W oodbridge Volume 5 ▪ Issue 46 ▪ Number 45
LIFE
Your Life. Your Community. Your News.
June ▪ 2015
June
Don’t miss the exciting Wheels of Woodbridge Golf Cart Races tomorrow at the Del Webb softball field. In addition to fun, this event promises feats of golf cart driving skill and ability. Plus there will be food and a show of residents’ beautiful collector cars. Proceeds from the event will go to purchase an automated patio door for the Clubhouse. (If you want to participate but haven’t turned in a registration form, cut out and complete the form inside and present it tomorrow morning at the registration booth.) “Flags” is our theme this month. Be sure to display your red, white and blue on Flag Day and any other days you wish to express pride in our country. You will see changes in the layout of Woodbridge LIFE this month. If you like them, let us know. If you don’t, we still welcome your feedback.
Inside
Bedford and Hancock . . . 7 Bridge Scores . . . . . . . . 12 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Events and Tours . . . . . . . 8 Garden Tasks . . . . . . . . 19 Groups and Clubs . . . . . . 6 Where in the World . . . . . 38
READ WBL ONLINE : http://issuu.com/ woodbridgelife
Contact us:
WBLIFE2012@gmail.com
By Roger Cunning, Flags Over Woodbridge Coordinator
Several years ago, Sandy and Lou George developed a team of homeowners to assist them in placing U.S. flags on light poles along the major streets of Woodbridge. Subsequently, Bill Barnhart coordinated the flag-flying activities for several months then asked Roger Cunning to accept that task a few months after he and his wife moved to Woodbridge. Roger has been coordinating the flying of Flags over Woodbridge for the past three years. See
FLAGS page 10
WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
www.ourwoodbridge.net
Woodbridge LIFE
T
The Woodbridge community has its own 49 flag-flying event, “Flags Over Woodbridge,” led by Roger Cunning. See Roger’s description beginning on the front page and continuing on page 10. Mike Spence collected tidbits of flag history and other vexillology
Page 3 • June 2015
By Dodie Miller, Activities Director
By Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor
Our city is proud to fly 2,400 “Flags Over Manteca” on its main streets during 10 holidays every year. Woodbridge is integrally involved in these Chamber of Commerce-sponsored flag raisings. Resident Ann King organizes community participation and the Men of Woodbridge group is a Bronze Sponsor of the event. Woodbridge volunteers feel privileged to get up before the crack of dawn, pick up the correct number of flags for their designated area, plant the flags in pre-drilled sidewalk holes, and faithfully return later the same afternoon to remove and roll up the flags for storage until the next holiday. Contact Ann if you would like to volunteer.
From Dodie's Desk
From the Editor he theme of this month’s edition of Woodbridge LIFE is “flags.” During this time of year we have many opportunities to raise flags with enthusiasm and pride. Last Monday, Memorial Day, Americans honored servicemen and women who gave their lives for our country’s freedom and many remembered loved ones who have passed away. On June 14, Flag Day, we can show respect for our country’s flag, its designers and makers. By the way, if your flag has become old and tattered, the Woodbridge Veterans group has replacement flags and conducts intermittent flag burning ceremonies to properly dispose of old flags.
J Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor (look that up in your Funk and Wagnall’s!) in his “Did You Know” column on page 10. Non-profit organizations across the nation transport military veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit war memorials at no cost to the vets. Dennis Atwell, a member of the Woodbridge Veterans group, tells us about Korean War era vet Lee Stern’s recent Honor Flight trip and a sidebar describes the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Both are on pages 30-31. June is the most popular month in which to get married, thus the most wedding anniversaries are celebrated in that month, too. Jean Kavale interviewed three long-married Woodbridge couples and shares how they met, fell in love, married and eventually became part of our community. See page 26. Happy anniversary, Beckers, Cadles and Phillips as well as to all other June anniversary celebrants! The softball season is now in full swing. Butch Larson again challenges all of you to identify a minor league ball team by looking at the logo on its ball cap. You, too, can win a free lunch at the Snack Shack like Caroline Gibson, Jim Nessi and Jacque Reynolds did in May. Email your winning entry to Butch as directed on page 22.
See
EDITOR page 4
The deadline for submission of articles and photographs for the July 2015 edition of Woodbridge LIFE is Friday, June 5, 2015. Please email your articles to wblife2012@gmail.com
une has many events and tours you’ll want to take a look at. For those that strike your interest, consider signing up early as we are beginning to experience a heavier flow of participating residents through the Clubhouse. Our first happy hour in May had a turnout of over 200 residents. Everyone seems to wait for that first gathering on the patio which starts our happy hours for the summer. It’s a wonderful social for our newer residents getting to know the seasoned ones, making new friendships and having an evening of fun! DJ Dave Dodie Miller, WOA Activities Director Badilla once again started our happy hour series as he has since the first Woodbridge happy hour. He always has great dance music. June promises a lot of activity starting with the Swingin’ Blue Stars, a Cheese Buffet Tasting and our Spring Garden Tour during the first week. The resident Garden Tour volunteers will be anxiously waiting for you to see their backyards. You’ll also have the opportunity to browse and purchase delicious fruits, vegetables and specialty products from Denise’s Farmers’ Market. Joining us this year, too, is the Rain Forest Nursery, displaying plants and other items for purchase. Also a reminder: Denise’s Farmers’ Market will continue its once-a-week visits to our parking lot for residents’ shopping convenience. Watch for announcement of the start date.
See
DODIE page 4
From the Bridge O
Woodbridge LIFE
www.ourwoodbridge.net
EDITOR
By Ramon Rivera
ver the past six months, there have been many concerns brought to my attention, the most important being the safety of our residents. We had an incident a couple of months ago involving a resident losing consciousness. I happened to be walking down the hallway, quickly called 9-1-1 and began administering assistance. These situations are pressure-packed by nature and can easily go wrong without the proper training and preparation. Every member of our staff is certified in CPR and First Aid, but being certified, in my opinion, is not enough. Residents voiced concerns during a Community Listening Post meeting and I felt staff had to do more to ensure we are ready whenever we are called upon. “Practice makes perfect” is a saying I believe is true in any situation. I began to look into ways we can better prepare ourselves for these types of emergency situations. Our staff meets once a week and my first thought was to have one meeting per month strictly dedicated to First Aid and CPR. The idea would be to focus each month on the many situations that can present themselves daily. I thought we could buy videos to watch during these meetings, but I quickly realized this would not be enough. I had flashbacks of sitting in classrooms where videos were used and remembered I didn’t get much out of that type of training. My focus then turned to handson training and the use of roleplaying to help build confidence. Woodbridge has excellent resource people. I began by contacting Denise Drewry. Denise’s vast experience is valuable and I recalled a meeting where she was our guest speaker.
Ramon Rivera, Operations Manager Denise presented a wealth of information that was beneficial to our team and I can’t wait to have her be part of this process again. In addition, I was fortunate to be formally introduced to Nicholas Tejeda, FACHE and CEO of Doctors Hospital. I reached out to Nicholas, expressed my concerns and asked if he would be interested in lending a hand. Nicholas responded immediately and introduced me to Woodbridge resident Susan Blair, RN-BSN Clinical Educator. With these resources, our staff can better prepare for emergency situations. This is just one matter of many I have been working to improve. Community Listening Post is an excellent forum for Woodbridge residents to provide feedback. I encourage each of you to attend and take part in these discussions. All concerns, big and small, are of the utmost importance to me. I promise your concerns will not be swept under the rug. If you cannot attend Community Listening Post, you may always reach me by phone at 8247481 or via email at rrivera@ ourwoodbridge.net and we can discuss your thoughts.
�
From page 3 Woodbridge LIFE is trying something new this month. When the paper was first begun, we published a simple list of event names and dates. Feedback suggested an actual calendar format would be more useful. Therefore, in past editions of Woodbridge LIFE, you found two months of calendars and upcoming events. Recently it was brought to our attention that, since plans and dates change, the second month’s calendar is often incorrect by the time it is published. Therefore, this month we are experimenting with publication of just one calendar. We have grouped the calendar, list of Coming Events and the Events and Tours column in close proximity on pages 8 and 9. If you think this was a positive change, please let us know. We try to keep our readers happy but need your feedback in order to make this newspaper the best it can be. Speaking of that, we welcome new “reporters” to join the Woodbridge Editorial Team or simply to write intermittent articles of interest to residents. Contact Operations Manager Ramon Rivera or me if you would like this opportunity to share your talents. Happy Fathers Day, Woodbridge gentlemen! ~Carol Jo and the Woodbridge LIFE Team
From
DODIE page 3
The second week of June will feature the ladies’ luncheon and two different tours through Setness Tours — a Cole Porter Musical and The Illusionists. Setness tour buses conveniently pick us up at the Clubhouse. There are also several more Setness tours you might want to consider, posted on the bulletin board in the Clubhouse. Toward the end of the month, we have a ‘50s dance, a casino bus trip, Wine 101, the monthly happy hour, a golf putting tournament and our monthly potluck. I’ll be looking for you at these events and around the Clubhouse. Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.
Page 4 • June 2015
www.ourwoodbridge.net
From the Boardroom
By Roger Cunning, Vice President of the Woodbridge Owners Association
T
he board of directors continues its review of governing documents that requires urgent updating. The Rules and Regulations document was posted for a 30-day period following the May board meeting so that homeowners have the opportunity to review this draft and provide written comments to the board by June 13, 2015. Summarizing the recommended changes: adding amenities to Liberty Park; changing Executive Director to Operations Manager, changing the names of rooms already approved and minor administrative clean up. Please send any comments you may have to Riverside Management and
Woodbridge LIFE
Financial Services, Inc. Please send emails to pamelac@riversidemgmt.com or drop off your comments at the front desk in the Clubhouse, noting that it is for Riverside Management and Financial Services, Inc. Your comments will be greatly appreciated. Due to the current drought conditions along with the potential water and cost savings, the board of directors will be considering a change to the entry monument fountains at their July 9 meeting. The fountains will be turned off and drought tolerant irrigation and plant materials may be used as replacements. The money provided in a Pulte settlement will provide funding for this project. The board will review the two design concepts included in the survey that was mailed to all residents. The board would appreciate community input before making its final decision. The following is a synopsis of major issues: The first option is to convert the existing fountain structures into a set of large planter containers for drought-tolerant landscaping. The surfaces of the fountain
Page 5 • June 2015
walls would require a significant facelift as part of the cleanup. Also, the plumbing would be converted to a more water conservative drip irrigation system. The total cost for the conversion is estimated at about $35,332. The second option includes a new, refreshing look to the entrance. The existing fountain structures would be completely replaced with new signage structures requiring less long-term maintenance. Additionally, landscaping would be created to provide a most colorful array of seasonal vegetation while only using the most drought-tolerant plants. Of course, a drip irrigation system would be used to keep the landscaping looking lush. The total cost for this option is about $63,127. The board of directors welcomes your input and hopes residents attend their meetings.
From the WOA Gratitude [ ˈgratəˌt(y)o͞ od ]
NOUN
the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness: thanks · appreciation · indebtedness · recognition · acknowledgment · credit By Pamela Ciapessoni
R
iverside has been working with the Woodbridge community for two years. During that time, the community has continued to grow and change. With more than 60 communities, Riverside has had the privilege to work with many wonderful people and we have created many valued relationships. One of the things that inspires us daily is the success of the residents within your community. We are always impressed with your talent and accomplishments. You bring so much to the culture of Woodbridge. I personally have spent the last seven years of my career focusing on lifestyle communities and, to be honest, it is a labor of love. I have met so many wonderful individuals and the experience has made my life and work a blessing. So often it is easy to take working relationships for
Pamela Ciapessoni, Riverside Management granted but I wanted to take a moment to tell you how grateful I am to be working with and for the beautiful Woodbridge community. I know we cannot make everyone happy all of the time but we do always try to do the right thing. I encourage owners to contact me if they have questions. I try to be available to all residents when I am needed. I have always spent my life treating others like I would want to be treated — with kindness, professionalism and respect. Most importantly, I value each interaction with a sense of gratitude. If ever I fail in this mission, please let me know. I am very proud to be working with such a wonderful community of owners and would like to take this opportunity to say thank you!
Page 6 • June 2015
Woodbridge LIFE
WOA Groups and Clubs: Groups & Clubs Artists & Crafters Ballroom Dance Bocce Ball Bridge Bunco Bunco-also contact Chair Volleyball Crochet/Knitting Cribbage Drama Game Night Game Night-also contact Hand & Foot
Contact Nedra Ball Patti Barnhart
Phone Meeting Day And Time 815-9309 M-F. Time & Workshops vary 629-8838 Thursdays @ 4:15 p.m. TH at 8 a.m. and SU at 6 p.m., Rick Hyden 824-9257 effective 6/11/2015 Don St. Lawrence 825-7137 Mondays @ 10 a.m. Mary Braun 239-0409 3rd Monday @ 6:30 p.m. Susan Russitano 275-5817 3rd Monday @ 6:30 p.m. Various Mondays and Jacquie Steffy 825-4805 Tuesdays. Renée St. Lawrence 825-7137 Thursdays @ 10 a.m. Dave Steffy 825-4805 Tuesdays @ 7 p.m. Dona Eberhardt 629-8069 Thursdays @ 12:30 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays @ 6:30 Pat Buxton 239-8663 p.m. Rick Hyden Ruth Field
824-9257 229-6977
Line Dancing Line Dancing (Evening) Men of Woodbridge Neighborhood Watch Paddle Tennis Pickleball Pinochle
Patti Barnhart Bill Goodwin Bill Goodwin Bob Hall Bob Hall Bob Hall Robert Philis
629-8838 823-9767 823-9767 239-5712 239-5712 239-5712 825-3053
Poker
Al Sanchez
239-8235
Poker - also contact Joe Victoria Radio Controlled Flyers Bob Umberger Renée St. LawReaders’ Group rence Second Chance Band John Green Senior Golf Chuck Gary Silver Sluggers Softball Butch Larson Strummin’ Wonders Carla Marquardt Tennis Mel Topping Trivia Eileen Hill Veterans Jack Dauler Walking Indoors Jacque Reynolds Wheels of Woodbridge Bill Barnhart Wine 101 Jon Ford Women of Woodbridge Birdie Nieri Woodbridge Singers Elizabeth Cunning
815-9343 239-2983
Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m. Thursdays @ 7 p.m. M-W-F @ 9:15 a.m. Fridays @ 6 p.m. 2nd Monday @ 10 a.m. Patrols Mondays @ 6 p.m. M-F. Time varies M @ 2:15pm & TH @ 1 p.m. Wed @ 1:30 p.m. & Fri @ 5:30 p.m. Wed @ 1:30 p.m. & Fri @ 5:30 p.m. Days and times vary
825-7137 239-5256 834-6795 824-2062 624-3754 239-8718 624-3945 629-8575 629-8508 629-8838 815-9803 624-3779 647-4380
1st Wed @ 10:30 a.m. Days and times vary Various golf courses Seasonal Mondays @ 2:15 p.m. SU - TU - TH @ 9 a.m. 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m. 2nd Monday @ 4 p.m. M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. 1st Tuesday @ 10:45 a.m. Days vary 3rd Wed @ 11 a.m. Every other Monday @ 7 p.m.
Non-WOA Sanctioned Clubs: Club Christian Men 55er's RV Group "Just Fore Fun" Ladies' Golf Red Hat Ladies Senior Bowling Women's Bible Study
Contact Mel Reynolds Sue Edmiston Betty Buff Claudia Watkins Barbara Silva Carolyn Johnson
Phone 624-3768 601-9210 479-3568 823-8678 824-0262 239-0936
Please refer to www.ourwoodbridge.net for more detailed information
www.ourwoodbridge.net
www.ourwoodbridge.net
Reaching Out Lakeview Clubhouse: 824-7581
Board of Directors
John Johnson, President Roger Cunning, Vice President Christine Carlson, Treasurer Garry Dudley, Secretary Carl Hansen, Director at Large
Resident Directors
Roger: 647-4380 / Garry: 648-4868
Operations Manager
Ramon Rivera:
495-6803
Activities Director
Dodie Miller:
Lifestyle Manager
Erika Smith:
824-7927 824-7581
Management
Riverside Management PO BOX 697 Roseville, CA 9566 916-740-2462
The opinions expressed in Woodbridge LIFE’s feature articles, paid advertisements and editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge Owners Association.
WOODBRIDGE LIFE MISSION STATEMENT: “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.”
Woodbridge LIFE
Woodbridge LIFE
2401 Morning Brook Drive Manteca, CA 95336
209-824-7581
www.ourwoodbridge.net PUBLISHER
WOA
EDITOR
Carol Jo Hargreaves
824-7581
823-3538
ADVERTISING Erika Smith
WBL EDITORIAL TEAM Bill Barnhart Sharyl Burgeson Carol Jo Hargreaves, chair Jean Kavale Ann King Judy McNamara Dodie Miller Volker Moerbitz Pepper Noble Ramon Rivera Erika Smith Mike Spence
824-7581 629-8838 239-1492 823-3538 629-8571 650-464-0151 923-4718 824-7927 239-7965 239-1933 495-6803 824-7581 924-8032
Woodbridge LIFE is a free monthly publication of the Woodbridge Owners Association, a nonprofit organization serving the residents of the Woodbridge by Del Webb community in Manteca, CA. Woodbridge LIFE invites stories, photographs, comments, cartoons, jokes and any other information that would be of interest to residents. We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and edit for content and length. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or articles that in our opinion do not reflect the standards of the newspaper. The opinions expressed, whether by paid advertisement or editorial content, do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge Owners Association. Content submitted may be edited, reprinted and acknowledged without consent unless specifically requested. Woodbridge LIFE proofreaders use the Associated Press Stylebook, “the journalist’s bible,” as a writing and editing reference. The publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Materials submitted with a self-addressed, stamped envelope will be returned. Contents copyright © 2015 by Woodbridge Owners Association. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.
Contact us:
WBLIFE2012@gmail.com
Page 7 • June 2015
Page 8 • June 2015
Woodbridge Owners Association Committees ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW • Mike Wallick, Chair mike.wallick@pultegroup.com FINANCE • April Oakland, Chair april@riversidemgmt.com LIFESTYLE • Dodie Miller, Chair millerdodie@gmail.com 824-7927 POLICY & PROCEDURES • Debby Hickey, Chair debbyhick@comcast.net 629-8737 PROPERTY & GROUNDS • Ramon Rivera, Chair rrivera@ourwoodbridge.net 495-6803 COMMUNICATION • Carol Jo Hargreaves, Chair, Woodbridge LIFE Editor and Directory Chair cjohargreaves@gmail.com 823-3538 WELCOMING COMMITTEE • Diana Clements, Co-Chair tenor4@comcast.net 665-4353 •
Jeanne Tebbutt, Co-Chair jltebbutt@gmail.com 923-4356 NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
• Bill Barnhart bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us 629-8838
Important Notice About Cancellations
Woodbridge LIFE
www.ourwoodbridge.net
Coming to Woodbridge EVENTS and TOURS - June 2015 By Dodie Miller, Activities Director
SWINGIN’ BLUE STARS – Tuesday, June 2 @ 6:30 p.m. - Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. You will thoroughly enjoy this great show. Relive the music of the Andrews Sisters and the ‘40s. Enjoy swing style harmony from the Swingin’ Blue Stars of the USS Hornet. This event was a sell-out last year, so get your tickets early. Tickets are on sale at the front desk and are $8 per person. CHEESE BUFFET TASTING – Thursday, June 4 @ 5:30 p.m. – The Calaveras Cheese Lady will come back to present cheeses for summer eating. She always has a generous offering of the cheeses she brings and it’s a night to learn a little about her special cheeses. There is always a pairing of nuts, crackers and fruit that goes with the cheeses. Visit with neighbors and friends while enjoying your beverage of choice. Cost is $10 per person and tickets are on sale at the front desk. SPRING GARDEN TOUR – Saturday, June 6 @ 10 a.m. – Tour residents’ beautiful backyards and possibly get some new ideas. Have a box lunch at the Clubhouse and participate in the raffle. Denise’s Farmers’ Market will be here again with a large display of produce and specialty items. Rain Forest Nursery will also have a display. TEXAS HOLD ‘EM TOURNAMENT – Sunday, June 7 @ 12:30 p.m. – Signups are taken by either Joe Victoria at 815-9343 or Al Sanchez at 2398235. LADIES’ LUNCHEON – Wednesday, June 10 @ 12 noon – The luncheon this month is at French 25 in Stockton at 110 N. El Dorado Street. Menu choices are Chopped Bayou Chicken Salad, Kobe Cheeseburger Po’Boy and Blackened Fettuccine Shrimp Alfredo. No special orders – if you have a
request you can ask at the restaurant. There is a parking lot on Weber Street. CASH ONLY – Chicken Salad and Shrimp Alfredo are $17 and Kobe Cheeseburger is $16. Reservations are made with either Jacque Reynolds @ 209-629-8508 or Jacqueline Andrews @ 209-823-9241. Drinks are not included but tax and gratuity are. DOCTORS HOSPITAL FORUM – Thursday, June 11 @ 9:30 a.m. – This is an opportunity to discuss current trends in healthcare and to address any healthcare questions. COLE PORTER'S MUSICAL "ANYTHING GOES" – Saturday, June 13. The bus leaves the Clubhouse at 9:30 a.m. - Cole Porter's madcap musical comedy, "Anything Goes" is set onboard a cruise ship. Enjoy silly antics, a great musical score and jazzy dance numbers. Lunch at Zephyr Grill and Bar. Coach transportation included. Make your reservation through Setness Tours at 209-4768486. Cost is $139 per person. THE ILLUSIONISTS – Sunday, June 14. The bus leaves the Clubhouse at 8 a.m. - This mind-blowing spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. Lunch at the Hilton San Jose's Affinity Restaurant. Coach transportation included. Make your reservation through Setness Tours at 209-476-8486. Cost is $169 per person. ‘50s DANCE W/ IN-N-OUTBURGERS – Saturday, June 20 @ 5:30 p.m. – Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the burgers will be served at 6:15 p.m. The Hot Rods Band is back to play all those favorite ‘50s songs. We would like to see some jeans and white t-shirts, poodle skirts and saddle shoes if you still have yours. This has always been a great
When you have signed up for an 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 wait list, the front desk can fill the vacancy from the list. Thank you.
night for dancing and tickets go quickly. Please request “Cheese” or “No Cheese” for your burger when purchasing your tickets. Tickets are $14 per person and are on sale at the front desk. WHEELS OF WOODBRIDGE GROUP’S POTLUCK – Wednesday, June 24 @ 6 p.m. - This is the group’s quarterly potluck get together. Group members need to contact Bill Barnhart to reserve a spot and find out what type of dish is needed. CASINO BUS TRIP – Thursday, June 25 @ 8:15 a.m. - Going to Red Hawk Casino – Bus will leave at 8:30 a.m. from the Clubhouse and return between 5 and 5:30 p.m. Casinos are kept cool, so bring what you need. $12 CASH ONLY and you’ll receive play $$ for slots or table games upon checking in as well as a $5 food credit. WINE 101 – Thursday, June 25 @ 6 p.m. - The June class will be “Wines of Oregon.” There will be a brief lesson on the wines followed by a social. Please bring your own wine glass, a bottle of Oregon wine that is uncorked and recorked, an appetizer to share and additional bottles of wine to share at your table if you wish. Sign-ups are taken at the front desk and this event fills up quickly. HAPPY HOUR – Friday, June 26 @ 5:30 p.m. - Patio entrance opens at 5 p.m. We’ll have the Crystal Image Band back to play for us. This band plays some great dance music. You may bring your beverage of choice and an appetizer to share at your table. Bring a lawn chair and folding table – the Clubhouse does not have enough seating for everyone. Tickets are $3 per person at the front desk. GOLF PUTTING TOURNAMENT – Saturday, June 27 @ 3:30 p.m. – You can form your own foursome or you can be assigned to a team. If you have a foursome, please tell the
See
EVENTS page 33
www.ourwoodbridge.net
Woodbridge LIFE
Page 9 • June 2015
June Activities Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
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12:30 p.m. – Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament
8 a.m. – The Illusionists – Setness Tours
2 p.m. – Policy & Procedures Meeting
6:30 p.m. – Swingin’ Blue Stars
9 a.m. – ARC
9 a.m. – ARC
5:30 p.m. – Cheese Buffet Tasting
11 a.m. – Town Hall Meeting 12 p.m. – Ladies’ Luncheon
6 p.m. – Wheels of Woodbridge Group’s Potluck
9:30 a.m. – Doctors Hospital Forum 10 a.m. – New Resident Orientation
8:15 a.m – Casino Bus Trip 6 p.m. – Wine 101
1 p.m. – Listening Post
5:30 p.m. – Happy Hour
10 a.m. – Spring Garden Tour
9:30 a.m. – Cole Porter’s Musical “Anything Goes” – Setness Tours
5:30 p.m. – ‘50s Dance & In-N-Out Burgers
3:30 p.m. – Golf Putting Tournament
5:30 p.m. – Potluck
This calendar was last updated 5/25/15 - refer to flyers or the Woodbridge portal for additional information.
► Events and activities are listed on page 8.
More information about these as well as Woodbridge Clubs and Groups may be found on the Woodbridge portal and at the Lakeview Clubhouse.
s t n e v E g n Comi Name of Event
As a courtesy to Woodbridge residents, we are providing the following event information to assist in planning and obtaining tickets. Please note: This information is subject to change. Contact the Clubhouse front desk if you have questions.
Event Date
Purchase Tickets Starting:
Red, White & Blue Dance (Crystal Image Band) Wheels Car Show Happy Hour (Jerry Sauceda)
7/2/15 7/11/15 7/24/15
6/4/15 No Ticket 6/26/15
Doctors Hospital Wine & Cheese Social Blood Bank Drive (date change) Resident Painters' Art Show Hot August Nights Dance (Jerry Sauceda) Actor, Comedian & Master Hypnotist Happy Hour (Natalia)
7/29/15 7/30/15 8/1/15 8/15/15 8/20/15 8/28/15
Sign up. No Ticket No Ticket No Ticket 7/17/15 7/23/15 7/24/15
POTLUCK NIGHT TUESDAYS 2015 JUNE 30 – PIZZAS & SALADS JULY 28 - HEARTY APPETIZERS AUGUST 25 - CASSEROLES SEPTEMBER 29 - YOUR FAVORITE DISH OCTOBER 27 - SOUPS & SALADS
Page 10 • June 2015
Woodbridge LIFE
www.ourwoodbridge.net
DID YOU KNOW... Compiled by Mike Spence from sources including the Manteca Bulletin (9/3/2012 article by Dennis Wyatt), City of Manteca Public Works Department, Manteca Chamber of Commerce and an interview with a Woodbridge resident
•
Flags Over Manteca began as a patriotic response to the 9-11 tragedy.
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The first coordinator of our Flags over Woodbridge was Sandy George.
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The 2,402 Flags Over Manteca represent the military personnel who died at Pearl Harbor.
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Many interior doors at our Clubhouse have battery-operated openers/closers. It takes 10 manual openings to charge the battery enough for one motorized opening.
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In 2002, Manteca solicited bids for contractors to drill holes in the sidewalks for the flags. The average bid was $81K.
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The first Flags Over Woodbridge used a total of 45 flags.
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Our Lake Rockwell volume is 17.5 acre-feet or 5.6 million gallons.
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There are hundreds of individuals and service groups that erect and remove the Flags Over Manteca. One of the charter groups is the Knights of Columbus.
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The first Flags Over Woodbridge were purchased by Pulte Homes
From
at the urging of Pulte’s own Lisa Salazar. •
The “Standard Color Card Colors of America” colors for our flag are: 70180 Old Glory Red, 70001 White and 70075 Old Glory Blue.
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Flags Over Manteca stores the flags and poles in a trailer provided by Mountain Valley Express.
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On September 17, 2008, Representative Jerry McNerney, on the floor of the House, praised Flags Over Manteca for memorializing the sacrifices of our nation’s heroes (Congressional Record H8280).
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Flags Over Manteca flies its flags 10 times a year. Most of the holiday dates are customary, but two have special significance: September 11 and Pearl Harbor Day.
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The Manteca Chamber of Commerce handles the maintenance and replacement of Flags Over Manteca’s flags and poles. They have a donation program if you would like to help.
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During one discussion, the city was considering requesting WOA to fill out an encroachment permit for our flag hardware on the streetlight poles. It was pointed out that WOA owns the poles — never mind!
FLAGS page 1
Today, 15 residents are part of a team responsible for flying our flags, taking them down and storing them. Over the years, many have assisted and all of us certainly thank them for their efforts because as we drive, bike, run or walk throughout our community when the flags are flying, our patriotism bubbles up in our emotions. It’s a good feeling. The 49 flags fly along the streets of Americana, Daisywood, Del Webb Boulevard, Madison Grove, Morning Brook and River Berry. We have flag mounts in place on Shady Pines Street but until the construction truck traffic diminishes, we are reluctant to fly those flags. Also, there will likely be flags on the drive around Liberty Park once that development completes. The Flags Over Woodbridge are flown 10 times a year, on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Patriot Day, Veterans Day and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. Sometimes, when the flag-flying day is on a weekend, flags are flown the entire weekend. Likewise, some flag holidays fall close together on the calendar, so we fly the flags across the entire span of time between those dates. This year, Labor Day and Patriot Day are only four days apart so the flags will fly continuously across those holidays. We can do this since our flag mounts are located on streetlamp poles and that there is a light above each flag. All Woodbridge residents are welcomed to assist with Flags Over Woodbridge. If interested, please contact Roger Cunning at 209647-4380. Once you’ve helped fly our flags, you’ll sincerely feel good inside.
Photo by Roger Cunning.
Flags Over Woodbridge Team (L to R) Tom Taylor, Scott Brenner, Jon Ford, Dan Armstrong and Jack Dauler.
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Woodbridge LIFE
Page 11 • June 2015
This is Not Your Typical Fish Story Article by Mel Bernstein, photos by Brandon Mitchell
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on and Barbara Gall came to Woodbridge from the Bay Area nearly two years ago. At that time, Lake Rockwell was probably just a nice man-made pond to them, as it is to most Woodbridge residents. Ducks and occasionally geese live on or in the lake, as do turtles and egrets (or heron). And then there are the fish, mostly small ones except for some large goldfish. Oh, yes, there are also bass that arrived as part of the 20,000 fish placed into Lake Rockwell in 2006. This is a story about bass and the role they have played in Ron's life. Ron fished professional tournaments through most of the late ‘80s and ‘90s. He has participated in many tournaments, the largest of which attracted 180 contestants who competed for modest prize money but, more importantly, for bragging rights. Ron represented a number of sponsors who provided fishing gear and moderate monetary support that allowed him to focus on the professional circuit. Ron recalls that the exciting part was waking up long before dawn to join the other boats, their running lights shimmering across the water in the 3 a.m. darkness. The vessels, nearly all high-performance models capable of doing 70 to 80 mph, lined up, each captain awaiting his turn to fish for glory. One by one, the starter barked numbers over the PA. Engines roared as each contestant sped off to his selected fishing ground, angling for the biggest bass that would crown him as tournament champion. Fast boats were a necessity in order to get out to one's fishing spot as quickly as possible and maximize the time spent fishing. Ron entered as many fishing tournaments as possible. Barbara, knowing how important competitive fishing was to Ron, supported him, enabling Ron to spend three to four days a week on California lakes pursuing
big bass. Ron was introduced to fishing by his father and grandfather and has good memories of those early days, especially with his grandfather. Fishing seemed to hold a special attraction for Ron; it felt natural and he quickly became a skilled angler. There was a little lake nearby, about two or three times the size of Lake Rockwell, at which Ron and his best friend would go fishing several times a week. More exciting was going night bass fishing which meant quietly leaving their houses, riding their bikes a short distance and sneaking into the fishing grounds at the Nature Center. It was behavior Ron would not condone today but it helped develop skills he would later use as a tournament fisherman. Despite the competitive nature of fishing, Ron shares his knowledge with other anglers, often attending and teaching classes at fishing conventions. Some of the most satisfying times Ron recalls were those spent mentoring younger fishing enthusiasts. The latter looked up to Ron as a role model and he felt responsible for promoting positive ways of interacting with nature. Always respecting the ecosystems which make fishing possible, Ron realized that man dances with nature at her invitation. In 2002, Ron retired from competitive fishing and only occasionally picked up a fishing rod in the years that followed. After moving to Woodbridge, though, the proximity to Lake Rockwell made fishing more palatable. It was only a five-minute bicycle ride from his house and he began catching some goodsized fish in its waters. He also met Warren Wootton, a Woodbridge resident who is a wellknown fisherman at the lake. The men developed a friendship based on their common interest in fishing, adhering to the cardinal rule of "catch-and-release," thereby preserving fish populations for future generations. A brief description of the fish life cycle is in order, as it explains some of the logic fishermen See
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Woodbridge LIFE
At the Clubhouse The Bridge group meets Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Oxford Room.
Don Harris Letha Watson Phil McCallion Marilyn Larson Carolee Jones Lee Stern Betty Buff Robi Cornelius Cherie Ford
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Marcia Laird Carolee Jones Cherie Ford Letha Watson Don St. Lawrence Kathy Comden Don Harris Marilyn Larson Lee Stern Betty Buff Phil McCallion Jim Laird Robi Cornelius
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MAY 11:
Don Harris Lee Stern Carolee Jones Betty Buff Phil McCallion Don St. Lawrence Robi Cornelius
MAY 18:
Letha Watson Don Harris Cherie Ford Betty Buff Phyllis Tindell Phil McCallion Lee Stern Robi Cornelius Marilyn Larson Kathy Comden
MAY 25:
Gloria Hudson Don St. Lawrence Letha Watson Grace Pasion Phil McCallion Phyllis Tindell Lee Stern Robi Cornelius Don Harris Betty Buff Nancy Hansen
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s your workout getting boring? If so, try a change of pace. According to a recent article in The Training Edge, Master Trainer Ken Miller says that by changing the pace of your lifting, you can stimulate your mechanoreceptors. Range of motion exercises emphasize just that – the limit that you can move a joint, muscle, tendon or ligament without excess pain. These exercises are used for rehabilitation after injury and are also great for seniors working to maintain full and complete movement of the joints. There are two types of range of motion (ROM) exercises – active and passive. Active ROM involves you, as an individual, moving or manipulating your joints and muscles to the limits of their range. Passive, on the other hand, is when an educated, trained professional helps you
Zumba re you looking for a fun way to exercise? Zumba is offered at the Clubhouse Mondays at 11 a.m. and cost is $6 per class. The design of the class introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography focused on balance, range of motion and coordination. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and supportive shoes.
www.ourwoodbridge.net with those movements by gently pushing or pulling your arm, for example, a little further than you can move it on your own, thereby extending the range of motion you thought you had. Both of these exercises are done without weights. Examples of ROM exercises, which are both active and passive, would be: Chicken wings Butterflies External rotation of the shoulder or hip Posterior rotation of the shoulder As I continue to age and work with seniors, I am finding that ROM, particularly in the shoulders, becomes more and more limited. I have started to incorporate ROM exercises in my own workouts as well as with my private clients. If you are concerned about your range of motion, Google-search these and other exercises, or ask your Senior Fitness Specialist to help you design a program to emphasize your individual needs.
Arts ARTISTS & CRAFTERS Welcome to the Arts & Crafts Corner By Penny Dauler
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A
By Paul E. Serpa, Senior Fitness Specialist
By Don St. Lawrence
MAY 4:
FITNESS Range of Motion
BRIDGE
Bridge Scores APR 27:
ay 3 seems a little early to write an article you read on June 1, but here I am, pencil in hand, notebook at the ready and the June calendar nearby. First, let me report that the “Show and Tell” held in April was a wonderful success. We had 19 people displaying, demonstrating and delighting the 100 or so residents who ambled through the Multipurpose Room. May was a month filled with activities. We learned how to make a “French Rose” square for use in quilting. We made square hot
pads, corded baskets and spring hats. We also embarked on the first of several sampler quilt blocks. We began with a “grandmother’s flower garden” square and are looking forward to the flip-flop appliqué square and pieced heart square. We wanted to venture outside the Westport Room, so we hit the Oakdale Chocolate Festival. Chocolate and crafts — the perfect combination. Did we have a good time? Of course we did! That’s the look back; now let’s look ahead. The general meeting is Friday, June 5, at 10 a.m. This is a great time to pick up our monthly calendar. Special classes this month include a cute purse made with the ”Big Shot” and your sewing machine. The class will be held Thursday, June 11, at 12:30 p.m. This month we will be working on the Prayer Bears, Monday, June 8, at 9 a.m., Oncology pillows Monday, June 15, at 10 a.m. and dog and cat beds, See
ARTISTS page 13
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Woodbridge LIFE
ARTISTS page 12
Thursday, June 18, at 12:30 p.m. The sampler block class will be held Thursday, June 25, at 12:30 p.m. (this will be the appliqué flip-flop square). NOTE: You do not need to attend every class … pick and choose the ones you are interested in and want to learn. UFOs (unfinished objects) has moved to the third Friday of the month beginning June 19. We have the room ALL day or at least until 5 p.m. Don’t forget Christmas in July. All classes will have a Christmas
WOODBRIDGE READERS' GROUP By Marie Evans
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&
ne of the reasons to belong to a book club is the opportunity to read books that you might otherwise have not or may think would not be interesting. Our book for this month - The Forty Rules of Love by author Elif Shafak, Turkey's most popular female writer, was one of those opportunities for most of us. This is a book that is difficult to describe — one that seems to fly across the barriers of ocean, land and centuries as if they did not exist. Ms. Shafak certainly knows how to weave a tale and all nine of us enjoyed it tremendously. You might define The Forty Rules of Love as a love story, but it is really several kinds of a love story.
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theme. Wreaths, snowmen on wine bottles, table toppers, poinsettia pillows and more will be offered. These classes will fill up quickly, so sign up on the yellow communications board in the Westport Room. Please, please check our calendar in the Westport Room, as it is the most accurate. Check the window for examples of upcoming classes and sign up for them on … of course, the communications board. My quilt is calling, so that is all for now. Come by and see us. We have a welcoming hello reserved for you. I would not describe this book as being an easy or a light read; it is not but it is also not boring and made us look at some things in a different way and certainly gave us an interesting discussion. It takes place both in the present and the far away past and both in America and in a faraway land. It raises awareness of differences in mores and standards of behavior in other lands and in different times and our group certainly took the opportunity to discuss all of these things as we critiqued the book. We found it fascinating and most of us will read more of Shafak’s writings. Thank you, Tamara Supremo, for suggesting The Forty Rules of Love and giving us not only an interesting read but also a very interesting discussion. Our next meeting will be, as always, the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the Clubhouse. Our leader will be Sally Collins and she is presenting Boys In The Boat by Daniel James Brown. In July, Marie Evans will present The Ginger Tree by Oswald Wynd and in August, Hazel Fields will be presenting The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax by Dorothy Gilman.
WOODBRIDGE SINGERS Spring Concert Receives Rave Reviews By Elizabeth Cunning
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oodbridge Singers and Dancers pulled out all the stops for their May Spring Concert! Afternoon and evening concerts were standing room only as neighbors and friends were treated to sights and sounds from Broadway and Hollywood musicals. From the opening song, the audience was captivated as ladies in beautifully adorned hats promenaded to “Hello, Woodbridge!” — a cleverly revised rendition of “Hello, Dolly” by Judy McNamara. “The Wizard of Oz” will never be the same as depicted by our own Dorothy (Suzanne Mauck), Scarecrow (Kirby Brown), Tin Man (Paul Hanz) and Cowardly Lion (Larry Hellikson). The movie, released in 1939, is over 75 years old. And, would you believe the original Tin Man cried chocolate syrup? It was meant to be machine oil but real oil didn't photograph well, so when Jack Haley teared up as the Tin Man, Photo by Roger Cunning. it was actually chocolate streaming down his silver face. It looked like rain as dancers twirled their parasols to “Singin’ in the Rain” at In 1939, the average salary was about $80 a month. Is the following statement true or false: The female terrier that played Toto was paid Woodbridge Singers' May Concert. $125 a week. It’s true! The dog’s trainer later figured he could have gotten paid more because the producers were desperate to have that dog in the role. The little people of Munchkin land received $50 a director was ready to send him home. Kelly ad-libbed most of it and it week. only took one take, which is what you see on film. It can be pretty scary to sing for the first time ever in front of a Who doesn’t love to sing along with songs from “Oklahoma”? Jacquie crowd; just ask Robin Adams. He shared his deep bass voice on “Ol’ Steffy and Kathy Dezotte had everyone believing that they really Man River” in a style reminiscent of days gone by. “cain’t say no” to a beau! You would have thought it was actually raining as dancers twirled Ballroom dancers Patti and Bill Barnhart, Joyce and Bob Graham in raincoats with colorful parasols to “Singin’ in the Rain.” Did you know that when the original song was filmed, Gene Kelly was very ill See page 14 with a fever over 101? Kelly insisted on doing a take, even though the
SINGERS
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SINGERS page 13
and Ben and Tamara Supremo were incredibly graceful as they waltzed to “Moon River” with everyone singing along. The clear melody of “Till There Was You” is hard to duplicate, but soloist Vicki French made us feel we were again watching the footbridge scene from “The Music Man.” A men’s trio of Steve Fenske, Steve Howe and Andrew Price sang together for the first time to share the haunting “Try to Remember.” It was mentioned that this “September” song has found new meaning today, since being shared at Ground Zero in memory of the victims of September 11. The grand finale, “Theme from New York, New York,” was the perfect ending for an over-the-top concert! Keyboardist Yvonne Bechtold did a superb job of accompanying a variety of song styles throughout the program. Kudos to the dancing feet of: Joyce Ancha, Esther Chu, Bill Goodwin, Joyce Graham, Annie Hosler, Sandy Jiminez, Annette Keef, Carla Marquardt, Marilyn Nunes, Phyllis Rose, Mary Salvador, Barbara Webb and Choreographer Patti Barnhart. Photo by Roger Cunning. Singers and dancers hit the road, taking the concert to the Manteca Senior Center where they were met Beautiful hats were worn for Woodbridge Singers' opening song, "Hello, Woodbridge!" (L to with enthusiastic applause. Woodbridge Singers are now on break for the summer and will start rehearsals R) Virginia Anderson, Nancy Ome, Sarah Tella, Barbara Shapiro, Cres Anton, Shirley Bowers, again in September. Carole Pfoutz, Genie Becker and Diana Clements.
VETERANS OF WOODBRIDGE Vaudeville Dinner Article by Jack Dauler and WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
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hat happens when you mix jokes, songs, puppets, a comedian with a clarinet, piano medleys and a Filipino historical dance? You have a great two-hour vaudeville show. The Lincoln Hills all-star revue group made their return trip to Woodbridge a most enjoyable evening. And not to be outdone were the soups prepared by Bill Buffington, Warren Rogers, Andrew Price and Penny Dauler. Add finger food of turkey wraps and croissant sandwiches and you have a great night of entertainment and food. Thanks to all for supporting this Veterans Memorial fundraising event.
Vicki Parks did an historic native Filipino dance. The Lincoln Hills all-star revue cast presented their finale.
Comedian John Parks performed with his clarinet.
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Bill Barnhart apologizes for missing this month. His Household Hints article will appear in the July edition of Woodbridge LIFE.
FLAGS
By Mike Spence Using the following sources: Los Angeles Chinese Learning Center, International Federation of Vexillological Associations, National Independent Flag Dealers Association, The Christian Science Monitor, "The legend and truth of Betsy Ross" and Wikipedia
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lags have been around a long, long time. The earliest flags were carved wooden poles or ones made of metal. One of oldest known flags was from 3,000 B.C., discovered in modern day Iran. The Latin word vexare seems to be the root word for our modern flags. A vexillologist studies flags. The Roman legions carried vexillum as their standards. The earliest flags were military signaling devices. When armies were smaller, one soldier with a carved pole could direct an entire army. Armies got bigger. By 2,000 B.C., pieces of fabric were added to the tops of the carved poles. These extra bits were called finial. Even with the finials, it was hard to get the correct signal to the proper person or group of soldiers. Enter color coding--many colors are easily distinguished from afar. The modern color coding includes: • Red – danger, revolution, bloodshed of war, courage, power • White – peace, surrender, truce • Orange – courage, sacrifice • Green – safety, land, youth, hope • Yellow – caution, gold • Black – mourning, death The size and shape of flags evolved as well. Squares and rectangles prevailed. Square semaphore flags were used to signal between
DUCK FAMILY WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
warships. The commander of a naval fleet was aboard the flagship. The commander’s orders to the fleet were communicated by displaying a series of flags and pendants visible by other fleet vessels. Modern admirals are “Flag Officers” because they can order “flags” hoisted. Symbolism on flags is wide spread. Vertical and horizontal stripes are very common. The smaller details on flags often have fascinating stories about how they evolved. The skull and crossbones of the 18th century pirate flags, known as the Jolly Roger, is one of those stories. The Jolly Roger black background color is the most symbolic, since it referred to death. The skull reinforces the death threat, but it seems to be borrowed from earlier slave raiders. These slave raiders depicted a skull on a green background a hundred years earlier. “Roger” is one of scores of nicknames for the Devil in English lore. See how the flag elements came together for the Jolly Roger? This flag was a battle flag, not one flown daily. It was displayed as a symbolic threat; if you resist, we’ll show you no quarter. The flag provided the observer with the proper information, never mind that there were guys with cannons and swords to back up the threat.
Woodbridge LIFE
WOMEN OF WOODBRIDGE SPEAKER SERIES San Francisco Giants: A Stroll Down Memory Lane By Linda LIttle
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att Johanson, a high school journalism and social studies teacher who is the author of two books about the San Francisco Giants, will speak to Woodbridge residents on July 2, at 2 p.m., as part of the continuing Speaker Series sponsored by the Women of Woodbridge. Although he was raised in A’s country, Matt grew up as a Giants fan like his dad and the kids in his Castro Valley neighborhood. He became far more interested in the Giants and baseball when he lived in San Francisco in the late ‘80s and ‘90s. The team’s surprising worst-to-first 1997 season hooked him for life. Giants, Where Have You Gone? documents the post-baseball lives of former players like Willie McCovey, Jack Clark, Kevin Mitchell and Orlando Cepeda. Game of My Life: San Francisco Giants tells the stories of the team’s greatest games as remembered by the players who starred in them, from the team’s first San Francisco game in 1958 to the team’s recent World Series heroics. Willie Mays, Felipe Alou, Mike Krukow, Will Clark, Robb Nen and Brian Wilson contribute to this special volume of Giants history. Matt is also the author of two books about Yosemite: Yosemite Epics: Tales of Adventure from America’s Greatest Playground and Yosemite Adventures: 50 spectacular hikes, climbs and winter treks. Autographed copies of these books will be available for purchase at the home of Linda Little, 1511 Maple Valley Street, at 4 p.m., following the presentation. There is no fee for this presentation. However, please RSVP at the Main Desk in the Lakeview Clubhouse as a count is needed for set-up and preparation of materials.
NAVIGATING MEDICARE By Kelly Carpo, Coordinator Business Development and Marketing, Doctors Hospital of Manteca
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edicare can be complicated—even confusing—with its different parts and the many options it offers but learning the basics will help you navigate this invaluable healthcare program. In addition, following the tips from Donna Bringman will help you make the most of it. Medicare is a government program that helps cover certain healthcare costs. It doesn’t cover all healthcare needs and it doesn’t always pay the entire cost of everything. Medicare beneficiaries may be responsible for deductibles, co-payments and co-insurance for many services and items. So, come hear from Donna and learn how to navigate and get the most out of your health plan at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, June 11, at the Woodbridge Clubhouse. Donna was born and raised in Ohio. She is the mother of three, grandmother of five and great grandmother of one. In 1980, Donna was in a bad accident and was told she would never walk again. Those days are in the past and she is able to share a passion for what our senior population goes through today. Donna has been educating about Medicare products for a little over 22 years and is currently a Senior Regional Manager for Citizens Choice. She has done field training across the country for those coming into the business for another company. Her philosophy: “It's not about the sale; one size does not fit all. It’s about what is right for the client.” Attend the Doctors Hospital Forum to learn about navigating Medicare.
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Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.
Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.
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Woodbridge LIFE
RHYTHM RIDERS - JOHNNY CASH AND PATSY CLINE TRIBUTE WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
Woodbridge residents two-stepped to the Rhythm Riders, a genuine Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline tribute band. The world-class Las Vegas-Branson style show wowed its audience. Award-winning vocalist Dee Price masterfully recreated the legendary country music of artist Patsy Cline.
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Woodbridge LIFE
Page 19 • June 2015
Garden Tasks for June By Sandi Larson, Master Gardener
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e are just heading into our hot season in the Central Valley. Mulch Sandi Larson should still be high on your list to save water. When you mulch, make sure you leave the area around the base of the plant open for water to get through the soil from your drip irrigation. You can also mulch around your vegetables to retain moisture, control weeds and afford some protection from temperature extremes. There are many types of mulch out there but the goal should be to put a type of mulch on the ground that will eventually break down and add nutrients to the soil. I am not a fan of mulches that are made of cut up pallets, rubber, and even rock mulch—rock mulch can add a deadly heat to plants in summer. If you are having guests around the Fourth of July, you should be able to find plants in the nurseries and home centers now in a red, white and blue theme. If you are looking for some “scentuous” plants, choose gardenia, star jasmine and tuberose. Some of the summer annuals available now in nurseries are marigolds, petunias, bedding dahlias, million bells, impatiens and New Guinea impatiens. When you water, make sure you water early in the morning to
Photo courtesy of Sandi Larson.
Coleus is a colorful annual that is wonderful in potted plants. It prefers shade. encourage maximum growth and minimum disease problems like mildew. Continue to mulch around the perimeter of the plants. If you can, plant some vegetable seedlings like radishes, carrots, snap beans and corn every two weeks into July to prolong and space out your harvest of vegetables. Now would be a good time to plant pumpkins for the fall. Check the underside of your tomato plants for horned tomato worms. Drought tolerant plants are important to our landscape but almost every plant is going to require regular watering for the first year, even drought tolerant plants! It’s still a good time to add plants to your outdoor pots like potato vine, fuchsia, begonias, impatiens and petunias. Be sure to include some fillers, thrillers and spillers. Fillers are airy plants that fill in like Santa Barbara daisy, Diamond Frost Euphorbia and coleus. The thriller portion is a plant that makes a statement with
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia. Photo by Sandi Larson.
A good example of thrillers, fillers and spillers, this flower pot contains bromeliad, begonias and purple potato vine which will eventually spill.
Pink Muhly grass is a drought tolerant plant that, once established, requires very little water. Color comes on in late summer to early fall. See
GARDEN page 37
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Woodbridge LIFE
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WHEELS OF WOODBRIDGE Woodbridge 100 — May 30 — "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" Article by Bill Barnhart, President and Head Lugnut, Wheels of Woodbridge and WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
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omorrow, Saturday, May 30, is the BIG day! We’ll be having lots of fun for the entire family watching grandma and grandpa racing golf carts like they were in their twenties again. So, bring your entire family and join in the fun! All proceeds after expenses this year will go to meet our goal of automating a door going out to the patio. Door automation provides many of our residents far greater independence when using the Clubhouse and it gives all of us that really good feeling deep down every time we see one of them independently going in and out of various Clubhouse areas. I can’t extend enough thanks to the many clubs and groups that have chosen to partner with us again this year. The Softball group will be handling the food sales, the Men of Woodbridge will be handling the raffle from top to bottom, Neighborhood Watch is helping with security and making sure the event stays family friendly, and our great Veterans group will be helping with timing some of the events and other duties as assigned. When you see one of these folks out on the field tomorrow, give them special thanks for volunteering to help this great cause. The event theme this year is: Take Me Out to the Ball Game. If you want to participate in the Best Turned Out competition, dress your cart up like an umpire, or dress it up in your favorite team’s uniform, or anything else that suits your fancy and the theme. You could even dress it up as a (giggle, giggle) pompom girl. After the opening ceremony, we will have a parade of golf carts and you will have an opportunity to vote on the Best Turned Out. We’ll see who gets the most People’s Choice votes. Make sure to cut the ballot out of this paper and don’t forget to bring your sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen. If you want to participate but haven’t yet turned in a registration form, cut out and complete the registration form accompanying this article and present it tomorrow morning at the registration booth. Only golf course-approved golf carts are acceptable. A golf cart, however, can have multiple drivers signed up to drive it and each
driver and passenger must fill out a separate registration/liability form. Decorating golf carts in the theme and competing in the Best Turned Out category is purely optional and has no bearing on competing in the other events and vice versa. The day will also include a car and motorcycle show for residents to display their wheels. While the show is not a competition, it does provide residents an opportunity to get their special wheels out on display regardless of whether they are Wheels of Woodbridge members or not. Woodbridge has a lot of classic cars and beautiful motorcycles just sitting in garages and we would love to see those wheels displayed for everyone to enjoy. Sponsors: Sponsors who have committed as of the cutoff date for publishing this issue of the paper include: • The Lori’s at PMZ Real Estate – Platinum Sponsor, having a display booth and sponsoring the ‘Best Turned Out’ 1st Place trophy See
WHEELS page 34
Even the ladies took part in the 2014 Twist and Turn Slalom Race.
A cart competing in the 2014 Best Turned Out category was all tricked out in the "Surfin' Safari" theme.
Golf carts lined up for the 2014 opening ceremony and parade around the softball diamond.
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Woodbridge LIFE
Softball This Month "GOOD EYE! GOOD EYE!" By Roger Gibson
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hat’s what you’ll hear being said at the Silver Slugger and Diamond Gals softball games every Wednesday and Saturday morning. The batter waits for the pitch, it arrives somewhere around the plate, and the umpire calls it a “ball." That’s when you’ll hear it — from the fans, from the players and even from the announcers on the PA system. “Good eye,” they yell! That’s a bit curious to me at times. How can the fans tell from their distances whether or not the pitched ball is really a ball or a strike? Just because the batter doesn’t swing the bat, and the umpire says it’s a ball doesn’t mean that the batter has a good eye. What if the pitch is off the plate and the batter swings at it? Does that mean he or she has a bad eye? Or, what if the batter doesn’t swing at the pitch and it is called a “strike”? Now does that person still have a good eye? Or, is it bad judgment or temporary paralysis or just a strategy? I have a challenge for you as a fan or player. Keep track of the number of times you hear the phrase, “Good eye!” said at the games. I would like to provide an eight-day, seven-night excursion to the Bahamas for the person who is able to count the highest use of the phrase in a two-game schedule on one of the days of playing softball. I would like to do that, but . . . don’t count on it! I don’t think you can count that high anyway!
MINOR LEAGUE CAP CHALLENGE
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dentify the name, location and major league affiliate of the minor league team indicated on the baseball cap shown here. The first five people to correctly identify the three items will win a voucher for a Combo Lunch at our Snack Shack (hot dog, hamburger or salad with chips and a drink). Just send your picks to me at WBLarson@comcast.net. You can’t win if you don’t play. Good luck, baseball fans!
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WHO IS THAT LADY? By Roger Gibson
J
ust who is that lady who stands (or sits on a stool) behind the screen at home plate for the Silver Sluggers and Diamond Gals’ softball games anyway? And, what is she doing with that funny-looking noisemaker in her hands? Those are a couple of the questions that have been asked by some of the newer residents of Woodbridge who have been watching or playing in some of the Wednesday and Saturday morning games at Del Webb field. The longer-term residents already know the answers to those questions. The lady is Shirley Smith, a resident here since July 2007. She and a few other women began playing softball before there was a Diamond Gals team or even a field to play on except at a local park. Shirley said, “I was ‘trying’ to catch a high fly when my eye decided to be in the way, so — my first shiner! Ha! Wish I had taken a picture (50 shades of gray)! How about black and blue, purple, red, etc.!” She was later told by her doctor to “stay off the field” so she began to do her thing—“cheering the teams on.” She just has to stay active and has always been that way having worked for the local newspaper for many years and later planning and organizing antique shows. In high school Shirley participated in sports (softball, basketball and volleyball) and has also done some interesting activities such as dogsledding in Alaska, snowmobiling, scuba diving in Australia, marlin fishing in Cabo San Lucas, trap shooting, pheasant hunting, jet skiing and bowling. Whew!
And now she loves coming to the games and doing her cheering! When asked why she does it, she replied, “I just enjoy the games. So many great friends (men and women)! Where could I have a better life!? I am so blessed.” Shirley is also now serving on the softball committee to secure sponsors/donors for the program. She has been very instrumental in, as she stated it, “Finding sponsors for the teams’ expenses, shirts, caps, etc. [In the] first meeting I was faced with members who had their sponsors. I said to myself, 'Shirley, go out and find your own sponsors.' I must say I was pleased to find my share and make more new friends!” Oh, yes, as for that noisemaker in her hands at the games? It’s one of the “clackers” that were given to fans at the beginning of the softball program many years ago. Shirley said she has two of the only ones still around and that they are getting well worn. That’s a shame! What would we do without Shirley Smith if she weren’t there clacking her clackers? Thanks, Shirley, for your support and encouragement to our teams.
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WHO ARE THE WOLVERINES?
Woodbridge LIFE
Page 23 • June 2015
By Roger Gibson
W
e're not the Michigan Wolverine college basketball team. We're not the Waywayseecappo Wolverines, a junior hockey team in Canada. We're not the Detroit Wolverines, the Major League Baseball champions in 1887. And we're not located in Wolverine, Kentucky. We ARE the Wolverine softball team here at Del Webb. Softball has been played here for the last seven or eight years. Most of us played ball growing up but had, maybe, a 20-year break before moving to Woodbridge. The Del Webb softball field was a big reason some of us moved here. Retired, new friends, new house and softball – a winning lineup. The Wolverines were formed by a group of Silver Sluggers who wanted to play more than twice a week. We got together, bought our own maroon jerseys, started practicing and then got into playing seniors tournaments. We're called a traveling team but the farthest we have gone is Tuolumne near Black Oak Casino. We have been playing tournaments for about five years now. We usually get together as a team the first of each year and pick five tournaments to play in starting in March and going through November. Our record in the past has not been stellar, but teams we've been playing over the years are amazed at how much we've improved. In fact, at our March tourney in Ripon, we were one win away from winning our bracket. The only two losses for the number one team came from the Wolverines.
The April tourney in Lodi was rained out, but we have three more planned for this year - Black Oak, Ripon and Manteca. We usually find out just a week before the tourney date if we were picked to play. We'll try to get the word out to let people know our future tournament dates. We do play here at Del Webb field the first and third Mondays of each month against the Modesto senior team. Our current roster includes: Bill Norcup, Bob Naquin, Charlie Pace, Dennis Atwell, Gary Fiorio, Glen Jenkins, Jerry Monares, Lenny Rapp, Mike Herrera, Nelson Conner, Pat O'Rourke, Robert Ybarra, Roger Gibson, Sandy Davison, Steve Hosler, Tom Mello, Wayne Gordon and Bob Perrin (coach). The Wolverines would like to thank our loyal fan base — Janet, Chris, Melinda, Carol, Patty, Becky, Esther, Ann, Charlene, Joanne, Judy, Dorothy, Donna, Patti, Annie and Karen. Yes, these are our lovely better halves. We welcome all to come out to root us on. For more info on your Wolverines, you may contact Bob Perrin or Jerry Monares. Thanks! See you at the ball field!
Page 24 • June 2015
Woodbridge LIFE
SOFTBALL WINNERS FOR MAY Name the Minor League Team By Butch Larson
T
he May edition of Woodbridge LIFE contained a picture of a Minor League baseball cap with the logo of the team. The challenge was to identify the team, the city they play in and their Major League affiliate. I am pleased to announce we had three Del Webb residents correctly identify the team as the Montgomery, Alabama, Biscuits, the Southern League Class A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays. Winners will receive a voucher good for a Combo Lunch at our Snack Shack. Congratulations to Caroline Gibson, Jim Date Game Time Nessi and Jacque Wednesday June 3 1 vs. 4 8:30 Reynolds. Good 2 vs. 3 10:00 job, everyone! You really know Saturday June 6 D-Gals 8:30 your stuff! 3 vs. 1 10:00 HISTORY — Did you know 5 vs. 4 11:30 that today’s Montgomery Wednesday June 10 1 vs. 2 8:30 Biscuits joined the 3 vs. 5 10:00 Southern League in 1973 as the Saturday June 13 5 vs. 2 8:30 Orlando Twins, 4 vs. 3 10:00 an affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, D-Gals 11:30 playing in Timber Field in Orlando, Wednesday June 17 1 vs. 5 8:30 FL? In 1990 2 vs. 4 10:00 they changed their name to Saturday D-Gals 8:30 the Orlando Sun June 20 1 vs. 2 10:00 Rays. Then, in
SOFTBALL SCHEDULE
Monday
3 vs. 5
11:30
D-Gals
9:30
June 22
4 vs. 1
8 :30
1 vs. 3
10:00
5 vs. 4
11:30
3 vs. 2
1:00
2 vs. 5
2:30
2 vs. 4
8 :30
4 vs. 3
10:00
1 vs. 2
11:30
3 vs. 5
1:00
5 vs. 1
2:30
Round Robin Games Saturday June 27
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1993 they became an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and were renamed the Orlando Cubs. In 1997 the Orlando Cubs renamed themselves the Orlando Rays (did they see the future?). For one year they switched affiliation to the Seattle Mariners but kept the Rays name. Then, in 1998, the American League expansion team, Tampa Bay Devil Rays assumed their affiliation. From 2000 to 2003 they played in Lake Buena Vista, FL, in Champion Stadium at Walt Disney World Resort. Attendance did not meet expectations, leading them to move to Montgomery, AL, in 2004. The Biscuits became the first professional baseball team in Montgomery since 1980 when the Montgomery Rebels, an affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, last played. Owners Myers and Dickson were selected from six competing ownership groups and selected the Biscuits' name from over 4,000 entries in a “name the team” contest, in part tying into indigenous affiliation and potential marketing and promotional possibilities (for example, “Hey, Butter, Butter, Butter” or the team’s souvenir store, the “Biscuit Basket”). They believe successful teams have campy, quirky names to relate to families and kids. During games, biscuits are shot from air cannons into the stands. MASCOT — “Big Mo” is an orange beast (anteater-like) that loves biscuits and “Monty,” an anthropomorphized buttermilk biscuit, appears on their baseball cap. In 2014, a new mascot was added again with fan participation in the naming contest with 4,800 entries submitted for a micro-mini potbelly pig whose name became “Miss Gravy, Duchess of Pork.” How much fun do they have in Montgomery anyway? ALUMNI — You may recognize some of the more current alumni of the Biscuits: Carl Crawford, Chad Gaudin, Johnny Gomes, Scott Kazmir, Evan Longoria, David Price, James Shields and B. J. Upton. CHARITY — Each year the Biscuits select six organizations as part of their Biscuits Charities program. Most recent charities include: Boys and Girls Clubs of Montgomery; Family Sunshine Center; The Joy of Life Foundation; YMCA; River Region United Way and RBI—Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities. They have an annual Charity Night at their Riverwalk Stadium, highlighted by the Biscuits Jersey Auction to benefit the River Region United Way. I hope you enjoyed learning more about the Montgomery Biscuits. See if you can identify this month’s Minor League Cap Challenge and win a combo voucher for lunch at our Snack Shack.
2015 SPONSORS Softball Sponsors (in alphabetical order):
Round Robin Games Wednesday June 24
Antique Avenue Arvin Home Systems Center Appliance Cruisers (Boyett Petroleum) Denise's Farmers’ Market Environmental Creations Manteca Lighting Manteca Optical Old McGowan’s Feed Store Precision Auto of Manteca Sandi Larson (Re/Max) Second Chance Band
The Lori's (PMZ Real Estate) Ultimate Furniture
Alhambra Water Delicato Family Vineyards Fagundes Meats & Catering Farmington Fresh Svenhard's Swedish Bakery Uncle Frank's (Chez Shari) Walgreens
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Woodbridge LIFE
WOODBRIDGE SENIOR GOLF GROUP
RAYMUS GOLF TOURNAMENT
Page 25 • June 2015
By Chuck Gary
T
he Woodbridge Senior Golf Group travelled to Micke Grove in Lodi for the second tournament of the year April 13. It was a beautiful sunny day for golf on a well-kept course. Twenty-six players in the WSGG competed in this tournament. At the end of the day, Dan Pangilinan, with a 20 handicap, won the match with a net 66. Paul Lawrence and Bob Canto tied for second with a net score of 68. Jim O’Donnell and David Raxter tied for third with a net score of 69. The handicapping system allows for the field of players to all have a possibility of winning. The lowest gross score was Bob Hamilton with a great score of 79. However, the closest to pin competitions went to Chuck Gary on the par-three fifth hole with a shot 11 feet, 1 inch from the hole. Dick Turner was second with a shot 12 feet, 10 inches from the hole. Roy Rea won the competition for the par-three number 13 hole. After the second tournament, competition for the 2015 Woodbridge Cup is very close. John Armstrong and David Raxter are tied at the top with 170 points. Just 20 points behind, tied for second, are Paul Lawrence and Bob Canto with 150 points. The third placeholders are currently Bob Hamilton and Dan Pangilinan with 120 points. Points are given based upon where a player finishes. 100 points is given for first place; 90 points for second and so on through 10 places. A player will earn at least 10 points for competing. The putting competition is being strongly contested between four players at this time. David Raxter and John Armstrong lead with 170 points while close behind are Bob Hamilton and Paul Lawrence with 160 points.
Photo contributed by Jerry Bartley. Residents of Woodbridge helped a local charity by playing in last year’s Antone Raymus Golf Tournament, the annual fundraiser for the Manteca Children's Foundation. Shown (L to R) Front Row: Vern Gebhardt, Jerry Bartley, Al Low, Bill Goodwin, Rudy Salvador. Back Row: (Unknown), Ken Wicks, Richard Low, Bill Buffington, Bill Norcup. Very Back: (Unknown) The Manteca Children's Foundation actively helps reduce obesity and diabetes among local children. They also sponsor the Blankets for Kids drive and offer several scholarships each year. Woodbridge residents will again be participating in this year's golf tournament, June 12, at the Manteca Golf Course. For additional information or to participate in the tournament, see www.mcf4kids.com.
THE WAY WE WERE Articles by Jean Kavale and WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz.
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Page 26 • June 2015
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GENIE & DUANE BECKER
D
uane Becker was working as a technician in an electronics company when one of his co-workers asked himself this intriguing question: "Why don’t I arrange a blind date for Duane with my sister?" He had the feeling the two would like each other. That blind date did materialize, and that’s how Duane met Genie Ziegler, a resident of San Fernando Valley. Genie’s brother was right: His sister and Duane got along famously that fateful evening in 1962. “She especially impressed me with her knowledge of art,” Duane recalls. At the time, Genie was finishing her freshman year at Fresno State College, where art was one of her favorite subjects. Although Genie thought Duane was attractive, her first impression of him was See
BECKER page 35
MARIA & LEM PHILLIPS
S
hopping in Spain can be hectic in December, and the department store where Maria Orradre worked as a cashier was no exception. When a shopper named Lem Phillips strolled by and began speaking with her, the two immediately became fascinated by each other. “He was handsome and nice,” Maria says about Lem, an Alabama native. “I thought she was beautiful,” he says. That first meeting in 1958 was brief, but they saw each other soon afterward and began dating. “He was so respectful,” she says admiringly. Adds Lem, “I never failed to bring her inside her home by 10 p.m.” There were no exceptions to that rule, which was strictly enforced by her parents. See
PHILLIPS page 34
JAMES & ROSEMARY CADLE
I
t was in the squad room of the Tracy Police Department that Jim Cadle met Rosemary Medeiros. “It’s a grand old Portuguese name,” she says about her surname. Rosemary was the daughter of a good friend of Jim’s. The date was August 18, 1960, and the occasion was her sixteenth birthday. At the time, Rosemary was visiting her father, an employee of the city of Tracy, and it was Jim’s first shift as a new officer with the Tracy Police Department. Jim liked the vivacious Tracy High School sophomore right away, but he was initially concerned about the age difference between them. “She was much too young to consider asking for a date,” he says. Rosemary’s first impression of Jim was also mixed with a bit of apprehension. “He was cute, but he was a cop, and I liked to drive fast,” she admits. See
CADLE page 37
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Woodbridge LIFE
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Woodbridge LIFE
Triker's Travels CSI ... The Real Deal By Judy McNamara
W
ho hasn't watched the gripping episodes of CSI? Well, I'm going to introduce you to our own resident, Bob Hinkley, who spent his time in the lab during his career as a criminalist examining and interpreting evidence from crime scenes. TV, of course, Judy McNamara makes it sound exciting and dramatic which I'm sure it was many times in Bob's career. Bob was born and grew up in San Francisco. After high school, he went on to San Jose State University and graduated in 1970 with a major in geology and a minor in chemistry. He didn't have the slightest idea as to what he was going to do with his major and minor. He only knew that he needed to find a "good job." Fortuitously, Bob came across a job announcement that changed his life forever. The announcement was for a Crime Lab Technician in the Santa Clara County Crime Lab. As Bob says, he was not really interested in this field until he was actually working in it. He didn't know what a criminalist was or even what the word forensic meant. He remained in this job from 1970 to 1974, two years of which he spent in the Army. In 1974, Bob went to work for Alameda County Sheriff's Office Crime Laboratory where he worked until 2009 as a Criminalist III. As opposed to a criminologist, one who is a sociologist or psychologist or other who studies the cause and effect of crime on society, Bob is a criminalist. He would recognize, collect, preserve
Page 29 • June 2015
and interpret physical evidence found on the scene and process it in the lab. It wasn't until the mid 1980s that DNA techniques were applied to forensic cases. Applying his knowledge, he would associate and identify evidence, interpret the results, reconstruct the crime scene, and write a report summarizing the findings without judgment or bias. When the report was completed, Bob would go to court to testify. He would present the evidence in a fair and unbiased manner. Telling the truth is the primary obligation of the criminalist. Bob has an impressive list of education, gunshot residue analyses (GSR) and crime scene examinations the length of your arm! He is very passionate about his profession and remains actively interested in the field of criminalistics. The 40-year anniversary of the Chowchilla kidnapping will be next year, an event that I'm sure many of you remember. Bob was instrumental in helping to solve this crime. Bob and his wife Ani have been married since 1984. Ani was originally from Bulgaria and fled to New York in 1969. She then came out to the West Coast where she met Bob in church in 1979, and the rest is history. WBL photo by Volker Moerbitz.
Bob Hinkley
Page 30 • June 2015
Woodbridge LIFE
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VETERANS OF WOODBRIDGE Lee Stern visits Washington, D.C., on Honor Flight By Dennis Atwell
I
'm happy to report that another soldier has been sent on a mission and returned alive and well. That soldier was former First Lieutenant Leon Stern of the 483rd Anti-Aircraft Nike Missile Battalion. Lee is our most recent Honor Flight veteran and our first Korean War era vet to take advantage of the program since it was opened to vets from that era. Lee tells me that he was really impressed by the way everyone was cared for and attended to. The "Guardians,” a group of volunteers who accompanies the vets on the trip to Washington, D.C., were always there to meet their needs. Lee also mentioned that since the majority of the vets were from the World War II era, it “kind of
made him feel a little younger again.” A little background on Lee He is the son of a Polish immigrant who came through Ellis Island to this country and served in World War I. The family name was Morganstern, but he had it shortened to Stern due to racial prejudice. Lee has a brother and sister also living in California today. Lee served at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, for a year as a training officer for new recruits and later went to Camp Kilmer in New Jersey, where he tells me he often had to do "short arm searches" on the troops. I won't go into detail as to what that entails, but if you were ever involved in one, you would understand. Lee also had the good fortune to meet See
VETERANS page 31
Photo submitted by Dennis Atwell.
First Lieutenant Lee Stern stands outside his married officers' quarters in Camp Kilmer, New Jersey.
Photo submitted by Dennis Atwell.
Nancy and Lee Stern treated their three adult children, their spouses and six grandchildren to a TOMP (The Old Man Pays) cruise to the Eastern Caribbean in 2008.
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Woodbridge LIFE
VETERANS page 30
and marry the love of his life, Nancy. It was a marriage that lasted over 60 years. Nancy passed away a couple of years back and when Lee spoke of her, I know she is alive and well in his heart and always will be. Back to the trip Although it was a whirlwind trip lasting only three days, Lee was able to see quite a lot. He visited more than 10 major memorials, including the newest WWII Memorial and especially the Korean War Veterans Memorial that is a must-see for veterans of any war. The vets were handed many letters written by junior high school students and their teachers from all over the country. I read a few of the letters and they were very touching. To cap things off, Lee was surprised by a dinner in the veterans’ honor put on by the "Guardians" there to help the vets. This was a great send-off home. All in all, it was a special trip and one Lee will never forget. If you are an honorably discharged veteran of World War II or the Korean War, a resident of Del Webb by Woodbridge and would be interested in an all-expenses-paid trip to our nation’s capital, please contact Dennis Atwell of the Veterans of Woodbridge and we will put you in a queue for a trip you will always remember. Never forget, "Freedom is Not Free" — it comes at a price.
Photo submitted by Dennis Atwell.
Jim Young, Lee's personal Guardian for the three-day excursion, pushes Lee around the Memorials in Washington, D.C.
Page 31 • June 2015
MEMORIAL REMINDS US 'FREEDOM IS NOT FREE'
From an article by Rudi Williams, American Forces Press Service, June 21, 2000
V
isitors to the Korean War Veterans Memorial are greeted by a patrol of 19 stainless steel statues trudging toward an objective. The patrol consists of 14 soldiers, one sailor, one airman and three Marines. The 7-foot-tall figures represent racial and ethnic cross sections of America — whites, blacks, Asians, Native Americans and Hispanics. One Marine carries an ammunition case about the size of a lunch box and a tripod on his shoulder. The airman, wearing a fur hat, is the only one not wearing a helmet. There is also a statue of an African American Army medic and a South Korean soldier fighting with the American unit. The troops walk grimly through a triangular field of juniper bushes and marble barriers that symbolize the rough terrain in Korea. A masted American flag symbolizes their objective, at the apex of the triangular “field of service.” The figures are clad in windblown ponchos to recall the harsh weather troops endured during the three-year war — 1950 to 1953. The 19 statues reflect off a shiny, 164-footlong black granite wall. A computer-controlled sandblaster etched the wall's 41 panels, creating a mural of more than 2,500 figures — the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard personnel who supported combat troops. The etchings are of Army artillery, rocket launchers, anti-aircraft crews, weapons, vehicles, tankers, hospital units, rescue helicopters, surgeons, nurses, ambulances, stretcher bearers, chaplains of all denominations, combat engineers, ammunition and fuel dumps, depots, communications installers, and switchboard and radio operators. Faces etched into the wall came from photographs in the National Archives and the National Air and Space Museum. Some of the people whose images were used were still alive when the memorial was erected. The reflective quality of the granite creates the illusion of 38 statues, symbolic of the 38th Parallel and the 38 months of the war. When viewed from afar, it also creates the appearance of the mountain ranges of Korea. The third element of the Korean War Veterans Memorial, an area of remembrance, consists of a circular reflecting pool at the apex surrounded by a grove of 40 Linden trees. "Freedom Is Not Free" is engraved on the segment of wall that extends into the pool area. The Korean War Veterans Memorial recognizes the contributions of more than 1.5 million Americans who served in Korea during the three-year war. It honors our nation’s sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.
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Woodbridge LIFE
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WINE 101 By Jon Ford
W
CONCLUDED
ine 101 is a class designed to inform, entertain and relax. We inform you with brief presentations about a specific wine or topic. You entertain one another at your tables as you imbibe and eat the wonderful appetizers brought by classmates. You get a chance to relax for two hours as you socialize with your old and new friends. Our Wine 101 classes are going strong with great attendance for both our "in house" classes and our trips. We've taken several chartered bus trips now with a full bus each time. Our most recent bus trip, May 28, was to Bent Creek Winery in Livermore where we met up with owner/vineyard manager Tom Heinemann. Tom is one-quarter of the managing partners that consists of himself, his wife Pat, plus Carol and Rich Howell. Each partner takes on assorted responsibilities to ensure the winery runs smoothly. The winery is located on Tom and Pat's ex-horse ranch and has been in existence going on 12 years now. Bent Creek wins multiple awards every year for their fine line up of wines. They feature: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red on Red (a 1/3 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2/3 Syrah blend), Syrah, Petite Syrah, Zinfandel Port, Petite Sirah Port and Vintage Port made from traditional Portuguese grapes. They also pride themselves for having no wine over $30. Upon arrival at the winery, we were met by Tom and Mike Machado (assistant winemaker and Del Webb resident). Tom gave a brief history of the winery and told a story of how he and his spouse along with their best friends started a winery that was not on anyone's bucket list. Mike proceeded to take us through a private tasting of each of the Bent Creek wines while we sat under a lovely shaded arbor. After our tasting experience, when all questions had been answered, we proceeded into the tasting room where we were given the opportunity to purchase any of the wines tasted at a 15% discount. The weather was great, and the hosts were more than enjoyable, accommodating and informative. We're going to try to pull off another trip to a winery in the Lodi region around October. In other news, our June Wine 101 event will be held Thursday, June 25, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Sign-ups began May 29 at the Clubhouse front desk. Other potential ways to get this information is by flyer available at the Clubhouse, on the portal, on the new Neighbors site, or on the Wine 101 newsletter you may sign up for by contacting Jon Ford at jluvswine@aol.com and requesting to be placed on the list. The June class will be "Wines of Oregon." The general format for these classes is a brief lesson lasting 20+ minutes followed by a social. All participants are asked to bring their own wine glasses, a bottle of Oregon wine that has been uncorked and re-corked to share at the community table, an appetizer for the group, and a desire to learn a little bit more about wine and to have a heck of a lot of fun with old and new friends. You may bring additional bottles of wine to share at your table if you wish. On occasion we have guest owner/winemakers speak at our classes, introducing us to new wines and wineries. Our latest speaker was Jason Mikami of Mikami Vineyards in Lodi featuring his gold medal winning 2012 Zinfandel. Any resident is invited to attend, but we can only take 101 participants for each class. No prior knowledge of wine is necessary as we have a wide range of participants. If you sign up and find out See
WINE page 33
www.ourwoodbridge.net From
Woodbridge LIFE
WINE page 32
Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.
you cannot attend, please call the Clubhouse desk to let them know, as there is generally a waiting list for these classes. We're starting to see more new faces showing up for our events so it seems the word is getting out there about our classes. Be advised to act quickly when considering signing up for a class or a bus trip as spaces do fill up quickly. Should you have any questions you can reach Jon Ford at (209) 8159803 or jluvswine@aol.com. I hope to see you at a future event. SO MANY WINES, SO LITTLE TIME! HAPPY WINE EXPLORATIONS!
From
EVENTS page 8
monitor at the front desk whom you want to play with when you sign up. $5 CASH and the cut-off to sign up is Wednesday, June 24, at noon. Tournament results and social will follow on the patio. Bring an appetizer to share and your beverage of choice. POTLUCK NIGHT – Tuesday, June 30 @ 5:30 p.m. – Just about everyone’s favorite food is what’s on the menu for this potluck - pizzas, salads and desserts. Coffee and water will be provided but you may bring your beverage of choice. Please be sure that what you bring to share will feed 8 to 10 people. Sign up at the front desk so we are able accommodate everyone with seating.
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PHILLIPS page 26
The couple’s favorite activities were going to movies in the evenings, walking in El Parke de Zaragoza, and sightseeing. Maria had lived in Zaragoza all her life, so she was the perfect guide. Occasionally they took day trips. The city lies in a wide basin and is surrounded by mountains, the views of which are spectacular. It can get quite hot in the summer, but in the winter the weather is often as cool as a mountain stream. “We conversed in Spanish the best we could for the first few months, but then I took Spanish classes,” says Lem. “By the time we got married two years later, I was fluent in Spanish.” Maria had a unique quality that he especially admired, right from the beginning of their relationship. “She was very mature for her age,” he says, which was unlike many other girls he had known in the past. At that time, Lem was serving in the U.S. Air Force at Zaragoza Air Base, only ten miles from the city. It was one of three U.S. Air Force Cold War bases in Spain. He also became acquainted with Maria’s parents and other family members, with whom he got along quite well. The couple continued dating until December 5, 1960, when they were married in Maria’s church. They both agree that it was a nice, low-key wedding. Lem is a U.S. Air Force veteran of 23 years. While he was stationed in South Vietnam from 1966 to 1967, Maria and their two children returned to Spain. “We had been married for five years then, and our ability to communicate with one another verbally was excellent,” Lem says. They could also understand each other’s language when reading it. Written communication was a problem, however. To solve it, Lem would write to Maria
each day in English and she would write to him each day in Spanish. “I had to use international mail, so her letters took much longer to reach me than mine to her,” Lem says. “Sometimes I wouldn’t get mail for four to five days, and then I would get three or four letters at one time.” After retiring from the Air Force, Lem worked as a product assurance analyst for Lockheed Missiles and Space Company. Maria was a clean room inspector for a computer disc manufacturing company. It was while living in Stockton that they decided to move to Woodbridge. Both had developed some medical problems, so they no longer wanted to live in a two-story house. “We thought Woodbridge was the ideal place for us,” says Maria. Here they enjoy golf putting, playing pinochle twice a week, and bowling in a senior winter league at Manteca Bowl. Both are volunteers at St. Joseph Medical Center, where Lem has served for 10 years in Escort and Information and Maria for seven years in the gift shop. Lem also enjoys the Veterans group and assisting in Men of Woodbridge activities. “We have had many interesting experiences during our marriage,” says the pleasant and soft-spoken Maria. Lem especially likes to recall the memorable times they have spent with her family. I’m sure they appreciate his great smile and good sense of humor. Fortunately for us at Woodbridge, he frequently displays both.
From
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• JJ’s Golf Carts of Modesto – Platinum Sponsor, having a display • • • • •
booth with golf carts and accessories on display and sponsoring 1st Place trophies for the ‘100-Foot Sprint’ and the ‘Twist & Turn’ races Steve’s Mobile Sun Screens – Platinum Sponsor with many raffle gift certificates Doctors Hospital of Manteca – Gold Sponsor and sponsoring the ‘Survivor Race’ 1st Place trophy Thorson Financial – A second year Silver Sponsor Susan Russitano – A multi-year Silver Sponsor Dominic Martos of Farmers Insurance – A second year Silver Sponsor
Raffle gifts: The Men of Woodbridge are handling this portion of the event. They are in need of raffle prizes and are looking for voluntary donations of anything your friends and neighbors are likely to buy tickets to try to win. If you would like to help, please feel free to approach your clubs, friends, neighbors and any business you frequent to request a donation. This is a community event for the benefit of our community and every bit helps. All raffle gifts will be staged by Jon Ford (815-9803) so let him know if you can help. Volunteers: We thank many members of the Veterans group and the Neighborhood Watch for volunteering to help out with a variety of tasks from setting up water bottles that get knocked over, to timing events, to tabulating the results, to collecting time slips and taking them to the tabulating folks.
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Woodbridge LIFE
BECKER page 26
Flyer developed and distributed by the Woodbridge Lifestyle Committee.
mixed. “He invited me to his bachelor apartment for a drink of Southern Comfort,” she says. It seemed too forward and “cheeky” to her, a young college student. She did go but brought her brother and his girlfriend along as “chaperones.” That first date led to many future dates, so Duane and Genie got to know one another well. Among their favorite activities were spending lazy days at the beach, visiting art gallery openings, and dining at the Samosa House Restaurant in Los Angeles, where dinners were tasty and mostly vegetarian. After a brief engagement, they were married in June 1962 at Hollywood’s Beverly Christian Church. Not long afterward, they began to pack their suitcases. Duane, a naval petty officer who had been in the reserves for four years, had been called to active duty and ordered to Washington, D.C. For the next two years, he worked at a desk in the Pentagon. He later moved to another part of the building to serve under the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Duane and Genie lived in Washington when two historic events occurred: The first was the Cuban missile crisis in October 1962, when the U.S. discovered the Soviet Union had secretly placed nuclear missiles in Cuba. Fortunately for the world, the crisis was resolved peacefully after thirteen days of meetings. The second event was the tragic assassination of President Kennedy in November 1963. Although the event happened in Dallas, Washingtonians were especially affected by the sad news. In March 1964, the couple returned to California, where Duane
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worked until retirement as an electrical engineer for two major companies, IBM and Hewlett-Packard. Genie completed nurse’s training and became a registered nurse. She worked in that profession from 1970 to 2012. Among her assignments were operating room nurse, evaluator nurse for the State of California Health Facilities, and medical-surgical nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose. After spending 26 years in San Jose, Duane and Genie moved to Sebastopol. A while later, however, they realized they wanted to live in a retirement community near their son and his family. “Woodbridge seemed to be the best place to do that,” notes Duane. “We were also attracted by the new homes here and all the activities Woodbridge has to offer,” Genie adds. They have lived here for three years. They have two children, whose names are Janice Marie and Duane Arthur, Junior. They also have four grandchildren. In regard to favorite activities, Duane enjoys being a member of the Veterans and Men of Woodbridge groups and the singing group. He also likes to work out in the fitness center and the swimming pools. “When his shoulder heals, he’ll get back to doing that,” says Genie. Like her husband, she enjoys Woodbridge Singers, the fitness center and pools. She especially likes the arts and crafts group. I think it’s appropriate to end this article by saying, “Happy Anniversary, Duane and Genie.” They will be celebrating their 53rd anniversary this June!
Page 36 • June 2015 From
FISH page 11
Woodbridge LIFE
apply when casting their lines into lakes or rivers. As the water in fish habitats warms, females come out of hibernation seeking food. This is termed prespawn and, as they look for sustenance, the females also look for areas to nest. After the female lays her eggs, the male comes up and sits on the nest until the young hatch and are old enough to be on their own. At this time, both male and female are seeking food, making the postspawn a great time to catch fish. Ron began spending more time at Lake Rockwell and one day met two young fishermen (guests of another Woodbridge resident) who showed up with updated gear that attracted his attention. Ron complimented them on their up-to-date equipment, some of which was not available during his fishing years. Ron and one of the young men, Brandon Mitchell, struck up a friendship. The day of the big catch Ron had invited Brandon to fish the lake. Ron offered to teach certain techniques to Brandon, who in turn could teach Ron how to use some of the newer equipment. This was the first time the two had fished together and Brandon was working the waters some distance from Ron. Suddenly, Brandon motioned that a big fish, at least a 10-pound bass, was less than 15 feet away. Brandon couldn't get the big fish to bite, so he eventually walked away and cast about for others. A while later, the big fish appeared again, this time right in front of Ron, who proceeded to make about 50 casts but none were successful -- the large female would still not bite. Ron was standing on a rock next to a shallow part of the lake and Brandon joined him. Brandon then cast and the female bit but he didn't wait long enough for the hook to set and jerked the lure out of the fish's mouth. Ron cast and the female took the bait, raced off for the center of the lake and so began another battle of man versus fish. Using spinning gear and 10-pound test line,
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Ron worked to get the fish to turn around and as the female swam back toward the shore, she leaped out of the water, showing her impressive size. The big fish swam into the weeds and as Ron worked to get her out into the open, Brandon asked him if he should grab the fish. Ron was absorbed in preventing his line from snapping and didn't reply but he guided the fish toward Brandon, who then grabbed the bass by the jaw and handed her to Ron. She had a 7- to 8-inch mouth that looked as if it could swallow a grapefruit. Aware of the need to release the fish as soon as possible, the two fishermen quickly measured its length and girth, recording 27.5 inches and 20.5 inches, respectively. The fish weighed in at 15.9 pounds! This was larger than the record 12-pounder that Ron had caught at Lake Berryessa back in 1987. Without Brandon's help, Ron doubts he would have been able to reel in the fish with his 10-pound test line. After Ron took a few pictures to show off their catch, the fish was released back into the lazy waters of Lake Rockwell. Pictures and fish measurements were sent to Bass Pro Shops to be placed on their "Bragging Board." Although Ron has fished in many places over his career, he counts this as one of the top experiences he has ever had. The excitement of the chase and the teamwork with a new friend, all taking place just a five-minute bike ride from Ron's house, combined to make this very special. According to Ron, he did not catch the fish. Instead it seemed as if the big bass caught him, rekindling his enthusiasm for fishing. Thus did Lake Rockwell, a most unlikely place for sport fishing, become the backdrop for bonding between a master and his young fisherman friend. Here ends the story of a big fish and camaraderie at a small man-made lake in a special place called Woodbridge.
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Woodbridge LIFE
Page 37 • June 2015
CADLE page 26
Their attraction to each other won out, however, and they began dating. “Age is not important,” insists Rosemary. Their most memorable dates were going to movies, eating dinners at their favorite Tracy restaurants and joining family members for various social functions. They had a beautiful July wedding at the popular St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Tracy, and Rosemary knows precisely how long it has been since that happy event occurred. “We have been married 47 years, 9 months, 17 days,” she says proudly. Jim obtained his law degree from Humphreys College Law School, and his resume in the legal field is long and impressive. He rose from peace officer to deputy district attorney, criminal defense attorney and civil attorney. He then became judge of the municipal court in Tracy and thereafter judge of the superior court, also in Tracy. Rosemary, a computer whiz, worked as a computer technologist at Shasta Elementary School in Manteca. After they were engaged, Jim became increasingly concerned about Rosemary’s fast driving, but she didn’t appreciate his frequent speeches about the subject. “I’m getting tired of your lectures,” she once complained to him. Her attitude would change for the better, though. Rosemary explains what happened after they met downtown for coffee one evening. “I sped off down Main Street when Jim, on duty with a young police trainee, chased my car and signaled for me to stop.”
o t o h P l e v Tra
He then looked inside her rolled-down window and said sternly, “Okay, a lecture or a ticket?” Rosemary chose the lecture, of course, but not without shedding a few tears. In her defense, she later explained that she had been hurrying home to bake a cake for the officers on duty that night. As a result of that humiliating experience, Rosemary has become a very conscientious and safe driver. This became especially true after the arrival of the Cadle’s first daughter in 1969. Their family consists of three children whose names are Stacey, Susan and Nancy. They also have nine grandchildren, six boys and three girls. Jim and Rosemary were living in Manteca when they came to look at the Woodbridge model homes. “We both liked the idea of an activity-full lifestyle,” says Jim. “I was very impressed by the nice homes,” adds Rosemary. They have lived here four years. As far as activities are concerned, they both enjoy twirling around the room at ballroom dancing classes, playing golf, competing in putting tournaments and working out in the fitness center. Jim plays on the softball team. Their 48th anniversary will be July 1, 2015. Or, as Rosemary would say, “Two months and zero days from today, May 1.” So I’ll just end this article by saying, “Happy Anniversary, Jim and Rosemary!”
From
GARDEN page 19
either color or shape like Upright Pink Cordyline. The spillers are plants like potato vine in both lime and dark purple, Licorice Plant, ivies, Boston ferns, creeping Charlie and million bells to name a few. Deadhead your perennials and annuals for continued blooms. The hoplia beetle is long gone now, so enjoy your new flush of roses without that beetle. If you find you have aphids in roses or crepe myrtles, use either the Bayer 12-month product or the Bayer 2-month product. If you’re looking for a Father’s Day gift for a son or hubby, you may want to choose something like a blooming bonsai, bougainvillea, daylily or gardenia in a decorative pot. Also consider a dwarf fruit tree such as a Meyer lemon or a lime tree. Remember that pots need more water than plants in the ground. Lastly, if you have any hedges such as boxwood, it’s a great time to start pruning those plants after the initial rush of spring growth. Prune the plant wider at the bottom and narrower at the top to allow for light to get through to the entire plant.
Johnny Manha and high school friend Robert Bill Lusk took a 2000mile road trip from Manteca to Killeen, Texas, and back, stopping at Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Sedona and the OK Corral while driving Route 66 and visiting friends along the way.
Happy gardening!
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Woodbridge LIFE
Where in the world ? Wow! Woodbridge LIFE has been circling the globe with our wandering residents! We will do our best to include ALL travel photographs, but space and clarity will dictate. Preference will go to those not featured in previous editions and, yes, to those in exotic locales and interesting photo ops! Send images electronically to wblife2012@gmail.com using high resolution or actual size. Thank you for your contributions. We're happy that you continue to enjoy Woodbridge LIFE. If your picture isn't here, look for it in the coming months and keep sending them in! Sorry, we can no longer accept print photos.
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1. Yvonne Brown and Harold Treibwasser savored their visit to the capitol and other historic Washington, D.C., sites. 2. Robert Burnam and Susan DeMontigny visited New York City, NY. 3. Thirty members of the Woodbridge 55er's RV Club enjoyed a fun-filled weekend at the San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA. 4. Lorna and Tom Powell river cruised through Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. 5. Bob and Karen Penzenstadler's final stop on a 32-day cruise around South America was Rio De Janeiro.
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Please use highest resolution and type WB TRAVEL in the subject line. All travel photos MUST be submitted electronically.