WBL December 2016

W oodbridge life Volume 6 • Issue 12 • Number 63

December Update Your Contact Information by december 31.

Your Life. Your Community. Your News.

December • 2016

The Spirit of Giving

The 2017 Community Directory is coming soon!

This means we need you to update your contact information – name, address, email, home and cell phone numbers. Log on to the portal to check your information and if it is incorrect, update accordingly. You may also go to the Clubhouse and submit a “Printed Directory and Website Information Form.”

If you have any questions, contact Leilani Rodriguez at the Clubhouse. The deadline for updates is December 31, 2016.

Thank you!

Inside

Calendar.. . . . . . . . . . . .

Events and Tours.. . . . . .

Garden Tasks.. . . . . . . . .

Groups and Clubs. . . . . .

Scene @ the Clubhouse. .

Triker’s Travels. . . . . . . .

Where in the World.. . . . .

Wine 101.. . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . .

...9 ...8 . . 19 ...6 16-17 . . 35 . . 38 . . 32

READ WBL ONLINE: http://issuu.com/ woodbridgelife

Contact us: WBLIFE2012@gmail.com

Happy Holidays The spirit of giving is alive in Woodbridge, not just at Christmastime but every month of the year. Men’s and women’s organizations raise funds for local nonprofits and individuals volunteer countless hours of their time to benefit programs and agencies. Thank you, Woodbridge!

Page 2 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge life

www.ourwoodbridge.net

From the Editor

The Giving Spirit

By Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor

By John Baber, Activities/Events Coordinator

Happy Holidays!

December 2016 • Page 3

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.”

~ Charles Dickens

W

Carol

Jo

Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor Greetings from Sydney, Australia!

As I write this message to meet our newspaper’s early deadline, my husband Larry and I are on day #22 of our “trip of a lifetime” to Tasmania, Australia and New Zealand.

We were in Tasmania for seven days where a highlight was a “spotlighting” drive to see nocturnal wombats and wallabies in the wild. We have been in Australia for the past two weeks. Yesterday we enjoyed a drive around the city of Sydney, a cruise in Sydney Harbour and a guided tour of the spectacular Opera House.

Tomorrow we leave Australia to begin exploration of New Zealand. We will have four days on the north island where I am especially interested in learning about Maori culture and nine days on the south island where it will ϐ ϐ Ǥ

Woodbridge LIFE

c/o WBLife2012@gmail.com Manteca, CA 95336

~ Carol Jo

P.S. By the time you read this article, it will be December 2. Larry and I will be home and well-rested!

hen we give, it makes us feel good. We are helping make the world a better place.

In the almost three months I’ve been here, the money I have seen raised from the organizations at Woodbridge is outstanding, and some are featured in this edition. We will continue with the John Baber, giving spirit in December. The Lifestyle Activities/Events Coordinator Committee kicks it off with “Soup Day.” Do you know someone in need of a good meal? We’ll have take-out containers in the kitchen to accommodate them. Also, many of you said you don’t like to cook anymore, so come down, have some lunch and share your recipes. Maybe next time, we’ll cook yours.

Our second (since my time here) movie night kicks off with “Dear Eleanor” in the Multipurpose Room. Snacks and sodas will be sold at this free event to benefit the Denise Southwick Memorial Fund.

Denise was the daughter of Woodbridge residents Joan and Danny Southwick. The fund is currently sponsoring an individual to attend cancer detection dog training at the non-profit In Situ Foundation in Chico, California.

December is chock-full of holiday programs including the Woodbridge Singers and Dancers Holiday Concert, The Doctors Hospital of Manteca Christmas Social, The Strummin’ Wonders Christmas Concert and “Deck the Tree” sing-along. There are potlucks, too, including the Cooking 401 Christmas party and the annual Wine 101 Potluck and Bottle Exchange. The Drama group, directed by Linda Takita, presents “Homeless for the Holidays” by Bob Naquin and “A Prairie Christmas” by Caroline Gibson. Each has a special message and will warm your heart. (I got a sneak peek.) All proceeds from these performances benefit the Hospice of San Joaquin.

We can’t play for cash, but we can play for fabulous prizes in “Wacky White Elephant BINGO.” Each participant must bring a wacky wrapped gift. No one will walk away empty-handed (although they may not want the gift). The White Elephant is a big tradition in my family, and hey, who doesn’t love BINGO? Finally, we end 2016 with our New Year’s event, “Enchanted Evening.”

Prepare to be enchanted with good company, food and the music of Clusterphunk, along with surprise guests.

The Opera House backed by the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

In closing, I have spent my adult life dedicated to the service of others. I feel I am on the same page with many of you at Woodbridge when it comes to fundraising. “Making Strides at Woodbridge” is my personal account of our October Breast Cancer Walk. This was my first walk and it was quite the experience. There were a few minor glitches but we pulled it off, thankfully.

Wishing you happiness in 2017!

The deadline for submission of articles and photographs for the January 2017 edition of Woodbridge LIFE is Monday, December 5, 2016.

Please email your materials to wblife2012@gmail.com (Please DO NOT send your items to the Editor’s personal email address.)

Page 4 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

WOA Update

By Ramon Rivera

Committee Announcement Earlier this year, Policy & Procedures and Property & Grounds Committees were disbanded. The main reason was lack of participation from the membership in open meetings. After careful consideration and thought, the Woodbridge Owners Association has decided these two committees will be deployed in 2017 on an “as needed� basis. These committees served us well in the beginning stages of our community, and we want to thank each member who served in the past for his/her efforts and dedication. We encourage all residents to continue voicing their concerns and communicating their ideas for improvements. The WOA staff is here to support each and every resident, no matter how big or small the issue may be.

Facility Rentals Over the past year, private rentals of the Multipurpose Room have become more and more difficult to manage during the rental event. The rules and guidelines for these events are described in detail to every member when filling out the facility rental contract. In the future, the WOA will require a security guard for events that have over 60 people in attendance and/or an event at which alcohol is consumed.

Mutt Mitt Stations We have received numerous reports of residents not cleaning up after their pets. Mutt mitt stations are located throughout the parks, walkways and other WOA common areas. Our maintenance staff stocks and cleans all mutt mitt stations twice per week. We make every effort to ensure these stations are stocked and ready to use. Join us in our efforts to keep the community free of pet waste.

New Community Signage Earlier this year, the Woodbridge Board of Directors approved new signage for the bicycle pathway within the community boundaries.

These signs (intended for non-residents) prohibit public access to pathways from dusk to dawn. By having these signs in place in a situation when a non-resident is using the pathway outside of allowed time, our private security firm or police can enforce trespassing laws once a person refuses to leave the restricted area. The signs are located at each entry point to the pathway (Union Road, Lathrop Road and Airport Way).

On a brighter note, residents can also enjoy new signage within the Chipping Greens at Liberty Park. The WOA recently installed these beautiful signs, identifying each of the four chipping greens available for members to enjoy.

The signs were made of cast bronze metal, semigloss finish and a perfect photo of each of these famous golf greens.

Madison Grove & Lathrop Road Crosswalk The WOA was notified through residents in the community about concerns they had with the crosswalk on Madison Grove Drive and Lathrop Road. The crosswalk is in an area where we experience heavy amounts of traffic with pedestrians and motor vehicles.

The City of Manteca Street Division was notified of the concern. The crosswalk is now striped with a thermo-plastic product for higher visibility. The WOA is also researching additional signage to further enhance the safety of pedestrians using the crosswalk.

From From thethe Bridge Bridge

www.ourwoodbridge.net

By Ramon Rivera %\ 5DPRQ 5LYHUD

A

s I look back at 2016, I believe it was another positive year for our community. The holiday season brings joy, togetherness and the spirit of giving. Woodbridge has influenced me and opened my eyes to the importance of 5DPRQ 5LYHUD Operations Manager giving back. I feel privileged to be in a position where I get to learn something new every day. I have always told myself to learn from others by observing, listening and asking questions. The one item I am most proud of in 2016 is learning the value of giving back to others.

The spirit of giving is not seasonal and should be part of our everyday lives.

Earlier this year, I was eager to find a way to give back to others and there the people who have helped me in my past. Mentors have been a big part of my maturation as far back as I can remember. This is the way I decided I would give back and I knew exactly with whom I needed to speak. I contacted two residents in the community – Rick Arucan and Kathy Howe. Rick is a former Sierra High School Principal and Kathy serves on the Manteca Unified School Board. I want to personally thank Rick for his guidance and Kathy for providing me the avenue to become a mentor in a newly established mentorship program with the Manteca Unified School District.

When I arrived at the first mentoring meeting, I saw something that should not have been a surprise to me. I entered the room and there they were, several Woodbridge residents ready to give back to these high school students. The spirit of giving is alive and well year-round at Woodbridge.

Residents of this community, whether as individuals or in groups creating charitable donations, provide an example for everyone they come in contact with. Whether our actions reach one person or many, we make a difference.

Happy holidays, Woodbridge!

Ask ARChie H

Ő˘

ello Woodbridge neighbors. Thanksgiving is a blink behind us, and I sincerely hope you were all able to find much to be thankful for during the month of November. I’m personally grateful to have my family and friends nearby and good health.

The proposed Design Guidelines review period is nearly over. When the revised guidelines are approved by our board, I want you to know how important this governing document is to our beautiful community. Most importantly, how important the document is to the Architectural Review Committee. The ARC members depend on the rules and guidelines in order to make informed decisions of landscape and exterior applications. I trust you, the Woodbridge residents, will continue to support our efforts to uphold the standards so we can all continue our pride of ownership.

I’d also like to bring up a touchy subject that I’ve found many do not understand. That is the subject of Compliance and NonCompliance. The definition of compliance is: the act of obeying an order, rule or request. The definition of non-compliance is: failure or refusal to comply.

Recent myth is it is the responsibility of the ARC to identify and report failures to comply with the Design Guidelines. This myth is false. Riverside Management manages all reports of non-compliance violations. There are two ways that a non-compliance/violation is reported. (1) A resident may submit a report/form via the Woodbridge portal (anonymous). (2) Riverside periodically reviews our community.

Hence, violations may be noted.

See page 5

ARChie

www.ourwoodbridge.net

WOA the Update From Boardroom

Woodbridge life

December 2016 • Page 5

%\ 5DPRQ 5LYHUD

By Roger Cunning, President of the Woodbridge Owners Association WOA Communication

The Woodbridge Owners Association Board of Directors eagerly anticipates the many activities taking place in Woodbridge during December. It’s a festive month, filled with pleasing sights, sounds and aromas. We just recovered from the entire national, state and local election blitz as well as our Thanksgiving feasts. But now, we take time to enjoy the rest of the holiday season.

As reported last month, but worth repeating, the board approved the 2017 budget during its October meeting. Its $2.5 million assures funding for an excellent staff plus operations and maintenance.

Our budget contributes about $465,000 into our reserve fund that is essential in maintaining spectacular amenities. Our reserves will rise from 68 percent to 92.5 percent of required funding, which is outstanding by industry standards. Our reserve fund serves to pay for maintenance (or replacement) of physical assets over the next 30 years.

The Design Guidelines re-write continues but is hopefully coming to an end soon. Thank you to everyone who submitted potential changes. Because of your input, changes are significant enough to warrant another 30-day comment period. The board is considering a special “town hall� type meeting to address the latest set of updates that have been expressed and incorporated, as appropriate, into the next draft. Stay “tuned in� for more info on this. This document establishes the standards for making modifications to our homes and landscaping.

The entire board wishes you happy, healthy and blessed holidays this month as well as a safe entry into our new year.

We welcome your attendance at the next scheduled meeting of the WOA Board of Directors at 4 p.m., Wednesday, January 4, in the Multipurpose Room.

%FDFNCFS $PNNJUUFF .FFUJOHT

An excellent example of using our reserves is the recent re-flooring of the Fitness Studio with very high-quality flooring. This flooring is safer for residents using the facility because of its cushion and durability. It also is much easier to clean.

Meeting

Day

Our 2017 budget includes a $1/month increase in each lot’s assessment, raising “dues� to $164/month in 2017. The Finance Committee recommended this increase to the board. Some of the major drivers for this have to do with required increases in the cost of healthcare and employee minimum wage. The term “employees� includes our own employees plus all of our contractors. All homeowners should have recently received this budget in the mail. It takes effect January 1, 2017.

ARC Review New Resident Orientation Listening Post ARC Inspections ARC Review ARC Inspections

Tuesday Thursday Friday Tuesday Tuesday

Finance Committee

From

ARChie

page 4

If you receive a violation letter, and if it applies, you may submit an application to the ARC for review.

If there are questions regarding non-compliance, please ask before negative discussions begin. Our best avenue to avoid negative comments and behavior is to inform and educate all without confrontation.Â

~ ARChie Non-Compliance Violations Dear ARChie, When driving around the neighborhood with my neighbor, we both were surprised how many homeowners in our community are not following some of the simple rules related to front yard landscaping. For instance, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well known that items such as hummingbird feeders, animal statues, chimes and other$ 9(5< 9(5< %,* 7+$1. <28 72 5(6,'(17 :$<1( :$5' :+2 odd pieces are not allowed in front yards. It is not necessarily the new homeowners who are still adjusting to the community, but those who have %5,1*6 86 7+( 0267 '(&$'(17 9$5,(7< 2) &+2&2/$7(6 made this their home for many years. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to hear from you before I submit :( 62222 $335(&,$7( <28 :$<1( a few non-compliance reports to Riverside Management for follow-up.

a :22'%5,'*( 67$))

~ Ride Around Sally Dear Ride Around Sally, Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re right, Sally. Page 9 appears to be a simple rule in the current Design Guidelines. All of us need to be reminded that the guidelines are a governing document. We may not think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big deal, but there can be consequences for those who take a â&#x20AC;&#x153;donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t careâ&#x20AC;? attitude. The Design Guidelines were created to maintain the character and continuity of the community, not to irritate the homeowner. As stated in my introduction, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the job or responsibility of the Architectural Review Committee to report non-compliance issues within the community. There are times, though, when a violation is issued to a homeowner

by Riverside Management, and the homeowner may have already submitted an application requesting approval for whatever violation was at hand.

~ ARChie

Tuesday Wednesday

Date

Time

12/06/16 9 a.m.

12/08/16 10 a.m.

No No Meeting meetingThis thisMonth month 12/13/16 9 a.m.

12/20/16 9 a.m 9 a.m 12/27/16

NoMeeting meetingThis thisMonth month No

Inspection Hey ARChie, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not happy. Because I did not have my landscape and patio cover inspected by the ARC, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve received a violation letter from Riverside Management. Now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m required to contact Woodbridge staff so that a final site review can be scheduled. I understand the rules, but this is a bit over the top. What more will I need to do before this process is completed?

~ Over the Top Dear Over the Top The final review or inspection step is noted in the application submitted for your project. (See ARC Application Process: #2.) Two ARC members will compare the original plans to the finished project. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made any small changes, such as planting different species of plants or changing the concrete patio design, this is the time it will be noted on your plans. This is NOT a free card to change out the patio cover or other hardscape and think it will be approved during the final review. Changes of this type are to be submitted as an â&#x20AC;&#x153;amendedâ&#x20AC;? plan.

~ ARChie The ARC members wish all of you a carefree and safe holiday season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.â&#x20AC;?

~ Buddy the elf

All questions may be emailed to ARChie care of Leilani at lrodriguez@ ourwoodbridge.net (Clubhouse front desk). Leilani will forward your questions to the members of the Architectural Review Committee. We want to hear your questions and concerns.

Woodbridge life

Page 6 • December 2016

WOA Groups and Clubs:

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Interest Groups:

Groups & Clubs Contact Phone Meeting Day and Time Interest Groups: WOA Groups and Clubs: Artists & Crafters Nedra Ball 815-9309 M-F. Time & Workshops vary Groups & Clubs

Ballroom Dance Bocce Ball Ballroom Dance Bridge

Contact

Phone

Patti Barnhart Nedra Ball Rick Hyden Don St. Lawrence Rick Hyden Mary Braun Don St. Lawrence Susan Russitano Mary Braun

629-8838 815-9309 824-9257 629-8838 825-7137 824-9257 229-6379 825-7137 275-5817 239-0409

Jan Spence

924-8032 3rd Tuesday @ 2 p.m.

Crochet/Knitting Chair Volleyball

Geri Rogers

824-5310 825-4805

Cribbage Cooking 401

Dave Steffy Jan Spence

825-4805 924-8032

Drama

Geri Rogers Michelle Paradis

DramaNight Game Hand & Foot

Pat Buxton Suzanne Rick HydenMauck Joyce Giordano

824-5310 815-9446 825-4805 824-9257 209-665- Fridays Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

239-8663 & Saturdays @ 6:30 p.m.

5169 239-1183 W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m.

Line Dancing Game Night

Patti Barnhart Pat Buxton

629-8838 239-8663 M-W-F p.m. @ 9:15 a.m.

Bocce Ball Bridge Bunco Bunco Canasta Bunco-also contact Canasta

Cooking 401

Cribbage

SU @ 6 p.m., TH @ 8 a.m.

Mondays @ 10 a.m.

3rd 3rdMonday Monday@ @6:30 6:30p.m. p.m.

Judy Simpson 10 a.m.

1 p.m.

Susan Russitano 647-2901 275-5817 Fridays 3rd Monday @-6:30 p.m.

Oxford Room Judy Simpson 647-2901 2nd and 4th Friday @ 10 a.m.

Dave and Jacquie

Game Night-also Line Dancing (Evening) Bill Goodwin contact Men of Woodbridge Hand & Foot Hula Dance National (American) Mah Line Jongg Dancing Neighborhood Watch Line Dancing (Evening) Oil Painters Men of Woodbridge Open Painting Watch Neighborhood Paddle Tennis Oil Painters

Fridays @ 4:15 p.m.

M-F. Time & Workshops vary SU & TH @ 2 p.m.

Friday @ 4:15 p.m.

Mondays @ 10 a.m.

Rick Hyden Bill Goodwin Ruth Field Suzanne Mauck Cindy Carlsen

5 - 6:30 p.m. Days vary.

Thursdays @ 10 a.m.

Check schedule.

Tuesdays @ 7@ p.m.

3rd Tuesday 2 p.m.

Thursdays @ 10 a.m.

Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Tuesdays @ @ 7 p.m.

Wednesdays 6:30 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays @ 6:30

823-9767 Fridays @ 6 p.m.

824-9257 Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m.

2nd Monday @ 10 a.m.

W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m.

Wednesdays 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Fridays12 @- 13 p.m.

Fridays p.m.

Oxford Room M-W-F @ 9:15 a.m.

Bob Hall Patrols Bill Goodwin Fridays @ 6 p.m.

Patti Barnhart Tuesdays @ 10@a.m.

Bill Goodwin 2nd Monday 10 a.m.

Patti Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Bob Barnhart Hall Patrols Stan Sutfin Mondays @ 10 7 p.m.

Tuesday @ a.m. lighted pickleball courts 629-8838 on Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Pickleball Barbara Shapiro 823-3343 M-F. Time varies Paddle Tennis 815-9735 Wednesdays @ 6 p.m. @varies 2:15 p.m.

Pickleball Barbara Shapiro 510-909823-3343 Mondays M-F. Time Pinochle Robert Philis 8997 Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

510-909- M @ 2:15 p.m. & TH @ 1 Pinochle Philis 8997 p.m.

AlRobert Sanchez 239-8235 Wednesdays @ 1:30 p.m. & Poker Joe Victoria 815-9343 5:30p.m. p.m.& Fri @ Al Sanchez 239-8235 Fridays Wed @@1:30 Poker Joe Victoria 815-9343 5:30 p.m.

Radio Controlled Flyers Bob Umberger 239-2983 Days and times vary Radio Controlled Flyers Bob Umberger 239-2983 1st Wednesday @ 10:30 a.m.

Readers Group Patty DeRoos 239-2833 Readers’ Group 239-2833 1st Wed @ 10:30 a.m.

818Senior Golf John Armstrong 624-3549 Tuesdays Various golf Shang-hai Rummy Cindy Carlsen 429-1221 @ 12courses - 3 p.m.

647-2695 Oxford Room Strummin’ Wonders Carla Marquardt 624-3754 Mondays @ 2 p.m.

Strummin’ Wonders Carla Marquardt 624-3754 p.m.

Tennis Mel Topping 239-8718 Mondays SU - TU - @ TH2@ 9 a.m.

Tennis Mel Topping 239-8718 SU-TU-TH @ 9 a.m.

Trivia Eileen Hill 624-3945 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m.

Trivia Eileen Hill 624-3945 Veterans 815-9476 3rd 2ndTuesday Monday@@7 4p.m. p.m.

Walking of Indoors Jacque Reynolds 815-9476 629-8508 2nd M-W-F @ 8:30 Veterans Woodbridge Bill Buffington Monday @ 4a.m. p.m.

Wheels of Woodbridge Bill Barnhart 629-8838 1st Tuesday @ 10:45 Walking Indoors Jacque Reynolds 629-8508 M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. a.m.

Wine 101 JonBarnhart Ford 815-9803 1st Days vary @ 10:45 a.m.

Wheels of Woodbridge Bill 629-8838 Tuesday Women of Wine 101 Jon Ford 815-9803 Days vary Woodbridge Birdie Nieri 624-3779 3rd Wed @ 11 a.m.

Women of Woodbridge Senior Woodbridge Birdie Nieri 624-3779 3rd Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Vern Mendes 823-4760 Seasonal Woodbridge Senior Every other Monday @ 6:30 Softball Club Vern Mendes 823-4760 Seasonal Woodbridge Singers Elizabeth Cunning 647-4380 p.m.

823-9767 229-6977 818665-5169 429-1221 647-2695 629-8838 239-5712 823-9767 629-8838 823-9767 629-8838 239-5712 815-9735 629-8838

Woodbridge Seniors Golf refer Club to www.ourwoodbridge.net John Armstrong 624-3549 golfinformation. courses Please for moreVarious detailed Woodbridge Singers Elizabeth Cunning 647-4380 Every other Monday @ 6:30 p.m.

Please refer to www.ourwoodbridge.net for more detailed information.

Groups & Clubs Christian Men’s Fellowship 55er’s Club RV Group “Just Fore Fun” Ladies’ Golf Senior RV Bowling 55er's Group "Just Fore Bible Fun" Study Ladies' Golf Women’s Senior Bowling Women's Bible Study

Note:

Contact Dave Basehore Sue Edmiston Contact BettyBasehore Buff Dave Babara Silva Sue Edmiston Carolyn Johnson Barbara Silva Carolyn Johnson

Phone 923-4905 601-9210 Phone 479-3568 923-4905 824-0262 601-9210 479-3568 239-0936 824-0262 239-0936

Update Your Contact Information The 2017 Community Directory is coming soon! That means we need you to update your contact information, name, address, email, home and cell phone numbers. Please log on to the portal to check your information and if it is incorrect, please update accordingly. You may also go to the Clubhouse and submit a “Printed Directory and Website Information Form.” If you have any questions, please contact Leilani Rodriguez at the Clubhouse. The deadline for updates is December 31, 2016. Thank you!

WoodbridgeLIFE life Woodbridge

www.ourwoodbridge.net www.ourwoodbridge.net

5HDFKLQJ 2XW Lakeview Clubhouse: 824-7581

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Roger Cunning, President John Johnson, Vice President Greg Van Dam, Treasurer Andrew Price, Director-at-Large

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Ramon Rivera

495-6803

Activities/Events Coordinator

John Baber

824-7927

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Leilani Rodriguez

824-7581

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Riverside Management PO BOX 697 Roseville, CA 95661 916-740-2462

The opinions expressed in :RRGEULGJH /,)(¡s feature articles, paid advertisements and editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge Owners Association.

WOODBRIDGE LIFE MISSION STATEMENT: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Woodbridge LIFE is a celebration of the diversified residents of Woodbridge by Del Webb in Manteca â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a look at their accomplishments, an exploration of their hopes and dreams, a place to share joy, announce activities and bring neighbors together.

Woodbridge LIFE strives to enhance the lives of all residents and exceed expectations with informative articles, lively features, a calendar of events and more.â&#x20AC;?

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7 Page 7 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016

Woodbridge LIFE

2401 Morning Brook Drive Manteca, CA 95336

209-824-7581

www.ourwoodbridge.net PUBLISHER :2$

&DURO -R +DUJUHDYHV

EDITOR

ADVERTISING

/HLODQL 5RGULJXH]

WBL EDITORIAL TEAM John Baber Sharyl Burgeson, asst. editor Carol Jo Hargreaves, chair Jean Kavale Ann King Judy McNamara Volker Moerbitz Pepper Noble Ramon Rivera Leilani Rodriguez Mike Spence Shelley Tate

824-7927 239-1492 823-3538 629-8571 650-464-0151 923-4718 239-7965 239-1933 495-6803 824-7581 924-8032 479-4249

Woodbridge LIFE is a free monthly publication of the Woodbridge Owners Association, a nonprofit organization serving the residents of the Woodbridge by Del Webb community in Manteca, CA. Woodbridge LIFE invites stories, photographs, comments, cartoons, jokes and any other information that would be of interest to residents. We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and edit for content and length. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or articles that in our opinion do not reflect the standards of the newspaper. The opinions expressed, whether by paid advertisement or editorial content, do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge Owners Association. Content submitted may be edited, reprinted and acknowledged without consent unless specifically requested. Woodbridge LIFE proofreaders use the Associated Press Stylebook, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the journalistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bible,â&#x20AC;? as a writing and editing reference. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Materials submitted with a self-addressed, stamped envelope will be returned. Contents copyright Š 2016 by Woodbridge Owners Association.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

&RQWDFW XV

WBLIFE2012@gmail.com

In Memoriam In tribute to a loved one who has died, Woodbridge LIFE welcomes residents to submit up to 100 words and a 2-inch x 2-inch photo (optional) for publication. Send submissions by email to wblife2012@gmail.com.

Woodbridge life

Page 8 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2016

Woodbridge Woodbridge Owners Owners Association

Association Committees

Committees ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW â&#x20AC;˘ Jacquie Alexander ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW alexander-fox@comcast.net 209-823-2914 â&#x20AC;˘ Jacquie Alexander

Woodbridge Owners Association FINANCE COMMITTEE â&#x20AC;˘

alexander-fox@comcast.net Committees Jacob Lewis, Chair, 209-823-2914 lijalewis@comcast.net

ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW 647-2995 FINANCE COMMITTEE LIFESTYLE â&#x20AC;˘ Jacquie Alexander â&#x20AC;˘ John JacobBaber, Lewis, Chair, â&#x20AC;˘ Chair, alexander-fox@comcast.net lijalewis@comcast.net jbaber@ourwoodbridge.net 209-823-2914 824-7927 647-2995

FINANCE COMMITTEE LIFESTYLE COMMUNICATION â&#x20AC;˘ Jacob Lewis, Chair, Jo Hargreaves, â&#x20AC;˘ Carol John Baber, Chair, Chair, lijalewis@comcast.net Woodbridge LIFE Editor and jbaber@ourwoodbridge.net 647-2995 Directory Chair

824-7927

cjohargreaves@gmail.com LIFESTYLE 823-3538 â&#x20AC;˘ John Baber, Chair, COMMUNICATION jbaber@ourwoodbridge.net WELCOMING COMMITTEE â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ Carol Hargreaves, Chair, DianaJo Clements, Co-Chair 824-7927 tenor4@comcast.net Woodbridge LIFE Editor and 665-4353 Directory Chair COMMUNICATION cjohargreaves@gmail.com â&#x20AC;˘â&#x20AC;˘ Carol Jo Hargreaves, Chair, Jeannie Tebbutt, Co-Chair Woodbridge LIFE Editor and 823-3538 jltebbutt@gmail.com

923-4356 Directory Chair cjohargreaves@gmail.com WELCOMING COMMITTEE NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS â&#x20AC;˘ Diana Clements, 823-3538 Co-Chair â&#x20AC;˘

Bill Barnhart

tenor4@comcast.net bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us

WELCOMING COMMITTEE 629-8838 665-4353 â&#x20AC;˘ Diana Clements, Co-Chair tenor4@comcast.net â&#x20AC;˘ Jeannie Tebbutt, 665-4353 Co-Chair â&#x20AC;˘

jltebbutt@gmail.com Jeannie Tebbutt, 923-4356 Co-Chair

jltebbutt@gmail.com NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS 923-4356

â&#x20AC;˘

Bill Barnhart

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us Bill Barnhart 629-8838

â&#x20AC;˘

bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us 629-8838

TRIVIA

Tuesday, Dec. 20 7 p.m. $1/person/game Multipurpose Room Contact Eileen Hill for more information 624-3945 or erh44@att.net

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Coming Coming to to Woodbridge Woodbridge EVENTS and TOURS - December 2016

Coming to Woodbridge Submitted by John Baber, Activities/Events Coordinator

SOUP DAY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Friday, December 2 @ 11 a.m. Share your favorite recipes in the Quincy Room. Warm up with some hot soup and bread, and letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk about what to make next time. Lentil and chicken noodle soup will be provided. Do you know someone in need of a meal? Take-out containers will be available for your neighbors. $3 cash on day of event.

Sign up at the front desk.

DECK THE TREE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, December 3 @ 4 p.m. Celebrate the holidays and welcome our Christmas tree in the living room. Bring your favorite cookies to share and sing along with the Lifestyle Committee. Warm up with some hot apple cider and enjoy the holiday cheer. FREE

WOODBRIDGE SINGERS AND DANCERS HOLIDAY CONCERT Monday, December 5 @ 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, December 6 @ 2 and 6:30 p.m. The Woodbridge Singers and Dancers present a myriad of holiday tunes. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sneak peek: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Little Saint Nickâ&#x20AC;? by the Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ensemble, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mister Santaâ&#x20AC;? by the Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chorus, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Run, Run Rudolphâ&#x20AC;? by Frank Perez, guitarist, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Silent Nightâ&#x20AC;? by Michael Bell, saxophonist, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Twelve Days AFTER Christmas.â&#x20AC;? In the Multipurpose Room. FREE MOVIE NIGHT, â&#x20AC;&#x153;DEAR ELEANORâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wednesday, December 7 @ 6 p.m. Beginning in Manteca in 1962, two girls take a cross country road trip to deliver an important message to the former First Lady of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt. Snacks and sodas will be sold to benefit the Denise Southwick Memorial Fund. Amy Garcia and Cecelia Contretras (creators of the film) join forces with the Ovarian Cancer Alliance of California. This event will help sponsor an individual to attend the cancer detection dog training at the nonprofit In Situ Foundation in Chico, CA. Come and relax under the big screen in the Multipurpose Room. Donations accepted for the foundation.

to enhance mental awareness. The exercises in a pilates workout will boost your flexibility and joint mobility. Come and see what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about! Limited to 50. Sign up at the Clubhouse. Will take place in the Multipurpose Room. FREE WINE 101 ANNUAL POTLUCK & BOTTLE EXCHANGE Thursday, December 15 @ 5:30 p.m. Bring your own wine glass, a bottle of wine to toast the holidays with your table and a salad, entree or dessert.  You may choose what to bring when you sign up, until all slots are filled for that category. To participate in the bottle exchange, bring a bottle of wine wrapped in holiday decoration so no pertinent information about the bottle is exposed.  Only one bottle per couple/single.  Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to wear your badge and bring serving utensils. RSVP at the Clubhouse. Limited to 96 participants. Held in the Multipurpose Room. $2 nonrefundable DECADES BAND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, December 17 @ 6:30 p.m. (SOLD OUT) STRUMMINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; WONDERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday, December 19 @ 6:30 p.m. The Strumminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wonders Ukuleles of Woodbridge presents an evening of Christmas songs and carols. You are invited to bring goodies to share. At the Woodbridge Clubhouse in the Multipurpose Room. Sign up at the front desk. FREE COOKING 401 CHRISTMAS POTLUCK - Tuesday, December 20 @ 2 p.m. Enjoy the holiday spirit with Cooking 401 and their annual holiday potluck. The dish should be large enough to serve eight people. Spouses are invited. To sign up please email Jan Spence at jspence1740@gmail.com or Bonnie Pater at bgpater@comcast.net. Will be held in the Quincy Room. FREE

WACKY WHITE ELEPHANT BINGO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wednesday, December DRAMA PERFORMANCE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;HOMELESS FOR THE HOLIDAYSâ&#x20AC;? 21 @ 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Win big at the White Elephant Bingo Gift & â&#x20AC;&#x153;A PRAIRIE CHRISTMASâ&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, December 8 @ 2 Exchange. No one walks away without a zany gift. Over $200 and 6 p.m. and Sunday, December 11 @ 2 p.m. In â&#x20AC;&#x153;Homeless in fabulous prizes for the winners. Bring a fully-wrapped for the Holidays,â&#x20AC;? written by Bob Naquin, a Del Webb couple wacky gift to participate. Sign up at the Clubhouse. FREE is bothered by a homeless person camped outside their home, bringing them an important Christmas message. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A WII BOWLING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, December 22 @ 1 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Prairie Christmas,â&#x20AC;? written by Caroline:KHQ \RX KDYH VLJQHG XS IRU DQ HYHQW DFWLYLW\ RU WRXU DQG \RX Ă&#x20AC;QG \RX DUH Gibson, is a modern make it to the bowling alley? Come to the Multipurpose unable attend, please, as a courtesy to others, call the AClubhouse front desk adaptation of an old tale. Joe and Mary find to themselves Room and check out Wii Bowling. demonstration and

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Important Notice About Cancellations

DOCTORS HOSPITAL CHRISTMAS SOCIAL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, December 13 @ 5:30 p.m. Doctors Hospital of Manteca hosts its wine and cheese Christmas social. Meet the staff from DHM and dance to the music of the Mike Torres Band. RSVP at the Clubhouse. FREE PILATES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, December 15 @ 1 p.m. Pilates is a system of exercises using special apparatus designed to improve physical strength, flexibility and posture and

Important Important Notice Notice About Cancellations About Cancellations

ENCHANTED EVENING NEW YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PARTY â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, December 31. Doors open @ 6:30 p.m. Dinner @ 7 p.m.

Prepare to be enchanted with an evening of great food and entertainment. Music by Clusterphunk, along with surprise guests. Enjoy a dinner of three kebobs (chicken, Angus beef and ground beef) served over a bed of rice with roasted vegetables, tossed salad, bread and dessert. BYOB. Champagne toasts at 9 p.m. and 12 a.m. Tickets are selling fast! Purchase at front desk for $75.

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ź Events and activities are listed on page 8.

More information about these as well as Woodbridge Clubs and Groups may be found on the Woodbridge portal and at the Lakeview Clubhouse.

This calendar was last updated 11/28/16. Refer to flyers or the Woodbridge portal for additional information.

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ThankEveYou, Mike! s t n g n i m Co

By Carol Jo Hargreaves

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As a courtesy to Woodbridge residents, we are providing the following event information to assist in planning and obtaining tickets. Please note: This information is subject to change. Contact the Clubhouse front desk if you have questions.

n behalf of Woodbridge LIFE’s Editorial Team, I extend a sincere thank you to Mike Spence for his service as a Woodbridge Owners Association Director as well as his many contributions to the Woodbridge community. Elected to the board in October 2015, Mike was committed to helping people. His past experience and well-developed information gathering, analysis and critical thinking skills helped him learn the rudiments of the position. He spent countless hours reading and studying HOA policy and law to perform his duties prudently and responsibly.

Mike and Jan Spence moved to Woodbridge in April 2010. The two were quick to integrate into their new community in a positive way. They volunteered as Woodbridge Resident Ambassadors, stationed either at the Sales Pavilion or in the model of home they own, where they greeted prospective homebuyers and shared the benefits of living at Woodbridge.

They also guided tours of Lakeview Clubhouse and Lake Rockwell.

See

(9(176 page 10

In the six-and-a-half years Mike has lived in Woodbridge, he originated the annual Sherwood Forest Barbecue typically attended by close to 100 people, served as Property & Grounds Committee chairman, actively participates in the Men of Woodbridge, served as advisor on the Woodbridge Reserve Study, helps coach first base for Diamond Gals’ softball games, founded the Cooking 401 group, assisted with the Lake Rockwell cleanup project and is a longtime member of the Woodbridge LIFE Editorial Team.

Mike stays up-to-date on what is going on in our community and he deeply values the special friends he has made here.

Thank you, Mike, for all you have done and will continue to do for our community. Watch out! I look forward to giving you more Woodbridge LIFE assignments now that you might have some time available!

Page 10 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

www.ourwoodbridge.net

W O O D B R I D G E Woodbridge Finance Committee

By Don St. Lawrence

T

he Finance Committee is an advisory committee consisting of three to five residents appointed by the board to serve for threeyear terms. These terms are staggered to avoid losing a majority of members at one time.

The committee meets monthly, except for December, with the operations manager and a financial representative from the management company to review the prior month’s financial performance of the association against the approved budget. These meetings are open to residents on an observation basis; committee members can only discuss association financial matters with members of the board.

The committee reviews the proposed annual budget, the current reserve

fund investment position and any other matter requested by the board, making only recommendations to the board.

The current three residents sitting on the Finance Committee, with their abbreviated autobiographies, are:

Terry Hickey I received a BS and MS from Boston University and served four years in the U.S. Air Force, which included a year in Vietnam. I worked 38 years with non-profit organizations in various management positions (CEO, COO, CFO). My wife and I moved to Woodbridge in March 2011. I have also served on the Property & Grounds Committee.

Jacob Lewis, Chair My wife and I retired to Woodbridge by Del Webb after 40+ years of successful financial management in the healthcare industry. I wanted to get involved in our community and applied to serve on the Finance Committee to share my experience. My educational background includes undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Finance from the University of Arizona as well as an MBA from the University of Florida. I further participate in the community as a Woodbridge Silver Slugger softball player and in Men of Woodbridge, Veterans of Woodbridge and Wine 101. Personally, I enjoy taking landscape photographs, drinking a glass of great wine and traveling with my wife, Linda.

Photo submitted by Jacob Lewis.

Don St. Lawrence

(L to R): Terry Hickey, Jacob Lewis (chair) and Don St. Lawrence (secretary) make up the Woodbridge Finance Committee.

After graduating with Electronic Engineering and MBA degrees, I worked in aerospace marketing, project management and design control. My wife, Renée, worked as a teacher for many years. We moved into Woodbridge in 2007, when the Clubhouse consisted of trailers. I participate in Bridge, Cooking 401, Neighborhood Watch, potlucks, Wheels of Woodbridge and Wine 101 and serve as secretary of the Property & Grounds and Finance Committees.

Woodbridge life

www.ourwoodbridge.net

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 11

At the Clubhouse ĂŚĂŚ Artists & Crafters The holiday season is definitely upon usâ&#x20AC;Ś

By Penny Dauler

T

he stores have put on their finery and their sales, our houses are lit, decorated and full of good cheer. Even the streets have put on their best bib and tucker. If you get a chance, drive or walk around the neighborhood and see the fantastic front yard displays.

in the arts and crafts room stays in the arts and crafts room.

Our specialty class this month is being taught by Marian Pistochini. The class is $7 and you keep $6 of it. The class is being held on Thursday, December 8, at 12:30 p.m. Check out the little dollar bill t-shirt in the window and you will understand.

I am busy with addressing Christmas cards, making out menus and finishing off last minute craft projects which wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be last minute if I would just stop buying cute Christmas kits to make!

Our general meeting, December 2, is taking on a decidedly holiday flavor. The meeting will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a potluck, followed by a quick and easy craft project. As you may be reading this before coming to the meeting, just grab something edible to share and come on by.

Artists and Crafters group is not taking the month off, but we are slowing down just a tiny bit. ALL regular workshops are being held. China painters, oil painting, paper crafting, knitting and crocheting and the breast cancer workshop are all going on as planned. Dog and cat beds class will be meeting this month on Thursday, December 15, at 12:30 p.m. NO skill required, just helping hands and a warm heart. UFO is scheduled for Friday, December 16, beginning at 9 a.m. This is open time to come and utilize the arts and crafts room and the supplies we have. Remember what is

New classes and crafting opportunities will be coming to the Westport (arts and crafts) Room in the New Year. Come on by and see what we are up to.

The board of the Artists & Crafters of Woodbridge wishes you and yours a very merry holiday and a Happy New Year!

Serving the community since 1979 General Dentistry Dr. Bonnie Morehead Dr. Ron Joseph Dr. Rudy Ciccareli

Dr. Daman Saini Dr. Harneet (Neeti) Saini Dr. Elizabeth Grecco

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Dr. Mark Grecco

Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Mohammad El Farra

Valley Oak Dental Group is a multi-specialty group practice committed to excellence. Our Pediatric Department provides a comfortable, caring atmosphere for your children. We provide the latest General Dentistry procedures in a state-of-the-art dental suite. Our Oral Surgery Department provides general anethesia and I.V. sedation in a safe, professional environment.

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Woodbridge life

Page 12 • December 2016

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ur book club met at 10:30 a.m. (always the first Wednesday of the month) in the Oxford Room to discuss “Leaving Time” by Jodi Picoult and presented by Sally Collins. Almost everyone agreed the book was worth reading, but most of us had a problem with the fact that each character appeared in his or her own chapter so it was difficult to follow the story as a whole. The story has a surprise ending and was a very different book featuring elephants, supposedly “normal” people and...ghosts! There was an interesting juxtaposition of human family behavior and that of elephant “families.” We had a lively discussion and a large group including some new faces, making a total of 16 people. Welcome to all of you.

There will not be a December 7 meeting as that will be the annual Christmas luncheon for our group.

Books for our first meetings in the new year will be: January 2017, “Orphan Train” by Christina Baker Kline;

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ bridge

By Don St. Lawrence The Bridge group meets Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Oxford Room.

Bridge Scores

February, “Song of the Willow Tree”

by Jamie Ford and March, “Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Aborn Franke. This sounds like an interesting variety of books for us all to read. I am looking forward to these selections as I have not read any of these authors before. A book club is something like an “Explorers’ Club,” only we explore books. It’s always a new adventure when you begin to read the first page of a book written by an author previously unknown to you.

OCTOBER 31: Phyllis Tindell Cherie Ford Don St. Lawrence Don Harris Kathy Comden Betty Buff Letha Watson

NOVEMBER 7: Don St. Lawrence Phyllis Tindell Robi Cornelius Kathy Comden Don Harris Renée St. Lawrence Betty Buff

We post a list of books for discussion in the Clubhouse kiosk. Our next meeting will be at 10:30 a.m., January 4, the first Wednesday of the month in the Oxford Room. Every resident of Woodbridge is welcome to join us. We will read “Orphan Train” before our meeting and discuss the book as a group at the January meeting. Welcome to all of the new people who joined us for our last book club meeting of 2016.

NOVEMBER 14: 3830 3650 3390 2930 2860 2810 2780

3650 3450 2840 2520 1340 1290 1060

Letha Watson Don Harris Don St. Lawrence Betty Buff Robi Cornelius Kathy Comden Phyllis Tindell Barbara Kreps Marilyn Larson

NOVEMBER 21: Betty Buff Grace Pasion Gloria Hudson Cherie Ford Nancy Hansen Letha Watson Barbara Kreps Don Harris Phyllis Tindell

5180 4420 4100 3830 3390 3330 2940 2170 1620

5210 4280 3780 3750 2890 2770 2770 2600 1770

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American Dental Association

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209.823.7655 Visit our website:www.drmala.com

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www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge life

December 2016 • Page 13

ææ WOMEN OF WOODBRIDGE Speakeasy Follow-up

By Birdie Nieri, Women of Woodbridge President

A

contingency of gangsters, gun molls and flappers descended into Club 2401 for the Speakeasy produced by the Women of Woodbridge.

The avid crowd was entertained by Elizabeth Cunning and her troupe of players, dancers, singers and vaudevillians. A sit-down dinner was served among beautifully decorated tables of black with white accents of ostrich feathers and LED lighting.

Party goers purchased raffle prize tickets, “bath tub gin” and “cordials” at the bar while the cigarette girl offered her wares of bubble gum cigars and cigarettes benefiting the Haven of Peace Refuge for Women.

The dinner of Chicken Ala King or smoked pork loin was well received by hungry diners, prepared by Chef Mark Angelo. The house lights were dimmed as diners settled in for the program to begin. Emcee for the evening, Ed Burroughs, introduced Jack Dauler, Jon Ford, Vicki French, Shirley Lopes and Gale Serpa for their first of eight songs for the evening. We were treated to some comedy by Jon Ford as the “Great Fordini” and banter with Ed in intervals throughout the show. Jack Dauler entertained us with a rendering of Will Rogers telling his truths of politics — timely, for sure.

Music was performed by Elizabeth Cunning on keyboard, Roger Cunning on harmonica and Frank Perez soloed on guitar with songs written in the ‘20s. Charleston dancers, Joyce Graham and Phyllis Rose, strutted their stuff while tiptoeing through the tulips. Birdie Nieri sang her way through “Second Hand Rose” and Kirby Brown’s musical stylings of “Stars and Stripes Forever” had a climatic ending. Larry Hellikson and Steve Howe stole the show with their synchronized ballet. Yes, ballet! They pirouetted onto the dance floor in pink tutus, pink hair and one large beach ball. It had to be seen as it was indescribable and hysterically funny. They danced right into our hearts. Jaws ached from grinning and laughing throughout the evening.

The Women of Woodbridge provided an ideal setting and mood for their third and final event of the year. Over 50 women were involved in this project from set up, serving, hostessing, collecting admission tickets, selling raffle tickets, washing dishes, taking home linens for laundering and bringing everything back the second day for a repeat performance and then repeating all the steps once more. The women of WOW are exceptional at what we do. We work together with helping hands and encouragement.

We all want our events to be the best we can make them. I am so proud to belong to such a wonderful organization of dedicated, hardworking, conscientious, giving women.

Speakeasy ææ woodbridge singers

December Concert

By Elizabeth Cunning

Kick off your holiday season with the Woodbridge Singers and Dancers’ Winter Concert.

Singers, dancers and lots of fun are headed your way! Don’t miss this special presentation that will get you in a festive mood with sounds of the holiday and a sing-along to your favorite Christmas carols.

Here’s a “sneak peek” – and there’s more!

“Little Saint Nick” Men’s Ensemble “Mister Santa” Ladies’ Chorus “Run, Run Rudolph” Frank Perez, guitarist “The Twelve Days AFTER Christmas” Roger & Judy Goodnow, Eileen Hill, Kathy Dezotte “Silent Night” Michael Bell, saxophonist “Hallelujah Chorus” Finale Your choice of THREE Performances: Monday, Dec. 5 @ 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 6 @ 2 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 6 @ 6:30 p.m.

Reserve your spot by signing up at the front desk in the Clubhouse. This is a no cost event – it’s our gift to YOU!

If you would like to bring a dessert to share after the concert, please do so.

Woodbridge life

Page 14 • December 2016

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ VETERANS OF WOODBRIDGE Veterans Dinner

Ret. Major General Regua sits down to a wonderful meal put on by the Veterans of Woodbridge.

John Baber does KP duty.

Roger Goodnow and Bill Buffington volunteer in the kitchen.

A BRICK for Christmas?

By Jack Dauler

Y

ou may have heard the history of finding lumps of coal in your Christmas stocking. Well, this is one version from England: In the 19th century, most of Europe was powered by coal, and most household furnaces were coal-burning. A pan of hot coals would often be kept under the bed to generate heat in the middle of the night.

In England, while children who were thought to act good got candy and toys in their stockings, those who were not as well-behaved would get coal, if they were lucky.

Hopefully all of us in Woodbridge have been good and won’t be seeing any coal in our stockings. But

maybe a stocking with an order form from the Veterans Memorial Brick campaign inside would help make your Christmas bright.

The Veterans Memorial honors Woodbridge residents and their loved ones who may not live in Woodbridge but have served in the military. The memorial is located in the northeast section of Liberty Park.

We are offering bricks in 4” x 8” and 8” x 8” sizes with prices at $135 and $505, respectively. These laserengraved bricks can have 19 to 23 characters per line and three to six lines of text, along with clip art of the military service you wish.

Order forms are available in the Clubhouse or by calling Jack Dauler at 629-8575 or Roger Cunning at 647-4380.

John Deming and Jeannie Tebbutt wear patriotic attire.

Robert Graham holds his military photo.

WBL photos by Sharyl Burgeson.

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge life

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 15

Boy Scout Troop #432 leads the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lem Phillips was among the honored veterans.

The Strumminâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wonders Ukulele group conducts a sing-along.

Robert Bohaboy, Billy Bloomer and Jim Jeffrey show their military spirit.

Jack Furrer was one of the senior veterans at this patriotic gathering.

Page 16 â&#x20AC;¢ December 2016

Woodbridge life

SCENE @ the CLUBHOUSE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge LIFE staffers visited Lakeview Clubhouse

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oodbridge LIFE staffers visited Lakeview Clubhouse Friday, April 8, to see what

Valerie, who teaches nationally, shows Marge how to blend skin tones for realism.

WBL photos by Sharyl Burgeson.

Artist Valerie Stewart (seated), came to Woodbridge to help instruct the oil painting class.

(L to R): Esther Chu, Eileen Hill, Marge Nelson, Jeannie Grinsell, Patti Barnhart, Ellen Lee-Wootton and Adele Hamilton.

Captions by Shelley Tate.

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Valerie Stewart, Jeannie Grinsell and Ellen Lee-Wootton discuss shading techniques as Valerie coaches through corrections.

Esther Chu puts some finishing touches on her angel painting.

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge life

December 2016 • Page 17

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TOP PHOTO: Ellen LeeWootton was an arts and crafts instructor for many years before dabbling in oils.

MIDDLE PHOTO: Adele Hamilton corrects for flesh tones.

BOTTOM PHOTO: Patti Barnhart heads the class of talented painters and often captures her love of dance in her paintings.

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oodbridgelife LIFE WWoodbridge

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Garden Tasks for Garden Tasks June for December

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Article and photo by Sandi Larson, Master Gardener

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ow, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s December already! In this weather, I tend to get a little 6DQGL /DUVRQ overzealous in my pruning and I start cutting things a little earlier than recommended. I try pruning my roses a little now, just to get them in better control when January rolls around. If you like to harvest rose hips, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fine to let them stay on now and then trim them off in January when you prune your rose bush. I guess thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one reason Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not much of a fan of the carpet roses and related rambling roses. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen the mow and blow guys take their hedge trimmers to them and prune them into a box.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s totally disgusting and unnatural. With all their many branches, you end up getting quite pricked unless you have the long leather gloves that go up to your elbow.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ok to prune your crape myrtle trees now, if you like. Mine have already been pruned and the small pencil-sized side branches cut off to the bare bark. By pruning them now, it saves on branches and debris to clean up from the yard later on.

Speaking of debris and leaves, when you do your winter cleanup, make sure you pick up as many leaves as you can because insects will winter over in that leaf/debris pile and be a problem next spring.

Have you pulled out your vegetable plants yet? Now is a good time, as we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had a ton of rain yet and the ground at this point is workable.

Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.

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Page 192016 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016 December â&#x20AC;˘ Page 19

If you have the energy, turn over your soil and add about 3-4 inches of organic mulch to your vegetable garden and about 3 inches of mulch to your flower gardens too. Make sure you leave at least an inch around the base of your plants. You can now put in cabbage, peas, lettuce, radish, spinach and sets of onions, garlic and shallots.

Soon you might be seeing your camellias beginning to bloom and your citrus plants starting to ripen. My lemons are starting to turn yellow - this is my first year - and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy to see them thriving. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sad we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have as many pyracanthas near us because theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re beautiful this time of year and very drought tolerant.

Now is a good time to clean up your tools. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve used them for pruning plants that are diseased, make sure you clean off any debris or plant material first. After they are cleaned you can sterilize them with one of many products. You can use ethanol or isopropyl alcohol to soak your pruners. The experts recommend two sets of tools, with one set

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soaking in the alcohol while the other set is being used. Sounds ideal, but probably a bit costly.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for color for your porch or garden this time of year, try cyclamen, violas and violets, stock, calendula, Iceland poppies and primrose.

Indoors, choose from several varieties of orchids, poinsettias or Christmas cacti. If your orchids are kept outdoors for any length of time, be aware of stowaways like snails or slugs that could harbor in the pot if you bring it indoors. Stores also have tree-shaped rosemary or ivy you can use indoors.

With plants like rosemary or small Christmas trees, the amount of time you can keep them successfully indoors is limited.

We are probably heading into a frosty month in December and I recommend using small twinkly lights if you are determined to save your frost-sensitive plants. Freeze Pruf will give you a few degrees of protection from frost and freeze. You can also water your plants the day frost is due for additional protection or use a frost-protectant blanket. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget, if you believe your plant has been damaged by frost itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to leave it alone until the danger of frost is over before pruning. Sometimes plants pop back when you think theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re gone.

Make sure you continue to water your plants that are under the eaves.

They arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going to benefit by the rains we get this winter, unless the wind drives the rain under the eaves.

This month you can apply dormant spray to deciduous flowering plants and fruit trees. The dormant spray also helps keep control of diseases that can winter over in the plants.

My annual trip to Duarte Nursery is just around the corner. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss going to Duarte Nursery in Hughson for out-of-this-world poinsettias and dish gardens! Then go to Sciabicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olive Oil in Modesto to pick up some wonderful award-winning olive oil.

Enjoy the season and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and can postpone all of your appy yardwork until January!

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page 33

Gardening!

Page 20 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

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“Making Strides” at W A few days before “Making Strides” Breast Cancer Walk began, Sue Gessini and I walked the route around Woodbridge. Frankly, I was a little nervous, considering I didn’t know how long it would take us and it was just a few days away, not to mention this was my first walk. We meandered over to Liberty Park, around the windmill, through the promenade and around to the front of the Clubhouse. The walk was 1.7 miles, according to Sue’s Fitbit.

My biggest challenge: How would everyone know where to

go? Well, as you were starting the race, I was finishing up the trail of pink balloons. I missed the kickoff!

I did see in the distance a blur of pink, and a big sigh of relief passed through me as I continued on the balloon trail. At least I knew you wouldn’t catch up with me. After I finished, I took off in Birdie Nieri’s golf cart to see if anyone needed a ride.

Jack Dauler rode on his bike, gathered all of the balloons, and we started passing them around. What I didn’t know is that you write names on the balloons – a tribute. Then you release them into the sky. There is something about balloons that makes people happy. To see them go up in the air like that was incredibly moving to me.

Not only did I miss the kick off, but I missed the finish, too. As I pulled up, it made me so happy to see everyone gathered out front.

Our community made it happen and raised $1,146 for the American Cancer Society. Let it be bigger and better next year!

Photo submitted.

By John Baber

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Woodbridge life

Woodbridge

December 2016 • Page 21

Toys For Tots

By Jack Dauler

Lifestyle Committee presents a check to American Cancer Society.

Photo submitted.

Get a Pink Ribbon License Plate Submitted by Roger Gibson

Breast Cancer Awareness Month has ended and the Softball Snack Shack has donated $500 to the “Pink Plate Foundation,” which is trying to get a breast cancer license plate on the road.

The foundation supports Every Woman Counts (EWC), which provides free breast exams and mammograms to underprivileged women.

Visit www.pinkplate.org to learn more about the organization and get your own pink plate. Early detection saves lives.

The Woodbridge Veterans group is again participating in the U.S. Marine Corps 2016 Toys for Tots program. The mission of this program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during November and December and distribute these toys as Christmas gifts to less fortunate children in our community in which the campaign is conducted.

In early November, the veterans placed boxes in the Clubhouse for collection of toys and are still emptying the boxes daily. All toys collected were turned in to the Marine Corps coordinator starting on November 14.

The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help children throughout the area experience the joy of Christmas and to play an active role in the development of one of our most valuable resources, our children.

Monetary donations are also accepted.

The last day to contribute to the program is Monday, December 12. For monetary gifts, please contact Al Nevares @ 209-815-9358. All checks should be made out to “Toys for Tots Foundation”.

Thank you for your generosity.

Page 22 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

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ææ Wheels of woodbridge

Club Brunches at Grand Island Mansion

Article and photo by Bill Barnhart

T

hirteen couples from the Wheels of Woodbridge took to the road in pouring down rain to enjoy each other’s company at a Sunday brunch at Grand Island Mansion in October. Although we could not see much of the outside of the mansion due to the rain, there was much to see inside.

The resort was built by European craftsmen and is currently run by an English hotelier. With marble fireplaces, imported wood interior panels and custom-made wood parquet and tile floors throughout, this is a beautiful historic landmark located in the heart of the Sacramento Delta area near Walnut Grove.

This place has quite the history with famous movie stars having stayed there in the ‘30s, ‘40s and later. Back then, guests often arrived by riverboat and it was a place for presidents to stop off and recharge. Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan are just two of the famous guests who have spent time at the mansion.

Car club members and their wives who braved the weather for this enjoyable brunch were Bill and Patti Barnhart, Steve and Kathy Ray, Wayne and Carole Gordon, Mario and Sue Vernali, Dave and Carol Silva, Don and Marian McClure, Ray and Pepper Noble, Tom and Joan McGee, Al and Sandy Nevares, Rick and Marge Nelson, Bob and Sue Garoutte, Marty and Sharon Fermer and Earl and Dolly Reedy.

A New Sport for Fall and Winter – Chair Volleyball

By Dave Steffy

N

ow that softball is over and fall is here, think about joining the chair volleyball group. It’s a fun and active sport that many residents have discovered as a great opportunity for fun, exercise and excitement.

If you’re like most of us who loved volleyball but just can’t jump anymore, then this is the sport for you. It’s basically the same rules we are all used to, except we sit in chairs and use a beach ball. It is loads of fun and we can set up three courts to accommodate lots of people.

We play two or three times a month, mostly on Tuesdays in the Multipurpose Room. There are schedules in the hallway kiosk, so come join us. You’ll be glad you did.

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December 2016 • Page 23

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Woodbridge life

Page 24 • December 2016

FALL S

By Polly Smith. Photos submitted by Rober Gibson.

www.ourwoodbridge.net

FTBALL BANQUET 2

1

The annual softball banquet was held October 29, with a full house of 160 people in attendance. When people entered the Clubhouse, they were greeted with a life-like cartoon cut out of both a male and female softball player with a large hole in place of their heads. People were encouraged to duck behind one or the other of the cut outs, poke their face through the hole and have Rommel Parseh take their pictures.

The tables were adorned with colorful balloons and beautifully set with tablecloths, silverware and glass plates. Each table had a bottle of white and red wine with labels showing each softball team. We were treated to a delicious dinner catered by Fagundes Meats and served by the softball banquet committee.

Caroline Gibson did a spectacular job as emcee again this year. All of the managers were recognized and were shown appreciation for their hard work throughout the season. Each team selected two players who were honored for their spirit and sportsmanship and they were each gifted with a bottle of wine from Delicato Winery.

Charm Mathis produced a wonderful video which everyone enjoyed. She was able to show the softball players in various games making awesome plays. A final tribute to George Moffatt ended the video on a high note.

The evening was rounded off with dancing and music by The Second Chance Band on the patio. We even had the weather cooperate with us – no rain!

Decorations were completed in the afternoon and a big thank you goes to those who helped set up for the banquet. The evening was well-organized and executed thanks to a fantastic committee which included Rosemary Hein, Judy McNamara, Nancy Behney, Sue Vernali, Charm Mathis and Polly Smith.

3

4

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1. Polly Smith, the director of the whole event.

2. The kitchen serving crew.

3. The crowd viewing the media presentation created by Charm Mathis.

4. Sharon Fields, Director of Operations for the Snack Shack, making a presentation.

5. Vern Mendez, President of the Softball Council, making a few announcements.

6. The buffet line.

7. John Bauer.

8. Two of the honorees who received bottles of wine for sportsmanship and spirit for their teams—Dave Rose and Donnie Bosse.

9. Marie Moffatt.

10. Some of the people in attendance.

11. The Second Chance Band provided music for the dance.

12. David and Sandy Jimenez dancing.

6

Woodbridge life

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December 2016 • Page 25

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Woodbridge life

Page 26 • December 2016

Softball What’s Happening in Softball

By Ken Beaty

A

s a follow-up to what Roger Gibson wrote last month, yep, last season is over and it did have its ups and downs with adding the sixth men’s team to the program. But, all in all, it was a good season and if you missed the dinner, you need to know that it was GREAT!

NE W !

Now, on to what’s happening in the off-season.

Beginning January 7, 2017 at 10 a.m., we will start our version of Sandlot Softball. What we do is see how many men show up at the field, then either have batting practice or split up and play a game for a few innings. It is open to all players, returning and new residents. It is a chance, ahead of the regular season, to get in shape and for new players to see what our league is about and for them to play and use the muscles they probably haven’t used in years (as we all did). If anyone knows or has met a new resident, let them know to come and watch to see if they’re interested. We will start with just Saturdays through January and then, in February, add Wednesdays to

the plan. We will start at 10 a.m. each day and quit when we feel like it.

Sign-ups for the 2017 season will start in February. Get your sign-up sheet at the front desk in the Clubhouse and turn it in to the front desk when completed. The draft for each of the teams will take place in March and games will start in April.

There is also a need for coaches and umpires.

If you are interested in serving in either of these positions, you can do so without being a player but by wanting to be involved or help out.

So, enjoy the time off, heal, relax and enjoy the holidays. See you at the field on Saturday, January 7, at 10 a.m. (unless it’s raining).

If you have any questions regarding Sandlot Saturdays, call Ken Beaty @ 624-1734.

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Silver Slugger Softball Practice

By Butch Larson, WSSC Vice President Silver Slugger Men’s Softball will conduct open practices for interested players starting Saturday, January 7, at 10 a.m. and continue each Saturday during the month of January. We are also looking for those interested in becoming managers or coaches for the 2017 softball season.

Please contact Vern Mendes (823-4760) or Bob Perrin (815-9629) if you are interested or have questions.

Sign-ups for players will begin in February for the 2017 Silver Slugger Softball Season.

Woodbridge life

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ĂŚĂŚ SOFTBALL

ĂŚĂŚ BILLIARDS

Pool Tournament

Last Softball Picture Contestâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Unique Prizes

By Roger Gibson

F

ellow Woodbridgians, this will be the final softball picture contest for the year and you will certainly want to study these four pictures and look forward to the prizes. I know I said last month would be the final one but this is a one-time bonus for you.

Some of you have been very sharp in seeing the hidden meanings in the posted pictures and have received your coupons for lunch at the Snack Shack.

Congratulations! Now give this one a â&#x20AC;&#x153;goâ&#x20AC;? and see what you come up with.

There will be, as usual, two winners and the coupons will be for a very special treatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;you will win a dinner of goulash and sauerkraut. It will only be available between 9 to 9:30 p.m. anytime you find the Snack Shack open at that time.

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 27

5

Article and photo by Sharon Sgro The fun continued in the Billiards Room in late October. We had nine players competing in an 8-Ball tournament.  We had a lot of fun and a lot of close games! This was our fifth tournament in 2016 and we expect to continue the fun next year. If you enjoy playing pool, we are always open to new players so come and join us next time.

4

Here is the contestâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;what do the pictures below say about the scores of ballgames? Provide your answers in complete sentences (which will be judged for correctness by a professional proofreader).

Then send your brilliant responses to me at Gr82bnj@gmail.com.

2

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3 Tournament winners (L to R): Joe Serpa (3rd), Jerry Just (2nd) and Rich Sgro (1st).

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Page 28 • December 2016

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Pickleball Corner

Woodbridge Golf

By Marcia Umberger

ææ Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club

A

By John Armstrong

s we enjoy the cooler fall weather, pickleball players are filling up the courts. Recently, all four Liberty Park courts were going strong and three to four players were observing the action on Sunday mornings.

Since Liberty Park courts have opened, many new residents have decided to come out and join us.

The number of pickleball players is increasing every week. Most days you can find us at 9 a.m. in Liberty Park. Saturday mornings we can be found at the Clubhouse courts.

If you have never played before, not to worry, someone will show you the basics and you will be playing in no time. New players are always welcome.

These days Manteca weather is still comfortable in the evenings.

The lights have been on at the Clubhouse courts several times a week as groups of residents meet to play paddle tennis or pickleball.

Come join us for a fun time.

L

ast month was a busy one for the Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club. We had our last tournament of the year and our awards dinner. Our last tournament was a team format at Swenson Park in Stockton. We had a great turnout with 40 players and wonderful weather; we beat the rain by one day!

Tournament winners were the team of: Tom Ravazza, Greg Meagher, Mike Dooley and his guest Mr. Aguilar. They ran away from the field with a 10-stroke lead.

Winners of Closest to the Pin included Richard Low, Mark Gattuso and Larry Wiertel.

The pickleball group recently sponsored a round robin tournament. We had a group of eight women and eight men who challenged each other to four games. The games were very competitive and the top two men and two women finished the evening with a mixed doubles match. Rosemary Hein and Joe Victoria challenged Susie Blair and Marty Hodgkins. After a long game, Susie and Marty emerged the winners.

More than 50 players and spouses attended our awards dinner which featured a great catered dinner from La Estrella and a lot of wonderful desserts. Almost everyone attending won a raffle or door prize.

New golf council members for 2017 were announced. John Armstrong will continue to act as president for one more year. New members of the board include Dan Theal, Handicap Chairman, Jim Branco, Secretary, and Mark Gattuso, Statistician. They will serve a two-year term. Rudy Salvador is moving from Handicap Chairman to Treasurer for 2017/2018.

This year’s Woodbridge Cup contest winners were announced and trophies were presented. The trophies are on display in the showcase outside the Oxford Room.

Winner of the Nicklaus Flight with a total of 550 points was Rudy Salvador.

Tom Bolle won the Nicklaus Flight putting contest for the year in a tiebreaker with 500 points.

Winner of the Palmer Flight with 510 points was Bob Hamilton. John Armstrong won the Palmer Flight putting contest in a tiebreaker with 560 points.

Our proposed tournament schedule for next year is posted in the flyer kiosk outside the Multipurpose Room. It covers nine tournaments starting in February and ending in October at a number of challenging courses up and down the valley. We will kick off the season at Spring Creek Golf and Country Club on February 13, 2017.

We also have application/renewal forms for 2017 available with the informational bulletins in the flyer kiosk. If you would like to join the WSCG, please pick up one of the forms, fill it out and return it to the front desk with a check. If you have any questions about the club, contact John Armstrong at 209200-7302 or email at dfarmstrong0302@sbcglobal.net

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ resident profile

Dona and Melissa Eberhardt

By Jean Kavale

O

n the bright fall afternoon that I arrived at Dona Eberhardt’s home, she and daughter Melissa welcomed me enthusiastically. Joining them were two cute little dogs, who greeted me by excitedly barking and wagging their tails. “Bella, a Rat Terrier, belongs to me,” Dona explained. “Henry lives next door with Melissa, and he’s a Chihuahua mix.” She then led me outside to her attractive patio, where I began my interview.

The former Dona Von Merta (Von means from in German) was born and raised in San Francisco. She was one of 13 children, so it’s an understatement to say she came from a large family. Her father, a hospitable man of Austrian ancestry, was known for his great cooking. “He often served us delicious Austrian specialties, such as goulash,” said Dona.

It was while she was a student at Balboa High School, from which she would later graduate, that Dona first met future husband Bill Eberhardt. He was the best friend of her sister’s boyfriend Wally, and both young men were frequently invited to her home for one of her father’s delicious meals. Dona admitted that she wasn’t very impressed with Bill in those days: “He was just another place to set at the dinner table. Besides, he was ten years older than I.” Her attitude changed when he returned to San Francisco after four years in the U.S. Army. She saw that he had become a really fine man. Bill, in turn, noticed that Dona had grown up nicely and looked exceptionally good. “How did

Flags Over Woodbridge Article and photos by Don Vehrs Flying the U.S. flag on street poles along the major thoroughfares of Woodbridge began some years ago. At the beginning, Pulte’s Lisa Salazar was assisted by a team of homeowners. Bill Barnhart eventually became coordinator of flag-flying activities. Roger Cunning took over next and was coordinator for three years. Roger then passed the leadership on to Don Vehrs, who has been doing it for 18 months.

Today, there are 20 residents who are part of the team responsible for flying the flags and taking them down for storage. Over the years, many others have assisted and we thank them for their efforts because as we drive, bike, run or walk throughout the community, Woodbridge patriotism is visible when the flags are flying.

Woodbridge life I miss those curves before?” he said to himself upon seeing her again. Thus began a romance that often consisted of movie dates and ballroom dancing, which they thoroughly enjoyed.

The venue they selected for their wedding was in Reno. “I was hoping it would snow while we were there, but it turned out to be the driest winter in years,” Dona said. Even so, they had a wonderful stay and then settled down in San Francisco,

where they raised their only child--daughter Melissa.

Bill’s profession was tool and die making, a job that required several years of technical instruction and on-the-job training. His profession was especially appreciated when he served in the Army. He had skills the military badly needed.

Dona realized for a long time that she was adept at communicating with dogs, so she chose dog training as a career. After receiving intensive instruction, she joined the Bay Area Police Dogs organization. “I taught strong dogs how to be assertive when hunting for the bad guys and taking The flags fly along the streets of Americana, Daisywood, Del Webb Boulevard, Madison Grove, Morning Brook, River Berry Circle and Shady Pines leading to Liberty Park via Chestnut Grove Drive. Just recently we added 12 flags around the Clubhouse circle.

With financial help from the Veterans of Woodbridge, we are in the process of adding 12 to 14 more flags within Liberty Park for a total of 86 flags. Flag mounts are in place on Shady Pines Street and flags will be flown when construction traffic diminishes.

Flags Over Woodbridge are flown on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Patriot Day, Veterans Day, Election Day and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. In addition, we also flew flags around Liberty Park during the Wheels of Woodbridge car show.

We have been gently reworking the schedule to raise

December 2016 • Page 29

them down,” she told me. “At the same time, I taught them how to be protective of their human partners.” Her career as a dog trainer lasted 30 years.

After Dona and Bill retired, they searched for a retirement home and found just what they wanted at Woodbridge, a new Del Webb community with beautiful landscaping and great amenities.

Like her mother, Melissa graduated from Balboa High School. She was always proficient in sales and public relations, so she worked in that capacity at Federal Express for 29 years. Her job then was in the Los Angeles area. Five years ago, when her father lost his life to a degenerative nerve disease, she moved in with her mother to offer comfort and support. Her parents had been married for 52 years.

Melissa continues to work for FedEx and travels throughout the world to meet with prospective customers and FedEx personnel in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Her current title is Worldwide Account Manager for FedEx Services. She told me there isn’t much time for sightseeing when she travels for her job, but she does enjoy shopping in New York City. As soon as the house next door to Dona’s became available, she bought it. “I like the Woodbridge lifestyle, especially the fitness center, swimming pools and good pathways for biking,” she said.

Dona’s activities are currently limited, due to a stroke she suffered one year ago. She has improved considerably, however, and looks forward to attending more social events in the future. Both women agree that being near each other is what they appreciate most about living here. They also agree that Woodbridge has a wonderful sense of community and is inhabited by numerous friendly and helpful people.

When the interview ended, I realized time had flown by much too quickly. My visit with these two interesting and vivacious women was truly enjoyable. flags on a Friday and lower them the following Friday.

When we can combine two events, we leave flags up for two weeks. The poles are lighted so we can fly flags at night.

We need additional volunteers to put flags up and take them down. Vehicles or golf carts may be used to transport the flags. The time commitment is approximately half an hour on each scheduled Friday.

If you are interested in volunteering, contact Don Vehrs, 815-9519, or via email at drvehrs@comcast.net Current team members include Dan Armstrong, Jon Ford, Rocky Arnold, Jan Arnold, Duane Becker, Scott Brenner, Bill Buffington, Brenda Buffington, Jack Dauler, Steven Durflinger, Roger Gibson, Ann Gibson, Mike McNamara, Tom Taylor, Steve Matthews, Bob Penzenstadler, John Gannon and Gary Faber.

Woodbridge life Woodbridge LIFE

Page 30 • December 2016

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ Strummin’ Wonders ROMMEL RECOMMENDS: Ukulele Sing-along Concert )RQWLQD 5LVWRUDQWH Article and photo submitted by Carla Marquardt

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Page 29 • May 2016

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$UWLFOH DQG SKRWR E\ 5RPPHO 3DUVHK on’t miss the beloved bring back holiday memories. Lyrics Woodbridge tradition of are projected on the screen and the f your trip is with taking East Baywill andlead youyou areon near the singing along theyou to theukuleles a musical Tri-Valley area wondering where to go for lunch or dinner, try Strummin’ Wonders Ukuleles for the journey with your favorite holiday Ristorante Pleasanton. This authentic ChristmasFontina Sing-along Concertinatdowntown tunes.

6:30Italian p.m., Monday, December restaurant opened19, in in 2004 and changed ownership in 2007 to the Multipurpose Room. to the see restaurant graceful moves from the Choi family.

The Choi family hasExpect been in business hula and line dancersin and the usual for 25 years and sold the Toscana, an Italian restaurant Concord, Singing the best way to keep Ristorante. antics The fromrestaurant the ukulelehas players. beforeisacquiring the Fontina a classy the Christmas spirit alive and to If you don’t sing, don’t worry, the ambiance, full bar and outdoor seating. Clothing is casual. person seated next to We were seated right away and someone served us water, fresh you will be bread and the garlic/olive oil dip. The server took our drink orders. belting out We ordered a raspberry iced tea and a glass of Chianti Riserva that the song for had a nice aroma and taste. Their wine list shows a vast selection of you! It’s a white and red wines from Italy and Northern California. If you bring tradition!

your own bottle, the corkage fee is $15.

SignWe up at They serve seven different appetizers and a soup of the day. the front desk ordered Prawns Pesto with jumbo prawns perfectly sautéed in garlic, 7KHUH LV URRP IRU RXWVLGH GLQLQJ DW )RQWLQD 5LVWRUDQWH for this free white wine and pesto sauce. Tender prawns were very well balanced concert. If with the sauce and tasted delicious. you would

They have a variety of salads you can make a meal by adding like, bring goodies chicken, salmon, jumbo prawns or New York steak. We each ordered to share the house green salad made with organic spring mix, kalamata olives afterward.

See

5200(/ page 36

Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.

I

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Woodbridge life

Brothers and Sisters

Norman Rockwell’s painting “Family Tree” appeared on the cover of the October 24, 1959, edition of Saturday Evening Post. It seems fitting, in this Rockwell-inspired community, that a series featuring brothers, sisters, cousins and other family members who reside in Woodbridge be accompanied by Rockwell’s painting. At the inception of this project, we didn’t know how deep family ties go in Woodbridge and were thrilled with the overwhelming response to our idea. It will take several editions to include all participants. Thanks to everyone who took part!

Family Ties Still Unite Cousins Article and photo by Sharyl Burgeson

Betty Basehore and Pat Bender vividly remember the family holidays spent in Hanford, California. “My mother and Pat’s father were two of eight siblings, so our gatherings were huge, often consisting of 40 relatives. We cousins would play games and perform family skits and just generally have fun,” said Betty.

“We no longer have family reunions. However, since we’re centrally located, about 14 of us try to get together for lunch at private homes or restaurants semimonthly,” contributed Pat. Betty lived most of her adult life in Dublin. After retiring, she and husband Dave moved to Arnold full time. “We enjoyed it so much up there but for health and convenience of being with family, we found Woodbridge a good compromise. We love it here. We have met new friends and have reconnected with old friends who have also located here,” she added.

Her organized Woodbridge activities include a five-year stint as Neighborhood Watch coBlock Captain with Virginia Anderson. Other activities include participating in Woodbridge Singers and working out on the treadmill, weights and, occasionally, the pool(s). She also is active in the Women’s Bible Study organized by Carolyn Johnson and WISP, Women in Service and Prayer, a group of 50 ladies predominantly from Woodbridge, started by Kim Jackson. WISP hosts speakers from local charities and members donate 40 packets of necessities to each speaker’s charity. “It’s a very fulfilling project,” noted Betty.

In Arnold, Betty became a mentor to a six-year-old girl via the local Boys and Girls Club.

“Now, she’s 16 and lives in Sacramento but we still see each other every other month when she spends a weekend in Woodbridge. We have fun with activities here in the community as well as attending movies and shopping. We’ll take her to musicals and to Dell’Osso Family Farm in October to ride the zip line and explore the sights. Basically, we try to expose her to activities her mother doesn’t have the opportunity to do,” she explained.

Betty and Dave love to travel. “Dave, our children and their families snow ski, so we like to travel to ski areas in the winter months,” she said.

“Although my family and friends are a high priority in life, my faith is my strength. My philosophy is to reach out to people who are less fortunate or hurting and to do what I can with the time I have,” she concluded.

Pat called Stockton home for 26 years. She and Bob, who have been married for 61 years, lived in a two-story home overlooking a lake. “It was a beautiful home and location but the stairs leading to the house and to the upstairs view became too much,” she confided.

“We thought about moving to Woodbridge 10 years ago but it wasn’t the right time. When we finally did decide, three years ago, we were placed in the lottery. We were lucky. We won in the second draw out of a hat for names and got exactly what we wanted – the model, the location and a backyard that stays shaded in summer.”

Oil painting has been a big part of Pat’s life. She was actively involved in the Elsie May Goodwin Art Gallery on the Miracle Mile in Stockton, a co-op gallery associated with the Haggin Museum. “I attended painting classes and also exhibited in a show every two months.” Pat was also asked to paint two consignments and said she paints everything from oceans to flowers, everything except abstracts and portraits.

Although Pat is working on a 48 by 60-inch painting mounted in her hallway, she’s toned down her artistic endeavors. “One of these days, I’ll get back to painting. I enjoy the hobby so much but didn’t want it to feel like a job which it was starting to do in Stockton,” she revealed.

Pat is always doing something at Woodbridge. She and Bob love the Clubhouse, Liberty Park entertainment and walking around the community. Pat also enjoys exercising in the Fitness Studio and the pool. “My grandkids love the putting course. They’re in their 20’s and 30’s,” she laughed. Pat and Bob frequently see their two sons, daughters-in-law and grandkids who live in Livermore and Vacaville. The couple visits their daughter and her family in the East for three weeks every summer.

Both cousins are grateful that they can now get together frequently and share many childhood memories.

December 2016 • Page 31

Daughter Follows Mother to Woodbridge Article and photo by Sharyl Burgeson Most of the time, parents who have retired follow their children, but Lori Meseke loved the lifestyle so much she followed her mom, Nedra Ball, to Woodbridge by Del Webb.

Nedra, a Minnesota native, lived up and down the entire state of California for 40 years after her marriage to Charles.

The couple then moved to Washington State for eight years where they lived near their older daughter.

In 2009, Nedra, whose husband had passed, decided the housing crunch was over and wanted to relocate to Manteca. She was able to sell her Washington home quickly and purchase the Woodbridge spec home she wanted in 2010.

Her reason? Nedra needs the activities and the lifestyle. She likes, no, loves, being busy. She also loves being close to Lori and her family of three boys.

Nedra’s activities include being selected for the new Lifestyle committee. “John Baber, the chair, gets everybody enthused. We all enjoy working with him,” she exclaimed. She has been president of the Artists and Crafters for three years. Her meetings “don’t follow Robert’s Rules of Order, but our board plans activities and fundraisers to make the budget which keeps everything going. “ Nedra has worked out in water aerobics for six years and hopes the class continues so she “doesn’t gain weight.” She likes the Clubhouse dances and entertainment. Other activities include bunco and quilting, a new pastime. “I’ve made about 12 throws and twin spreads which I’ve given to grandkids and grandbabies,” she said.

Nedra also started a Stitch and B**** group of 12 ladies who rotate holding lunch potlucks and work on individual projects. “Our motto is ‘If you can’t stitch, you b****,’” she laughed and noted there is a waiting list to join the fun group.

Nedra travels. She recently returned from a 10-day “quilt shop hop” with Ellen Lee-Wootton. The duo took a bus tour from Chicago and traveled to Ohio, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont before ending in Washington, D.C. This spring, Nedra is cruising to the Bahamas with her grandson and his family to celebrate her 75th birthday. Afterward, a trip to visit her older daughter in Washington is in the plans.

Lori and Danny Meseke moved to Manteca from Livermore in 1986 because Manteca was more affordable to raise three young sons. “Now, our boys are married with children of their own. Two live in Manteca and one lives in Texas,” said Lori.

Lori, an attorney employed at the San Joaquin County Department of Child Support Services, married young, had three babies and started college after her last child was born. She took care of the children by day and attended classes at night. She began her education at Delta Junior College, graduated from the University of the Pacific and finished as the class valedictorian at Humphrey’s School of Law. It took her about 10-11 years, from start to finish. “I’m just so proud of her,” exclaimed Nedra.

Lori says, “We became interested in Woodbridge as soon as we moved my mom in. We watched her have a good time with both neighborhood and Clubhouse activities. She didn’t buy a house; she bought a lifestyle.

We wanted to be part of the lifestyle, too, but had to wait until July 2015 when Danny was old enough for us to move in.”

Lori, although her mother’s daughter, has different interests. Where Nedra gravitates toward artistic endeavors, Lori is drawn to the sporting lifestyle. Her team activities include softball and pickleball. Lori has played softball for two years and both she and Danny are looking to play next season. “Danny won the Most Enthusiastic Fan award at the recent softball banquet,” shared Lori.

“I play mixed doubles picklelball two to three times a week with my hubby, if possible. If he’s not available, I’ll play mixed doubles with whoever is around,” she commented.

Lori likes to “hang out at the pool” and works out in the Fitness Studio in the evenings after work.

Activities outside Woodbridge are also sports-oriented. Lori and Danny enjoy snow skiing at Dodge Ridge and Tahoe ski resorts and are excited to spend a week skiing at Whistler, B.C., at the end of January.

Stand-up paddle boarding on Lodi Lake or the Mokelumne River is a favorite pastime. “We take our boards to lakes in the Sierra, too,” she added. And there’s snorkeling—Lori and Danny have a timeshare in Maui and like to spend time in the water looking at the colorful fish and marine life.

Lori feels it is “nice to live close to family so we can spend holidays, etc., together but it is especially nice to see Mom unexpectedly at the pool, ball field or even passing each other in the neighborhood in our golf carts. My mom is a great example of a person who enjoys life. I am following her lead and having a great time, too.”

ge 32Page â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016 32 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2016

Woodbridge LIFE life Woodbridge

www.ourwoodbridge.net www.ourwoodbridge.net

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he had a theme friends? of â&#x20AC;&#x153;World Want Winesâ&#x20AC;?tofocusing antNovember to make class new community rub on nonThis will eliminate the domestic wines. Â This is a huge category and you could elbows with your favorite neighbors? Want to meethave an entire donation jar and will class about one country or even Want one appellation from about each country.

Thisthe Wine 101 interesting guest speakers? to learn more allow class only focused on the largest producing countries, the largest consuming the wines you love to drink? Want to go on interesting trips to class to build a fund countries, and the most prolificIfgrapes used for wine. more of anfor future purchases. I various wine appellations? you answered yes to This anywas of these overview, setting stage the for future classes.  is just right for you. questions, then the perhaps Wine 101 class am envisioning a time fromWine 101 will Wine 101 meets once a month at the Clubhouse from 6 to 8:30 Clockwise where John p.m. No knowledge of wine is necessary to become part of this front: be able to purchase activity. You will leave each class knowing more about wine Sommerhalder, wines from various Fran and Mike than you did when you came. Each participant is asked to bring appellations or a a wine to share based on the eveningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme. We also ask thatHutchings, particular varietal so Judy and Roger participants bring wineglasses and an appetizer to share. that all participants Goodnow, will get a chance to Our April class welcomed Chad Londry, a key account Lorenzo taste wines that we specialist for American Wines, a division of Southern Wine Gonzalez, Mike wouldn't be normally and Spirits. Chad indoctrinated our class on the trials and McNamara able to enjoy. tribulations of the wholesaler in moving product from winery toand Lorraine retailer. We have now heard stories from several winemakers Sommerhalder Our second change from Livermore Valley and Lodi as well as a wine grower from enjoy is that we have the Lodi. I will be working toward landing a big wine retailer to talk eliminated the camaraderie about their end of the journey of the grape. community wine at the World table and are asking Generally, we have a full class of 120 participants eager to Wines class.

hear our guest speakers or to taste from surrounding vineyards. participants to bring a wine to share with their Sign-ups are taken at the front desk at the Clubhouse. table and neighbors.

The December On May 17, a full bus of Wine 101ers will be going to Amador class, which fills I'm currently County. We will depart by 9:30 a.m. and will be returning by 5 up rapidly, opened contacting several S P :H ZLOO Ă&#x20AC;UVW YLVLW <RXQJ V 9LQH\DUGV ZKR ZLOO RSHQ WKHLU for ticket purchase individuals to set up future classes. I am planning a bus trip doors on a usually closed day to host us in a VIP wine tasting.

November in October for 54 individuals to go to Lucca Winery in Ripon They have beautiful grounds with a lovely pond surrounded by 18. Â There will for a day on the green, a catered lunch and a wine tasting. serene areas to sit and relax. Participants are to bring their be only 96 Particulars have not all been ironed out. own lunches to enjoy in this peaceful setting. After lunch we participants will board the bus and head to Villa Toscana where we will be I post all Wine 101 events on the Woodbridge portal, on other instead of the hosted for another VIP wine tasting.

VRFLDO PHGLD YLD Ă \HUV LQ WKH &OXEKRXVH DQG RQ D :LQH usual 120 for this hotline via email. If you wish to be put on that email, simply Starting June, we are changing our class format and will event, as wein must contact me at jluvswine@aol.com. I also send articles from time charge $2 perforparticipant with the nonrefundable fee payable at set the tables to time via email. the front desk at the Clubhouse. We will use tickets for these dinner. Â Â This functions so they may be passed on or sold to someone else in If you have any questions, I can be reached at jluvswine@aol. event will be WKH HYHQW RI D VFKHGXOH FRQĂ LFW <RX QRZ PXVW SD\ LQ SHUVRQ com potluck and will to receive your tickets. It is my understanding that you may include a bottle SO MANY WINES, SO LITTLE TIME! purchase aThe second set of tickets for aFord neighbor if you wish.

Asa variety of nonJoanne Norcup, Debi and Don St. Lawrence taste exchange. before, a maximumdomestic of 120 wines. participants will be allowed to attend. time is altered for this class, with dinner beginning at 5:30 and the evening ending at 8:45 p.m.

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If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t given Wine 101 a chance yet, remember that you an enemy between them. need know nothing about wine to $W WKH WLPH RI WKH PHHWLQJ WKLV ZDV WKH $PHULFDQ VLGH participate. Sign-ups for the next class are usually the day after an of the river but, according to the Yalta Conference, Torgau event. The object of the class is later became part of the Soviet Zone. The Russian Army to educate, invigorate and enable HUHFWHG D PRQXPHQW FURZQHG E\ WZR JUDQLWH Ă DJV 6RYLHW DQG residents to meet their friends or make American. For all we know, throughout the entire Cold War, new friends through wine and food.

WKDW ZDV SUREDEO\ WKH RQO\ $PHULFDQ Ă DJ Ă RZQ DQ\ZKHUH LQ We hope to see you at a future Wine the Eastern Block between the Berlin Wall and the Great Wall of China.

101 function.

SO MANY WINES, SO LITTLE TIME!

Art and Elaine DeSouza select their next pour.

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Woodbridge life

rommel recommends: Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Article and photos by Rommel Parseh

I

had read a few bad reviews about Pete’s, mostly about their service, and decided to check it out for myself. There are a few branches in Sacramento and San Joaquin Counties. The original restaurant was opened by Steve Preston in 1987 in Sacramento and was called Pete’s Pizza. Since then, they opened others, expanded their menu and changed the name to Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse.

We went to the one in Manteca on a Saturday night. They don’t take reservations on weekends but the wait was about 15 minutes. Pete’s is a casual restaurant and sports bar. Most tables face a television that broadcasts a selected sports game. Also, contemporary music is played in the bar area that resonates to the dining room as well.

We ordered beer and Pete’s Famous Knots. The knots are pizza dough tied, baked and tossed in garlic butter glaze, then topped with fresh parmesan cheese, with a side order of marinara sauce for dipping. They tasted very fresh and went well with beer. They have nine other appetizers to choose from, including seared ahi tuna, buffalo wings, calamari, shrimp and artichoke hearts, to name a few.

Their menu lists 10 different salads to choose from.

We ordered Caesar with crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and topped with parmesan cheese and croutons. This salad was very fresh with a well-balanced acidity of the dressing.

They serve minestrone soup daily plus another soup that varies daily. We ordered the clam chowder which had fresh

December 2016 • Page 33

and tender clams and potatoes. The creamy soup was thick enough but the taste was average.

For our entree, we ordered prawns and chips but asked them to substitute the french fries with coleslaw which they did happily. The beer-battered prawns were fresh, prepared well and tasted scrumptious. The coleslaw was fresh and well-balanced.

Pete’s extensive menu also lists flat breads, signature pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, favorites and pastas. Their dessert menu lists nine different delectable items to choose from.

Pete’s is a fun place to visit but not for a romantic dinner date. You may take your own wine and will not be charged corkage fee for small parties and up to two bottles. The place and the type of food they serve are more conducive to beer and mixed drinks. We enjoyed the beer and the food and plan to go there again for pizza. The employees were very friendly and the service was good, invalidating the reviews I had seen.

Pete’s Restaurant & Brewhouse is located at 881 Lifestyle Street in Manteca, near the AMC theatre and the Bass Pro Shop. Their phone number is 825-4200 and their website is www.petesrandb.wpengine.com.

Their hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. They will be closed on Christmas Day but open until 3 p.m. Christmas Eve. They will be open New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day at their regular hours.

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Page 34 • December 2016

Woodbridge life

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ææDid You Know. . .

Chocolate

worldwide depend on cocoa production for their livelihoods.

By Mike Spence from sources including Hershey.com, Bloomberg.com, Etymonline.com, Fieldmuseum.org, worldcocoafoundation.org, FDA.gov and Wikipedia.com

December 28 is National Chocolate Day, but did you know:

•

There are three varieties of cacao beans: criollo, forastero and trinitario. The blending of these beans is the art of a chocolatier.

•

Modern milk chocolate is half sugar and half fat.

•

Chocolate bars were given to American G.I.’s during WW II as an energy-rich snack.

•

The chocolate industry generates $50 billion revenue annually, with 45 percent coming from Europe.

•

The cacao plant is native to the Americas, but today two thirds of all cacao trees are grown in Western Africa.

•

Milton Hershey went bankrupt three times before he was able to perfect his chocolate formula and manufacturing process.

•

The term “chocolatier,” describing a confection maker, was coined in 1888.

•

The Mesoamericans consumed cacao beans as a fermented beverage; some calling it frothy water and others calling it bitter water. No matter the name, it was a potent alcoholic beverage.

•

The cacao tree cannot survive below temperatures of 59 degrees.

•

In Aztec culture, cacao beans were used as currency: 100 beans for a turkey and 3 beans for an avocado.

•

In the 1964 children’s novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” the factory owner was named Willy Wonka.

•

The bitter cacao drink the explorers brought back to Spain was sweetened with sugar and honey to make it more palatable.

•

In 1893, Milton Hershey sold his successful caramel company to buy chocolate manufacturing equipment, allegedly saying “Caramel is just a fad, chocolate is forever.”

•

According to the World Cocoa Foundation, 50 million people

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IFE

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W

Triker’s Travels

December 2016 • Page 35

men each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Sandy is no longer actively involved but Jacque has teamed up with Patti Barnhart.

Nine years ago, before the Clubhouse was built, Jacque started a small library in a mobile trailer where she placed donated used books on a rolling cart from which residents could borrow. After the Clubhouse was completed, she worked with contractors to add shelves for the many donated books. Jacque spends a day every week logging in new books and, as she will tell you, her OCD kicks in and the alphabetizing and placement of the books must be perfect.

By Judy McNamara.

In “A League of Their Own”

I

don’t necessarily mean softball or the movie, but these amazing women who give so much of their time, talent and energy to help make this community the fabulous place it is, are involved in several other venues.

In my “Travels,” I talk to many of these gals and get to know what, how and when they got so involved in making this place the best community ever.

life

-XG\ 0F1DPDUD

Jacque Reynolds is one of the original residents of Woodbridge, having lived here for nine years. She hails from Alameda where she not only raised three sons but also worked full-time managing medical offices. The entire family was heavily involved in baseball, in both playing and coaching, so it was a natural progression for Jacque to become involved with Woodbridge softball. She is now the only female umpire for the Silver Sluggers. She has a plethora of knowledge about the game. Unfortunately, due to some health problems, Jacque is unable to play with the Diamond Gals.

Jacque and Sandy George started the ever-popular Walking Indoors Class. The class started with one instructional CD and is now up to 30.

More and more men are joining the class which is now up to 10 to 15

Elizabeth Cunning is the dynamic woman who leads Woodbridge’s incredible choir group. Her talent and enthusiasm permeate the Multipurpose Room when this group of 80 or so singers gather every other Monday to get ready for either the Spring or Winter Concert.

Elizabeth is a master at coordinating the program and coming up with songs singers love and can sing. Besides being a dedicated leader, she is also the keyboard player for Second Chance Band and often adds her beautiful singing voice. When not doing that, she and Frank Perez play for the residents at the Commons once a month.

Birdie Nieri loves her job as president of Women of Woodbridge (WOW). She feels that all her dreams growing up have come true and her pursuit of happiness is focused right here at Woodbridge. She doesn’t feel presiding over this group of women is a difficult task but, rather, feels it is an honor to be working with women who show such compassion, kindness and caring. She feels there is so much talent in the group and looks forward to meeting new women and hearing their stories. This is what “floats her boat” and keeps her in her happy place where she’s always wanted to be.

Woodbridge life

By Marie Evans

S

an Francisco Walk is one of my favorite walks. This trail actually ends at the Cliff House, but the main attraction is the first twothirds of the trail.

This is a truly gorgeous walk/hike. It begins in the Marina District and my husband and I usually go as far as the Golden Gate Bridge. Ride BART or the ferry using your ClipperCard to San Francisco and begin from there. Take the bus to the Marina District (go to 511.org for the bus information and map). At the end of the line, on Divisidero, ask the driver to indicate where to catch the return bus. Then walk north until you reach the bay, staying to the left of the buildings to see the bayside trail. Turn west and just walk – you will pass a dog beach, many signs indicating historical sights, Coast Guard Station, public restrooms and a “warming hut” that contains a gift shop where you can purchase hot cocoa and coffee. Continuing on, notice the magnificent views of Marin County, Alcatraz, the bridges and the glorious water. Take a deep breath of this clear, clean air! Marvelous, isn’t it? To the north looms Mt. Tamalpais, which has wonderful trails and views and is home to Muir Woods.

Near the bridge, you will see a dark fort

ahead of you on the water and nearly under the bridge. This is Fort Point with its guns and museum - a cold place to be stationed during the Civil War, This area was all windswept sand dunes. It is the only Civil War monument in California. This is also where Kim Novak famously jumped into the bay in the movie “Vertigo.”

After you visit Fort Point, return to the trail and take the stairs uphill to the top. There is a garden as well as information about the construction of the bridge, a ‘restaurant’ and restrooms. You can also walk across the Golden Gate Bridge from here, which is wonderful. You can return downtown using Golden Gate Transit (will not accept ClipperCard) which, I think, costs about $2. The Golden Gate transit bus stop is on the other side of the highway. You reach it via the tunnel near the tollgate. Or, return the way you came and catch the bus back. On its route to Van Ness Avenue, the bus will pass interesting restaurants where it might be fun to dine. Return the way you came and catch BART where you disembarked. Bus drivers have information about the route – just ask.

Hint: Do not take BART or the ferry during rush hour. You will be sorry.

Christmas Carols (Guess the Original Titles) Submitted by Debby Hickey

Can you name these Christmas Carols?

“Query Regarding Identity of Descendant” “Singular Yearning for the Twin Anterior Incisors” “Bantam Male Percussionist” “Loyal Followers Advance” “Colorless Yuletide” “Frozen Precipitation Commence” “Red Man En Route to Borough” “Proceed and Enlighten on the Pinnacle” “Array the Corridors” “Delight for This Planet” “Far Off in a Feeder” “The Quadruped with the Vermillion Proboscis” “Jehovah Deactivate Blithe Chevaliers” “Nocturnal Noiselessness” “Give Attention to the Melodious Celestial Beings” “Castaneous-Colored Seed Vesicated in a Conflagration” “Righteous Darkness” “Arrival Time: 2400 hours; Weather: Cloudless” “Monarchial Triad” “The Dozen Festive 24 Hour Intervals” “Away in a Manger” “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” “Silent Night” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire” “O Holy Night” “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” “We Three Kings” “The 12 Days of Christmas”

ææ Day Trippin’ San Francisco Walk

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ANSWERS: “What Child is This?”

“All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth” “Little Drummer Boy” “Onward, Christian Soldiers” “White Christmas” “Let it Snow!”

“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” “Go Tell It on the Mountain” “Deck the Halls” “Joy to the World”

Page 36 • December 2016

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s o t o h P l e v a Tr

Woodbridge life

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 37

Woodbridge 55ers Colorado Adventure (L to R): Sue Edmiston, Gwen Speckman, Rex Edmiston, Mike Crabb, Barbara Williams, Jan Blasquez, Pete Blasquez, Bonnie Redding (Sueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister) and Rudy Lara.

Mike and Eileen Hill visited the Giant's Causeway outside Belfast, Ireland.

Novel Sefein at Niagara Falls.

Cindy and Larry Conrad traveled to Italy. This photo was taken at the garden of Augustus on the island of Capri.

Woodbridge life

Page 38 • December 2016

Where in the world?

Wow! Woodbridge LIFE has been circling the globe with our wandering residents! We will do our best to include ALL travel photographs, but space and clarity will dictate. Preference will go to those not featured in previous editions and, yes, to those in exotic locales and interesting photo ops! Send images electronically to wblife2012@gmail.com using high resolution or actual size. Thank you for your contributions. We’re happy that you continue to enjoy Woodbridge LIFE. If your picture isn’t here, look for it in the coming months and keep sending them in! Sorry, we can no longer accept print photos.

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1. Al and Marty Bartlett traveled to Ireland and visited Dromoland Castle in County Clare.

2. Ann King (R) and her sister-in-law Julie Gilsdorf braved snow at Crater Lake, Oregon, in late October.

3. (L to R): Barbara Williams, Gwen Speckman, Mike Crabb, Sue Edmiston, Rex Edmiston, Rudy Lara, Marcia Lara, and Dave Steffy saw Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado.

4. Penny and Jack Dauler visited their son and his family in Kihei, Maui.

5. Terri and Tom Heath, Debbie and Rick Klug and Mo and Jerry Price enjoyed a three-week trip to Italy and Greece which included both cruise and land travel.

6. Julie Ford caught David Ford “reading” in Kaanapali, Maui.

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Send travel photos to WBLIFE2012@gmail.com

Please use highest resolution and type WB TRAVEL in the subject line. All travel photos MUST be submitted electronically.

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Woodbridge life

Mr. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fix-itâ&#x20AC;?

December 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 39

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Page 40 â&#x20AC;¢ May 2016

Woodbridge life

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