Couple hopes to launch a local SIR branch
Scripps Ranch residents Larry and Peggy Maibaum are interested in starting a Sons in Retirement (SIR) branch in the Scripps Ranch area.
Larry is a member of a SIR branch in the Bay Area and has thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie, activities and friendships it has brought him, according to Peggy.
“It’s been a lot of fun for me as well. Many events, like barbecues and wine tastings, include spouses and partners, making it a great way to connect as a couple,” she stated.
SIR is a nonprofit organization founded in 1958 in San Mateo. It’s essentially a social club. There are more than 90 branches across Northern California, spanning from Bakersfield to the Oregon border and from the San Francisco Bay Area to the Nevada state line.
Activities vary widely based on members’ interests and can include golf, bowling, hiking, fishing and pickleball. For those looking for more mentally stimulating options, there are book clubs, digital photography, computing, bridge and luncheons featuring engaging guest speakers. One of the greatest strengths of SIR is its flexibility – interest groups are entirely member-driven and evolve as the group’s interests grow and change.
SIR branches typically hold a monthly luncheon, which includes a brief business meeting followed by a presentation from an interesting guest speaker. In addition, there are a variety of monthly activities based on the interests of the group. Examples include golf, bowling, pickle ball, hiking, fishing, book clubs, bridge, photography, computer groups, as well as social events like wine tasting, dining out and barbecues – many of which are open to spouses and partners.
Scripps Ranch already has clubs such as the Welcome Club and Women’s Club, but Peggy explained why the SIR organization would be a positive addition to the community.
“In my view, SIR would be complementary to both the Welcome Club and the Women’s Club,” she said. “As a member of both, I see SIR as an added asset to the Scripps Ranch community, offering additional opportunities for social engagement – especially for men, while still welcoming spouses at many events.”
Sons in Retirement was originally founded as a social organization for men. While it is still primarily a group for men, the long-term goal is to expand and include women who are interested in joining.
There needs to be a minimum of 25 potential members to qualify for a provisional SIR branch, and 50 members to become a fully chartered branch. The Maibaums are in the process of gathering interested individuals to meet these requirements.
Anyone interested in learning more about SIR is welcome to contact Larry Maibaum via email at larpegmai@gmail.com or call (408) 315-4551.
