WBL February 2018

Page 1

W oodbridge LIFE Volume 8 • Issue 2 • Number 77

February It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey As we start 2018, we recall the many good times we’ve shared with

Happy s Valentine’ Day

Your Life. Your Community. Your News.

February • 2018

The

Way We

Were

Jim and Dianne Schrimp

from

Woodbridge LIFE

Inside

Calendar.. . . . . . . . Events and Tours.. . Gardener’s Corner .. Groups and Clubs. . Triker’s Travels. . . . Where in the World.. Wine 101.. . . . . . . .

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Duane and Genie Becker . . . . . . .

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

Contact us: WBLIFE2017@gmail.com

John and Pat Dickerson

By Marie Evans. WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.

Jim and Dianne Schrimp

Duane and Genie Becker

John and Pat Dickerson

Dianne Smith and Jim Schrimp happened to attend the same high school in the Bronx, NYC, New York. In school they were just friends and after high school, Jim joined the Navy and moved away. Time passed and in 1955, a mutual friend invited Dianne to a party. Fate – Jim and Dianne met again, but this was very

Romance was in the air the day Duane Becker met Genie Ziegler on a blind double date set up by her brother. It is easy to remember the date as it was St. Patrick’s Day. They went to the Samoa House in Los Angeles for dinner and shared a rum drink, the kind that was popular at

In Morgan Hill, California, Pat Roster was working at the Orange Freeze while also studying for a computer programming degree at San Jose State. John Dickerson was all settled in at his job with Lockheed. One fateful day, John walked into the Orange Freeze, saw Pat (saying not a word to her) and

See SChrimp page 18

See Becker pages 18-19

See Dickerson page 19

Page 2 • February 2018

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

From the Editor By Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor

T

he month of romance is upon us – the month in which we express love by bestowing tokens of affection – love notes, greeting cards, chocolates, flowers, jewelry – upon our beloved. This month’s edition of Woodbridge LIFE celebrates matters of the heart. Marie Evans interviewed three Carol CarolJoJoHargreaves, Hargreaves,WBL WBLEditor long-married Woodbridge couples and shares their stories in our traditional February front-page feature, “The Way We Were.” Our thanks to the Beckers, Dickersons and Schrimps for allowing us to take a peek into their enduring relationships from early beginnings to present. In “Valentine’s Day Heart” (page 22), Mike Spence pens the tale of his quest for the perfect demonstration of love while also providing a bit of Valentine’s Day history and humor. Sharyl Burgeson and others compiled a list of helpful ideas to use in planning your Valentine’s Day celebration. There’s something for everyone in “Celebrating Valentine’s Day” on page 29. Talented photographer John O’Rourke is featured in Marie Evans’ “Unique Hobbies” column this month. John particularly enjoys turning his beautiful scenic photographs into works of art. Get acquainted with John and view some of his stunning pictures on pages 20 and 21. For those of you who missed the Woodbridge Christmas Parade (or those who would like to re-live the holiday fun), see the colorful collage assembled on pages 16 and 17. Be aware that with the advent of a new year, many WOA Groups and Clubs have changed leadership and/or meeting times. See the table on page 6 to make sure you show up at the right time and place. If you find your group’s entry is out-of-date, please email correct information to wblife2017@ gmail.com and we will update the table for next month’s edition of the paper. I admit that I was unhappy to bid farewell to John Baber. As Activities/ Events Coordinator, John brought our community energy, enthusiasm, terrific ideas and an abundance of new activities and events. He was not afraid to try new things and I believe he caused more diverse residents than ever to be involved in activities. Although John could be outspoken at times, he was always knowledgeable, passionate and dedicated and will definitely be difficult to equal. The Woodbridge LIFE team and I thank John for his years of monthly contributions to the paper and wish him the best in his New York adventure. Happy love month! We hope you love reading this edition of Woodbridge LIFE!

~ Carol Jo and the Woodbridge LIFE team

The deadline for submission of articles and photographs for the March 2018 edition of Woodbridge LIFE is Monday, February 5, 2018. Email your materials to wblife2017@gmail.com Please send any photos as separate high resolution .jpegs, attached with your emailed article. (In other words, please do not embed photos in your articles.) (Please DO NOT send Woodbridge LIFE items to the Editor’s personal email address.) Thank you!

In Memoriam

In tribute to a Woodbridge resident who has died, Woodbridge LIFE welcomes a resident spouse or family member/friend to submit up to 100 words and an optional 2 x 2-inch photo for publication. Send submissions by email to wblife2017@gmail.com.

W oodbridge LIFE

February 2018 • Page 3

BABER’S BULLETIN: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! By John Baber, Activities/Events Coordinator

I

feel like I’m in my twenties again, leaving home for the Big Apple. With over 100 special events and activities, 36 musical acts, several fundraisers and many new classes into your programming, it’s time for me to say goodbye to Woodbridge. I have never liked goodbyes, and this hasn’t been the easiest departure for me. I have grown to love this community very much, and in my short time here, I felt like we have done and accomplished so much together. Thanks to all who have reached out to me over these past weeks with words of encouragement. I am amazed by your John Baber presents the operational manual to Jennie Custodio. Jennie generosity and kindness. assumed the role of Activities/Events Coordinator, Monday, January 29. Don’t believe the rumor mill. Jennie comes to Woodbridge with 18 years of administrative experience Although I have gained a few in event planning and facilities management. She is “excited to be part gray hairs since my beginning, of the Woodbridge team and to be planning activities again.” I couldn’t be happier with my experience here. To assure a McNamara or get in touch with Cindy McGehee. smooth and civil transition, I have prepared a Their contact information is in the Community manual for the incoming Activities and Events Directory. Coordinator. The new person will be walking into an operating framework, and hopefully this Remember that “name your favorite song” manual will act as a helpful guide for her as she email I sent at the beginning? What I gathered learns her new role. from the responses I received is that the Beatles ended up being one of your favorite groups. February is the month of love and with it Come and support the Strummin’ Wonders comes many events. We had a blast at the this month and sing along to your favorite first class of Argentine Tango and Mary Menz tunes. I happen to LOVE the Beatles and will is back again to share her love of the dance. I be very sorry to miss this concert. Also in the am happy to have collaborated with Caroline fun department is the Valentine’s Dance with Elness who is the owner of the Olive Oil your ever-fabulous host, DJ Johnny Rocksmith. Pantry in town. Elness will be here to share Tickets are going fast! Women of Woodbridge her passion for olive oils and vinegars. This holds its annual tea, “Nursery Rhymes, Fairy month also kicks off another round of Habits Tales and More” twice this month. This will be of Health. Back by request, this class covers an exciting event with surprise entertainment inflammation and how it is affected by the foods and a raffle. All proceeds will benefit the we eat. Wine 101 “checks out” chardonnays, Homeless Children’s Program of the Manteca and Cooking 401 cooks up an easy corn chowder. Unified School district. Who doesn’t love food and wine? At the end of the month, Michael Beck comes to Woodbridge I can’t believe I am writing my last for the first time at the Potluck. A shout out paragraph to you. One of my favorite parts to John and Lorraine Sommerhalder for the of the job was working for Woodbridge LIFE. recommendation. Don’t forget about Craft Beer I was able to get to know you a lot better at the end of the month! through the stories written by our editorial team, including Jean Kavale’s stories, Judy To keep the momentum going for our monthly McNamara’s “Triker’s Travels,” and Sharyl Health Forum, Woodbridge resident Judy Burgeson’s “Brothers and Sisters” articles. This McNamara shares her story of coping with paper is a labor of love – so read it! Inform her husband’s Alzheimer’s disease. Judy will yourselves and get to know your community. share with the community the daily challenges There is so much love going around at from the earliest stage to the final stage of the Woodbridge, and I am so thankful to have been disease. Along the same lines, residents Don part of it. If you are ever in New York, I would and Willow Million suggested a presentation love to show you around and will be happy to be from the Funeral Consumer Alliance. What your tour guide. My email is at the bottom of surprised me after being here almost two years the column. Thank you from the bottom of my is how many residents do not have a final plan. heart, Woodbridge! I hope we can benefit from this informative presentation. If you have any suggestions With much love, for future topics, or if you’d like to share your John Baber own story in a Health Forum, please call Judy johngabrielbaber@gmail.com WBL photo by Sharyl Burgeson

www.ourwoodbridge.net

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 4 • February 2018

From the Bridge

From the F Bridge By Ramon Rivera

ebruary has arrived and love is in the air, the love for the community each resident calls home and a place that will always hold a special place in my heart. Words cannot express the love I have %\ 5DPRQ 5LYHUD for this community and the many residents who make Woodbridge special. For years, I have tried to describe the allure of Woodbridge and to define the feeling I have for this community. As the years have passed and the bond has become stronger, the definition has become easier for me to identify in one word: love.

www.ourwoodbridge.net

WOA Update

WOA Update By Ramon Rivera

Farewell, John Baber Activities/Events Coordinator John Baber’s last day at Woodbridge was January 26. To say John will be missed is an understatement for many %\ 5DPRQ 5LYHUD residents. John committed himself in many ways to serving this community. John’s work ethic and professionalism were evident to all of us during his WOA Communication time here. John also demonstrated his many talents through events he hosted such as cooking the soup for Soup Day and even being a DJ for one of the dances. We thank John for everything he has done and wish him the very best as he returns home to New York City.

5DPRQ 5LYHUD Operations Manager

I spoke to members in attendance at the final 2017 Listening Post. I indicated through the email reminder I would deliver a special message to the community. The days leading up to delivering the message were the most nervous I have ever been. I can think of so many people who have displayed their admiration for the community, each other and me. I feel the warmth when I am greeted with hugs and, at times, a kiss on the cheek. I recall an episode of the sitcom “Seinfeld,� where the main character, Jerry, is upset about being on a “kiss hello program� with many of the residents in his apartment building. I couldn’t disagree more with the sentiment of the character. I have learned the hard way that the moments I share with residents might be the last I share with them. I have never experienced a working environment where customer interactions are on such a personal level. I have listened to stories of triumph, tragedy and everything in between. I feel and see the pride in stories of successes and also the pain in the tribulations life presents. Sharing these moments builds trust, the foundation for any type of relationship. Endearment is inevitable; it’s a part of human nature to care about and to love one another. Love is the first thing we learn and experience in life, so I asked myself in preparation for Listening Post, “Why am I so nervous about expressing what is so natural to all of us?� The human heart, unlike a smartphone or computer, has unlimited capacity. There is no limit to the number of people you can let into your heart. I have enough room for my wife, parents, siblings and all of the special people I have formed relationships with up to this point in my life with plenty of room for more. Each one of you holds a special place in my heart. I am indebted to each of you for the opportunity I have at Woodbridge. Your hard work, sacrifices and challenges created Woodbridge. With that in mind, I serve each of you with maximum effort. Whether we have met in person or only through the words I write, we are connected through my belief that love, above all else, is the driving force for all that is special in life. I have a great fondness for all of you. I will never again be embarrassed to display or say it. The memory of that day at Listening Post will be with me forever. It was one of the best feelings I have experienced through all my years here at Woodbridge.

Ő˘

Precaution While Walking Pets As a precautionary reminder to residents who own and walk their pets throughout the community, please beware of efforts to control varmints. Throughout WOA common areas, the vendor places small to medium-sized traps to capture varmints in areas reported to maintenance and the front desk. The traps are placed away from sidewalks and walkways to avoid contact with residents and their pets. Traps are used in place of chemicals or poison. Having your pet on leash at all times can prevent your pet from wandering onto a trap deep in landscaped areas such as planters. Please use precaution while walking your pets and make sure they are leashed at all times. Pet Registration Form and Binder Through the help of community volunteers, the Pet Registration form is available on the Woodbridge portal and at the Clubhouse. Once the form is filled out and turned in, it will be placed in the pet binder. If you lose your pet or find a stray, report it to the front desk and we will try to identify the pet and return it to its home. The Pet Registration form may be found by logging onto the Woodbridge portal, then clicking on the Resident Services Tab-> Management Office & Forms->Pet Registration. New Mutt Mitt Location The WOA has installed a new Mutt Mitt station at the intersection of Daisywood Drive and Nutwood Place. Daisywood is highly used by residents walking their pets and hopefully, the new station will provide assistance in keeping the community free of pet waste.

SAFETY ALERT Please be mindful of screws, nails and other debris when walking or driving in construction zones. Stay safe! ~ WOA

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www.ourwoodbridge.net

W oodbridge LIFE

February 2018 • Page 5

From the Boardroom By Roger Cunning, president, WOA board of directors

T

he board of directors recently met for its first full meeting as a completely populated homeowner board. This was a first in the history of Woodbridge. It took no time to roll up our sleeves and start working. The first order of new business was to approve the 2018 schedule for board meetings. Given our transition from the developer, the board approved a monthly schedule of meetings through July and then bi-monthly rather than continuing the previous quarterly meeting schedule as we progress through this period of transition. As of January 1, a total of 1,381 homes have closed to homeowners who are now residents. When all homes are constructed, sold and sales closed, we will have a total 1,426 homes in the Woodbridge community. An important recent board decision was the creation of a Transition Committee that will account for an orderly transfer of documents from the developer to the Woodbridge Owners Association. This committee will begin looking at documents that will require a change once our developer is finished with construction and gone. Volunteers are needed. If you are so inclined, please contact any monitor at the front desk.

Ask

All of the monthly financial reports were approved which closed out the 2017 fiscal year. With that, the board approved to delay transfer of all excess 2017 funds into the Reserves Fund. We welcome your attendance at the February meeting of the board of directors.

February 2018 WOA Committee Meetings Meeting

Day

Date

Time

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

Tuesday Thursday Thursday Tuesday

2/6/18 2/8/18 2/8/18 2/13/18 2/20/18 2/27/18 2/27/18

9 a.m. 10 a.m. 6 p.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 12 p.m.

Tuesday Tuesday Tuesday

ARChie

Friendly reminder from ARChie: A big shout out of THANKS to all who have quickly removed outside holiday decorations and lights. All holiday decorations should have been removed no later than January 15. If you’ve yet to remove your decorations due to weather or illness, please reach out to family or a friend who can help you accomplish this task. Riverside Management periodically drives through the community looking for and responding to non-compliance issues. Every letter they mail regarding violation matters can be $10 out of our pockets. Let’s be diligent and get ahead of the dreaded “letter.” For additional information regarding “Holidays/Decorating,” see Design Guidelines, page 9, section 2.16. Dear ARChie, Recently I was before the ARC requesting to remove the lawn in the area that is referenced as the “boulevard area.” You know, the space between the sidewalk and the street. I wanted to replace the lawn with rock, and, of course, leave the street tree as I know this is not only a requirement of the community but of the city of Manteca. The ARC approved my request but asked that I add living plant material. Please explain further because I’m trying to use less water in my yard maintenance. ~ Water Conservationist Dear Water Conservationist, Over the past few years, many residents have chosen to remove the lawn located in the boulevard area. It’s been a concern of the Architectural Review Committee that all residents are not meeting the

minimal city requirement of at least 35 percent living material in front yard landscapes. Maybe your front yard was short of shrubs, flowers or trees. In any case, the request is often made in order to soften the look of the overall display of rock. From the City of Manteca Municipal Code: 5/9/17 The City’s current Zoning Code for single-family and twofamily residential Zoning Districts requires at least 35% of the actual front yard area to be landscaped. This requirement does not identify the type of landscaping within that area, only that a minimum of 35% shall be landscaped. The code includes a provision only allowing a maximum of 25% of front yard landscape to be turf; the remaining landscaped area must be 4/25/17 12 p.m. live plant material with an emphasis placed on drought-tolerant plant species. ~ ARChie Dear Archie, My newest neighbor has been asking what she can do with her front yard landscaping. From what I gather, she wants to install hardscape with little or no living plants. You know, the desert look. Not positive, but I recall reading somewhere that there are rules about a minimum requirement for plants, trees and, if I’m right, she’ll be pretty disappointed when the ARC denies her application and plans. How do you handle this sort of issue, Archie? ~ Concerned Neighbor See

ARChie page 6

Page 6 • February 2018 From

ARChie

page 5

W oodbridge LIFE www.ourwoodbridge.net WOA Groups and Clubs:

Dear Concerned Neighbor, There are occasions when a new resident submits a landscape plan that does not meet the Design Guideline requirements. The detail plan or architectural drawings must include varieties and sizes of trees and shrubs and their locations. Measurements and materials for patio covers, hardscape, water features, BBQ’s, spa, electrical and gas installation, and, most important, drainage locations must also be included. As a reminder to all of us, the review process was established to maintain the integrity of the architectural and design character and conformity of the design guidelines. For additional information regarding the approval process and lot owner responsibilities, please see Design Guidelines, page 21, IV. Approval Process for Landscaping and Exterior Improvements. Here is a sample architectural drawing of the type required by the ARC:

Groups & Clubs

Contact

Phone

Meeting Day and Time

629-8838 Phone 824-9257 815-9309 825-7137 629-8838 229-6379 824-9257 275-5817 825-7137 647-2901 229-6379 825-4805 275-5817 269-8575 647-2901 825-4805 924-8032 269-8575 239-8718 924-8032 825-4805 239-8718 815-9446 825-4805 824-9257 239-8663 815-9446 824-9257 624-3982 239-8663 229-6379 624-3982 624-3713 229-6379 629-8838 624-3713 823-9767 629-8838 647-4479 823-9767 818647-4479 429-1221 647-2695 818429-1221 647-2695 239-5712 629-8838 239-5712

Fridays 4:15 p.m. Meeting@Day and Time SU & TH @ 2 p.m. M-F. Time & Workshops vary Mondays 10 p.m. a.m. Fridays @@ 4:15

Artists & Crafters Nedra and Ball 815-9309 M-F. Time & Workshops vary WOA Groups Clubs: Ballroom Dance Bocce Artists Ball & Crafters Bridge Ballroom Dance

Patti Barnhart Contact Rick Hyden Nedra Ball Don Lawrence Patti St. Barnhart Mary Braun Bocce Ball Rick Hyden Bunco Susan Holt Bridge Don St. Lawrence Canasta Judy Simpson Mary Braun Chair Volleyball Dave Steffy Bunco Susan Holt Chess Club Jack Dauler Canasta Judy Simpson Chair Volleyball Dave Steffy Cooking 401 Jan Spence Chess Club Jack Crochet/Knitting KathyDauler Topping Cooking Jan Spence Cribbage401 Dave Steffy Crochet/Knitting Kathy Topping Drama Michelle Paradis Cribbage Dave Steffy Pat Buxton Game Rick Hyden DramaNight Michelle Paradis Pat Hand & Foot Sue Buxton Cameron Game Rick Ladies Night Billiards MaryHyden Braun Hand & Foot Sue Cameron Line Dancing (Beginning) Sue Lough Ladies Billiards Mary Braun Line Dancing Patti Barnhart Line Dancing (Beginning) Sue Lough Line Dancing (Evening) Bill Goodwin Line Dancing Patti Barnhart Men of Woodbridge Chuck Harvey Line Dancing (Evening) Bill Goodwin Men of Woodbridge Chuck Harvey National (American) Cindy Carlsen Mah Jongg National (American) Cindy Carlsen Neighborhood Watch Mah Jongg Group Bob Hall Neighborhood Watch Oil Painters Patti Barnhart Group Bob Hall

Groups & Clubs

Oil Painters Paddle Tennis Pickleball Paddle Tennis Ping Pong Pickleball Ping Pong Pinochle Pinochle Poker Poker Radio Controlled Flyers Radio Controlled Flyers Robotics Robotics Scrapbook Group Scrapbook Group Shang-hai Rummy Shang-hai Rummy Strummin’ Wonders Strummin’ Wonders Tennis Tennis Trivia Trivia Veterans of Woodbridge Veterans of Woodbridge Walking Indoors Walking Indoors Wheels of Woodbridge Wheels of Woodbridge Wine Wine 101 101 Wii Wii Bowling Bowling Women Women of of Woodbridge Woodbridge Woodbridge Woodbridge Pool Pool Hustlers Hustlers Woodbridge Woodbridge Book Book Group Group Woodbridge Senior Softball Club Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club Woodbridge Singers

Patti Barnhart Stan Sutfin Barbara Shapiro Stan Sutfin John Goodman Barbara Shapiro

629-8838 815-9735 823-3343 815-9735 629-8200 823-3343 510-909John Goodman 629-8200 Robert Philis 8997 510-909Robert Philis 8997 Al Sanchez 239-8235 Joe Victoria 815-9343 Al Sanchez 239-8235 Joe 815-9343 BobVictoria Umberger 239-2983 Bob Umberger Don St. Lawrence 239-2983 825-7137 Don St. Lawrence 825-7137 Elaine DeSouza 603-9796 Elaine DeSouza 603-9796 818Cindy Carlsen 429-1221 818647-2695 Cindy Carlsen 429-1221 Carla Marquardt 647-2695 624-3754 Carla Marquardt 624-3754 Mel Topping 239-8718 Mel Topping 239-8718 Eileen Hill 624-3945 Eileen Hill 624-3945 Rick Van De Boom 923-4709 Rick Van De Boom 923-4709 Jacque Reynolds 629-8508 Jacque Reynolds 629-8508 Bill Barnhart 629-8838 Bill Barnhart 629-8838 Jon Ford 815-9803 Jon Ford 815-9803 Rick Hyden 639-2003 Rick Hyden 639-2003 Polly Smith 665-7236 Polly Smith 665-7236

Ron Ron Plummer Plummer Patty Patty DeRoos DeRoos

SU & TH @ 2 p.m. 3rd Monday @ 6:30 p.m. Mondays @ 10 a.m. Fridays 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tuesdays @ 5@ p.m. (days 3rd Monday 6:30 p.m.vary) 2nd & 4th @ 4 p.m. Fridays 10 Monday a.m. - 1 p.m. Tuesdays @ 5@p.m. (days vary) 3rd Tuesday 2 p.m. 2nd & 4th Monday @ 4 p.m. Thursdays @ 10 a.m. 3rd Tuesday 2 p.m. Tuesdays @ 7@p.m. Thursdays @ @1 10p.m. a.m. Thursdays

Tuesdays @ 7@ p.m. Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays @ 6:30 p.m. Thursdays @ 1 p.m. Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. W-SA-SU @ 1@ p.m. Fridays & Saturdays Mondays @ 1 p.m.@ 6:30 p.m. W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m. Thursdays @ 9:15 a.m. Mondays @ 1 p.m. M-W-F @ 9:15 a.m. Thursdays @ 9:15 a.m. Fridays @ 6 p.m. M-W-F @ 9:15 a.m. 2nd Monday @ 10 a.m. Fridays @ 6 p.m.

2nd Monday 10 @ a.m. 10 a.m. Wednesdays - 1 p.m. Fridays 1 - 3 p.m. Wednesdays 10will a.m. Block Captains be- 1 p.m. Fridays - 3meetings p.m. notified1of Block Captains will be Tuesdays 9 a.m. notified of@meetings Mondays @9 4 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesdays @ at Liberty Park Mondays @ 4 - 5 p.m. M-F. Time Park varies at Liberty Mondays 1 - 3 p.m. M-F. Time@ varies Mondays @ Mondays @ 2:15 1 - 3p.m. p.m. Thursdays @ 2:15 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Mondays @ p.m. Thursdays @ 1@ p.m. & 6:30 Wednesdays 1 p.m. & p.m. Fridays @ 5 p.m. Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. & Fridays @times 5 p.m.vary Days and Days and times Tuesdays @ 6:30vary p.m. Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. Westport@ Room, 3rd Friday,Room, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Westport 3rd Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays @ 12 - 3 p.m. Tuesdays @ 12 - 3 p.m. Mondays @ 2 p.m. Mondays @ 2 p.m. TU-TH-SU @ 8 a.m. TU-TH-SU @ 8 a.m. 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m. 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m. 2nd Monday @ 11 a.m. 2nd Monday @ 11 a.m. M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. 1st Tuesday @ 10:30 a.m. 1st Tuesday @ 10:30 a.m. Days Days vary vary Tuesdays Tuesdays @ @1 1 p.m. p.m. 3rd Wednesday 3rd Wednesday @ @ 11 11 a.m. a.m. Monday through Friday Monday through Friday @ @ 12 12 -- 3 3 p.m. p.m. 1st Wednesday 1st Wednesday @ @ 10:30 10:30 a.m. a.m.

609-4350 609-4350 239-2833 239-2833 408John Ochoa 981-3499 Seasonal 4083rd Wednesday @ 4:30 p.m. Mike Patterson 640-9768 in the Oxford Room Meets every other Monday Elizabeth Cunning 647-4380 @ 6:30 p.m.

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

Interest Groups: 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.

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

Contact Contact Dave Dave Basehore Basehore Sue Edmiston Sue Edmiston Betty Buff Betty Buff Babara Silva Babara Silva Carolyn Johnson Carolyn Johnson

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

W oodbridge Woodbridge LIFELIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net www.ourwoodbridge.net

 Reaching Out

Lakeview Clubhouse: 824-7581 Board of Directors

Roger Cunning, President Norm Hauser, Vice President Bob Teglia, Secretary Terry Hickey, Treasurer Andrew Price, Director-at-Large

Operations Manager

Ramon Rivera 824-7831 rrivera@ourwoodbridge.net

Activities/Events Coordinator

Jennie Custodio 824-7927 jcustodio@ourwoodbridge.net

Office Coordinator

Leilani Rodriguez 824-7581 lrodriguez@ourwoodbridge.net

Maintenance Supervisor

(and After Hours Emergency Contact) Juan Barajas 470-7728 jbarajas@ourwoodbridge.net

Management

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

The opinions expressed in Woodbridge LIFEĘźs 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: “Woodbridge LIFE is a celebration of the diversified residents of Woodbridge by Del Webb in Manteca – 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.�

February 2018 •2016 Page 7 Page 7 • May

Woodbridge LIFE

2401 Morning Brook Drive Manteca, CA 95336

209-824-7581

www.ourwoodbridge.net PUBLISHER :2$

&DURO -R +DUJUHDYHV

EDITOR

ADVERTISING

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WBL EDITORIAL TEAM Sharyl Burgeson, asst. editor Jennie Custodio Marie Evans Carol Jo Hargreaves, chair Ann King Judy McNamara Volker Moerbitz Pepper Noble Ramon Rivera Leilani Rodriguez Mike Spence Shelley Tate Cate White

239-1492 824-7927 239-3726 823-3538 650-464-0151 923-4718 239-7965 239-1933 495-6803 824-7581 924-8032 479-4249 823-3381

Woodbridge LIFE is a free monthly 8PPECSJEHF -*'& JT B GSFF NPOUIMZ publication of the Woodbridge Owners QVCMJDBUJPO PG UIF 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST Association, a nonprofit organization serving "TTPDJBUJPO B OPOQSPmU PSHBOJ[BUJPO TFSWJOH the residents of the Woodbridge by Del Webb UIF SFTJEFOUT PG UIF 8PPECSJEHF CZ %FM 8FCC community in Manteca, CA. Woodbridge DPNNVOJUZ JO .BOUFDB $" 8PPECSJEHF LIFE invites stories, photographs, comments, -*'& JOWJUFT TUPSJFT QIPUPHSBQIT DPNNFOUT cartoons, jokes and any other information that DBSUPPOT KPLFT BOE BOZ PUIFS JOGPSNBUJPO UIBU would be of interest to residents. We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and XPVME CF PG JOUFSFTU UP SFTJEFOUT 8F SFTFSWF edit for content and length. We also reserve UIF SJHIU UP BDDFQU PS SFGVTF TVCNJTTJPOT BOE the right to refuse advertising or articles that FEJU GPS DPOUFOU BOE MFOHUI 8F BMTP SFTFSWF in our opinion do not reflect the standards UIF SJHIU UP SFGVTF BEWFSUJTJOH PS BSUJDMFT UIBU of the newspaper. The Woodbridge LIFE JO PVS PQJOJPO EP OPU SFnFDU UIF TUBOEBSET advertising contract permits each advertiser toPG UIF OFXTQBQFS ÉŠF PQJOJPOT FYQSFTTFE conduct one event per year in the Lakeview XIFUIFS CZ QBJE BEWFSUJTFNFOU PS FEJUPSJBM Clubhouse Multipurpose Room. The opinions DPOUFOU EP OPU OFDFTTBSJMZ SFnFDU UIF WJFXT PG expressed, whether by paid advertisement or editorial content, do not necessarily reflect the UIJT OFXTQBQFS PS UIF 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge "TTPDJBUJPO $POUFOU TVCNJUUFE NBZ CF FEJUFE Owners Association. Content submitted SFQSJOUFE BOE BDLOPXMFEHFE XJUIPVU DPOTFOU may be edited, reprinted and acknowledged VOMFTT TQFDJmDBMMZ SFRVFTUFE 8PPECSJEHF -*'& without consent unless specifically requested. QSPPGSFBEFST VTF UIF "TTPDJBUFE 1SFTT 4UZMFCPPL Woodbridge LIFE proofreaders use the iUIF KPVSOBMJTU T CJCMF w BT B XSJUJOH BOE FEJUJOH Associated Press Stylebook, “the journalist’s SFGFSFODF ÉŠF QVCMJTIFS JT OPU SFTQPOTJCMF GPS bible,â€? as a writing and editing reference. The VOTPMJDJUFE NBOVTDSJQUT PS BSUXPSL .BUFSJBMT publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Materials submitted TVCNJUUFE XJUI B TFMG BEESFTTFE TUBNQFE with a self-addressed, stamped envelope will FOWFMPQF XJMM CF SFUVSOFE $POUFOUT DPQZSJHIU beÂŞ returned. Contents copyright Š 2018 by CZ 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST "TTPDJBUJPO Woodbridge Owners Association. No part of /P QBSU PG UIJT QVCMJDBUJPO NBZ CF SFQSPEVDFE this publication may be reproduced without XJUIPVU XSJUUFO QFSNJTTJPO PG UIF QVCMJTIFS written permission of the publisher.

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WBLIFE2017@gmail.com

Thorson Financial Estate Management, Inc. 1101 Standiford Ave. C2 Modesto, CA 95350 www.Thorsonfinancial.com (209) 522-0250 Office Thomas K. Thorson, RFC, ChFCÂŽ

We specalize in: Trusts, Wills, Estate Planning, Investment and Cash Flow Management, Asset Protection and Tax Strategy Planning With a complimentary consultation with Tom, you In Memoriam have everything to gain and nothing to lose. We In tribute to a loved one who has died, Woodbridge LIFE provide independent advice helpx you welcomes residents to submitfinancial up to 100 words and ato2-inch achieve yourforestate and Send financial goals. 2-inch photo (optional) publication. submissions by

Securities through Securities America, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, and advisory services offered emailoffered to wblife2017@gmail.com through Securities America Advisors, Inc., Thomas Thorson, Representative. California Insurance License #0712011. Thorson Financial Estate Management, Inc. and the Securities America companies are separate entities. Securities America and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice; please consult the appropriate professional regarding your particular situation.

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 8 • February 2018

Woodbridge Owners Woodbridge Owners Association Association Committees

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Coming to Woodbridge Coming to Woodbridge

Committees ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW • Jacquie Alexander, Chair Submitted by John Baber, Activities/Events Coordinator alexander-fox@comcast.net ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW 209-823-2914 DISASTER PREPAREDNESS SEMINAR – Monday, February 5 The proceeds of the event will benefit the Homeless Children’s • Jacquie Alexander, Chair

EVENTS and TOURS – February 2018

FINANCEalexander-fox@comcast.net COMMITTEE • Jacob Lewis, Chair 823-2914 lijalewis@comcast.net 647-2995

@ 11 a.m. Jenny Rich from the San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services comes to help the community prepare. Know what disasters could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Ms. Rich will guide you through the action plan for your family. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room. RSVP at the front desk. Free

Program of the Manteca Unified School District. There will be a raffle and entertainment. Event to be held at the Lakeview Clubhouse. Ticket sales began January 15. Tickets are pre-assigned and sold in the Clubhouse lobby on Mondays from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesdays from 1 to 3 p.m., and Fridays from 9 to 11 a.m. until sold out. You may also obtain tickets by calling Terri Heath at (925) 890-2578. Tickets are $25 and non-refundable.

local business owner Caroline Elness as she explains how balsamic vinegars are made and the difference between extra virgin and regular olive oil. Water and bread provided along with samples. Class size is limited. RSVP at the front desk. Event to be held in the Andover Room. Free

FUNERAL CONSUMER ALLIANCE (FCA) PRESENTATION Monday, February 19 @ 11 a.m. FCA promotes end-of-life planning, preparation and practical steps to be taken before death and endeavors to maintain public awareness through education and publication. They seek to inform and instruct the public concerning the funeral industry, to promote awareness and wariness, to offer reasonably priced options for dealing with remains at death, and to monitor the funeral industry on a local and statewide level. RSVP at the front desk. Event to be held in the Quincy Room. Free

FINANCE COMMITTEE LIFESTYLE •• Jacob Lewis, Chair John Baber, Chair lijalewis@comcast.net jbaber@ourwoodbridge.net OLIVE OIL PANTRY – Tuesday, February 6 @ 11:30 a.m. Join 647-2995 824-7927

LIFESTYLE COMMUNICATION • • Jennie Custodio, Chair Carol Jo Hargreaves, Chair Woodbridge LIFE Editor and jcustodio@ourwoodbridge.net Directory Chair 824-7927

cjohargreaves@gmail.com HABITS OF HEALTH: INFORMATION NIGHT – Wednesday, 823-3538 February 7 @ 6:30 p.m. This night serves as a preview night of COMMUNICATION

the second offering for the 12-week course. Join Susie Blair as she discusses the habits needed for a lifelong transformation into optimal health. Avoid the effects of disease in your life like diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, acid reflux, cancer – the list goes on. These are all caused by inflammation, which can be greatly decreased. Take charge of your health! You can feel great, have energy and be able to live life more Jeannie Tebbutt, Co-Chair fully. No sign-ups are necessary. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room. Free

• WELCOMING Carol Jo COMMITTEE Hargreaves, Chair Woodbridge LIFE Editor and • Diana Clements, Co-Chair tenor4@comcast.net Directory Chair 665-4353 WBLIFE2017@gmail.com 823-3538 •

jltebbutt@gmail.com WELCOMING COMMITTEE 923-4356 NEW RESIDENT ORIENTATION – Thursday, February 8 @ • Diana Clements, Co-Chair 10 a.m. Learn more about your Woodbridge Owners tenor4@comcast.net NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS Association and join the Clubhouse team as they answer 665-4353 your questions. Learn about the association structure, the • Bill Barnhart

•

bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us Architectural Review process and the resources and activities available to you. Event to be held in the Oxford Room. RSVP at 629-8838

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

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS • Bill Barnhart, Co-Chair bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us 629-8838 •

Rich Ferreira, Co-Chair raf49er@yahoo.com 629-8371

Important Notice About Cancellations When you have signed up for a free event, activity or tour and you find you are unable to attend, please, as a courtesy to others, call the Clubhouse front desk (824-7581) to cancel. If the event has a waiting list, the front desk can fill the vacancy from the list. Thank you.

the front desk.

LISTENING POST – Thursday, February 8 @ 6 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room. Come and share your ideas with Ramon Rivera. Something troubling you? New ideas to share? Suggestions, comments or concerns? Bring your 2 cents worth. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room.

COOKING 401: MEXICAN CORN CHOWDER - Tuesday, February 20 @ 2 p.m. Woodbridge resident Bonnie Pater prepares an easy Mexican corn chowder served in a bowl over tortilla chips. Resister at the front desk. Event to be held in the Quincy Room. $5 CASINO TRIP TO RED HAWK - Wednesday, February 21 @ 8:30 a.m. Try your luck and place your bets. Board the bus to Redhawk Casino. Check-in time is 8:15 a.m. with departure at 8:30 a.m. Please make sure to fill out the emergency form on the back of the flyer. Sign up at the front desk. You’ll get $10 in free play, $5 match play and 10 percent off dining. $12 (cash only) BEGINNING SWIMMING LESSONS WITH DIANE NAGURA Wednesday, February 21 @ 5 p.m. Resident Diane Nagura brings over 20 years of teaching experience to Woodbridge. Sign up for this class if you would like to feel safe in the pool, learn how to swim or just want to improve your strokes. Nagura is here to meet your swimming goals! Register at the front desk day of class. $5

MARY MENZ – ARGENTINE TANGO – Mondays, February 12 and 19 @ 11 a.m. Mary Menz brings years of experience and HEALTH FORUM: JUDY McNAMARA – CARING FOR THE her love of dance to Woodbridge for this fun class. She has CAREGIVER – Monday, February 26 @ 11 a.m. Managing the danced in many tango festivals through the world, including daily care of someone with dementia can be a daunting task. Buenos Aires, London, Paris, Prague, Berlin and Amsterdam. Judy, who traveled this journey with her husband, will share RSVP at the front desk. Limited to 20 participants. Event to be the daily challenges from the earliest stage to the final stage. held in the Bristol and Andover Rooms. Free. Through networking and much research on the Internet, Judy :KHQ \RX KDYH VLJQHG XS IRU DQ HYHQW DFWLYLW\ RU WRXU DQG \RX ÀQG \RX DUH with the people and thatfront coulddesk help her unable to attend, please,connected as a courtesy to others, callorganizations the Clubhouse STRUMMIN’ WONDERS: LOVE SONG UKULELE CONCERT every step of the way and could give her the strength to forge WR FDQFHO ,I WKH HYHQW KDV D ZDLWLQJ OLVW WKH IURQW GHVN FDQ ÀOO WKH FEATURING THE BEATLES – Monday, February 12from @ 6:30 ahead.you. Come and hear the results of her research and the steps vacancy thep.m. list. Thank Come spread the love and sing along with songs from your that caregivers should be taking. RSVP at the front desk. Event all-time favorite band. RSVP at the front desk. Free. to be held in the Quincy Room. Free

Important Notice About Cancellations

VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE WITH DJ JOHNNY ROCKSMITH Wednesday, February 14. Doors open @ 5:30 p.m. Music starts @ 6 p.m. Everybody’s favorite DJ is back for a special Valentine’s Day concert. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room. Purchase your tickets at the front desk. $5

COUNTRY POTLUCK WITH MICHAEL BECK – Monday, February 26 @ 5 p.m. Come and hear local musician Michael Beck as he covers classic to modern country tunes along with performing his own originals. Don’t forget to bring a dish to serve eight people. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room. RSVP at the front desk. Free.

WINE 101: “CHECKING OUT CHARDONNAYSâ€? – Thursday, February 15 @ 6 p.m. This class will explore chardonnay wines CRAFT BEER: “FROM BARLEY AND BINE TO BOTTLEâ€? from around the world. Participants are to bring a chardonnay Wednesday, February 28 @ 6:30 p.m. This class focuses on the to share with their table and neighbors, their own wine glasses, brewing process, “from barley and bine to bottle.â€? These are and an appetizer to share with the class. There will be a the same steps and ingredients that every brewer uses, from community table of chardonnays. Event to be held in the the large macro brewer like Coors, to the small home-kitchen Multipurpose Room. Purchase your $2:KHQ \RX KDYH VLJQHG XS IRU DQ HYHQW DFWLYLW\ RU WRXU DQG \RX Ă€QG \RX DUH non-refundable ticket at brewer. The ingredients are the same: grains, hops, yeast and the front desk. water, so why are beers so different from each other? Please unable to attend, please, as abring courtesy to others, call the Clubhouse front Also, desk to enjoy an appetizer and a “bomberâ€? for sharing. WR FDQFHO ,I WKH HYHQW KDV D ZDLWLQJ OLVW WKH IURQW GHVN FDQ Ă€OO WKH WOMEN OF WOODBRIDGE TEA: “NURSERY RHYMES, FAIRY the tasting experience, please bring your own appropriate beer TALES AND MOREâ€? – Saturday, February 17 and vacancy fromSunday, the list. Thankglasses. you. Event to be held in the Multipurpose Room. Purchase February 18 – Doors open @ 1:30 p.m. Event begins @ 2 p.m. your tickets at the front desk. $2

Important Notice About Cancellations

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

February 2018 • Page 9 Winter Clubhouse hours (9/10 through 4/30) NOTE: Dates may vary seasonally.

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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.

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

Clubhouse front desk if you have questions.

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(9(176 pag

Page 10 • February 2018

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

At the Clubhouse ææ CRAFTERS CORNER By Debbie Cosetto

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ææ Strummin’ wonders ukulele group

i, fellow residents! My name is Debbie Cosetto. I’ll be submitting the Artists & Crafters articles for Woodbridge LIFE, taking over from Penny Dauler. I’ll do my best to follow in Penny’s footsteps and provide you with information on activities regarding the Artists & Crafters group.

If you don’t have a date for the Valentine Day’s dance, then consider attending the Beatles Sing-Along concert.

Are you a crafter or have you always wanted to be one? The Artists & Crafters group is always happy to welcome newcomers and would love for you to join us. Here’s some basic information on the group.

If you claim you can’t sing, still consider attending the Beatles Sing-Along concert because many others feel the same!

We hold our General Meetings the first Friday of every month at 10 a.m. in the Westport Room. This meeting is a great way to join in and learn what’s coming up for the month. At this meeting, we distribute the month’s calendar of activities and preview any classes that will be taught as well as discuss any upcoming events. We post the Activities Calendar for the month on the easel outside the Westport Room following our General Meeting. At the end of each meeting, we hold a “show and tell,” allowing our talented crafters to display and describe projects they’ve finished. The Artists & Crafters group has sub-groups that meet on a weekly basis in the Westport Room to work on individual projects: China Painters (Mondays), Oil Painters (Tuesdays), Paper Crafters (Wednesdays) and Knitters & Crocheters (Thursdays). Scrapbooking, a new group that started in 2018, meets monthly. Woodbridge Quilters meets bi-monthly. Workshops for making Cancer Pillows, Prayer Bears and Dog & Cat Beds are held approximately four or five times a year. Please feel free to stop by and join in on any of these activities. In addition to the regular groups that meet, we also offer special guest classes. Molly Cooper will teach WATERCOLOR PAINTING classes. This month’s painting will feature a Valentine’s theme. The Watercolor Painting classes will usually be held the second Friday of each month. Kathy Dezotte leads the DOODLEBUGS class on the last Friday of each month. This month we’re lucky to have Martha Harman teach the APRON CLASS, February 22, at 12:30 p.m. Sign-up sheets for these classes (and any other class) are on the easel outside the Westport Room. Please know we’re always on the lookout for new ideas…and new teachers. If you would like to teach a class or have an idea for a class, please let us know. We look forward to your joining us and wish all a very Happy Valentine’s Day!

By Carla Marquardt

If you have nothing to do on Monday, February 12, at 6:30 p.m., then consider attending the Beatles Sing-Along concert in the Multipurpose Room. If you would like to laugh and put a smile on your face, then consider attending the Beatles Sing-Along concert. If you want to sing along to your favorite Beatles song, then sign up at the front desk. It’s free. See you there!

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ bridge By Don St. Lawrence The Bridge group meets Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. in the Oxford Room.

February 2018 • Page 11

ææ BILLIARDS Quarterly Pool Tournament Winners WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz

Bridge Scores

JANUARY 15: Nancy Hansen Don St. Lawrence Kay Schnaidt Gloria Hudson Betty Buff Phyllis Tindell Don Harris Kathy Comden Marilyn Larson Don Harris

5550 4300 4300 2980 2910 2850 2720 2400 1160 1920

JANUARY 22: Kathy Comden Phyllis Tindell Cherie Ford Marilyn Larson Don Harris Barbara Kreps Phil McCallion Betty Buff Don St. Lawrence

6820 4880 4490 3250 3170 3120 2850 2250 2130

JANUARY 29: Cherie Ford Kathy Comden Letha Watson Phyllis Tindell Don Harris Phil McCallion Don St. Lawrence Marilyn Larson Kay Schnaidt Barbara Kreps Betty Buff

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Winners of the quarterly billiards tournament held January 19 were (L to R): Joe Serpa (2nd place), Rene Toledo (1st place) and Vern Olsen (3rd place).

We Understand Commitment You can rely on Edward Jones for one-on-one attention, our qualityfocused investment philosophy and straight talk about your financial needs. Contact an Edward Jones financial advisor today.   

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JANUARY 8: Phyllis Tindell Don Harris Don St. Lawrence Marilyn Larson Kathy Comden Betty Buff Cherie Ford

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W oodbridge LIFE

Page 12 • February 2018

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ĂŚĂŚ women of woodbridge y Polly Smith B

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t our January meeting we elected new officers. They are: Polly Smith – President Mickie Gattuso – Vice President Karen Nickell – Secretary Sue Edmiston – Treasurer

We want to thank Birdie Nieri, Connie Reed, Patricia Gentile, Margaret Waters and Sue Edmiston for their past service to WOW. Without their leadership we would not have accomplished so many wonderful things and helped so many children in Manteca (as Birdie explained in her January Woodbridge LIFE article). The new officers will be working hard to continue this club’s mission, which is: “Women of Woodbridge, representing the Del Webb community, strives to enrich the lives of children in the Manteca area. In the process of fulfilling this mission, members share talents, socialize, expand their knowledge, develop interest and enjoy new friendships.� We are looking to the membership to guide us in the next few months. We will be distributing a survey to be completed by members, through which to share comments and ideas for future events. Women of Woodbridge is open to all women who live in this Del Webb community. Monthly meetings are held the third Wednesday of the month. Meeting times alternate between day and evening. The next meeting will be February 21 at 11:30 a.m. in the Clubhouse Multipurpose Room. We would love to have you join us! Upcoming events: Tea – “Nursery Rhymes, Fairy Tales & More� – February 17 and 18 @ 2 p.m. SIP for Scholarship – May 10 @ 5 p.m.

Travel Adventures

At their January 17 meeting, 2018 Women of Woodbridge officers were introduced and outgoing officers were thanked for their service. (L to R): Incoming secretary, Karen Nickell; outgoing secretary, Margaret Waters; 2018 vice president, Mickie Gattuso; 2018 president, Polly Smith; past president, Birdie Nieri and outgoing vice president, Connie Reed. Not pictured is Sue Edmiston who will return to serve the organization as treasurer.

All trips pick up from Del Webb Community Center TOURS

Destination:

WBL photo by Volker Moerbitz

“Finding Neverland�

Broadway Sacramento Thurs., April 12, 2018 Price $169

All extended trips include airfare and transportation to the airport Call or email for a detailed daily itinerary on any trip

New York City

6 Days, May 14 -19, 2018 Price: $3,479 dbl. / $4,569 sgl

Yellowstone & the Grand Tetons 7 Days, May 28- June 3, 2018 Price: $2,959 dbl. / $3,569 sgl

Take in three Broadway shows and explore ÂŠÂ—Â‘ÂŠÄ´ÂŠÂ—Č‚ÂœČąÂ?Â˜Â™ČąÂœÂ’Â?ÂŽÂœÇŻČą ’œ’Â?ČąÂ?‘ŽȹĹ&#x;ČŚĹ—Ĺ—Čą ÂŽÂ–Â˜Â›Â’ÂŠÂ•Ç°Čą Â?ŠÂ?ÂžÂŽČąÂ˜Â?Čą ’‹Ž›Â?¢ȹǭȹ Â•Â•Â’ÂœČą œ•Š—Â?ÇŻČą Enjoy the view from One World Observatory ’—ȹÂ?‘Žȹ—Ž ȹ ›ŽŽÂ?Â˜Â–Čą ˜ ÂŽÂ›ǯȹȹ Â?Â›Â˜Â•Â•ČąÂ?‘›˜žÂ?‘ȹ Central Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural Enter a wonderland of natural beauty,

Â’ÂœÂ?˜›¢ǯȹ ž’Â?ÂŽÂ?ČąÂ?Â˜ÂžÂ›ÂœČąÂ˜Â?ȹž™Â?˜ Â—ȹŠ—Â?Čą Šȹ–¢ÂœÂ?ÂŽÂ›Â’Â˜ÂžÂœČąÂ•ÂŠÂ—Â?ČąÂ˜Â?ȹ“ŠÂ?Â?ÂŽÂ?ČąÂ™ÂŽÂŠÂ”ÂœÇ°Čą Â?˜ Â—Â?˜ Â—Čą Š—‘ŠĴŠ—ǯȹ ’›Â?ÂŠÂ›ÂŽČąÂ’Â—ÂŒÂ•ÂžÂ?ÂŽÂ?ÇŻ ÂœÂ?ŽŠ–’—Â?ČąÂ?ÂŽ¢ÂœÂŽÂ›ÂœÇ°ČąÂŠÂ—Â?ČąÂ?Â•ÂŠÂŒÂ’ÂŠÂ•ČąÂ&#x;Š••Ž¢ÂœÇŻČą Finding Neverland tells the story Experience a wildlife safari at dusk, a ‹Ž‘’—Â?ČąÂ˜Â—ÂŽČąÂ˜Â?ČąÂ?‘Žȹ Â˜Â›Â•Â?Č‚ÂœČąÂ–Â˜ÂœÂ?Čą ̘ŠÂ?ČąÂ?›’™ȹÂ?˜ Â—ČąÂ?Â‘ÂŽČąÂœÂŒÂŽÂ—Â’ÂŒČą —Š”Žȹ Â’Â&#x;Ž›ȹ ‹Ž•˜Â&#x;ÂŽÂ?ČąÂŒÂ‘ÂŠÂ›ÂŠÂŒÂ?Ž›œǹȹ ÂŽÂ?Ž›ȹ Š—ǯȹ and a performance of the Mormon ÂžÂ—ÂŒÂ‘ČąÂŠÂ?Čą •žŽȹ ›¢Â—Â?ÇŻČą ÂŠÂ‹ÂŽÂ›Â—ÂŠÂŒÂ•ÂŽČą ‘˜’›ǯȹȹ ’›Â?ÂŠÂ›ÂŽČąÂ’Â—ÂŒÂ•ÂžÂ?ÂŽÂ?ÇŻ

For reservations: e-mail robin@setness.com or call (209) 476-8486

W oodbridge LIFE

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ĂŚĂŚ Men of woodbridge

ĂŚĂŚ WOODBRIDGE book GROUP y Judith Mohr B

T

he Woodbridge Book Group enjoyed an interesting discussion of Dominic Smith’s “The Last Painting of Sara de Vos� and chose their selections for the first months of 2018 at the January meeting. The January book provided both insights into the world of art restoration and forgery as well as information about Dutch women painters and guilds of the 1600s. Most readers agreed Smith’s skill in description and character development enhanced an excellent read.

By Chuck Harvey, president

Book Group

Photo contributed

Join the group for thoughtful discussions of the following diverse titles: February 7: March 7: April 4: May 2: June 6:

February 2018 • Page 13

“Quiet� by Susan Cain “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn� by Betty Smith “An Embarrassment of Mangoes� by Ann Vanderhoof “You Can’t Go Home Again� by Thomas Wolfe “Commonwealth� by Ann Patchett

Men of Woodbridge (MOW) completed its 2017 giving campaign with the delivery of a $1,000 check to the San Joaquin County Meals on Wheels Program. Over the past year, this vital lifeline program delivered over 134,000 ready-to-eat meals to households throughout the area. The MOW donation has been earmarked to provide extra holiday meals to participants in the program.

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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Page 14 • February 2018

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A Wheels of Woodbridge Thank You Article and photo by Pepper Noble

Bill and Patti Barnhart, thank you for the last ten years.

A

bout 50 Lugnuts gathered to thank Bill for his 10-year leadership of the Wheels of Woodbridge and Patti for her commitment to the club’s activities. The club met at the Clubhouse for a luncheon Monday, January 22. We were treated to bread bowls of either clam chowder or broccoli and cheese soup served with salad and a decadent chocolate mousse. Chef Bryan Ehrenholm and his be.cuisine students provided this service. The new Wheels president, Steve Ray, presented Patti and Bill a mantel clock and debit cards to be used as they wish. The club’s new vice president is Thom McGehee, who is taking over from Ray Noble. Don McClure is assuming the duties of scribe, and Marty Fermer volunteered to be treasurer. The Wheels of Woodbridge meets the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m., unless an off-site destination is planned. We encourage all residents interested in car culture or who have a love of cars to join Wheels of Woodbridge. We welcome and encourage participation and are planning social activities in the coming year. A future outing to The River’s Edge restaurant in Knights Ferry is being planned.

Patti and Bill Barnhart relax with their new clock amidst Patti’s paintings on their baby grand piano.

New at New York Diamonds g n i R

We Now Carry

•Tacori •John Bagley & Colored Diamonds 1167 S. Main St., Manteca Open Monday thru Saturday 10am-6pm

209.824.2300

www.ourwoodbridge.net

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ĂŚĂŚ COOKING 401 CHRISTMAS POTLUCK RAFFLE WINNERS

February 2018 • Page 15

ĂŚĂŚ Veterans of Woodbridge

PALMER PACKING EVENT By Jack Dauler

T

he Veterans of Woodbridge and the Men of Woodbridge will conduct another packing event for the Cpl. Charles O. Palmer II Memorial Troop Support Program. For those not familiar with the packing events: The general public is asked to join in preparing care packages (boxes) to be sent to deployed troops. Items needed to fill the boxes:

Photo submitted by Jan Spence

Seven lucky residents won prizes at the raffle held at Cooking 401’s Christmas potluck: (L to R): Cindy McGehee, Harriett Applegarth, Rosemary Hein, Victoria Mitchell, Gary Pater, Dottie Olsen, Carole Pfoutz.

Happy Valentine’s Day

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Games, personal hygiene items (soap, shampoo, lotion, hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste and floss) Correspondence items (paper, pens, pencils) Feminine hygiene items (tampons, pads, etc.) High protein snacks (jerky, energy bars, nuts, etc.) Seasonings/condiments (sugar, salt, pepper, powdered creamer, ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise packets) Personal grooming items (nail clippers, lip balm, unscented wipes, combs, brushes, disposable razors) Socks (white or black) Hand towels, washcloths

As the event draws closer, flyers will be posted and collection boxes placed in the Clubhouse. We will begin setting up at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, March 10, and begin packing boxes at 11 a.m.

Page 16 • February 2018

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SCENE on the Street

2017 Christmas Parade By Carol Jo Hargreaves WBL photos by Sharyl Burgeson

T

he 2017 Christmas Parade, which began as a popular movement in the community, would not have been successful without the countless people involved – organizers, safety people, parade participants and spectators. Bruce Penning and Matt Sherwood originally stepped up to organize the parade. Matt, still working, found it hard to participate fully in the planning process but Dewayne Day came to the rescue with his 2016 parade experience, established process and route map.

Safety was top priority for the parade. (L to R): Debbie Hickey, Steve Durflinger, Marcia Lara and her husband Rudy (not pictured) led the safety team. Other residents controlled traffic at intersections to ensure the safety of pedestrians and parade participants.

About 35 entries, including colorfully decorated two- and four-wheeled vehicles, began to line up before dusk. As the sky darkened, the lighted holiday parade began. Steve Mathews, in his restored ‘51 Dodge Korean War-era weapons carrier, safeguarded the rear so no unauthorized entrants could join the parade. Residents knowledgeable in safety procedures monitored intersections to ensure safe crossings, correct route and timely finish. According to Debbie Hickey, safety lead, “This was the most official ‘unofficial’ parade yet.” As the parade progressed, delighted residents and their families (especially the grandchildren) gathered curbside to cheer each entry as it passed. Parade organizers thank all participants and spectators for their enthusiastic support of this popular event.

Woodbridge parade lovers heartily thank Bruce Penning (left) and Dewayne Day for successfully organizing the 2017 Christmas Parade. The two, not previously acquainted, stepped up to continue the popular, longlived tradition.

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February 2018 • Page 17

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The Way We Were . . . . From schrimp page 1 different than the casual friendship they had once shared. Jim asked if he could take Dianne home after the party, Dianne said yes and their story began. Dianne revealed, “It was a short but sweet courtship.” Just being together was fun, gave them an opportunity to get to know each other better and discover they wanted to spend their lives together.

Jim and Dianne did not have a vacation for 15 years but then decided to go to Las Vegas for five days. Although it was thrilling and very, very different from New York, it was nothing like it is today and the two were actually a little bored. They enjoyed camping, which was becoming very popular, joined a camping group and spent many long weekends As for most with them. They of us in the began this stage Photo contributed Traditionalist or Dianne and Jim Schrimp wedding, 1957. of their lives with Silent Generation a tent and ended (those born before up with an RV. They continued with this 1946), Jim and Dianne’s courtship consisted group for about 20 years. mostly of movies, dancing, roller skating and just getting to know each other better The urge to travel further and see faraway as they fell in love. They were unable to see lands was something Jim and Dianne each other often since Jim was in the Navy experienced later in their marriage and have and the Navy is not known to encourage done quite a bit of ever since. They prefer romance. In spite of the Navy, however, cruising but have used other modes of travel attraction grew into love and the two became as well. They most often visit Europe but engaged. They were married at St. Anne’s have also sailed in the Caribbean, the Pacific Episcopal Church in the Bronx, New York and Atlantic oceans, visited Australia, Tahiti, City, September 28, 1957. What a handsome other nearby islands and Hawaii and once couple they made! Dianne was a lovely bride sailed from Tahiti to Hawaii. They certainly in her stylish white lace dress that fell a bit have traveled enough to be considered “world below her knees, as was the fashion at the travelers.” time. There was no time for a honeymoon but when you are in love, a honeymoon is Asking them what they thought was the nice but not really essential, especially when magic key to a long and loving marriage, they had not had much time to be together they answered together: “Compromise. while Jim was in the Navy. It was good just Learn to compromise. You can’t always be to be together. right or wrong. Work things out – no one can be wrong all of the time.” Good advice. After the wedding, Jim and Dianne lived in New York City. Later, they bought a house Jim and Dianne have lived in Woodbridge and moved about 50 miles away to Long for several years. They show no signs of Island. Eventually, they came to California wanting to leave because a lot of their family to live, as did others of their family. The also live nearby, even some in Woodbridge. marriage produced three children who later They enjoy their family and always look gave Dianne and Jim four grandchildren. forward to the next place to travel.

From becker page 1 that time. Polynesian drinks were usually served in a large bowl with two straws. It was a lot of fun when shared with the right person and Duane and Genie must have been “the right person” for each other as their resultant marriage has lasted quite a while. At the time, Duane was in the Navy and Genie was studying at California State University, Fresno. Duane says they spent time on their first date looking for and studying jellyfish while Genie told him all about the sea creature. It must have been love at first sight. Genie lived in Fresno, far from the cool coast and Duane gallantly shared his coat with her. She had not imagined it would be so cool at the beach. “Accidentally,” Genie left her gloves in the coat pocket and Duane had to call her back, of course. Thus began the most important part of their lives. As their romance progressed, Duane and Genie spent many happy hours visiting museums as well as lazy days at the beach and at art gallery openings. As so many students in that era, Genie was continuing her education, working as a nanny and at Woolworths (a popular variety store during that time) to support herself. After a short but sweet engagement, they were married at the Beverly Christian Church in Hollywood, June 6, only three months after they met. Duane gave Genie a lovely white Bible as a wedding gift. Genie’s maternal

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February 2018 • Page 19

From dickerson page 1 Grandmother Peterson picked out her dress and hat. She also wore long white gloves, the style for a wedding in that era and had to cut a little slit in the tip of the glove’s ring finger so Duane could slide on her wedding ring. That was 55 eventful years ago. Duane was transferred to Washington, D.C., in the exciting times that marked the Kennedy administration. They lived in Washington, D.C., during the Cuban missile crisis and the Kennedy assassination in 1962. As a family, the Beckers enjoyed camping in various places such as Washington state and western coastal areas. They also visited Canada and Hawaii with their children. Grandchildren often visited and spent holidays with Grandma and Grandpa. Once they took two of their grandsons to a dude ranch, which was an event! They like taking short hikes, visiting museums and conservatory for plants as well as watching track meets. All the boys are cross-country runners. Duane and Genie sometimes took them to see plays and other performances among the variety of things that they all enjoyed. Duane and Genie’s marriage produced two children, a boy, Duane Becker, Jr., and a girl, Janice Marie Becker Caputo. In addition, there are now three grandsons, one granddaughter and a brand new great granddaughter. Two grandsons live in Turlock and one grandson and a granddaughter live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

told her boss that she was the girl he was going to marry! Not “I hope to” but “I am going to.” When Pat’s boss told her what John had said, her response was, “He must be married because who would do that?” But John’s positive thinking worked, as the couple was married a short four months later.

fishing in mountain lakes (beautiful, cold Lake Alpine for one) and enjoying their new mountain environment. Their children often visited them, bringing the grandchildren.

One of the events Pat and John John had always stopped have enjoyed the at the gas station next door most during their to the Orange Freeze and retirement is taking after seeing Pat, began to each grandchild, stop in at the Orange Freeze as he/she turned as well. He soon asked Pat 14 years of age, to for a date and she agreed. Washington, D.C. They met July 7 and They usually took were married November two at a time so 7 in the same year at the the children would first Methodist Church in have each other to Morgan Hill, California. tease and play with, They honeymooned in which made the trip Photo contributed Yosemite where they had even more enjoyable. Pat and John Dickerson wedding, 1958. no reservations but that did They would spend a not prove to be a problem in few days going those days and at that time of year. Thankfully, through the Smithsonian museums because each they were able to rent a room for the weekend. child liked something different – one the Museum of Art, another, the Air and Space Museum. Each Pat and John began their marriage in an trip was a good learning experience for them. On apartment close to San Jose State, then moved one of the trips to the nation’s capitol, two of their back to Morgan Hill, and later to Cupertino grandsons got lost when they jumped into an where they remained for 36 years. Over elevator ahead of Grandpa. It took quite awhile to the years, their three children were born find them during which they wondered what they and eventually their children gave them 10 would tell their mothers: “We lost your boys”? grandchildren who then provided their growing But John found the two boys sitting on a bench, family with eight great-grandchildren. After just hoping Grandpa would come by. What a relief raising her children, Pat started another (and an adventure for the boys)! Pat related that career working with Lockheed as a computer when they camped with the grandchildren, they programmer. She spent 20 enjoyable years with would “tent camp” and teach the kids how to fish. Lockheed. They all learned about the outdoors while fishing, eating a lot of fish and telling stories around a As a family, the Dickersons enjoyed camping campfire. It was a time enjoyed by all. and fishing and their annual trip to visit John’s family in Oregon. John secretly had hopes of The Dickersons moved to Woodbridge in June moving back to Oregon some day. These wishes 2015. As a couple, they now most enjoy short went unfulfilled as their family became more and trips to Monterey or up the coast to the north to more established in the San Jose area and as time visit Mendocino and other seaside towns. They passed, friends were made and Cupertino became also often return to Oregon to see John’s family. their home in every way. They enjoy making new friends in Manteca and in Woodbridge as well as playing cards – Pinochle to After their children were grown and gone, be exact. Pat and John eventually retired, bought several acres outside of Jamestown and moved there in John reported their marriage has endured due 1999. John wanted a workshop and managed to to Pat’s perseverance and understanding, saying, convince the seller that he should build it for him “Pat was the catalyst who pulled everything – which he did. The couple enjoyed many years together.”

Page 30 20 • February 2018

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Unique Hobbies

Photography as Art By Marie Evans

J

ohn O’Rourke and his wife Judy are Woodbridge newcomers from the Bay Area. John developed an interest in photography in 1996 when he began photographing his daughter and has continued and expanded that interest as time went on. Childhood memories of magnificent scenery led John to start camping with his family, which, in turn, led to an increasing interest in improving his photography, eventually shifting it into an art form. One year, John and his family went RVing in Yosemite during the winter. He found the views stunning and loved photographing them, especially uber-scenic Yosemite Falls. John has also photographed stunning views of the ocean and interesting views of pelicans and lighthouses – always with an eye toward improving his photography. John once belonged to a photography club in Fremont. Club members took photographs, showed them on a screen and critiqued them. This helped John improve his skills. He usually takes pictures of landscapes and natural features such as cliffs, waterfalls and flowers but has been known to photograph “an interesting and different subject from time to time.” John learned how to turn photography into art by taking a picture (the Golden Gate Bridge, for example) then playing around with the color, changing things in little ways to bring more clarity or a little more color into the picture. He says the pictures he takes are photos, what he does to the photos makes them art. John shared some beautiful examples of how this is done. One example was Yosemite Falls. Taken from a unique angle and at a particular time of day, his camera reincarnated the falls into a glowing waterfall reminiscent of the spectacular Firefalls conducted in Yosemite National Park for almost a century. John finds his hobby gratifying and, from viewing some of his pictures, I am sure whomever he shares them with will also find it personally rewarding.

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

Photos on pages 20 and 21 submitted by John O’Rourke

Merced River with Brideleveil Falls

Upper Yosemite Falls in winter

Bald Mt. Sunset

WBL photo by Volker Moerbitz

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Horsetail Fall, Yosemeite

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Valentine’s Day Heart

By Mike Spence

I

’m off to the store for my annual Valentine’s Day shopping. I have my list: a card, a dozen red roses (more if the wife has placed me on the bad boy list), optional chocolates and something shiny. I have standing instructions for gold and diamonds. I head for the card first but immediately get confused when looking at the first card I pick up. I’m looking at a card showing a little kid with wings shooting an arrow at a heart and somehow that’s supposed to show my love for my wife. I’m pretty sure shooting an arrow into a vital organ is a lot closer to assault than affection. It seems we have a whole bunch of symbolism and modern marketing. Who’s Valentine anyhow? It turns out Valentine was a Christian priest (one of several with the same name) who was trying to convert Romans to Christianity. Valentine was performing secret marriages. Rome knew that single men made better soldiers than married men. The leaders in Rome took some offense and Valentine was martyred. A feast was set up each February to celebrate Valentine’s good works in the furtherance of love. One story attributed to Valentine was that he fell in love. He offered a love note to his bride signed “From your Valentine.” This note may be the origin of notes and small tokens of affection given to lovers that became popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. I’m sure Hallmark cards likes the idea. A thousand years ago, all knew that the heart was the center of a man’s life and intellect. They knew the brain existed but thought it was useless. (Some still think that’s true.) Matters of love were matters of the heart. They knew just enough physiology to get the shape about right and to associate the heart with the color red.

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There was a problem with this concept of love being a matter of the heart – elves. It was believed that invisible elves used invisible bows and arrows to inflict pain to the heart. Being hit with such an arrow was called being “elf-shot.” The pain was of the romantic heartbreak variety rather than actual physical damage to the heart. There were several herbal remedies for being elf-shot but no one knows if they worked. Cherubs to the rescue! Cherubs are unearthly beings, childlike in appearance, with small wings. It’s suggested they were attendants to God and that their original duty was to promote love in the Garden of Eden. An arrow from a small cherub bow could remedy elf-shot. Red roses have a strong relationship to love. They are associated with the Greek Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. In early Christian times, red roses were associated with the virtue of the Virgin Mary. The Scottish poet Robert Burns sealed the love–red rose relationship in his poem, “Red, Red Rose.” Chocolate is just a wonderful tasting thing; shall we say “drug”? Chocolate is heaped with sweet, sweet sugars. Coca, its base, contains serotonin and caffeine. The serotonin creates a pleasant feeling with a slight drowsiness. The caffeine counteracts the drowsiness. So now we have some possible ideas on the symbolism (and a little chemistry) involved with Valentine’s Day. These symbols are not lost on modern marketing, making Valentine’s Day the most profitable holiday in February and ranking regularly among the top three most expensive American holidays. Well, I got the card picked out (no arrows!), got the roses and the chocolate, now the “small trinket.” Have pity on my VISA card!

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” l

February 2018 • Page 23

1987.

h

Photo contributed by Loretta Vincent

Loretta Vincent’s precious husband Ed passed away October 4, 2017. Their children found this fabulous photograph of Loretta and Ed, who didn’t even know it had been taken. Loretta’s eyes were closed and both she and Ed had big smiles on their faces as they danced together. The love this photograph shows is priceless.

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Page 24 • February 2018

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Softball

Pleasant Journeys

2018 Council Leadership

Doni Cicero

By Polly Smith

A

s we start the new year, we have some changes in the Softball Council. The following are recently elected 2018 council members:

Position President VP Scheduling Head Umpire Secretary Financial Officer Diamond Gals Rep. Diamond Gals Players Rep. Field Vice President Silver Sluggers Rep. Operations Officer

Destination Specialist

(209) 551-8174

Name John Ochoa Polly Smith George Johnson Sue Edmiston Dennis Barta Mary Long Marcia Umberger Charm Mathis Bob Perrin Sharon Fields

Pleasantjourneys@comcast.net

We look forward to the upcoming 2018 season. The council will meet the third Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the Clubhouse. We welcome players to attend these monthly meetings. All players need to sign up for the upcoming softball season. Signup and release forms are available at the front desk. Complete all sections and return the forms to the front desk as soon as possible. Try outs for the men have already begun, so it is important that all players (returning and new) who want to participate in the 2018 season are seen by the coaches in preparation for the drafting of players in early March.

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ææWoodbridge Seniors Golf Club By John Armstrong

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February 2018 • Page 25

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ææwine 101 By Jon Ford WBL photos by Sharyl Burgeson

I

am very happy to report that I have trips, classes and special guest speakers lined up into February 2019. Our first guest speaker will be wine writer Russ Winton from the Modesto Bee and Merced Sun-Star in March. Our other guest speaker will be Bob Highfill, manager of communications and promotions for the Lodi Wine Association, this June. Our January class was a big success. The theme was “Zinfandel” and although a little technical, I feel a lot was learned about this mysterious grape. We had a

full class with 120 participants including about 10 first-timers. February’s class will be looking at chardonnays from many appellations in California as well as France, New Zealand and Australia. We will be sampling unoaked and oaked chardonnay. I have been asked to create a list of the wines being presented on the community table and I am happy to do so. I will be sending this list out via my newsletter prior to each class. If you wish to become a member of this mailing list, you may contact me at jluvswine@ aol.com and request to be added. I also send out little tidbits of information on Sandi and Bill Holst sample zinfandel at a variety of topics related to wine. the community table. The Holsts moved to Woodbridge from Colorado over a year The prices of the community table ago in order to be closer to their Bay Area wines are beginning to go up, so as of children. “Why else would anyone move the March class, I will be charging $3 from Colorado?” commented Bill. per person per class instead of $2. That $1 increase gives me an ample amount to present quality wines on the community table.

(L to R): Fran Hutchings, Jackie Summers, Marie Kiyoi and Jim Summers fill their plates from the plentiful assortment of hearty appetizers.

Registration usually goes quickly for these classes, so I advise you to act with expediency if you wish to be part of the class. The tickets for the classes always go on sale the day following the last class. Our last class was on January 18, so tickets for the February 15 class went on sale January 19. The tickets for the March 15 class will go on sale on February 16. Again, for those new to Wine 101, we are a down-to-earth class with no pretentions. If you like socializing, enjoying good food, sipping good wine and receiving a little bit of education about wine, then this is the class for you. We meet from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a wine to share at their table that goes along with the class theme, their own wine glasses and an appetizer to place on our goody tables for all to enjoy. As always, plates, napkins, utensils and water are provided. Hope to see you at one of our classes. SO MANY WINES, SO LITTLE TIME!

“REGUA Real Estate Team” g Eldon R. Regua, Maj Gen(R), MBA Realtor BRE#01970692

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W oodbridge LIFE

Gardener’s Corner

February Garden Checklist

3

By Cate White, Master Gardener Photos from University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources

M

any of us have citrus trees in our yards and enjoy their winter fruit. They can be subject to a number of pests, however, and since I ran out of room to address those problems in my previous column on citrus, this month I will cover two pests you may encounter. One is relatively minor, but the other can be catastrophic.

Citrus leafminer. First is the citrus leafminer. This is a moth larva that tunnels into new citrus leaves, primarily in the spring and fall. Only new young leaves will be attacked. The leaves can become twisted and deformed, causing the problem to look worse than it is. Mature trees withstand the damage well, and even young trees will recover. Do not cut out the damaged leaves, as they are still able to produce energy for the tree. In our area, the summer heat discourages these pests, reducing their activity. Prune away any water sprouts and suckers and do not fertilize in the fall. Avoid using insecticides since they cannot reach the caterpillars inside the leaves and may kill off natural predators, leading to a build-up of other pests such as white flies and scale insects.

it carries arrived here from Asia in the early 2000s and has been spreading throughout citrus-growing states. There is no cure for the disease, which has been found in southern California but not yet in our Cate White area. The asian citrus psyllid has been found here though, so it’s very important to be on the lookout. The most telltale sign is the waxy curly white tube with a bulb at the end that each nymph exudes. The adult insect is about the size of an aphid with mottled brown wings, and the nymphs are yellowish with red eyes. You will find them on new growth, primarily in spring and fall. Using a hand lens can be helpful for identification. Symptoms of the disease include blotchy yellowing of the leaves on individual branches, and small, bitter, lopsided fruit that remains partially green. These symptoms may take several years to show up. If you find Asian citrus psyllid or suspect the disease, call the California Department of Food and Agriculture Exotic Pest hotline at 1-800-491-1899. Since the psyllid is present in our area, we are under quarantine, meaning no plant parts may be transported to other areas. You may transport fruit only if it is thoroughly washed and free of twigs and leaves.

Second is the Asian citrus psyllid. This small insect and its nymphs feed on citrus growth causing dieback of new shoots and twisting or notching of the leaves. However, the damage they cause is less important than the fact that they carry the fatal citrus disease Huanglongbing (HLB), also called citrus greening disease. This insect and the disease Asian citrus psyllid nymphs.

Asian citrus psyllid and nymphs with waxy tubes.

February 2018 • Page 27

• Plant bare root shrubs and trees, like roses and fruit trees. • Continue baiting for ants, snails, slugs and earwigs. • Monitor for Asian citrus psyllid. • Prune deciduous trees and shrubs such as apple, crepe myrtle, pear and roses. Remove dead, diseased wood, making cuts properly to encourage good structure. Spray with horticultural oil to control insects and diseases. Spray peaches to prevent peach leaf curl one more time before bud break. • Cut back deciduous sages such as Mexican sage to within 6 to 8 inches from the ground. Cut back fountain grasses to within 2 to 2-1/2 feet off the ground. • Plant seedlings of broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce and parsley. Plant beets, chard, carrots and peas from seed. Spring flowers such as violas, pansies, snapdragons and Iceland poppies may also be planted now. • Continue adjusting irrigation according to the weather. Do not water within 48 hours of measurable rain.

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 28 • February 2018

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February 2018 • Page 29

Celebrating Valentine’s Day By Sharyl Burgeson and WBL staff

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alentine’s Day is only 12 days away and Woodbridge residents are fortunate to be living in an area where a multitude of close-by restaurants and activities are available to celebrate the occasion with friends, family or your special “one.” Two Clubhouse activities include: • A free Strummin’ Wonders Ukulele “Concert of Love” at 6:30 p.m., Monday, February 12 • A Valentine’s Dance with DJ Johnny Blacksmith at 6 p.m., Wednesday, February 14. (Look for more details in this edition of Woodbridge LIFE.) Going out to dinner is a traditional and fun option for a romantic evening. However, WBL staffers were too early with their inquiries and found that almost all restaurants contacted in Manteca, Lathrop and Ripon were planning a Valentine Special but menus and prices had not been finalized by WBL deadline time. Here’s what we did find: • Show your loved one how much you care with a romantic dinner for two at Ernie’s Food & Spirits, an upscale restaurant at 1351 North Main Street. Ernie’s is offering an exquisite pre-fixe menu for Valentine’s Day. Ernie’s is open for dinner from 3 to 9 p.m. and reservations are strongly encouraged. • Strings Italian Café at 680 North Main Street will offer several Valentine’s Day specials including filet mignon or rib eye steak (to which you may add lobster tail), chicken Dijon, salmon served with polenta or “Pasta Siena” (a sautéed shrimp and chicken dish). End your meal with the special chocolate mousse dessert, a decadent treat. Strings also invites you to start celebrating early at their Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras party, Tuesday, February 13, from 7 to 10 p.m. There will be masks, beads and karaoke. • Angelano’s Restaurant, 1020 North Main Street, Manteca, will feature, in addition to its regular menu, filet mignon covered with French onion and blue cheese crumbles. Angelano’s is also offering a special strawberry shortcake cheesecake the entire Valentie’s week. In Manteca, Cabana Del Sol and Finley’s Bar & Grill were planning but remained undecided on Valentine specials. Lathrop’s Siena Italian Restaurant, The Boathouse at River Islands and Ripon’s Canal Street Grille also had not finalized special menus. Woodbridge LIFE thanks resident Mike Belcher for contributing the following leads to local Valentine’s Day-related festivities that all sound promising:

PRE-VALENTINE’S DAY EVENTS: • Franc D’Ambrosio at The Grand Theatre, Center for the Arts, Tracy, Friday, February 9 at 8 p.m. Franc D’Ambrosio is best known as the Phantom in the Tony Award-winning musical, “The Phantom of the Opera.” Affectionately known as “The Iron Man of the Mask,” Franc was awarded the distinction as the “World’s Longest Running Phantom” with over 2,300 performances of the lead role, a title he held for a decade. For more information, see atthegrand.org • 21st Annual Lodi Wine and Chocolate Weekend, throughout Lodi, February 10 and 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day This might be the premiere event for the San Joaquin Valley to be held in Lodi, only 20 minutes away with easy return via Highway 99. At this event, you may sip handcrafted Lodi wines and sample delicious chocolate treats as you travel between more than 50 Lodi wineries. One ticket is good for both days. If you happen to discover one of 100 “Golden Ticket” stickers on your complimentary chocolate treat, you will be awarded a “Lodi Wine Country Getaway.” For more details, go to lodiwineandchocolate.com (Please note: Manteca’s Delicato Winery is also selling tickets to the Lodi Wine and Chocolate Weekend. You may pick up your map, wine glass, chocolate treat and wristband at the nearby Tasting Room. An added incentive for starting locally are the weekend activities which coincide with the Dorothy Indelicato 30th Annual Fine Art Show featuring artwork by several talented Woodbridge artists.) • “Los Ángeles Azules” at Gallo Center for the Arts, Modesto, Tuesday, February 13 @ 7 p.m. Los Ángeles Azules’ musical genre can best be described as Colombian cumbia and disco. The highenergy group has been nominated for a Billboard Latin Music Award and they enjoy stardom throughout Mexico, Argentina and Colombia. POST-VALENTINE’S DAY EVENTS: • “One Night of Queen” at Gallo Center for the Arts, Modesto. Performed by Gary Mullen & The Works, Thursday, February 15 @ 7:30 p.m. Perhaps no tribute band has received as much praise for authenticity at the Gallo as this salute to the music and showmanship of Queen. Freddie Mercury clone Gary Mullen and his band, The Works, have performed for sell-out crowds around the world – including two prior shows at the Center. Their homage to Queen features hits including “We Will Rock You,” “We Are the Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and more. For more information, go to galloarts.org

• “Mania! The Live Beatles Experience,” at Hutchins Street Square Performing Arts Theatre, Lodi, February 17 @ 7 p.m. The cover band Mania defines the essence of the original Beatles, not only musically, but also in looks and mannerisms. The show includes three outfit changes starting with the black suits from the Ed Sullivan Show, then the Sgt. Pepper era and ending with the Abby Road set in their live concert. This is a show for all generations. To find out more, see hutchinsstreetsquare.com/events. If you would prefer to avoid crowds and take your date to a romantic movie on Valentine’s Day, the local AMC Showplace Manteca 16 (over by Bass Pro Shops) will show “Fifty Shades Freed,” the final installment of the “Fifty Shades” trilogy, five times February 14! This one begins with Christian (Jamie Dorman) and Ana (Dakota Johnson) returning from their honeymoon. Remember to ask for the senior ticket discount if you’re over 60. Or, if watching a movie at home is more your style, rent a romantic movie from Redbox. There are 12 bright-red, automated kiosks in Manteca that rent DVDs, Blu-ray movies, TV shows, even video games. The closest kiosks to Woodbridge are indoors at Raley’s on Lathrop Road. Titles vary from one kiosk to another, so browse redbox.com for available rentals at the location of your choice. You can reserve your rental online and pick it up when it’s convenient for you. The price is only $1.50 for a 24-hour rental. Other ideas to show your loved one you care include: • Bake a heart-shaped cake. Fill a round pan and a square pan of similar widths with batter. Bake, cool and remove from pans. Cut round cake in half and position semi-circles on square cake to create a heart shape. Use frosting to attach pieces. Frost top of cake. • Send a floral bouquet (you can get 20 percent off from 1-800-FLOWERS with code “SCV” through February 28). • Create a romantic dinner with favorite foods, pretty dishes and a candle. Maybe add a bottle of wine. (Papa Murphy’s does a cute heart-shaped pizza for the occasion.) • Write notes to your sweetheart on paper hearts and hide them around the house. If your sweetie leaves the house for work, to volunteer or to run an errand, put a note in the car or his/her snack container.

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 30 • February 2018

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ææ Day Trippin’ Tilden Regional Park By Marie Evans and Carol Jo Hargreaves

T

ilden Regional Park, one of East Bay Regional Park District’s three oldest parks, is a wonderfully “seasoned” park that will appeal to all ages. It has an antique carousel, a steam train, lots and lots of trails of all kinds (including equestrian and bicycle), a swimming beach at Lake Anza, a Botanic Garden, the “Little Farm,” sweeping views of the Bay Area and much more. There are also many large natural areas. It is almost impossible to direct anyone as to where to go because this is such a large park (encompassing 2,079 acres as part of a string of parks extending from south of Oakland to San Pablo that form the East Bay Regional Park System) with many activities from which to choose. I recommend you go to the East Bay Parks’ website (ebparks.org/parks/tilden) for information including rules, attractions, open hours, driving directions, maps and access for the disabled. Tilden Park kids’ funride.

Photo contributed

This is a huge park but it has good signs to help you find your way around. If you are a hiker or explorer, you will love this park. There are easy trails, difficult trails, scenic trails and child-friendly* trails. This is not just a hiking park, it is also a great park if you enjoy driving – there are roads all over Tilden and into Wildcat Canyon Park on the northern border, as well as Grizzly Peak Boulevard to the southwest.

Tilden Park carousel horse Merry-Go-Round.

Photo contributed

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For children, I recommend the huge, old-fashioned and historic Merry-Go-Round. Rides are $3 each when the weather permits. Food and drink are available* and a children’s playground is within walking distance down the hill from the carousel. There is a great set of trails with bridges that winds downhill and up into the Botanic Garden*, set along the banks of a small canyon. The Botanic Garden contains the world’s most complete collection of California native plants, including rare and endangered species, and is great for children and adults to explore. I enjoyed it as a child and I still do! The “Little Farm,” open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., is free to enter and has cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, chickens and pigs you may feed lettuce or celery brought from home. Redwood Valley Railway (in the far southwest corner of the park) offers steam train rides* and Golden Gate Live Steamers’ scale model locomotives are fun to look at. (Hours and ticket prices for these may be found on the park’s website.) The Environmental Education Center, headquarters of the area’s interpretive programs, has exhibits and a bookstore. It is free and open all year, Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Center is adjacent to the 740-acre Tilden Nature Area, a preserve with hiking trails situated in a mixture of native and introduced plants that is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. To reach Tilden Park, go to Orinda and take the Dam Road toward El Sobrante/ Richmond. Watch carefully for the sign to Tilden Park (Wildcat Canyon Road) on the northwest edge of Orinda Village and take the scenic and steep road west (left) up into the park. There are lots of trails and picnic sites off this road. At the entrance are Nimitz Trail, restrooms and the old Nike missile site.* The website shows entry into the park from Highway 24 via Fish Ranch Road.

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IMPORTANT NOTES FROM EAST BAY PARKS WEBSITE: 1. Through March 31, 2018, South Park Drive in Tilden Regional Park is closed to all automobile traffic to protect migrating and breeding newts. Bicycles are allowed, although bicyclists are asked to proceed slowly and avoid newts crossing the road. Dogs may be off-leash on South Park Drive during the closure, but they must be under voice control and owners must carry a leash. Please keep dogs away from the newts as they are toxic (poisonous). 2. The Selby Trail is CLOSED at the connector trail to the Merry-Go-Round until further notice.

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W oodbridge LIFE

ææDid You Know. . . Sticky Buns Compiled by Mike Spence

February 21 is National Sticky Buns Day, but did you know? • Sticky buns have two required ingredients: rolled leavened dough and something sticky, most commonly caramel. • Philadelphia claims sticky buns as its specialty, possibly originating with German settlers who called them Schnecken. • National Sticky Bun Day is not to be confused with National Sticky Note Day, August 14. • There is controversy about the “proper” way to portion and bake sticky buns. Both methods require a pan with a soon-to-be-sticky component and dough. The pans may be shallow like a sheet pan or as tall-sided as a loaf pan. Are the buns to be tightly packed so each bun, once baked, must be torn away from the others or are they to be baked as separate disks? I doubt there’s a correct answer to this question. • The sticky bun loaf often forgoes caramel, substituting maple syrup and honey for the “sticky.” • If the most common sticky buns aren’t decadent enough for you, add an equal amount of melted ice cream to the sugar used to make the caramel. • In Venezuela, they prepare a similar bun called a golfeado. The sticky part is ground fresh cheese. The resultant bun is sweet and salty. • There are some who suggest sticky buns originated in ancient Egypt and were made with honey and nuts. • Sticky buns have a few cousins: monkey bread, sticky bread pudding and cinnamon rolls with glaze. • In the U.K., sticky buns incorporate raisins or currants and are referred to as Chelsea buns. • Sticky buns and barbecued pork ribs share a couple things. If you don’t eat them with your hands and get stuff on your face, you’re just not doing it right!

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org

Resources used in compiling this article: Nationaldaycalendar.com, en.wikipedia.com, punchbowl.com, daysoftheyear.com, cakespy.com, thefoodiepatootie.com and mobile-cuisine.com

February 2018 • Page 31

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Page 32 • February 2018

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Travel: Circumnavigating South America By Jana Kattenhorn with Carol Jo Hargreaves

I

recently circumnavigated South America on the Emerald Princess. The 31-day cruise began in San Pedro, California, and ended in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

During our voyage, we explored the Tarcoles River in Costa Rica, the Paracas National Reserve in Peru (one of the driest places on earth) and the Tololo Observatory in the foothills of the Chilean Andes. We frequently sampled Pisco Sours served at the beginning of meals. The origin of this drink is claimed both by Peru and Chile. Pisco, a colorless or yellowish-to-amber colored brandy, is produced in winemaking regions of Peru and Chile. When the pisco is shaken or blended with lime juice, fresh egg white and simple syrup and Angostura bitters are sprinkled on top, you have a pisco sour. One misty, wet day we enjoyed a steam train ride through beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park. The trip began in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southern terminus of the Pan-American Highway, and traveled along the route originally followed by the “Convict Train.”

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Many special days were spent sailing the Strait of Magellan, the Beagle Channel and around Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America.

We saw Gentoo penguins with their bright orange-red bills and wide white stripes extending like bonnets across the tops of their heads on the Falkland Islands. They were just as cute and funny as comics and movies portray them. Outside of Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Tigre Delta, among the world’s largest, covers more than 5,000+ square miles. The Río Paraná splits into several smaller rivers and forms countless sedimentary islands covered in forest and grasslands. The islands are host to permanent and holiday homes, a school, clubs and retreats. There are no roads or cars but there are many boats - school bus boat, grocery boat, garbage boat, water taxis and private boats. The excursion through the delta was a surprising and enjoyable end to our 31-day adventure.

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Triker’s Travels

FE

February 2018 • Page 33

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By Judy McNamara

Johnny Manha

“We had some great times together: 10-day cruise to Mexico, a Reno trip for his Army reunion, a Yosemite trip. Johnny participated in last year’s ‘Christmas’ parade with his Harley trike as well as the car show. He loved living in Woodbridge and many times commented how lucky we are to live here. He was truly someone who loved life and was very grateful. I will always be grateful he came into my life, even though it was only for a short time. He was looking forward to this next summer when we were to attend his 50th year class reunion. All of the ladies were looking forward to dancing with him.”

“Sometimes only one person is missing, and the whole world seems depopulated.”

~ Alphonstade de Lamartine

O

n December 11, 2017, Woodbridge and the world lost a special angel. Johnny Manha rode off into the sunset to ride with angels on his prized three-wheel Harley.

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Despite having physical limitations, some of which resulted from his military service in Vietnam, Johnny persevered and managed to live life to the fullest.

I, too, am saddened by Johnny’s passing since I would frequently trike by his house around the corner from me and we would spend time talking when Johnny was out in his motorized wheelchair. Johnny was an inspiration to me because of his positive attitude about life. He gave me the hope of pushing through adversities and pedaling on. As of this writing, Johnny’s family has not set a date for his service. We will miss you, Johnny, but we know you are riding with the angels.

Johnny grew up in the Bay Area and graduated from San Leandro High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Army’s 70th Engineers Combat Unit in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968. Johnny leaves behind his sister Diane Chambers and his beloved daughter Heather Rodriguez and his three grandchildren, Mia, Andi and Joseph Rodriguez whom he loved so much. Johnny made some good friends in Woodbridge, one of them being Bill Anton, his next-door neighbor. Bill and Johnny shared a bond since both were Vietnam veterans. Bill says they would push each other to “Well, … get off your a— and go do it.” For Johnny, it was either hopping on his Harley or spending time on a Mexican cruise or going on Reno trips for Army reunions. Being confined to his electric wheelchair didn’t slow Johnny down one bit. This past August, Johnny lost his longtime helpmate, Betty Dravis. He struggled through that difficult time and pushed forward.

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Johnny made friends with Kay Kion who moved to Woodbridge two years ago. The two became acquainted when Johnny posted on social media that he would like to find someone with whom he could ride his motorcycle. Since Kay loved to ride, she contacted Johnny and within several weeks the pair went on their first ride together. In the next two years they put 9,000 miles on Johnny’s bike. I can only do honor to Johnny by paraphrasing some of what Kay so eloquently wrote to me regarding her relationship with him. 1601486

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Page 34 • February 2018

W oodbridge LIFE

Where in the world?

www.ourwoodbridge.net

1.

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 wblife2017@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.

2.

1. Debi and Ray Borges in front of a float after attending the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, January 1, 2018. 2. Steve and Cathy Ray, suspended several hundred feet over the jungle floor on a hanging bridge in Mistico Arenal Park, Costa Rica. 3. Rose Marks and Novie Kay took a Setness Tours trip to the 2018 Rose Bowl Parade. 4. Three Woodbridge couples (L to R): Zack and Diane Dennis, Danny and Lori Meseke and Don and Laura Schwindt visited Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

3.

4.

Send travel photos to WBLIFE2017@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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W oodbridge LIFE

February 2018 • Page 35

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