SIR is a non-profit organization of active men from all walks of life including business, science, engineering, medicine and education. At Br 32 our sole purpose is to bring together individuals with common backgrounds and interests to participate in well organized and well run indoor and outdoor activities and special events. Participating in these activities and events lead to strong social bonds amongst our members.
We have no dues and we do not do fund raising. We are not political or religious. Most of us joined because we needed new ways to be involved in society prior to or after retirement, and found in SIR new contacts and friends that share our interests. Wives love that we have joined.
Currently our branch has 169members from all areas of the valley. We meet for lunch on the third Wednesday of each month. The lunch is at the Three Flames on Meridian in San Jose. It consists of a social hour, some reporting, lunch and a speaker for about 45 minutes. Past speakers have been a trust/estate attorney, world renowned photographer, San Jose Police Department helicopter pilot, armed forces veterans etc. The speakers are a major draw for our members in addition to member participation in our activities.
We have multiple activities reflecting the interests of the organization. Our activities include: Golf, Pool, Hiking, Bocce, Cards, Biking, Wine Tasting, Travel and more are possible if the interest is there. Many of our activities can include non-members, so wives or partners are able to participate.
We are interested in you, and hope you are interested in joining us. In that regard, you are invited to join us for a free lunch and introductory visit, which we will arrange when we speak with you. To learn more about our BR 32 specifically, or SIR in general, visit the websites
Please contact one of our people for additional information.
Bob Grandey, Recruiting Chairman, 408-439-4521 / bobgrandey@yahoo.com
Larry Hallinan, Director, 408-391-5043 / larogato@comcast.net
Message from Br 32 Big Sir
Wes Howard
October 2025
Welcome SIRs to October.
Hello Fellow SIR’s
Welcome to October! As the days grow shorter and the mornings turn crisp, this month invites us to slow down a bit and enjoy the beauty of the changing season. October has always been a month of traditions, (harvest celebrations, fall colors, pumpkin pies, pumpkin drinks, Octoberfest), and of course the magic and mystery of Halloween. It is also a great reminder of the joy we find in being a part of SIR. Our Branch is more than just a monthly meeting, it is the friendships, laughter, and shared experiences that keep us connected and energized. Every time we gather, we see just how much stronger life becomes when shared with others.
Let’s all make the most of the season, whether it’s through our Branch activities, enjoying time outdoors, with family and friends, or simply appreciating the cooler weather, and all the good things that October brings.
Growth is also the heart of SIR. Just as the season changes, we continue to grow by welcoming new members, trying new activities, and supporting one another. Inviting a friend or neighbor to join us not only strengthens our branch, it also gives them the chance to enjoy the fellowship and fun we all value.
October is just the lead into several months of fun filled holidays and speaking of holidays our annual Lady’s Christmas Lunch is just a few months away. This month Tickets will be on sale during our October Lunch. You don’t want to miss this event.
Wes Howard, Branch 32 President (Big SIR)
September 2025 Presentations:
President’s senior 90yr young Award to Bob Shook #67 & Pete Pierron #166
October 2025 Luncheon
Topic: Exploring the Norwegian Coast
All along the Norwegian coast there are magnificent granite mountains and terrific natural scenery. From Bergen, on the North Sea, we’ll travel up the coast on the “Hurtigruten” ship, visiting coastal towns, some magnificent fjords, and the scenic Lofoten Islands. We will stop at a number of places along the way, including some special fjords, the northernmost medieval Gothic cathedral in Trondheim, and the northernmost point of Europe, far above the Arctic Circle. It’s particularly fascinating to see how the ice-age glaciers scraped the land bare all the way down to pre-Cambrian granite to form this unique landscape, and how the Norwegians have adapted their their lives and culture to it.
Biography:
John grew up in New England (MA) and moved to the Bay Area in the mid-70’s and has two daughters and two grandkids here as well. He’s worked over 35 years in various technical, training, sales and management positions for Hewlett Packard, Apple Computer, and a few Silicon Valley start-ups. John gets considerable enjoyment from photographing nature and the great outdoors on his travels.
Future speakers
November – Richard Holmboe will talk called, “My submarine life or living on a Pig Boat during Vietnam War”
New Inductee :
Gabriel Plasencia was inducted at the SIR BR 32 September Luncheon. Welcpme Gabriel!
Web Site Summary
Last Updated:
Oct 3, 2025
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