Branch Treasurer will provide a check for the appropriate amount made payable to the Secretary of State.

d. The signed form, two copies of the signed form, and the check are mailed by the Branch Secretary to the Document Filing Support Unit at the address shown at the top of the form.

e. When the Branch receives the approved documents, a copy shall be promptly mailed to the SIR State Secretary for inclusion in the Branch file.

(Revised 11/10/09) Clarified (11/8/11)


PART 7 - NON-RESPONSIBILITY DECLARATION


RULE 345. All notices, brochures, announcements, or other publications relative to group activi- ties other than those involving travel, arranged for or by, or sponsored by Sons In Retirement, Incorpo- rated, and its Branches shall legibly display the following wording:


All activities arranged for or by, Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches, are for the convenience and pleasure of the members and their guests who desire to participate. Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches do not assume any responsibility for the well being or safety of the participants or their property, in any matters pertaining to said activities.


The statement prescribed in Rule 436 shall be displayed with respect to activities involving travel. (Revised 6/5/07)

DIVISION 2 - THE BRANCH (Continued)


PART 8 – BRANCH SHORT TRIPS


RULE 350 Branches may contract for, and use a public carrier (a bus company) for one -, two- or three-day trips without going through a travel agency. The carrier must possess an active “Transpor- tation Charter Class A Certificate” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and have a Commercial Automobile Liability Insurance Policy that meets the requirement of CPUC General Order 101-E (a minimum of $5 million liability coverage). Branches shall document these requirements on SIR Form 46 “Request for Approval of Branch Bus Trip”. (New 11/9/10) (Revised 11/8/11, 11/1/16)


RULE 351 Bus companies shall furnish to the State Insurance Committee a “Certificate of Liabil- ity Insurance” that meets the requirements of CPUC General Order 101 E and names SIR as an addi- tional insured to qualify as a SIR-Qualified Bus Company. The Certificate of Liability Insurance, under the Certificate’s Description of Operations, shall state “Sons In Retirement. Inc., and all authorized Branches and members, are additional insured’s under the policy as respects General Liability and Au- tomobile Liability coverage subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.”

(Revised 11/8/11)


Based upon an approved Certificate of Insurance, the Insurance Committee shall notify the State Travel Committee to show the approved Bus Company as a SIR-Qualified Bus Company on the SIR website. After a company is listed on the approved list any branch may contract with an approved Carrier and document this approval on SIR Forms 46 for a specific trip planned by a branch.

(New 11/9/10) (Revised 11/8/11, 11/1/16)


RULE 352 The Designated Member (DM) appointed by the BEC to manage a bus trip shall be responsible for trip literature and collect fares from, the participants. He shall give the participants’ fares to the Branch Treasurer, who shall maintain a separate custodial sub-account in the branch finan- cial records. Just prior to the event, the Branch Treasurer shall prepare a check for the event payable to the bus company and give it to the DM for payment to the bus company. (New 11/9/10)


RULE 353 Upon completion of a bus trip, the DM shall comply with the requirements of SIR Form 47 – Short Bus Trip Financial Report, detailing the disbursement of the trip’s funds and distribute it per distribution indicated on the form. (New 11/9/10)(Corrected 04/08/15)


PART 9 – LUNCHEON COSTS FOR SIRinc OFFICERS


RULE 354 Remuneration for luncheon costs for SIRinc Officers visiting Branches or SIR Branch functions shall conform to the following:

a) When a Branch invites an Area Governor (AG) or any other SIRinc Officer to a luncheon or other SIRinc function the branch will pay; this includes the spouse or significant other.

b) When an AG or any other SIRinc Officer invites himself to a Branch luncheon or oth- er SIR Branch function for official business he will pay and the SIR State will reim- burse the SIRinc Officer. The SIRinc Officer will pay for the spouse or significant oth- er, not the State.

(Added 6/4/13)

DIVISION 3 - SPECIAL ACTIVITIES PART 1 - SIR TRAVEL CODE

Article 1 - Definitions and Terms


RULE 360. Unless the provisions of the context otherwise require, the definitions used in the SIR Travel Code are:

a. “Agency” means a SIR-Qualified Travel Agency listed on the SIR Website.

b. “ATC” means Area Travel Coordinator as specified in Rule 388.

c. “BEC” means Branch Executive Committee.

d. “Branch” refers to SIR at the Branch level.

e. “BTC” means Branch Travel Chairman, who is the member appointed by the Big Sir as Chairman of the Branch Travel Committee who is responsible to the BEC for the planning, promotion and conduct of duly authorized Branch travel events.

f. “DM” (Designated Member) means the person designated to contract with an Agency to act on behalf of that Agency in connection with a specified travel event sponsored by a Branch or State Committee.

g. “GL” (Group Leader(s)) means the active members(s) of a participating Branch se- lected by BEC of the sponsoring Branch or State Committee designated to accom- pany, escort, guide or supervise the participants throughout a specific Branch or State travel, bowling or golfing event. The BTC or DM may also function as the GL if so selected. (Revised 11/14/06)

h. “Personal Gain” means anything of value received by a member, BTC, DM, or GL, his spouse or dependents, directly or indirectly, from an Agency or supplier arrang- ing, presenting, or providing travel in connection with a travel event. (Revised 11/12/13)

i. “SIR” refers to Sons In Retirement, at both the Branch and State level.

j. “SIRinc” refers to Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, at the State or Corporate level.

k. “State” refers to SIRinc, the State Organization or State Corporation.

l. “STC” means State Travel Committee.

m. “Travel Literature” means any and all printed or written material, including VHS tapes, DC’s and DVD’s, containing a reference to a travel, bowling or golfing event that is distributed or caused to be distributed by a Branch, the State or State Commit- tee, including a Branch Bulletin or SIR Happenings.

n. “Travel Event” means any event involving travel authorized by the State Board or BEC, excluding “Branch or State Bowling or Golfing Events” involving travel, which also must be authorized by the State Board or BEC.

o. “Guest” means a SIR non-member other than participating wives, companions and relatives of participating active members, and widows of deceased members. A “rel- ative” is defined as a parent, sibling, child or grandchild of a participating member or companion. (New 11/10/09)

Article 2 - General


RULE 365. The provisions contained herein are deemed necessary to protect the interests of SIR and to secure for their members the benefits of an effective and sound travel program.

(Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 366. Travel events sponsored by SIR shall not obligate or commit it to any course of ac- tion or financial responsibility. (Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 367. Only an active member of SIR, his wife or companion, and his guest(s) shall be enti- tled to participate in SIR travel events. A relative of an active SIR member (meaning a parent, sibling, child or grandchild) and their companions, and the widow of a deceased member may also participate. The number of guests participating in a SIR travel event shall not exceed the total number of active members, plus participating wives, companions and relatives. (Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 368. (Deleted 11/10/09) RULE 369.

a. To provide adequate funding for insurance coverage for each event involving travel outside the United States (including its Territories and Possessions), Canada and Puerto Rico, contracted by SIR, or any of its Branches, a $27.00 insurance add-on shall be included in the fare to be paid by each participant. (Revised 6/4/13)(1/13/15)(11/1/16)

b. The BTC/Branch or State Committee DM authorized to sign SIR contract Form 50 or 50B for the event, shall be responsible for notifying the Agency providing the goods or services that they shall collect, account for and remit all insurance add ons, by a separate check, made payable to the Branch or State Treasurer. The check should be issued no later than the event departure date. The Branch Treasurer shall remit such insurance add ons received from the Agency to the SIR State Treasurer with the SIR Report Form 51 within 7 days of receipt of the funds. (Revised 6/6/06)(1/13/15)


RULE 370. Travel Prohibitions.

a. No BTC, DM or GL involved in a SIR travel event shall receive or accept any per- sonal gain from travel other than free passage or reduced fare passage, as remu- neration or compensation for ongoing travel arrangements, duties and/or responsi- bilities as specified by SIR and/or the travel agency contract. This Policy also in- cludes Familiarization trips when such travel has been expressly authorized by the President or BEC in accordance with the SIR Travel code. The above provisions also apply to Branch and State travel, bowling and golfing events when such travel has been expressly authorized by the President or BEC. (Revised 11/12/13)

b. No member or BTC shall present or vote on any travel proposal to the BEC or State Board, nor be designated as a DM or GL for a travel event if the member or BTC, his wife or companion or relative has any financial interest in, or is an employee, agent or representative of an Agency that will be providing services for any portion of said event.

(Revised 11/14/06) (Revised 11/12/13)


c. Acceptable forms of remuneration by Travel Agencies for SIR travel events are free or reduced fare passage or a dollar percent per person based on terms negotiated with Travel Agency Contract. (New 11/12/13)

Article 2 - General (Continued)


RULE 371. No member shall use SIR facilities or publications to promote or offer to other mem- bers, or solicit other members in connection with, a travel event that is not an authorized SIR travel event.

(Moved from Page 31 - 11/14/06)(1/31/15)


RULE 372. (Moved from Page 31 and Deleted 11/14/06)


RULE 373. Each action by the State Board or a BEC to sponsor a travel event and to designate the member to contract with an Agency, shall be separate and limited to one single specified travel event. (Moved from Page 31 - 11/14/06)

RULE 374. Any event involving travel that is arranged by SIR must be approved by the BEC on form 53 (Request for approval of Branch Travel Event) with or without a Travel Agency. After Form 53 has been approved with affirmative vote of the BEC at a regular or special meeting, it should be proper- ly recorded in the minutes of the meeting, with copy of the Form 53 attached. Following approval of Form 53, if an Agency is used, the BEC or DM must complete Form 50 Contract signed by the BEC and the agency before any deposits are accepted for the event or it is publicized or otherwise an- nounced as being available to members of the Branch or their guests. Form 50 shall not be altered in any way other than filling in blanks as appropriate, and it must be done on SIR Contract Form 50 with a SIR-Qualified Travel Agency. The contract executed by the Designated Member (DM) of a Branch and the Agency shall be signed by both him and the authorized representative of the Agency and kept on permanent file with the Branch Secretary.(1/13/15)


RULE 375. Any event involving travel that is proposed by a State activity committee must be ap- proved by the State Board using Form 53B - Request for Approval of State Event Involving Travel. Then, the event must be arranged using SIR State Contract Form 50B, or equivalent, with a SIR- Qualified Travel Agency. The executed contract shall be signed by both the DM of the activity commit- tee and the authorized representative of the Agency and kept on file for at least 5 years with the com- mittee Secretary. (Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 375.1 Any event involving travel that is proposed by the State Travel Committee must be approved by the State Board and recorded in the minutes of the meeting. Then, a contract must be completed with a SIR-Qualified Travel Agency. The contract executed by the DM of the State Travel Committee and Agency shall be signed by both him and the authorized representative of the Agency and kept on file for at least 10 years with the State Secretary. The STC is exempt from mandatory use of Approval Form 53B and Contract Form 50B. (New 11/11/08)


RULE 376. If the BTC or State Committee wants to contract with a travel agency not listed on the SIR Website, the BTC or State Committee will instruct the agency to forward current copies of all of the documents required by Rule 380 to the Chairmen of the SIR State Insurance and Travel Commit- tees so that the agency may be included on the SIR-Qualified Travel Agency list. The State Chairmen shall maintain a file of those documents. See Form 59A - Travel Agency Letter.

Article 3 - SIR-Qualified Travel Agencies


RULE 380. A SIR-Qualified Agency (“Agency”) must:

a. Have a current California Seller of Travel license and identification number (CST ID

No.).


b. Carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in comprehensive General and Professional Liability Insurance. The Policy shall include Sons In Retirement, Inc., All Authorized Branch- es and Members as Additional Insured and stipulate coverage is provided for the Hold Harmless Clause included in the SIR Standard Travel Contract. If the policy does not include the above Additional Insured and Hold Harmless Clause, the En- dorsements must be provided naming Sons In Retirement, Inc., All Authorized Branches as Additional Insured and that coverage is provided for the Hold Harmless Clause included in the SIR Standard Travel Contract. A 30-day notice must be sent to SIR in the event of policy cancellation. A copy of the Insurance Certificate shall be kept on file with the SIR State Insurance Committee.

c. Have a current appointment to ARC (Airline Reporting Corporation) or IATAN(International Airlines Travel Agency Network), except Agencies that do not provide travel event transportation by aircraft and do not have a current appointment to ARC or IATAN must use boat, ship, motor coach, rail or other land based methods of transportation as aircraft cannot be used in any phase of these SIR travel events.

d. Maintain a trust account in an insured institution, deposit and keep therein all funds of participants of each travel event pending disbursement of those funds for goods or services pertinent to the event. (Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 381.

a. The insurance requirements listed in Rule 380 for Agencies are under the control of the SIR State Insurance Committee. The Chairman shall maintain a file of the re- quired insurance documents for each Agency. The Chairman must notify the Agency 90-days before the insurance expiration date that the SIR Insurance Committee must receive a copy of the new insurance policy or the renewal certificate not later than the current insurance expiration date. Failure of the Agency to comply may result in the Agency being removed from the SIR-Qualified list.

b. The other requirements listed in Rule 380 for Agencies are under the control of the SIR State Travel Committee. The Chairman shall maintain a file of the other re- quired documents for each Agency.

c. The Chairmen of the SIR State Insurance and State Travel Committees shall cause to be published on the SIR Website a list of the SIR-Qualified Travel Agencies. It shall be updated, if changes occur, on a monthly basis. This list shall include the name of the travel agency, CST Number, and the expiration date of their insurance. It shall identify those Agencies that are not permitted to provide air transportation (ATP – Air Transportation Prohibited) for any portion of a SIR travel event because they do not belong to ARC or IATAN.

Article 3 - SIR-Qualified Travel Agencies (Continued)


RULE 382. The following conditions provide grounds for the SIR State Board to have an other- wise SIR-Qualified Travel Agency removed from the list of agencies that must be used by SIR, Inc. or its Branches for events involving travel:


a. Failed to comply with the provisions of a signed SIR and/or Travel Agency contract to the satis- faction of the SIR Designated Member signing said contract, or the Group Leader who accom- panied the event, and these facts are documented and sent to the President through the corpo- rate chain of communications with concurrence at each level.


b. Refused to accept credit card payment from participants for a SIR contracted event. This provi- sion does not apply to those events where the travel agency is only providing bus transportation to and from a specific event, such as a theater, sporting event, etc.


c. Uses a SIR participant list for purposes of other than SIR approved events involving travel.(New 6/5/07)


Article 4 - Branch Travel Program Administration


RULE 383. The BEC is responsible in every respect for the travel program of the Branch and, as part of this responsibility, shall require the BTC to use SIR Form 59, to insure that all travel event re- quirements are followed. This form shall be completed and used by both the BTC and the Big Sir on behalf of the BEC at every step of the Branch Travel Event process. Upon final completion of the form 59, it shall be submitted to the Branch Secretary for filing with the Form 53. (6/5/07)(Corrected 4/08/15)


RULE 384. A BTC may be appointed by the Big Sir. The BTC, under the direction and supervi- sion of the BEC, is responsible for the planning, promotion and conduct of duly authorized Branch trav- el events. The BTC shall use the SIR Form 59 - for all Branch Travel Events as specified in Rule 383. (Revised 6/5/07)(1/13/15)


RULE 385. The Big Sir may appoint one or more members including himself to serve on a Branch Travel Committee to assist in the conduct of an effective travel program. Any elected officers of a Branch may serve as Branch Travel Chairman or as a member of the committee, but as a member of the BEC he must abstain from voting on Branch travel matters. (Revised 11/13/07, 7/15/15)


RULE 386. A Branch shall not, directly or indirectly, enter into an agreement or understanding with an Agency giving the agency the right to submit a proposal or bid on any or all future travel events of the Branch.


RULE 387. Upon approval of a State Travel Event by the State Board, no Branch shall thereafter authorize or otherwise schedule a Branch Travel Event that involves travel in an area covered by the State Travel Event within 12-months before or after the State Travel Event. This rule does not apply to any Branch Travel Event duly authorized by the BEC before the State Travel Event was approved by the State Board. Upon application by the BEC, the President may except from this rule a Branch Travel Event that he finds not to duplicate travel in areas included in the State Travel Event to the extent that the Branch event would adversely affect the State event.

Article 3 - SIR-Qualified Travel Agencies (Continued)


RULE 388. A Travel Coordination Committee may be formed by two or more Branches for the purpose of sponsoring and coordinating travel events. It shall be chaired by the BTC that arranges the event, and is responsible for BTC approval. Publicity for the event shall be confined to the branches participating. Multi Branch travel is encouraged.

Revised 11/13/07 Moved from page 34, 1/13/15 (1/13/15)


Article 5 - Branch Travel Event Process RULE 405. (Deleted 1/13/15)

RULE 406. In approving a travel event, the BEC may authorize such items of personal gain as it deems appropriate, subject to the provisions of this code.


RULE 407. The DM of the sponsoring Branch or State Committee shall agree, in contracting with the Agency:

a. To act as or provide a group leader(s) (GL) for the sponsoring Branch or State Committee in connection with a specified event. (Revised 11/14/06)

b. To act on the behalf of the Agency in offering or selling all transportation and travel goods and services in connection therewith for the event and sell no other travel goods or services in connection with the specified event. (1/13/15)

c. (Deleted 1/13/15)

d. (Deleted 1/13/15)

e. Not to receive any consideration for travel services from any passenger.

f. To require the event participants to pay all consideration for travel services as provided in Rule 420.

g. To ensure that insurance fees are collected and remitted to the Branch or State Treasurer as required by Rule 369.


RULE 408. (Deleted 1/13/15)


RULE 409. If a Branch Travel Event is cancelled for any reason, the BTC shall make copies of the SIR Contract Form 50 for that Travel Event and mark on the face of the Form in bold lettering of a distinctive color “EVENT CANCELLED”, and the date of cancellation. Copies of the cancelled Form 50 must then be promptly sent to the Branch Secretary, Branch Treasurer, Area Governor, Regional Direc- tor and State Travel Chairman.

Article 6 - Travel Event Insurance


RULE 412. It is the responsibility of the BTC to verify that the Agency’s insurance shall be in ef- fect from the date the contract is signed until the travel event is completed.


RULE 413. If the insurance expires 30 days prior to or during the travel event, the BTC must check the SIR Website to ascertain if the insurance has been updated on the list of Agencies, or con- tact the Chairman of the State Insurance or Travel Committee to ascertain the status of the insurance. Confirmation that the insurance was reinstated or renewed must be provided by the BTC to the Branch Secretary by an updated copy of the qualified list or a signed and dated note as to how this was ascer- tained for filing with the Form 53.


RULE 416. If the insurance of an Agency is not renewed or is cancelled prior to the contracted travel event, the BTC shall immediately notify the Chairman of the State Insurance or Travel Committee of this fact. The BTC will be provided a recommendation by the State Chairman regarding the status of the travel event. The BTC shall then promptly notify the Big Sir of the situation and the recommenda- tion received from the State Chairman. If there are significant changes regarding the travel event, the Big Sir shall call for an emergency meeting of the BEC. The BTC shall promptly notify the travel event participants and the Chairman of the State Travel Committee of the decision of the BEC.

Article 7 - Travel Event Funds


RULE 420.Participants in a travel event shall pay all costs for goods and/or services received. Payment may be made by credit card, check or money order made payable to, and delivered to, the Agency or Branch, as determined by the BEC or State Board for the event.


RULE 421. A reasonable amount may be added to the cost of a travel event to be made availa- ble to the DM or GL for the purpose of meeting unanticipated needs, emergencies and special activities directly related to the event. Examples of unanticipated needs are: transporting a participant by taxi to a hospital if other transportation is not available, transportation to government offices to resolve a prob- lem that occurred during an event, and telephone calls to a participant’s family in the event of illness or injury. Special activities could be a party near the end of an event, or some other activity is which all participants are included. Add-on funds may only be used during the dates that the travel event occurs. The funds cannot be used to pay for services that are the responsibility of the travel agency and are included in the travel agency contract -- such as excursions, activities, transportation, accommodations, step-on guides, nor for personal sight-seeing tours selected by individual participants. A reasonable add-on fee shall not exceed $50 per participant. See Rule 423 for disposition of surplus funds. (Re- vised 11/13/07)


RULE 422. All funds paid directly or indirectly by an Agency to a Branch for a travel event for the purpose or purposes designated by the Agency shall be made by check payable to the Branch DM for the travel event. The funds shall include, but not be limited to, money handled by the designated escort to pay for non-prepaid travel expenses such as gratuities, entertainment, parties, unexpected expens- es, fees and the like. Such funds do not include refunds or the like paid directly from the Agency to the participants.


RULE 423. Upon termination of each travel event, all unencumbered travel funds that are sub- ject to the control of the BTC shall either be expended as a refund to the participants in a proportionate manner, or expended on an appropriate activity that directly benefits the participants of that travel event, in a uniform manner. Any such funds remaining that amount to less than $5.00 per participant, shall be turned over to the Branch Treasurer as unencumbered surplus travel money.(Revised 4/08/15)


RULE 424. Within 30 days of the termination of each travel event, the BTC shall submit to the Branch Treasurer a SIR Form 52, along with the unencumbered surplus travel money specified in Rule 423, setting forth in detail all receipts and expenditures of funds received by him by means of Rule 422. The report of the SIR Form 52 shall include copies of documents supporting monies received from the Agency and receipts for all expenditures except gratuities and refunds to participants of excess funds. The report shall include a statement setting forth any deviations from the travel services and the ac- commodations actually provided and those contained in the proposal as approved, the financial or other adjustments made for such deviations and the BTC’s statement as to the reasonableness of the ad- justments.

Article 8 - Travel Literature


RULE 429. No Branch shall participate in, or publicize in any way, any travel event of another Branch unless it has been duly authorized by the BEC of the sponsoring Branch. All travel literature shall clearly state which Branch is sponsoring the event. No Branch shall participate in, or publicize in any way, any State travel event or State Bowling or Golfing event, unless it has been approved by the State Board.


RULE 430. No Branch shall sponsor, announce, or publicize or promote a travel event or circu- late or distribute information or literature concerning the event where it is indicated in any way that a Branch is sponsoring, or that an Agency is proposing, planning, arranging or presenting the event for all members of SIR or for all Branches of SIR unless the event has been authorized as a State event by the State Board.


RULE 431. The publicizing of a Branch travel event shall be confined to the Branches within the Area of the originating Branch. Where the travel event is originated by a Branch in two or more contig- uous Areas formed pursuant to Rule 388, the publicizing of the event shall be confined to the Branches within the Areas involved. This rule does not apply to Branch travel events publicized in SIR Happen- ings.

RULE 432. The copyrighted logo of SIR shall be used only as prescribed in Rule 20.

RULE 433. Travel events offered for active members of SIR shall not be offered to the general public or any other organization. Travel events are only for active members of SIR, their companions, relatives and their guests. In promoting a travel event a simple statement such as “…travel event is open to members of SIR only and their guests” should be used.


RULE 434. The wording in any travel literature shall disclaim any liability on the part of SIR. Travel literature concerning any travel event arranged by an Agency should clearly identify that Agency as the entity presenting the event with a statement such as “… Branch No … sponsors this (identify the event) arranged by the …Travel Agency.” The travel literature must indicate that the travel agency is a registered seller of travel and display its registration (CST) number. Travel literature may indicate that a Branch is sponsoring a travel event, but in no instance shall the literature indicate that the Branch is “arranging” or “presenting” the event.


RULE 435. All travel event fliers, brochures and application forms shall specify exactly how check or money orders are to be drawn for each travel event. SIR Branch, Area and Region Travel Bulletins or announcements that briefly describe a travel event may refer to the payment procedure in general terms.


RULE 436. Each item of travel literature arranged for SIR and its Branches shall legibly display the following wording:

All travel events and other activities sponsored by Sons In Retirement, Inc., or its Branches, are for the convenience and pleasure of the members and their guests who desire to participate. Sons In Retirement, Inc., and its Branches do not assume any responsibility for the well being or safety of the participants or passengers, or their property or damages whatsoever, in any manner pertaining to said travel events.

Where the travel literature is prepared by a travel agency, the following words shall be added to the above wording:

Any other ‘disclosures’ or non-responsibility provisions contained herein shall not in any way incur any liability attaching to Sons In Retirement, Inc., or any Branch thereof.

Article 9 - Enforcement


RULE 440. While the BEC is primarily responsible for the enforcement of this Code in accord- ance with its provisions, each member of SIR has the privilege of reporting any violation of which he becomes aware to the Chairman of the State Travel Committee. In reporting such a violation the chain or Corporate Communications shall be followed, subject to the right of the member to communicate without regard to the chain of Corporate Communications in the event that no action is taken on the matter within a reasonable time. (Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 441. The President shall consider all alleged violations of this code that have not been acted upon by a BEC in a timely manner that are reported to him and he shall cause an investigation and review of the matter to be made by the State Travel Committee Chairman. Upon determination that a violation of the SIR Travel Code has occurred, the President shall take such action as he deems appropriate including, but not limited to, removal from office or termination of the membership of the offending party, and suspension of the Branch Travel Program for failure to monitor it properly. (Revised 11/14/06)


RULE 442. No Branch shall participate in, or publicize, a travel event offered or otherwise pre- sented by an Agency during such period of time that the Agency is found by the President, with the concurrence of the State Executive Committee, to be in violation of any provision of the SIR Travel Code. (Revised 6/6/06)

Article 10 - State Travel Committee


RULE 450. The State Travel Committee (STC) shall be composed of a Chairman and up to 5 members. Upon application from the Committee Chairman to the President or at his discretion, the number of members may be altered. No member of the State Board of Directors shall serve on the STC. The Vice President shall serve ex officio without the right to vote.


RULE 451. The STC shall review, from time to time, the provisions of this Code together with the travel events being conducted by the Branches and State Committees. Proposed changes or additions to the SIR Travel Code by the STC shall be coordinated with the State Rules Committee to avoid con- flict, overlap or duplication with other Standing Rules or Bylaws.


RULE 452. The Chairman of the STC shall review all SIR Travel Event Report Forms submitted to him for compliance with the SIR Rules. He shall report any State or Branch violations to the State President.


RULE 453. The STC may provide information to the Branches, regarding the proper and effec- tive conduct of Branch travel programs. Upon request, the STC may provide assistance and training to the Branches in resolving travel problems.


RULE 454. The STC shall propose a State Travel Event for all active members of SIR, and those persons specified in Rule 367, every five years or so. Refer to Rule 375.1 for procedures.

(Revised 11/11/08)


a. (Deleted 11/11/08)

b. (Deleted 11/11/08)

PART 2 - STATE GOLF


RULE 500. The State Golf Committee ("Committee") shall be composed of a Chairman and 11 members. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number of members may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without the right to vote. (Re- vised 6/3/03)


RULE 501. The Committee Chairman may appoint such subcommittees that he deems necessary. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 501.1 The Committee shall review from time to time the golfing activities of SIR and its Branches. Proposed changes or additions to the Standing Rules or Bylaws pertaining to golfing shall be coordinated with the State Rules Committee to avoid conflict, overlap or duplication with other Standing Rules or Bylaws. (New 6/3/03)


RULE 502. The Committee shall undertake such activities in the conduct of State and Regional golfing events and the coordination of Area Golfing events as may be specified by the President, with due consideration being given to the responsibilities and functions of the Regional Directors and Area Governors. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 503. (Deleted 6/3/03)


RULE 504. The Committee Chairman shall not serve for more than three consecutive years, ex- cluding any partial year immediately preceding the first such year. He shall continue to serve until his successor is installed. If he vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligibility is reestab- lished. He may serve as a host at State Tournaments on a rotational basis with the balance of the Committee members. (Revised 9/13/05)(1/13/15)


RULE 504.5 The State Board may authorize the Committee to sponsor State Golfing events. Each event shall be specifically authorized for that single identified event. When travel is involved, pro- cedures are outlined in Rule 375. (Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 505. The Committee, upon the approval of a majority of its members, may recommend to the State Board the authorization of a State Golfing event. When the event includes travel, the proce- dures are outlined in Rule 375. (Revised 11/11/08)


a. (Deleted 11/13/07)

b. (Deleted 11/11/08)

c. The State Golf Committee shall comply with applicable provisions of the SIR Travel Code -- Rules 360 et seq. Notwithstanding some of the terminology used, since most of those rules were designated for Branches, they apply equally to the State in most instances. (Revised 11/13/07)

PART 2 - STATE GOLF (Continued)


RULE 505.5 When travel is involved as part of an approved Committee event, the Committee shall be responsible for enforcing compliance with applicable provisions of the Travel Code.

(New 6/3/03)


RULE 506. A proposed event shall not be publicized or otherwise promoted by the Committee or the Branches or Members before it is authorized by the State Board. The Committee is responsible for preventing the distribution of any literature concerning such an event prior to its authorization by the State Board. (Revised 6/3/03)

(Moved from Page 41.2 - 11/13/07)


RULE 507.All funds received by the Committee or its representative, in connection with a golfing activity, shall be processed in accordance with Rule 37. (Revised 6/5/07)

(Moved from Page 41.2 - 11/13/07)


RULE 508.(Deleted 6/3/03) (Moved from Page 41.2 - 11/13/07) RULE 530.(Deleted 6/3/03) (Moved from Page 41.2 - 11/13/07)


(Deleted Page 41.2 - 11/13/07)

PART 3 - STATE BOWLING


RULE 550. The State Bowling Committee shall be composed of a Chairman and up to 15 mem- bers. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number of mem- bers may be altered. The Vice President shall serve ex officio without the right to vote.

(Revised 4/13/04)


RULE 551. The Committee Chairman may appoint such subcommittees as he deems neces- sary. (Revised 4/13/04)


RULE 552. The Committee shall review from time to time the bowling activities of SIR and its Branches. Proposed changes or additions to the Standing Rules or Bylaws pertaining to bowling shall be coordinated with the State Rules Committee to avoid conflict, overlap or duplication with other Standing Rules or Bylaws. (Revised 4/13/04)


RULE 553. The Committee shall undertake such activities in the conduct of State and Regional bowling events and the coordination of Area bowling events as may be specified by the President, with due consideration being given to the responsibilities and functions of the Regional Directors and Area Governors. (Revised 4/13/04)


RULE 554. A member shall not serve as Chairman of the Committee for more than three con- secutive years, excluding any partial year immediately preceding the first such year. He shall continue to serve until his successor is installed. If he vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligi- bility is reestablished. He shall not engage in the direct operation of bowling events during his tenure as Chairman. (Revised 6/3/03)(1/13/15)


RULE 555. All funds received by the Committee or its representative in connection with a State Bowling activity shall be processed in accordance with Rule 37. (Revised 4/13/04)

(Moved from Page 42.1 - 11/13/07)


RULE 556. Rule 555 shall not apply to compensation paid for travel goods and services in con- nection therewith, which payment must be handled as provided in Rule 368.

(Revised 1/28/03 by the Excom) (Confirmed 4/15/03) (Moved from Page 42.1 - 11/13/07)

PART 3 - STATE BOWLING (Continued)


RULE 557. The Committee, upon approval of a majority of its members, may recommend to the State Board the authorization of a State Bowling event. The Board may authorize the Committee to sponsor State Bowling events. Each event shall be specifically authorized for that single event. When the event includes travel, the procedures are outlined in Rule 375. (Revised 11/11/08)

a. (Deleted 11/11/08)

b. (Deleted 11/11/08)

c. The State Bowling Committee shall comply with applicable provisions of the SIR Travel Code -- Rules 360 et seq. Notwithstanding some of the terminology used, since most of those rules were designated for Branches, they apply equally to the State in most instances.


RULE

558.

(Deleted 11/13/07)

RULE

559.

(Deleted 11/13/07)

RULE

560.

(Deleted 11/13/07)


PART 3.5 - RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV) COMMITTEE


RULE 574. Rules within PART 3.5 shall be known as the “SIR RV Code” (New 06/07/11)


RULE 575. The Recreational Vehicle (RV) Committee shall be composed of a Chairman and eleven members. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number of members may be altered. The Vice-President shall serve as ex officio without vote.

(New 01/01/02)


RULE 576. The Chairman shall appoint a Secretary/Treasurer and shall assign duties to other Com- mittee members as he deems necessary.


RULE 577. The Committee shall form, supervise and assist in the operational functions of State ral- lies as may be specified by the President, with due consideration being given to the responsibilities and functions of the Regional Directors and Area Governors.


RULE 578. The Committee shall have such other powers, duties and responsibilities as may be pre- scribed by the Standing Rules.


RULE 579. A member shall not serve as Chairman of the Committee for more than three consecutive years, excluding any partial year immediately preceding the first such year. He shall continue to serve until his successor is installed. If he vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligibility is reestablished. (Revised 6/3/03)(1/13/15)

PART 3.5 - RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV) COMMITTEE (Continued)


RULE 580. Each State Rally must have the approval of the State Board of Directors.


RULE 581. To facilitate non-State events, the Committee may recommend that the President authorize Area and/or Regional RV Coordinators when so needed. An Area RV Coordinator so author- ized would be appointed by the Committee with the approval of his Area Governor. A Regional Coordi- nator so authorized would be appointed by the Committee with the approval of his Regional Director.


RULE 582. The Committee shall provide advice and counsel regarding RV activities of the Branches and any Area or Regional Coordinators.


RULE 583. Receipt and Distribution of Funds:


a. All funds received by a Branch, its RV Chairman or other representative in connec- tion with an RV activity shall be received in the name of the Branch and deposited in and distributed through its Branch treasury or deposited in and distributed through an RV fund in the depository of the Branch’s treasury in an account bearing the Branch’s federal identification number.

b. All funds received by a member of SIR or his agent in connection with an Area or Regional RV activity shall be received in the name of the Area or Regional RV fund, as the case may be, and deposited in and distributed through the treasury of a des- ignated Branch or in the depository of a designated Branch treasury in an account bearing the designated Branch’s federal identification number.

c. All funds received by the State RV Committee or its representative in connection with a State RV activity shall be processed in accordance with Rule 37.

(Revised 11/16/04)

d. This rule shall not apply to money received and paid to a provider in connection with an RV event on the same date of receipt.


RULE 584. Audit of RV Funds:


a. RV funds shall be audited by the Branch Auditing Committee and its report shall be submitted to the Branch Executive Committee in accordance with Standing Rule 257. Area and Regional RV funds shall be audited by the Auditing Committee of the des- ignated Branch.

b. The State RV fund shall be audited by the State Audit Committee. Reports of the Area, Regional and State RV funds shall be submitted to the State Board.


RULE 585. Recreational vehicle events sponsored by Sons In Retirement, Inc. shall be in ac- cordance with applicable provisions of the Sir RV Code. (Revised 11/9/10)


PART 3.6 - STATE BOCCE COMMITTEE


RULE 590. The State Bocce Committee shall be comprised of a Chairman and two members. Up- on application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without vote. (New 1/31/17)


RULE 591. The State Bocce Committee shall review and study the activities of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches pertaining to bocce. Recommendations of the committee may be sub- mitted to the President proposing such changes as are deemed necessary or desirable. The committee shall conduct such other studies related to bocce as may be directed by the President or the State


Board. (New 1/31/17)Revised 11/9/10, 1/31/17 - 42.2 -


PART 3.6 - STATE BOCCE COMMITTEE (Continued)

RULE 592. The State Bocce Committee shall have such other powers, duties and responsibilities as may be prescribed by the Standing Rules. (New 1/31/17)


PART 4 - SIRARC

RULE 600. The SIR Amateur Radio Club (SIRARC) Committee shall be composed of a Chair- man and six members. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without vote. (Revised 1/1/02)


RULE 601. The committee shall review and study the activities of Sons In Retirement, Incorpo- rated, and its Branches pertaining to amateur radio communications. With the approval of a majority of the entire committee, recommendations of the committee may be submitted to the President proposing such changes as are deemed necessary or desirable. The committee shall conduct such other studies related to amateur radio communications as may be directed by the President or the State Board. (Re- vised 9/24/02)


RULE 602. The subcommittee shall undertake such activities in connection with activities of members participating in the functions of SIRARC as may be specified by the President or the State Board. (Revised 9/24/02)


RULE 603. The committee shall have such other powers, duties and responsibilities as may be prescribed by the Standing Rules.


PART 5 - INFORMATION SYSTEMS COMMITTEE (INFOSYS)

RULE 604. The Information Systems Committee (INFOSYS) shall be composed of a Chairman and five members, with subcommittees as necessary. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion the number of members may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without vote. (Revised11/14/06)


RULE 604.1 The INFOSYS shall provide continuous oversight of the SIR program to computerize methods and procedures wherever possible, thereby eliminating manual labor, distribution and filing of excessive printed materials plus generally speeding up processes in every facet of the organization. The committee is responsible for certain routine operations, such as:

a. Development and support of the SIR State Database.

b. Development and maintenance of database application programs including, but not limited to, the programs for generation of:

1. Hard copy Forms SI-100 – CA Corporation filings

2. Hard-copy Forms RRF-1 – CA Attorney General filings

3. Pro rata invoices

4. Statistical membership data

c. Maintenance and operation of the Email System to disseminate announcements and other broadcast messages to Officers, Appointees, Committeemen and the general membership.

d. Development and maintenance of the SIR Website, including, but not limited to:

1. Forms and documents.

2. The SIR Manual and associated reports.

3. The State Roster and associated reports.

4. Section of general interest, including but not limited to, SIR activities.

e. The State Newsletter, “SIR Happenings”. (New 11/14/06)


Revised 11/14/06, 1/31/17 - 43 -

PART 6 – GROWTH AND MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE


RULE 605. The Growth and Membership Committee shall be composed of a Chairman and eight

members. Upon application from the Committee to the President or at his discretion, the number of members may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio, without vote. (Revised 8/6/07)


RULE 606. The Growth and Membership Committee shall:

a. monitor the membership numbers of SIR, its Regions, Areas and Branches, and report to the President such recommendations as it deems necessary or desirable to increase mem- bership in SIR, retain existing members, and publicize the activities of SIR to attract new members.

b. Test and promote Branch and Area tools that work. Among these tools are four key Branch and Area Functions: Publicity, Recruitment, Activities and Retention.

c. Deleted 4/8/15)

d. Address such issues and make such recommendations as may be directed by the e.Organize itself into such subcommittees as are necessary to accomplish the tasks and issues set forth above. Groups like the Marketing and Publicity Subcommittee (MPS), the Survivabil- ity Action Team (SAT) and/or other similar groups pr teams are examples that the committee may find necessary to accomplish its assignments. (New, 11/12/13)(Revised 4/8/15)


PART 7 – RULES COMMITTEE

RULE 607. The Rules Committee shall be composed of a Chairman and at least three other members. The remaining members shall be from past or present Regional Directors, Area Governors, elected State Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer). Also, at least one member shall be a past or present Big Sir. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without vote.

(New 8/6/01, effective 1/1/02) (Moved from Page 43 - 11/14/06)(Revised 1/13/15)


RULE608. A rule proposal to clarify a rule without changing the rule’s intent, to standardize format or to correct word processing may be approved and published at the discretion of the Rules Committee or its Chairman. (New 8/6/01 effective 1/1/02) (Moved from Page 43 - 11/14/06) (Revised 6/7/11) (Ty- po 11/8/11) (Revised 1/31/17)


RULE 609. Any proposal involving the Standing Rules or Bylaws shall be submitted to the Rules Committee by the State Board, a State Officer, a State Committee Chairman, any member of the State Rules Committee, or a Branch Executive Committee. The Rules Committee shall then submit the pro- posal through the President to the State Board with its recommendations. Such submittal shall be in the form of an addendum to the agenda of the next Board meeting. Any State Board-approved proposal for new or amended bylaws shall be submitted as an agenda item of the next Annual Meeting.

An exception is made for a bylaw addition/amendment proposal that is submitted collectively by seven or more branch BEC’s at least 60 days prior to the Annual Meeting. The proposal shall pass through the State Board with its recommendations (and the President’s if different), to become an agenda item for the Annual Meeting.

(Revised 11/11/08) (1/13/15) (1/31/17)


Revised 11/11/08, 6/5/12,11/12/13,4/8/15 -43.1-

1/31/17

RULE 610. The Rules Committee and other rule reviewers of a proposal submitted under Rule 609 shall contact the referrer if there is a recommended change, alternate proposal, or rejection - to provide the opportunity for agreement with the referrer on a final proposal. However, a proposal shall not change unless agreed to by the referrer(s). If such disagreement exists, the Rules Committee may comment on their position in the addendum presenting the rule to the board.

(New 8/6/01 effective 1/1/02)(Revised 1/13/15)


PART 8 – AUDIT COMMITTEE

RULE 611. The President shall appoint a State Audit Committee composed of not more than three members, none of whom shall be the holder of an elective office, nor shall more than one mem- ber be from the same Branch. (New 9/24/02 effective 1/1/03)


RULE 611.2 As soon as practical after the appointment of its members, the Audit Committee shall make an audit of the books and records covering the financial transactions of the corporation. The audit shall include State activities such as golf, bowling, travel and the like, for the calendar year just past. The report shall be submitted to the State Board through the President.


The Audit Committee shall include the following procedures in its annual audit, recognizing that all the- se steps cannot be performed in one meeting:

a) Determine that all records required for the audit are available at the review meeting(s).

b) Review the physical or electronic accounting system providing reconciliation statements for all bank accounts- both for the close of the previous financial year and for the close of the year un- der review.

c) Determine that fiscal year Balance Sheet and Income and Expenditure Reports are available for inspection, and check that bank balances agree with the reconciliation reports for the fiscal yearend.

d) Select any month, and, using the checking account and money market bank account Quickbooks or other registers, ask for and review supporting paperwork for every transaction that month. If there are income transactions for that month check that the deposit listing reflects all of the incomes received.

e) Select 3 member expense payments at random and write a standard audit letter asking them to confirm the expense coding and that it was paid.

f) Select 2 vendor invoices at random and write a standard audit letter asking for confirmation of the invoice content and payment.

g) Require details of any Accounts Receivable or Accounts Payable balances shown on the Bal- ance Sheet at yearend.

h) If during the audit process, it is discovered that improper accounting methods existed indicating negligence, unaccounted-for expenditures, failure to disburse or pay bills, or a gross failure to keep required records, the Audit Committee shall immediately notify the State Board through the President.

(New 9/24/02 effective 1/1/03) (Revised 6/5/12)


RULE 611.3 The State Audit committee shall make such additional audits as may be prescribed by the Standing Rules or as directed by the President or the State Board. (New 9/24/02 effective 1/1/03)


Revised 11/11/08, 11/8/11, 6/5/12, 1/13/15,11/12/13 Moved in 611, 611.2, 611.3 from page 43.1,1/13/15 Moved 610 from page 43.1


- 43.2 –

PART 9 – PRESIDENT’S ADVISORY COMMITTEE


RULE 612. There shall be a President’s Advisory Committee that shall consist of all Past Presi- dents. The most recent Past President available shall serve as Chairman.

(New 9/24/02 effective 1/1/03)


RULE 613. The duties of the President’s Advisory Committee are to report to the President on matters referred to it by the President (New 9/24/02 effective 1/1/03)


PART 10 - INSURANCE COMMITTEE


RULE 615. The State Insurance Committee shall be composed of a Chairman and two members appointed by the President. Upon application from the Committee to the President, or at his discretion, the number of members may be altered. The Vice President shall serve as ex officio without vote. (New 11/13/07)


RULE 616. The State Insurance Committee shall evaluate insurance programs for appropriate coverage to meet current and anticipated future activities, maintain an active and ongoing survey of po- tential risks that may impact SIR, and make recommendations to the President for any changes the Committee deems appropriate. (New 11/13/07)


RULE 617. The State Insurance Committee will negotiate insurance coverage with knowledgea- ble and reputable insurance firms on an annual basis. The Committee will also obtain an annual quote on the cost of Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance for Branches and provide this information to the Branches by February 28 each year, along with instructions on how to implement the exemption for E&O Insurance for its Officers and Directors. (Revised 4/7/09)


RULE 618. The State Insurance Committee shall maintain a file for each SIR-Qualified Travel Agency to ensure that it maintains current liability insurance as specified in Rule 380. The State Insur- ance Committee shall also comply with the provisions contained in Rule 381. (New 11/13/07)


RULE 619. The State Insurance Committee shall address such other issues and perform other duties as may be directed by the President or the State Board. (New 11/13/07)


PART 11 - HISTORIAN (Deleted 11/13/07) PART 12 - GENERAL


RULE 650. The following are not SIR authorized activities:

a. Winter sports including, but not limited to, ice skating, snow skiing, or sledding. (Revised 9/24/02)

b. Water activities in or on houseboats. (Revised 9/24/02)(04/08/15)(6/2/15)

c. (Deleted 1/15/96)

d. Participation in sports, including but not limited to, football, basketball, soccer, hock- ey, and the like, in which participation normally involves bodily contact.

e. Air travel on any air-supported device other than a regularly scheduled airline or air charter company.

f. Operating or learning to operate any aircraft, as pilot or crew.

g. Mountain climbing.

h. Riding or driving in any motor competition.

i. Activities involving firearms.


Revised 4/7/09, 4/8/15, 6/2/15 New Page 6/5/12 Moved in 612 through 650 from page 43.2


-43.3-

Part 13


Budget Oversight Committee


RULE 660. The State Budget Oversight Committee shall consist of the following Members: Vice President as Chairman, State Treasurer, Chairman of the Insurance Committee, one Regional Director, and one Member-at Large. (New 11/12/13)


RULE 661. On or before December 15th the Budget Oversight Committee shall submit to the Presi- dent Elect an annual budget. The budget shall be based upon prior years’ records, proposed goals and objectives for the new year, input from incoming Office Holders and Committee Chairmen, and the pro- posed amount of the annual Branch assessment for the ensuing year. The President shall submit this annual budget and the amount of the proposed annual Branch assessment to the Board of Directors for approval at the January meeting. (New 11/12/13)


RULE 662. Following approval of the budget by the Board of Directors, the Budget Oversight Committee shall monitor expenses and revenues throughout the year to ensure that expenditures and revenues are in sync with the budget, or if not, that measures are proposed to keep within the current budget limitations or other adjustments are made. The Board of Directors may revise the annual budg- et and the amount of the branch assessment as needed throughout the year. (New 11/12/13)



New 11/12/13

-43.4-

DIVISION 4 - THE STATE PART 1 - STATE ORGANIZATION

Article 1 – Membership


RULE 750. (Deleted 11/16/04)


Article 2 - State Officers


RULE 755. The Officers of the Corporation, herein referred to as “State Officers,” are the President, Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, State Secretary, State Treasurer, Assistant State Secre- tary, Assistant State Treasurer, the Regional Directors and the Area Governors. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07) (Revised 11/8/11)(8/1/16)


RULE 756. The Board of Directors of the Corporation, herein referred to as the State Board, consists of the President, Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, State Secretary, State Treasurer, Assis- tant State Secretary, Assistant State Treasurer and the Regional Directors. (Revised 11/14/06 effective (1/1/7)(8/1/16)


RULE 757. The State Executive Committee consists of the President, Vice President, State Secre- tary and State Treasurer.


RULE 758. Officers of the Corporation as defined in Rule 755 shall not serve concurrently as a Branch Officer except as provided in Rule 327 (Interim Management). Upon application to the Presi- dent, the President may make an exception to this rule. (Revised 11/15/05) Article 3 - Election of Offic- ers


RULE 765. The members to serve as State Officers, other than Regional Directors and Area Gover- nors, shall be elected at the Annual Meeting. (Revised 7/6/95)


RULE 766. Annually by September 30 the President-elect should make all of his appointments to State Committees and other Presidential appointments pertaining to his administration.


Among these appointments, the President-elect shall appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of:


a. A chairman who shall be the then current President or; if unable to serve, the most recent Past President available, and

b. One other Past President; and

c. Three other members other than Past Presidents, who shall be past or present Regional Directors or Area Governors. (Revised 6/8/10)


RULE 767. It shall be the duty of the State Nominating Committee to:

• select from the members of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, and its Branches nominees for elec- tion to state offices, other than the Regional Directors and Area Governors to serve during the cal- endar year next following the year in which they are elected and until their successors have been elected and installed.

• develop succession candidate lists for State Board positions except Regional Directors and Area Governors.

• develop or ensure development of succession candidate lists for Regional Director and Area Governor positions, working with Area Governors and Regional Directors.

(Revised 4/5/17)


Revised 11/8/11, 8/1/16, 4/5/17 - 44 -

Article 3 - Election of Officers


RULE 768. A Candidate for the office of President or Vice President shall be a past or present State Board Member or Area Governor. (Revised 11/14/06)(6/2/15)


RULE 768.1 (Deleted 6/2/15)


RULE 768.2 A candidate for President or Vice President must meet the qualifications for the office as specified in Rules 768 and must submit to the Chairman of the State Nominating Committee by April 15 of each year a SIR Form 43 - Declaration of Candidacy - and the background data requested on the Form 43. Refer to Rule 769 for an exception. (Revised 11/11/08)(8/1/16)


RULE 768.3 A candidate for Chief Administrative Officer, State Secretary, State Treasurer, Assis- tant State Secretary or Assistant State Treasurer must be an active member of Sons In Retirement, and must submit to the Chairman of the State Nominating Committee by April 15 of each year a SIR Form 43 - Declaration of Candidacy for State Elected Office - and the background data requested on the Form 43. Refer to Rule 769 for an exception. (New 11/11/08)(8/1/16)


Rule 769 - The Nominating Committee shall submit its recommendations to the President not later than June 1. The President shall then cause a ballot to be created that includes all qualified candidates who have submitted their SIR Form 43, background data and have been vetted by the Nominating Committee. The ballot may also indicate the Nominating Committee’s recom- mendation for each of the candidates. Additional nominations may be made from the floor at the Annual Meeting. A nominee from the floor must signify his agreement to accept the office if elected. (Revised 1/19/18)


RULE 769.1. There shall be no display of campaign materials of any kind in or around the premises of the Annual Meeting place. (New 11/8/17)


RULE 770 - Not less than 30 days prior to the Annual Meeting, the State Secretary shall notify those entitled to vote the date, time and place of the meeting. The notice shall contain a list showing the names and background data of the candidates for State offices designated and in- dicating the Nominating Committees recommendations. (Revised 4/18/00, 6/20/2015 by the State Executive Committee.) (Confirmed 4/5/2016) (Revised 1/19/18)


The notice shall list each candidate’s name, branch number, qualifying data, and a brief resume (250 words or less), from the candidate, for each designated State Office. The nominating committee may indicate their recommended candidate for each office. (New 1/19/18)


RULE 771. All State chairmen and appointees, although not eligible to vote, should register in lieu of roll call at the Annual Meeting. (Revised 9/19/00)


RULE 772 - In lieu of roll call at the Annual Meeting, each qualified voter, at the time of regis- tration, shall receive a ballot. This ballot shall contain: a. Names of the candidates for State Of- fices. b. Write-in space for the names of other eligible candidates nominated from the floor and who are willing to serve if elected. (Revised 1/19/18)


RULE 773. Voting shall be by secret ballot, provided, that for any office for which there is but one nominee, voting may be by voice or by show of hands.


RULE 774. Prior to the Annual Meeting, the President shall appoint a committee of three to serve as tellers in the event that more than one candidate is nominated for any office. A committee member shall be a Regional Director, Area Governor or a Big Sir.


Revised 11/11/08, 6/2/15,4/5/16,8/1/16, 11/8/17


- 45 –

Article 4 - Regional Director


RULE 780. The territory within the geographic boundaries of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, shall consist of the following Regions:


Region No. 1 Areas 1, 2, 3

Region No. 2 Areas 5, 6, 18, 19

Region No. 3 Areas 7, 8, 9, 10

Region No. 4 Areas 11, 12, 13, 14

Region No. 5 Areas 4, 15, 16, 17

(Revised 11/13/07)(1/13/15)(4/5/17)


RULE 781. Each Region shall have a Regional Director. The Area Governors in each Region shall meet by August 31 upon the call of the Regional Director and by majority vote elect a Regional Director for a one-year term to commence on January 1 of the following year. The Regional Director shall act as Chairman and shall have no vote except to break a tie in the balloting. Immediately follow- ing the election of the Regional Director, the Regional Director-elect shall complete Form 44A - Notifica- tion of Election - and submit the form according to the distribution shown on the form.

(Revised 11/11/08)


RULE 782. In the absence or unavailability of the Regional Director, the Area Governor of the lowest numbered Area in the Region shall call the meeting and act as Chairman with the right to vote. In the case of a tie vote the State Vice President shall be notified, and after reviewing the applicants’ qualifications he shall cast the deciding vote. (Revised 11/16/04)


RULE 783. If an Area Governor is absent or otherwise unable to participate in the election of the Regional Director, the Big Sirs and Little Sirs of the Branches in the Area shall, by majority vote at a meeting called by the Big Sir or Little Sir of the earliest Charter Date, designate one of their number to serve in the Area Governor's stead. (Revised 9/28/99)


RULE 783.5 If after the completion of the above selection process, a Regional Director is not se- lected, the President of SIRinc shall appoint a candidate who meets the qualifications stated in Rule 784 as Regional Director. (New 1/13/15)


RULE 784. A candidate for the office of Regional Director must be willing to serve and must be a past or present Area Governor, or must have held or is holding the office of Big Sir, Little Sir, Secretary or Treasurer of a Branch in that Region, singly or in combination, for at least two years at the time he assumes the office. A past or present Area Governor is the preferred qualification. A candidate may be from a branch outside the assigned Region. If no Regional Director is elected, the President in col- laboration with the State Nominating Committee and incumbent Regional Director if any shall nominate a Regional Director for approval by the Area Governors in that Region. (Revised 9/13/05)(4/5/17)

RULE 785. Regional Directors shall serve one-year terms and be restricted to three consecutive terms, excluding any partial year immediately preceding the first such year. He shall continue to serve until his successor is elected and installed. If a Director vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligibility is reestablished. (Revised 6/3/03)(1/13/15)


RULE 786. Each Regional Director shall submit to the President by April 25, July 25, October 25 and January 25 of the following year a report on the status of Areas within his Region. Each report shall include recommendations for action to be taken to achieve the Form 27 goals not being met for branches in his Region. The January report shall be submitted to the new President as well as the pre- vious President. (Revised 11/9/10)


RULE 787. It shall be the duty of the Regional Director to develop a succession candidate list for his position, in collaboration with his Area Governors. (New 4/5/17)


Moved Rules 785 & 786 from page 46 1/13/15 Revised 1/13/15, 4/5/17

Article 5 - Area Governor


RULE 790. An Area is a group of Branches designated by an assigned number. No Area shall have less than three chartered Branches, except that the President may authorize the formation of an Area consisting of two Branches if he determines, because of distances involved, that administration and communication would be otherwise be impaired. In making his determination, special consideration should be given to situations where Branches are being formed in a new Area and it is probable that additional Branches will be formed in that Area. (Revised 4/8/92)


RULE 790.1 (Deleted 4/5/17)


RULE 791. In case it becomes necessary to change the number of Areas, the Regional Director or Regional Directors affected, acting with the advice of the Area Governors and the Branches affected, shall submit recommendations to the President for consideration and action by the State Board. The State Board acting on its own initiative may also adopt recommended changes if deemed necessary. (Revised 6/5/12)


RULE 792. Each Area shall be under the supervision of an Area Governor. RULE 793. (Qualifications - moved to Rule 155 and Revised 4/12/05)

RULE 794. The Area Governor of each Area shall call a meeting of the Election Committee no later than August 31. The Area Governor shall act as chairman of the meeting. He shall have no vote except when required to break a tie in balloting for Area Governor. In the event there is only one can- didate for Area Governor who meets the qualifications of Rule 155, the Area Governor may poll the Election Committee in lieu of calling a meeting. (Revised 6/6/06)


RULE 795. The Election Committee shall be comprised of all Big Sirs and Little Sirs of the Char- tered Branches in the Area except that in Areas consisting of two Branches as authorized by the Presi- dent, the Election Committee shall be comprised of all Big Sirs and Little Sirs of the Chartered and Pro- visional Branches in the Area. If the Big Sir or Little Sir cannot attend the meeting, the Executive Committee of the Branch shall appoint an alternate or alternates from the elected officers of the Branch. (Revised 6/3/03)


RULE 796. The Election Committee shall elect an Area Governor from the candidates nominated by the various Branch Executive Committees. A candidate shall meet the qualifications stated in Rule 155, and may be from a branch outside the assigned Area. If no Area Governor is elected, the Presi- dent in collaboration with the State Nominating Committee and Regional Director shall nominate an Ar- ea Governor for approval by the Election Committee. (Revised 4/5/17)


RULE 797. Area Governors shall serve one-year terms and be restricted to three consecutive terms, excluding any partial year immediately preceding the first such year. He shall continue to serve until his successor is elected and installed. If an Area Governor vacates the position for one or more calendar years, eligibility is reestablished. (Revised 6/3/03)(1/13/15)


RULE 798. Immediately following the election of the Area Governor, the Area Governor-elect shall complete Form 44A - Notification of Election - and submit the form according to the distribution shown on the form. (Revised 11/11/08)

Article 5 - Area Governor (Continued) RULE 799. (Deleted 9/25/01)

RULE 800. Each Area Governor shall submit to his Regional Director by April 15, July 15, Octo- ber 15 and January 15 of the following year a report concerning the status of the Branches within his Area. Each report shall include recommendations for action to be taken to achieve the Form 27 goals not being met for branches in his Area. The January report shall be submitted to the new Regional Di- rector as well as the previous Regional Director. (Revised 11/9/10) (Typo 11/8/11)


RULE 801. When the Area Governor has received the annual audit reports from all of his Branches pursuant to Rule 257 and he has satisfied himself that the reports reflect the true financial conditions of each Branch, he will so certify in writing to the Assistant State Treasurer no later than February 20. He shall include any comments he deems necessary or advisable. (New 6/6/06)


RULE 802. It shall be the duty of the Area Governor to develop a succession candidate list for his position, in collaboration with his Big Sirs. (New 4/5/17)


Article 6 - Installation of State Officers


RULE 805.The installation ceremony for State Officers shall be the same as for Branch Officers, in ac- cordance with Rule 141.

a) The members-elect of the State Board shall be installed at the November State Board meeting by the outgoing President or a Past President of his selection.

b) Area Governors-elect shall be installed at the Governor Training Sessions, or by December 31 by the outgoing or incoming Regional Director at a luncheon meeting of the Area Governor's Branch.

c) State Officers shall take office on the following January 1, serving during that year and until an elected or appointed successor has been installed.

d) State Board members who were not installed at the November meeting, and appointees to fill vacancies, shall be installed at the next State Board meeting at which they are present.

e) Area Governors who were not installed by December 31, and appointees to fill vacancies. shall be installed by their Regional Director as soon after as possible.

(Revised 6/5/07, 4/13/12,(6/5/12)(Repaginated 04/08/14)


Revised 11/08/11, 4/5/17

-47.1-

Article 7 - Meetings


RULE 810. The regular meetings of the State Board shall be held in January, April, June and November at the time and place designated by the President. Each member of the State Board shall be given written notice and the agenda of a regular meeting of the State Board not less than 10 days before the date of the meeting. (Revised 1/15/13)


Special meetings of the State Board shall be held on the call of the President or upon a request to the State Secretary by a majority of the State Board in the form of a signed petition from the State Board stating the purpose of the meeting and specifically approved by a majority of the State Board. Such petition may be in the form of emails from State Board members with each email clearly showing the purpose of the meeting and the members approval or disapproval of holding a special meeting. The State Secretary shall summarize the results of these emails showing the purpose of the meeting and listing the names and how they voted for all State Board Members responding. Such summary with e-mails attached or a signed petition shall become a permanent part of the minutes of said special meeting. Written notice of a special meeting of the State Board whether on the call of the President or by petition or summary setting forth the purpose, time and place of the meeting, shall be given to each member of the State Board not less than 10 days before the date of the meeting.

(Revised 11/14/06) (04/08/14)


PART 2 - DUTIES OF STATE OFFICERS

Article 1 - President


RULE 815. The President is the chief executive officer, and is subject to the control of the State Board. He shall supervise and control the business affairs of the Corporation. He shall, when present, preside at all meetings of the State Board and at the Annual Meeting.


RULE 816. The President shall review and approve all State expenses, provided that the Presi- dent may delegate any terms and conditions as the President deems necessary or desirable in the best interests of SIR. Neither the President nor the Vice President shall approve his own expenses. (Re- vised 11/15/05)

RULE 816.1 (Deleted 11/13/07)

RULE 817. The President may sign, with the State Secretary or other Officer of the Corporation authorized by the State Board, any documents or other instruments that the Board has authorized, ex- cept where the signing and execution thereof has been delegated by the Board to some other officer or agent of the Corporation, or is required by law to be otherwise signed or executed.


RULE 818. The President shall have authority to appoint a Parliamentarian, and a State Advisor and establish temporary appointments or committees as he may deem necessary as is permitted per Section 265. (Revised 9/19/00)


RULE 819. The President shall perform all duties incident to his office, and such other duties as may be prescribed, from time to time, by the State Board. (Moved from Page 49 11/10/09)


Revised 11/10/09, 6/5/12, 1/15/13, 04/08/14

- 48 -

Article 2 - Vice President


RULE 825. In the absence or inability of the President, the Vice President shall assume and per- form his duties. When so acting, he shall have all the powers of, and be subject to, all the restrictions placed upon the President. He shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed for him from time to time by the President.


Article 3 - State Secretary


RULE 830. The State Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, at the principal office of the Corporation or at such other place as the State Board may order, a book of minutes of all meetings of the State Board whether regular or special and, if special, detailed how organized, noticed, the names of those present, the presence of a quorum and the proceedings thereof.


RULE 831. The minutes of each meeting shall be published and distributed at the earliest possi- ble date, but no later than 20 days after the meeting.


RULE 832. In the absence or inability of the President and Vice President, the State Secretary shall perform all of the duties of the President and Vice President.


RULE 833. The State Secretary shall mail, or cause to be mailed, notices of all State Board meetings to all members thereof at least 10 days prior to the date set.


RULE 834. Deleted. (Revised 1/9/01)


RULE 835. The State Secretary shall be responsible to the President for the dissemination of the decisions of the State Board.


RULE 836. The State Secretary has the responsibility for roll call at the State Board meetings. However, at the Annual Meeting the Chairman of Meeting Arrangements has charge of the seating and assists the Secretary with the roll call.


RULE 837. The State Secretary shall have such other powers and perform such other duties, not specifically delegated to the Assistant State Secretary, as may be prescribed by the President or the State Board. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 838. The State Secretary shall keep, or cause to be kept, a register showing the name, address and telephone number of the State Officers, State Advisor, and Appointive Officer Assistants if any. (New 11/10/09)


RULE 839. The State Secretary shall maintain the master file for every Branch ever formed con- taining relatively important hard copy documents that come into his possession. (New 11/10/09)

Article 4 - Assistant State Secretary


RULE 840. The Assistant State Secretary shall function under the supervision of the State Sec- retary. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 841. (Deleted 11/10/09) RULE 842. (Deleted 11/10/09)

RULE 843. When a Branch has completed its Provisional status and the President has author- ized the issuance of the charter, and a newly formed corporation is required, the Assistant State Secre- tary shall:

a. Participate in the incorporation and California Tax Exemption procedures for the new Branch.

b. Arrange with the Secretary of a newly Chartered Branch to obtain the Federal Em- ployer Identification Number -- by filing Federal Form SS-4 -- which is required of all tax exempt corporations within the State of California; and arrange for the new Branch, after incorporation, to obtain the Federal Tax Exemption letter by filing Fed- eral Forms 1024 and 8718.

c. (Revised 4/6/10) (Deleted 4/5/16)


RULE 844. In the absence of the SIR State Secretary, the Assistant State Secretary shall as- sume and execute his duties in accordance with the Rules. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 845. The Assistant State Secretary shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be authorized by the President or the State Board. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 846. The Assistant State Secretary is responsible for the timely filing of the Form SI-100 on behalf of SIRinc and all of its Branches with the California Secretary of State, including making pay- ment for the appropriate amount as designated on the form payable to the California Secretary of State. Upon completion, a copy shall be retained in the Assistant State Secretary’s files for SIRinc. Notwith- standing Rule 816, the Assistant State Secretary shall be reimbursed for the expenses incurred in mak- ing payment to the California Secretary of State by submitting a Form 15 - Expense Claim Voucher for this amount, along with a receipt, directly to the State Treasurer. When payment was made by person- al funds, the State Treasurer shall issue a check to reimburse the Assistant State Secretary within 5 days of receipt of the Expense Claim Voucher. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 847. The filing of the Form SI-100 may be performed in batch quantities covering multiple Branches, for a specific period as may be deemed appropriate by the Assistant State Secretary in con- cert with the State Treasurer. Reimbursement of the filing fee will not be sought from the Branches. (Revised 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)


RULE 850. The Chief Administrative Officer shall be also the Chairman of the INFOSYS Com- mittee. He shall be responsible for the following subcommittees, and appoint their Chairmen:

1. Website Subcommittee

2. Database Subcommittee

3. E-Mail Subcommittee

4. State Roster Subcommittee

5. SIR Manual Subcommittee

6. Sir Forms Subcommittee

7. State Certificates Subcommittee

8. State Newsletter “SIR Happenings” Subcommittee (NEW 11/1/16)

(Article 5 - Rules 851 thru 855 - Deleted 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)

(Article 5 - Rules 856 thru 861 - Deleted 11/14/06 effective 1/1/07)

Article 6 - State Treasurer


RULE 865. The State Treasurer shall keep and maintain, or cause to be kept and maintained, adequate accounts of the properties and financial transactions of the Corporation, including accounts of its assets, liabilities, receipts, disbursements and insurance matters.


RULE 866. State Treasurer submittals.

a. The current approved budget shall be posted on the sirinc.org web site in the “State Treasurer Reports” section.

(Revised 4/16/01) (Revised 6/3/03) (Revised 11/13/12) (Revised 11/12/13)

b. December 31, March 31, June 30 and September 30 of each year the Treasurer shall invoice Chartered and Provisional Branches one quarter of the approved annual branch assessment in effect for that quarter. The amount to be invoiced for each SIR Member shall be determined by dividing the quarterly assessment by the total number of active SIR members reported on Form 28 for the second month of the quarter preceding the invoice date. The amount to be invoiced each branch is determined by multiplying the amount per active member times the number of branch members reported on that Form 28 Payment by each branch is due upon receipt of the invoice. (New 11/13/2012) (Re- vised 6/4/13)


RULE 867. The Treasurer shall deposit all funds and other valuables in the name of, and credit to, the Corporation with such depositories as may be designated by the State Board.


RULE 868. The Treasurer shall disburse funds as specified below:


a. Payment of Expense Claim Vouchers as specified in Rule 38.

b. Payment of SIR products, services or activities that are supported by receipts and the cost of which does not exceed a cumulative amount of $1,500.00.

(Revised 1/13/15)

c. Payment of SIR products, services or activities in excess of $1,500.00 that have re- ceived prior authorization from the State Executive Committee. (Revised 11/13/12)(1/13/15) (Revised 10/30/18)

d.Regardless of the above, the State Treasurer has the authority to pay, upon presenta- tion of invoices, insurance premiums in the amount annually negotiated by the SIR State Insurance Chairman even though it may exceed $1,500.00.

(Revised 11/13/07)


Revised (11/13/07), Revised and repaginated(11/13/12) Revised (6/4/13),(11/12/13),(1/13/15)

- 53 -

Article 6 - State Treasurer (Continued)


RULE 869. The Treasurer shall file Income Tax Returns and any other forms required by Federal and California Taxing Authorities. He shall require and retain, for all tax documents, proof of delivery signed by representatives of the appropriate taxing authorities. Copies of the emails enclosing forms filed online shall be retained. Both forms of proof of delivery shall be retained as long as required by the tax- ing authorities. Filing instructions for specific documents are shown below:

a. Form 199. The “California Exempt Organization Information Return", together with the appropriate filing fee shall be filed on or before May 15th. This "Group Return", includes in- formation for all Chartered Branches regardless of annual Branch gross receipts.

a. Form 990. The "Federal Return of the Organization Exempt from Income Tax" shall be filed annually by May 15th for the State Corporation only.

b. Form RRF-1 shall be filed annually by April 15th with the California Attorney General.

c. The Subordinate Corporation listing shall be filed annually by August 31st with the IRS.

d. Form 990N shall be filed annually by May 15th in electronic format for every Subordi- nate SIR corporation (branch).

(Revised 11/13/12)


RULE 870 On or before the 10th of each month the Treasurer shall deliver Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet reports for the current month and year to date to each State Board Member, and post these reports on the sirinc.org web site in the “State Treasurer Reports” Section. These reports shall show comparisons to the approved annual budget.

(Revised 11/13/07) (11/13/12)


RULE 871. The Treasurer shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be authorized by the President or the State Board.


Revised 11/13/07, Revised and repaginated 11/13/12

Article 7 - Assistant State Treasurer


RULE 875. The Assistant State Treasurer shall assist in maintaining State Board Financial Rec- ords and in the absence of the Treasurer shall assume his duties in accordance with the Rules.


RULE 876. The Assistant State Treasurer shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be authorized by the President or the State Board.


Article 8 - Regional Director


RULE 880. The Regional Director is responsible, acting through the Area Governors, to imple- ment liaison between the State Board and the President and the Branches within his Region.


RULE 881. The Regional Director is responsible for the conduct of the activities of the Branches within his Region in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Standing Rules and direc- tives of the State Board and the President, with due consideration being given to appropriate guidelines as approved by the President.


RULE 882. The Regional Director has the authority, subject to an appeal to the President, to suspend any activity of a Branch within his Region which he finds to be in violation of the Corporate Ar- ticles of Incorporation, Corporate Bylaws, Standing Rules, or the Branch Bylaws.


The Regional Director shall give the offending Branch written notice of the violation and such rea- sonable time as may be appropriate under the circumstances to correct the deficiency.


RULE 883. The Regional Director should meet with the Area Governors in his Region within two weeks after each meeting of the State Board of Directors, unless those Area Governors were in attend- ance at that meeting, and at such other times as he may deem necessary or desirable to carry out his duties and responsibilities. (Revised 3/25/97)


RULE 884. In addition to his normal duties, the Regional Director, in the extended absence of an Area Governor or when the Area Governor position is vacant, shall receive and act for the Area Gover- nor on specific reports or correspondence and SIR forms normally directed to the Area Governor. (New 6/10/08)

Article 9 - Area Governor


RULE 890. It is the responsibility of the Area Governor to see that all Branches are operating in accordance with the provisions of the Bylaws and the Standing Rules.


RULE 891. The Area Governor is the liaison officer, acting through his Regional Director, be- tween the Branches of his Area and the President.


RULE 892. The Area Governor shall assist the Regional Director in carrying out his responsibili- ties and representing the interests of the Branches before the State Board.


RULE 893. The Area Governor cannot commit Sons In Retirement, Inc. or the State Board in any manner by directing any act or omission in the absence of specific authority set forth in the Bylaws or Standing Rules or as specifically directed by the State Board or the President.


RULE 894. The Area Governors shall attend Branch Executive Committee meetings as neces- sary and be available for counseling with Branch Officers.


RULE 895. The Area Governor shall hold an Area meeting, within two weeks following the Re- gional Directors meeting, with the Officers of each Branch as necessary. (Revised 3/25/97)


RULE 896. The Area Governor may appoint an Area Chairman for any activity such as Travel, Speakers Exchange, Golf, Bowling, etc, as may be deemed appropriate to facilitate the conduct of SIR activities beyond the Branch level. (Revised 6/8/10)


RULE 897. The Area Governor shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the President or the State Board.


RULE 898. The Area Governor for the next year shall attend an annual training session each year. The session shall focus on explaining and highlighting the role of an Area Governor, and train him to conduct an annual training session in the current year for incoming Branch Officers.

(New 11/13/07)

PART 3 - GENERAL PROVISIONS


RULE 915. The State Board shall keep in its principal office, or such other place as it may pre- scribe, the original or copy of the Bylaws as amended to date, certified by the Secretary, which shall be open to inspection by the members at all reasonable times during office hours.


RULE 916. All checks, drafts and other orders for payment of money, notes or other evidence of indebtedness, issued in the name of, or payable to the Corporation, shall be signed or endorsed by such person or persons and in such manner as from time to time, shall be determined by a resolution of the State Board.


RULE 917. The State Board may authorize any officer to execute any contract or other instru- ment in the name of the Corporation. Such authority may be general or confined to specific instances. Unless so authorized by the State Board, no officer, employee or member shall have authority to bind the Corporation by any contract or agreement, or pledge its credit to render it liable for any purpose or of any amount.


RULE 918. No member of this Corporation shall receive any compensation or fee for his ser- vices, but may be reimbursed for expenses incurred and paid for in connection with authorized duties or services on behalf of the Corporation, and may, when authorized, receive free or reduced fare passage in connection with tours and trips.


RULE 919. (Deleted 11/14/06) RULE 920. (Deleted 11/15/05) RULE 921. (Deleted 11/15/05)

RULE 922. An amount necessary to pay general administration and promotional expenses may be included in the fee or fare charged participants for a special activity conducted by or for the State or a committee thereof. The charge for each participant shall not be more than two dollars ($2.00) per day or ten dollars ($10.00) in the aggregate, whichever is the lesser. Except as otherwise specifically pro- vided in the Standing Rules, these funds shall be paid into the State Treasury.

(Revised 1/15/99)


RULE 923. No proposal involving a change in the organizational structure of Sons In Retirement, Inc. or its Branches shall be submitted to the Branches without the approval of the State Board.

(Moved from Page 57 - 11/15/05)

PART 4 - SIR WEBSITES


RULE 950. “SIR Website” refers to any website on the Internet that uses the name Sons In Re- tirement and/or the SIR logo. Any use of the copyrighted SIR logo must be in accordance with Rule 20 in the SIR Manual.


RULE 951. No text or image in a SIR Website shall include any profanity or immoral subject mat-

ter.


RULE 952. No advertising for or other mention of any product, service, specific religious denom- ination, political preference, affiliation, group, or organization other than the SIR is to be listed on any SIR Website.


RULE 953. (Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE 954. No SIR Website shall have a link to another website that has material that contains material prohibited by the Standing Rules.


RULE 955. (Deleted 10/30/18)


RULE 956. The SIR websites are supervised by the Information Systems Committee whose members are appointed by the Chief Administrative Officer. (New 9/9/03) (Revised 10/30/18)


RULE 957. SIR websites are intended to impart information concerning the organization. The primary website, www.sirinc.org, shall contain information of a general nature which is easily available to the public. It shall not contain names or addresses of individual SIR members. It shall contain a method whereby a viewer can communicate directly with a designated SIR member. It may be found by use of a search function of the SIR Roster. (New 9/9/03) (Revised 10/30/18)


RULE 958. A second web page can be accessed through sirinc.org and then click on Members Information, and is intended primarily for SIR members. It shall contain information largely of interest only to members. It is available directly or by a link from the Primary website. It may contain names, such as authors of documents, without the approval of the individual. It may contain names and ad- dresses of individuals, which shall be password protected. (Revised 11/13/07) (Revised 10/30/18)


RULE 959. (Deleted 10/30/18)


Revised 11/13/07 - 57 -

For B ra n ch es In cor por at e d bef o re 1 - 1 - 80


BRANCH

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION I

T h e n a m e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l be S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T ,

__ B R A N C H N O . ___ , I N C O R P O R A T E D


II


A. T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is a n o n p r o f i t p u b l i c b e n e f i t c o r p o r a t i o n a n d is n o t o r g a n i z e d f o r t h e p r i v a t e g a i n of a n y p e r s o n . It is o r g a n - i z e d u n d e r t h e N o n p r o f i t P u b l i c B e n e f i t C o r p o r a t i o n L a w f o r p u b l i c purposes.


B. T h e s p e c i f i c p u r p o s e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is to o p e r a t e an o r g a n - i z a t i o n f o r t h e e n j o y m e n t of i t s m e m b e r s as a m e a n s of p r o m o t i n g t h e o b j e c t i v e of S o n s In R e t i r e m e n t , I n c o r p o r a t e d , t h e m e e t i n g of c i v i c

n e e d by p r o v i d i n g f o r t h e w e l f a r e of r e t i r e d m e n f r o m a l l w a l k s of l i f e in t h e i r p u r s u i t of a c o m m o n g o a l , t h e e n j o y m e n t of t h e i r l a t e r y e a r s w i t h d i g n i t y a n d p r i d e , by a s s i s t i n g t h e s e s e n i o r c i t i z e n s in

r e n e w i n g f o r m e r f r i e n d s h i p s a n d a s s o c i a t i o n s a n d p r o v i d i n g t h e m an o p p o r t u n i t y to m a k e n e w f r i e n d s t h r o u g h a s s o c i a t i o n w i t h o t h e r re -

t i r e d m e n w h o a l s o f a c e t h e p a r t i c u l a r p r o b l e m s t h a t c o n f r o n t m e n u p o n t h e i r r e t i r e m e n t . T h e a s s e t s of t h e o r g a n i z a t i o n a r e i r r e v o - cably dedicated to the foregoing purpose.


III


T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u s i v e l y f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s w i t h i n t h e m e a n i n g of S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e

I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e , or S e c t i o n 2 3 7 0 1 f of t h e R e v e n u e a n d T a x - a t i o n C o d e .


IV


T h e p r o p e r t y of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is i r r e v o c a b l y d e d i c a t e d to s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d no p a r t of t h e n e t i n c o m e or a s s e t s of t h i s

c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l e v e r i n u r e to t h e b e n e f i t of a n y d i r e c t o r , o f f i c e r or m e m b e r t h e r e o f or to t h e b e n e f i t of a n y p r i v a t e p e r s o n . U p o n d i s s o l u t i o n or w i n d i n g up of t h e c o r p o r a t i o n , i t s a s s e t s r e m a i n i n g a f t e r p a y m e n t , or p r o v i s i o n f o r p a y m e n t , of a l l d e b t s a n d l i a b i l -

i t i e s of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l be d i s t r i b u t e d to a n o n p r o f i t f u n d , f o u n d a t i o n or c o r p o r a t i o n w h i c h is o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u -

s i v e l y f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d w h i c h h a s e s t a b l i s h e d it s tax e x e m p t s t a t u s u n d e r S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e .


T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n e l e c t s to be g o v e r n e d by a l l t h e p r o v i s i o n s of t h e N o n p r o f i t C o r p o r a t i o n L a w of 1980 n o t o t h e r w i s e a p p l i c a b l e to it u n d e r p a r t 5 t h e r e o f .


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 1 of 2 p a g e s

V


T h e n a m e of t h e e x i s t i n g u n i c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n , n o w b e i n g i n c o r p o r a t e d by t h e f i l i n g of t h e s e a r t i c l e s is S O N S IN R E T I R E -

M E N T , __

. D A T E D :

__ ( S i g n a t u r e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )


__ ( T y p e d N a m e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )


_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _


D E C L A R A T I O N



a n d d e c l a r e ( P r e s i d e n t ) ( S e c r e t a r y )


u n d e r p e n a l t y of p e r j u r y t h a t t h e y a r e t h e P r e s i d e n t a n d S e c r e t a r y ,


r e s p e c t i v e l y , of S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T , __


, t h e u n i n c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n r e f e r r e d to in t h e A r t i c l e s of I n c o r p o r a t i o n to w h i c h t h i s d e c l a r a t i o n is a t t a c h e d , a n d

t h a t s a i d a s s o c i a t i o n h a s d u l y a u t h o r i z e d i t s i n c o r p o r a t i o n by m e a n s s a i d a r t i c l e s .


E x e c u t e d at on __ ( c i t y a n d s t a t e ) ( d a t e )


__

( P r e s i d e n t )



For B ra n ch es In cor por at e d bef o re 1 - 1 - 80

1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 2 of 2


__

( S e c r e t a r y )

For B ra n ch es I nc or por at ed af te r 1 - 1 - 80 wh os e Ar t ic l es of I n cor por ati o n h a ve b e e n am en d ed


BRANCH

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION I

T h e n a m e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l be S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T ,

__ B R A N C H N O .

_ _ _ , I N C O R P O R A T E D II

A. T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is a n o n p r o f i t p u b l i c b e n e f i t c o r p o r a t i o n a n d is n o t o r g a n i z e d f o r t h e p r i v a t e g a i n of a n y p e r s o n . It is o r g a n - i z e d u n d e r t h e N o n p r o f i t P u b l i c B e n e f i t C o r p o r a t i o n L a w f o r p u b l i c p u r p o s e s .


B. T h e s p e c i f i c p u r p o s e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is to o p e r a t e an

o r g a n i z a t i o n f o r t h e e n j o y m e n t o f i t s m e m b e r s as a m e a n s of p r o - m o t i n g t h e

o b j e c t i v e of S o n s In R e t i r e m e n t , I n c o r p o r a t e d , t h e

m e e t i n g of c i v i c n e e d by p r o v i d i n g f o r t h e w e l f a r e of r e t i r e d m e n f r o m a l l w a l k s of l i f e in t h e i r p u r s u i t of a c o m m o n g o a l , t h e en -

j o y m e n t of t h e i r l a t e r y e a r s w i t h d i g n i t y a n d p r i d e , by a s s i s t i n g

t h e s e s e n i o r c i t i z e n s in r e n e w i n g f o r m e r f r i e n d s h i p s a n d a s s o c i a t i o n s a n d p r o v i d i n g t h e m an o p p o r t u n i t y to m a k e n e w f r i e n d s t h r o u g h as -

s o c i a t i o n w i t h o t h e r r e t i r e d m e n w h o a l s o f a c e t h e p a r t i c u l a r p r o -

b l e m s t h a t c o n f r o n t m e n u p o n t h e i r r e t i r e m e n t . T h e a s s e t s of t h e o r g a n i z a- t i o n a r e i r r e v o c a b l y d e d i c a t e d to t h e f o r e g o i n g p u r p o s e .


III


T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u s i v e l y f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s w i t h i n t h e m e a n i n g of S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e

I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e , or S e c t i o n 2 3 7 0 1 f of t h e R e v e n u e a n d T a x - a t i o n C o d e .


IV


T h e p r o p e r t y of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is i r r e v o c a b l y d e d i c a t e d to s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d no p a r t of t h e n e t i n c o m e or a s s e t s of t h i s

c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l e v e r i n u r e to t h e b e n e f it of a n y d i r e c t o r , o f f i c e r

or m e m b e r t h e r e o f or to t h e b e n e f i t of a n y p r i v a t e p e r s o n . U p o n t h e d i s s o l u t i o n or w i n d i n g up of t h e c o r p o r t i o n , i t s a s s e t s r e m a i n i n g

a f t e r p a y m e n t or p r o v i s i o n f o r p a y m e n t of a l l d e b t s a n d l i a b i l i t i e s of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l be d i s t r i b u t e d to a n o n p r o f i t f u n d , f o u n - d a t i o n or c o r p o r a t i o n w h i c h is o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u s i v e l y

f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d w h i c h h a s e s t a b l i s h e d i t s tax e x e m p t s t a t u s u n d e r S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e .


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 1 of 2 p a g e s

V


T h e n a m e of t h e e x i s t i n g u n i c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n , n o w b e i n g i n c o r p o r a t e d by t h e f i l i n g of t h e s e a r t i c l e s is S O N S IN R E T I R E -

M E N T , __

.



D A T E D :


__ ( S i g n a t u r e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )


__ ( T y p e d N a m e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )



_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _


D E C L A R A T I O N



a n d d e c l a r e ( P r e s i d e n t ) ( S e c r e t a r y )


u n d e r p e n a l t y of p e r j u r y t h a t t h e y a r e t h e P r e s i d e n t a n d S e c r e t a r y ,


r e s p e c t i v e l y , of S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T , __


, t h e u n i n c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n r e f e r r e d to in t h e A r t i c l e s of I n c o r p o r a t i o n to w h i c h t h i s d e c l a r a t i o n is a t t a c h e d , a n d

t h a t s a i d a s s o c i a t i o n h a s d u l y a u t h o r i z e d i t s i n c o r p o r a t i o n by m e a n s s a i d a r t i c l e s .


E x e c u t e d at on __ ( c i t y a n d s t a t e ) ( d a t e )


__

( P r e s i d e n t )


__

For B ra n ch es I nc or por at ed ( S e c r e t a r y )

af te r 1 - 1 - 80 wh os e Ar t ic l es of I n cor por ati o n h a ve b e e n am en d ed


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 2 of 2


For N ew Br a nc h In cor por ati o ns -

Su p port e d by

De c l a ra t i on Pa ge


BRANCH

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION I

T h e n a m e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T ,

_ _ I N C O R P O R A T E D .


II


A. T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is a n o n p r o f i t p u b l i c b e n e f i t c o r p o r a t i o n a n d is n o t o r g a n i z e d f o r t h e p r i v a t e g a i n of a n y p e r s o n . It is o r g a n - i z e d u n d e r t h e N o n p r o f i t P u b l i c B e n e f i t C o r p o r a t i o n L a w f o r p u b l i c p u r p o s e s .


B. T h e s p e c i f i c p u r p o s e of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is to o p e r a t e an o r g a n - i z a t i o n f o r t h e e x c l u s i v e e n j o y m e n t of i t s m e m b e r s as a m e a n s of

p r o m o t i n g t h e o b j e c t i v e of S o n s In R e t i r e m e n t , I n c o r p o r a t e d , t h e m e e t i n g of c i v i c n e e d by p r o v i d i n g f o r t h e w e l f a r e of r e t i r e d m e n f r o m a l l w a l k s of l i f e in t h e i r p u r s u i t of a c o m m o n g o a l , t h e en -

j o y m e n t of t h e i r la t e r y e a r s w i t h d i g n i t y a n d p r i d e , by a s s i s t i n g

t h e s e s e n i o r c i t i z e n s in r e n e w i n g f o r m e r f r i e n d s h i p s a n d a s s o c i a -

t i o n s a n d p r o v i d i n g t h e m an o p p o r t u n i t y to m a k e n e w f r i e n d s t h r o u g h a s s o c i a t i o n w i t h o t h e r r e t i r e d m e n w h o a l s o f a c e t h e p a r t i c u l a r

p r o b l e m s th at c o n f r o n t m e n u p o n t h e i r r e t i r e m e n t . T h e a s s e t s of t h e o r g a n i z a t i o n a r e i r r e v o c a b l y d e d i c a t e d to t h e f o r e g o i n g p u r p o s e .


III


T h e n a m e a n d a d d r e s s in t h e S t a t e of C a l i f o r n i a of t h i s c o r p o r a - t i o n ’ s i n i t i a l a g e n t f o r s e r v i c e of p r o c e s s i s : L e e D u f f i e l d , 466 F l o r a l W a y , R o h n e r t P a r k , C a l i f o r n i a 94928


IV


T h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u s i v e l y f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s w i t h i n t h e m e a n i n g of S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e

I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e , or S e c t i o n 2 3 7 0 1 f of t h e R e v e n u e a n d T a x - a t i o n C o d e .


V


T h e p r o p e r t y of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n is i r r e v o c a b l y d e d i c a t e d to s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d no p a r t of t h e n e t i n c o m e or a s s e t s of t h i s

c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l e v e r i n u r e to t h e b e n e f i t of a n y d i r e c t o r , o f f i c e r or m e m b e r t h e r e o f or to t h e b e n e f i t of a n y p r i v a t e p e r s o n . U p o n

t h e d i s s o l u t i o n or w i n d i n g up of t h e c o r p o r t i o n , i t s a s s e t s r e m a i n i n g a f t e r p a y m e n t or p r o v i s i o n f o r p a y m e n t of a l l d e b t s a n d l i a b i l -

i t i e s of t h i s c o r p o r a t i o n s h a l l be d i s t r i b u t e d to a n o n p r o f i t f u n d , f o u n d a t i o n or c o r p o r a t i o n w h i c h i s o r g a n i z e d a n d o p e r a t e d e x c l u -

s i v e l y f o r s o c i a l w e l f a r e p u r p o s e s a n d w h i c h h a s e s t a b l i s h e d it tax e x e m p t s t a t u s u n d e r S e c t i o n 5 0 1 ( c ) ( 4 ) of t h e I n t e r n a l R e v e n u e C o d e .


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 1 of 2 p a g e s VI


T h e n a m e of t h e e x i s t i n g u n i c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n , n o w b e i n g

i n c o r p o r a t e d by t h e f i l i n g of t h e s e a r t i c l e s is S O N S IN R E T I R E -

M E N T , __

.


D A T E D :


__ ( S i g n a t u r e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )


__ ( T y p e d N a m e of I n c o r p o r a t o r )


_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _


D E C L A R A T I O N


a n d d e c l a r e ( P r e s i d e n t ) ( S e c r e t a r y )


u n d e r p e n a l t y of p e r j u r y t h a t t h e y a r e t h e P r e s i d e n t a n d S e c r e t a r y ,


r e s p e c t i v e l y , of S O N S IN R E T I R E M E N T , __


, t h e u n i n c o r p o r a t e d a s s o c i a t i o n r e f e r r e d to in t h e A r t i c l e s of I n c o r p o r a t i o n to w h i c h t h i s d e c l a r a t i o n is a t t a c h e d , a n d

t h a t s a i d a s s o c i a t i o n h a s d u l y a u t h o r i z e d i t s i n c o r p o r a t i o n by m e a n s s a i d a r t i c l e s .


E x e c u t e d at on __ ( c i t y a n d s t a t e ) ( d a t e )


__

( P r e s i d e n t )


__


For N ew Br a nc h



( S e c r e t a r y )

In cor por ati o ns - Su p port e d by

De c l a ra t i on Pa ge

1 - 1 - 92


P a g e


2


of 2

For amending Branch


Articles of Incorporation

(A different form is available for Branch name changes)

CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT OF

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION



AND certify that:


1. They are the president and the secretary, respectively, of SONS IN RETIREMENT,

INCORPORATED, a California corporation.


2. The numbered articles of the articles of incorporation of this corporation following Article I are amended to read as follows:


II


A. This corporation is a nonprofit public benefit corporation and is not organized for the private gain of any person. It is organized under the Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation Law for public purposes.


B. The specific purpose of this corporation is to operate an organization for the enjoyment of its members as a means of promoting the objective

of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, the meeting of a civic need by providing for the welfare of retired men from all walks of life in their pursuit of a common goal, the enjoyment of their later years with

dignity and pride, by assisting these senior citizens in renewing former friendships and associations, and affording them an opportunity to make new friends through association with other retired men who also face the particular problems that confront men upon their retirement. The assets of the corporation are irrevocably dedicated to the foregoing purpose.


III


This corporation is organized and operated exclusively for social welfare purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code, or Section 23701f of the Revenue and Taxation Code.


IV


The property of this corporation is irrevocably dedicated to social welfare purposes and no part of the net income or assets of this corporation shall ever inure to the benefit of any director, officer or member thereof or to the benefit of any private person. Upon the dissolution or winding up of the corporation, its assets remaining after payment, or provision for

payment, of all debts and liabilities of this corporation shall be distributed to a nonprofit fund, foundation or corporation which is organized and

operated exclusively for social welfare purposes and which has established its tax exempt status under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code.


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 1 of 2 P a g e s


3. Any and all other numbered Articles are deleted.


4. The foregoing amendment of articles of incorporation has been duly approved by the board of directors.


5. The foregoing amendment of articles of incorporation has been duly approved by the required vote of all the members.

We further declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the matters set forth in this certificate are true and correct of our own knowledge.


DATE:





For amending Branch Articles of Incorporation

(A different form is available for Branch name changes)


1 - 1 - 92 P a g e 2 of 2

DIVISION 2 - BRANCH BYLAWS


Article 1 - General


Section 1. The purpose of a Branch of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated, is to operate a public benefit organization providing for the welfare of retired men from all walks of life who are pursu- ing a common goal, namely, the enjoyment of their later years with dignity and pride, by assisting these senior citizens to renew former friendships and associations and affording them an opportunity to make new friends through association with other retired men who also face the particular problems that con- front men upon their retirement.


Article 2 - Definitions


Section 5. As used herein, the terms “Corporation” and “Corporate” refer to the State organ- ization of Sons In Retirement, Incorporated.


Section 6. As used herein, the term “Standing Rules” means rules adopted by the State Board of Directors.


Section 7. As used herein, the term “Regulation” means an action by the Branch Executive Committee to govern the Branch.


Section 8. The operation of a Branch and its activities shall conform to the provisions of the Standing Rules.


Section 9. The Principal Office of the Branch Corporation shall be thee address of the “Agent For Service Or Process” as named in the Branch articles of incorporation or subsequent biennial statements to the California Secretary of State. (New 8/4/14)


Section 10. The mailing address for the Branch shall be the address of the current Branch Secretary. (New 8/4/14)

DIVISION 2 - BRANCH BYLAWS (Continued)


Article 3 - Membership


Section 15. Membership shall be open to men retired from full time gainful occupation, re- gardless of age, race, color or religion. (Revised 8/2/93)


Section 16. An active member has the right to vote on all matters before the Branch mem- bership for decision, and to hold Branch and State office.


Section 17. Membership shall require no initiation fees. Authorized expenses may be de- frayed through dues or voluntary contributions to defray necessary expenses of the Branch and to meet Corporate assessments. (Revised 8/5/13)


Section 18. To maintain his membership, a member must attend his Branch meetings as re- quired by the Standing Rules.


Section 19. The breach of any Standing Rule, Bylaw or Regulation, or refusal to conform thereto, may be cause for membership termination, expulsion or suspension.


Section 20. The procedure for effecting the termination, expulsion or suspension, after due notice and opportunity to be heard, shall be as prescribed in the Standing Rules.


Article 4 - Officers


Section 25. Officers of the Branch are the Big Sir, Little Sir, Branch Secretary, Assistant Branch Secretary, Branch Treasurer, Assistant Branch Treasurer, and from two to six Directors, all elected from the active membership each year to serve for the ensuing calendar year and until their successors have been elected and qualified.


Section 26. A vacancy in any Branch office shall be filled by an active member selected by the members of the Branch Executive Committee.


Article 5 - Officer Responsibility


Section 30. In accepting a Branch office, a member assumes responsibility to be bound by the Corporate Bylaws and Standing Rules and the Branch Bylaws and Regulations.

DIVISION 2 - BRANCH BYLAWS (Continued)


Article 6 - Meetings


Section 35. A Branch shall hold regular monthly luncheon meetings at the time and places designated by the Big Sir with the approval of the Branch Executive Committee, as set forth in infor- mation supplied to the members of the Branch. (Rev 2/12/01 Section 5 changed to 35)


Section 36. Special meetings of the officers or members may be held at the discretion of the Big Sir. Notice of special meetings shall be mailed to the members involved at least five days in ad- vance of the date set.


Article 7 - Executive Committee


Section 40. The Big Sir, Little Sir, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer and the Directors shall constitute the Branch Executive Committee.


Section 41. The Branch Executive Committee is empowered to formulate regulations govern- ing the procedures applicable to the Branch not otherwise provided in the Standing Rules, and not in conflict therewith.


Section 42. Only members of the Branch Executive Committee may make and second mo- tions at an Executive Committee meeting and have the right to vote on such motions.


Section 43. Subject to the supervisory responsibilities of the State Board of Directors, the ac- tivities and affairs of the Branch shall be conducted and all powers shall be exercised by or under the direction of the Branch Executive Committee.


Section 44. The Branch Executive Committee may delegate the management of such activi- ties to any member or members of the Branch, or committee thereof, provided that such activities shall be exercised under the direction and be the full responsibility of the Executive Committee.


Section 45 A Branch Executive Committee (BEC) quorum for its meetings shall consist of a majority of all its BEC members. (New 8/6/12)


Article 8 - Committees


Section 50. The Big Sir shall appoint committee chairmen and members to conduct the ad- ministrative details and records of membership, attendance and various Branch activities, to serve at the pleasure of the Big Sir.

Document Meta Data

Filed: November 13th, 2018