WBL MAY 2018 by Woodbridge LIFE

W oodbridge LIFE Volume 8 • Issue 5 • Number 80

Your Life. Your Community. Your News.

May • 2018

Clubhouse 10 Anniversary th

May CARTOONS

The first cartoon to be printed in an American newspaper was published 264 years ago this month (May 9, 1754) by Benjamin Franklin in the Pennsylvania Gazette. It showed a snake cut into sections, each part representing a colony, over the caption, “Join, or die.”

Pepper Noble, talented Woodbridge artist, has been creating cartoons for Woodbridge LIFE every month since the newspaper’s inception in October 2011. See page 7 for this month’s clever Bedford and Hancock cartoon. (If you are not familiar with the two bird characters, each represents one of the original Woodbridge models: Hancock, the smallest floorplan, and Bedford, the largest.)

Inside

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

. . . . . .

...9 ...8 . . 15 ...6 24-25 . . 34

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

WBL photo by Volker Moerbitz

Lakeview Clubhouse is the focal point and center of activities for the Woodbridge community.

Lakeview Clubhouse Celebrates 10th Year By Mike Spence

oodbridge’s Lakeview Clubhouse is nearing its 10th birthday. Here is a bit of its interesting history and some fun facts about the building itself. The Clubhouse was planned as the focal point of the Woodbridge community but when the first sales were begun in

2006, the Clubhouse was a set of drawings, artist conceptions and sales personnel assurances. The first home closed escrow in December 2006. There was a parking lot near the tennis courts with a trailer used as a surrogate Clubhouse. Clubhouse construction did not begin until late 2007 and wasn’t completed until 2008. Lake Rockwell was actually finished first. See clubhouse anniversary pages 18-19

Page 2 â&#x20AC;¢ May 2018

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

W oodbridge LIFE

From the Editor

What’s Happening at Woodbridge?

By Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBL Editor

y husband and I spend six wonderful weeks in Hawaii and I can’t help but contemplate the meanings of two words, vacation and paradise.

By Jennie Custodio, Activities & Events Coordinator

A vacation is known to be “a period of time away from usual activities for a specific trip or journey, usually for the purpose of relaxation, recreation or tourism.” Although we consider recreation and tourism to be “a vacation,” I have not actually found either to be relaxing. You are always on the go, meeting someone else’s schedule and exhausted when the trip is completed! It seems to me one should return from a vacation relaxed and refreshed. And paradise, “a place of timeless harmony often associated with pastoral images where only peace, prosperity and happiness exist in a place of contentment, land of luxury and fulfillment.“ Are these mental or physical constructs or a combination of both? The six weeks in Hawaii were truly a vacation in paradise. Relaxing and refreshing. Can I duplicate the feeling of a vacation in paradise without physically leaving my home? After much introspection, I recognize I have retired from paid employment but choose to work at many volunteer jobs. Having these ongoing responsibilities keeps me involved in and helps me give back to my community, offers mental challenge and provides affirmation of my personal value. Between tasks, I can take myself on more at-home minivacations to relax and refresh! I think that’s pretty close to paradise, don’t you? Enough about that … Congratulations on your 10th anniversary, Lakeview Clubhouse! Mike Spence researched the building’s construction history for the cover story this month and provides many factual tidbits. Photos from the collection of Dreanna Langdon and the camera of Volker Moerbitz capture the Clubhouse, then and now. Enjoy this retrospective review. Woodbridge Senior Softball Council organized a fun opening ceremony that, unfortunately, was cancelled due to rain. Regardless of weather, the season began and softball teams are now engaged in “America’s favorite pastime.” You, too, will get in the mood to “play ball” when you read articles

May 2018 • Page 3

Carol Jo Hargreaves, Editor Carol Jo Hargreaves, WBLWBL Editor by Debby Hickey, Charm Mathis, Judy McNamara and Polly Smith on pages 24–27. Golf Putting Tournaments are back! Our thanks to Bob and Karen Perrin for acknowledging all tournament participants. See page 28 for March results. Also in golf news, Mike Patterson contributes an amusing summary and results of Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club play at Tracy Golf and Country Club on page 28. Thanks, Mike! Marie Evans shares two “Unique Hobbies” articles this month, introducing talented porcelain artist, Genie Becker on page 23 and Tina and Jose Morales, a couple who share their culture through dance on page 22. It is such a pleasure to learn about gifted Woodbridge residents! By the way, be sure to attend the pre-Cinco de Mayo event, May 3, complete with mariachis, merengue and margaritas. See Jennie Custodio’s column on this page and Coming to Woodbridge, page 8, for more information. Last month, the country celebrated Arbor Day. The April edition of Woodbridge LIFE included a history of the event but had insufficient space for two excellent stories by Volker Moerbitz. The insights Volker shares about meeting two trees, on pages 20 and 21, are both humorous and profound. In the spirit of preservation and protection of the Earth, Men of Woodbridge will host a free shredding day in concert with the annual Community-wide Garage Sale, May 5. This is your opportunity to de-clutter and simplify. More details may be found in the paper. Many contributors make this edition of Woodbridge LIFE both lively and informative. (Be sure to read it cover to cover before tossing in the recycle bin!) ~ Carol Jo Hargreaves and the Woodbridge LIFE Team

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

f I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard, “We heard that you are canceling [fill in the blank],” I could retire with the rest of you … on a yacht … moored at my own private island … dripping in diamonds. This month I want to do a little rumor control. Unless you’ve heard Jennie Custodio, it straight from the horse’s Activities/Events Coordinator mouth (horse being me), don’t believe it. And if you have questions, just ask me! And a reminder that social media sites other than the Woodbridge portal are not official. To clear things up, I am not canceling happy hours, or movies in the park, or concerts or potlucks. The only change being thrown around is to use more cost effective DJs vs. bands at our potlucks to allow more money in the budget for more events and more FUN! May is all about spring-cleaning, sipping, singing and the start of summer shenanigans! We’re kicking off May with a little fiesta to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Or should we call it “El Tersero de Mayo” (a special gracias to Ramon and Juan for the translation help) since the event is May 3 instead of May 5. We’ll have margaritas, a mariachi trio and merengue lessons from our very own new Social Dancing class. Tacos and quesadillas will be available for sale on the patio. To keep in line with MORE events and with summer just around the corner, happy hour is back this month! Woodbridge favorite Jerry Lopes will be here for your musical enjoyment and root beer floats will be served! So, I take that back. I am canceling an event this month: the Spring Garden Tour. With limited interest this year, we’ve decided to take a year off and will resume again next year. That means you’ve got an entire year to cultivate your green thumbs and show off your gardens in 2019. For your listening pleasure, the Woodbridge Singers and Dancers are offering three spring concerts this month featuring songs and skits from Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “State Fair.” Always a huge success, the Women of Woodbridge is hosting its annual Sip for Scholarship. “Get your Kicks on Route 66” with food, sweets, wine and beer tasting, music and raffles! If spring-cleaning is your thing, you may take advantage of both the Paper Shredding Day and the Community-wide Garage Sale being held May 5. So, whether you like to sip, sing, spring clean or share a drink at Happy Hour, you’re sure to find something fun to do this month to get summer off on the right flip flop.

In Memoriam

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

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 4 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2018

From the Bridge

From the A Bridge By Ramon Rivera

s I tend to do often, I love to take a moment to look across Lake Rockwell and take in how far Woodbridge has come. It all started with the Sales Pavilion and the original six model homes. Not DPRQ 5LYHUD in my wildest dreams could I have pictured then being where I am now. I strongly believe I am not alone and many residents share similar moments. One might say we have something in common, which begs the question, how much do we all have in common?

www.ourwoodbridge.net

WOA Update

WOA Update By Ramon Rivera

Summer Hours Summer hours will be in effect May 1 through August 31. The Clubhouse will be open Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and %\ 5DPRQ 5LYHUD Sundays, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

WOA Communication

Outdoor Pool and Spa As of May 1, the outdoor pool and spa will be up and running. Preventive maintenance was performed for all the heaters and filter components. The water for the spa and pool is now chemically balanced through a newly installed automated system. The outdoor pool will be heated at a temperature range of 82-84 degrees and the outdoor spa will be set at a range of 101-103 degrees.

5DPRQ 5LYHUD Operations Manager

Here is a table, developed with community input at Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Listening Post, setting forth common goals and words that describe Woodbridge.

Family Swim Hours As a friendly reminder, the swim hours for guests less than 18 years of age are: â&#x20AC;˘ Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. â&#x20AC;˘ Saturday and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Children under the age of 4 years are not allowed in the pools. Children 4 through 17 years of age may swim or be in the pool during specified times and supervision must be provided by a resident at all times. Diving, running, jumping and boisterous behavior are not permitted Please be aware of all rules and regulations in regard to safety and respect for other residents and guests.

Now we are ready to take the next step, which is to bring the two columns above together to create a mission statement for the Woodbridge Owners Association (WOA). Through feedback received in Listening Post, the items listed in the columns are what we seek to incorporate in a mission statement that is personal, short and precise. I challenge residents to come forth with sample mission statements using the information provided. There is still plenty of time to do so, as Listening Post will pick up again June 14 at 6 p.m. Please submit your sample mission statement to rrivera@ourwoodbridge.net. As I have said before, I know there are many residents who have authored mission statements in their careers but this is not a contest, it is a way for us to exercise our ability to come together to accomplish a common goal.

Ő˘

SAFETY ALERT

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

DISASTER PREPAREDNESS TASK FORCE By Marcia Umberger

task force has been formed to help residents prepare for A both natural and man-made disasters that might occur in Manteca. The goal is to compile information about a variety of potential threats and suggested responses to each in our area. This information will be made available to residents in a variety of ways and over several months. Woodbridge LIFE will publish articles with suggestions on what you can do to be better prepared. This may include items to purchase, where to store these items, tips from San Joaquin County and/or the city of Manteca fire and police departments. When the task force has completed its recommendations, a copy will be placed on the Woodbridge portal and hard copies will be made available at the front desk. The task force consists of four residents who have experience working on disaster preparedness in a variety of venues. They are: Art DeSouza, Denise Drewry, John McNeel and Marcia Umberger. Look for more information each month in Woodbridge LIFE.

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W oodbridge LIFE

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May 2018 • Page 5

From the Boardroom By Roger Cunning, president, Woodbridge Owners Association

e’re enjoying warmer temperatures and more sunshine. And, outdoor amenities are being used much more now than in the past several months. We live in a great community with a wonderful climate. The board of directors recently signed a contract with the law firm Berding Weil to represent the Woodbridge Owners Association (WOA) in pursuing corrections to potential construction defects in our common areas or property. This is a slow process but all members of the WOA will be routinely updated with progress reports. Finances continue to be strong. This includes reserves for future maintenance or replacements as well as for day-to-day operations. The board thanks the members of the Finance Committee for being so diligent and professional in assessing and recommending sound financial decisions. Thank you to those who have used the new “Board Agenda Topic Comment or Question” form on the Woodbridge portal. The board has already directed positive changes based on a comment provided by a homeowner using this form. Homeowner comments are very helpful to the board. Board meeting agendas are published on the portal at least four (4) days in advance of a meeting. Once you have read the agenda and have thoughts or comments regarding a specific topic on the agenda that you wish board members to read, please fill out the form. All board members will read your comment prior to that meeting and your concern or question will be considered prior to the board meeting. On the portal, look under

Ask

ARChie

pril has not failed us. Rain, rain and more rain. May will now produce the lively flowers we all enjoy – always good news for garden worshippers.

The Architectural Review Committee is proud to announce its board-approved mission statement. Why a mission statement for the ARC, you ask? The past few years have been especially busy for the committee as the community has grown to just short of full capacity. The committee decided it was time to create a statement of goals and what we hope to accomplish. The committee has a strong focus on supporting existing guidelines and framework such as education. Overall, we members of the ARC have a sense of ownership, direction and responsibility. We are your voice. Architectural Review Committee Mission Statement Ensuring the continued integrity and philosophy of our community through educational opportunities and objectively reviewing architectural ideas that support existing guidelines, and how they relate to the original concepts that make us Woodbridge.

~ ARChie

Resale Homeowners Dear ARChie, For the past six years, I’ve enjoyed our beautiful home and neighbors and participated in most activities offered by the HOA. We are excited that the house across the street recently sold to some new young folks

the Resident Services menu and click on the “Management Office & Forms” menu option. The form to select is titled: “Board Agenda Topic Comment or Question.” The newly created Rules and Regulations Committee has several members from the community and we thank all for volunteering to step up to this arduous task. They have a very wide range in backgrounds but come from professions well suited for this committee. Many of the governing documents require an update now that the developer is nearly finished with construction activities. The committee is already hard at work reviewing the documents. We welcome your attendance at the next scheduled meeting of the board of directors on Wednesday, May 23, at 4 p.m.

May 2018 WOA Committee Meetings Meeting ARC Inspections ARC Review New Resident Orientation ARC Inspections ARC Review Finance Committee Board Meeting ARC Inspections Listening Post

Day

Date

Time

Tuesday Tuesday Thursday

5/1/18 5/8/18 5/10/18 5/15/18 Tuesday Tuesday 5/22/18 Tuesday 5/22/18 Wednesday 5/23/18 5/29/18 Tuesday No Listening Post

9 a.m. 9 a.m. 10 a.m. 9 a.m. 9 a.m. 12 p.m. 4 p.m. 9 a.m.

(the wife and I are thinking maybe early 60s). Because the house was a bit run down, we’ve noticed a bit of updating by these young folks. Being a good Woodbridge neighbor, I explained they need to apply for approval from the ARC for any landscape alteration in the front yard, including improvements to hardscape, trees, patio covers and screens. Well, I may have stepped on their toes, as my message was not well received. I certainly didn’t intend to upset them. I was sure they were aware of the Design Guidelines and other HOA governing documents. My question, ARChie, is, if this young couple continues with work now in progress, won’t they be in violation of the CC&Rs and Design Guidelines? 5/9

~ Good Neighbor

Dear Good Neighbor, Isn’t it exciting when we have enthusiastic young people moving in and bringing back tired landscaping and making other updates to their homes? I have two thoughts in answering 4/25 your question: 12 p First, new owners of resale properties will receive the 400 pounds of governing documents, including the CC&Rs and the most current Design Guidelines. My past understanding was that the binder original buyers received during the sales process was to be passed along to new owners. Although that may still be a great idea, I now understand after a conversation with a realtor friend and Riverside Management, the new owner will be provided all updated Woodbridge documents. See

ARChie page 6

Cooking 401 Crochet/Knitting Page 6 • May 2018

Jan Spence Kathy Topping

924-8032 3rd Tuesday @ 2 p.m. 239-8718 Thursdays @ 10 a.m.

Cribbage

Dave Steffy

825-4805 Tuesdays @ 7 p.m.

ARChie

From Drama

W oodbridge LIFE

page 5 Michelle Paradis 815-9446 Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Pat Buxton 824-9257 Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. Game Night Rick Hyden 239-8663 Fridays & Saturdays @ 6:30 p.m. Secondly, your new neighbors and all other Woodbridge residents are bound & Foot Sue Cameron 624-3982 W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m. toHand comply with the CC&Rs and Design Guidelines. It’s possible they are still catching up with all the new information. By not submitting Ladies Billiards Mary Braun 229-6379 Mondays @ 1 an p.m.application forLine changes additionsSue to Lough the front yard and/or not submitting major Dancingor(Beginning) 624-3713 Thursdays @ 9:15for a.m. changes in the back yard such as hardscape or patio covers, they can be in Line Dancing Patti Barnhart 629-8838 M-W-F @via 9:15 a.m. violation. That is, if a non-compliance form is submitted the portal. And, Line Dancing (Evening) Bill Goodwin 823-9767 Fridays @ 6 p.m. let’s not forget, Riverside has an inspector who may notice a violation. Men of Woodbridge

Chuck Harvey

647-4479 2nd Monday @ 10 a.m.

It’s always in our best interest to follow 818-the rules and regulations that hold the WOA (American) together. Better to Carlsen ask than to429-1221 hope for Wednesdays forgiveness, National Cindy 10which a.m. - 1may p.m.very well you money you didn’t plan for. 647-2695 Fridays 1 - 3 p.m. Mahcost Jongg

Neighborhood Watch Block Captains will be Now, if I may suggest, please with a lively libation and say hello to Group Bob Hall go back239-5712 notified of meetings your new neighbors again. Or maybe host a small neighborhood Oil Painters Patti Barnhart 629-8838 Tuesdays @ 9 a.m.potluck to welcome them to the neighborhood. No doubt, they will hear more than this Mondays @ 4 - 5 p.m. or that about the rules. Paddle Tennis Stan Sutfin 815-9735 at Liberty Park Pickleball Barbara please Shapiro check 823-3343 M-F. and TimeRegulations, varies For additional information, the Rules Sale of Home, page 8, section 1.12. Ping Pong John Goodman 629-8200 M & TH @ 1 - 3 p.m. 510-909- Mondays @ 2:15 p.m. Pinochle Robert Philis 8997 ~ ARChie Thursdays @ 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Al Sanchez 239-8235 Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. & Replacing Shrubs Poker Joe Victoria 815-9343 Fridays @ 5 p.m. RadioARChie, Controlled Flyers Bob Umberger 239-2983 Days and times vary Dear Robotics

Don St. Lawrence 825-7137 Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m. It’s me again, and the wife is all concerned because I want to replace a Westport Room, few plants in the back yard. We’ve been in our new home for two Scrapbookers Elaine DeSouza 603-9796 3rd Friday, 9 a.m. toyears. 5 p.m. Landscaping all done, inspected and growing. 818- As I’m sure others have found, the landscapers seem to overplant or just plant what I now view as not what I 429-1221 647-2695 Tuesdays @ 12 - 3 p.m. Shang-hai Rummy Cindy Carlsen wanted. 408Thursdays @ 4-5 p.m. Social Aquino 206-8993 in the Multipurpose Room WhatDancing is a simple ruleAnthony of thumb regarding modifying the backyard area, Strummin’ Wonders Carla Marquardt 624-3754 p.m. to be 5 feet such as replacing a large shrub with a small tree?Mondays I know@ it 2needs from the fence. The wife says I need to 239-8718 go back toTU-TH-SU the ARC@with an amended Tennis Mel Topping 8 a.m. plan, requesting approval. Or, may I just rearrange as needed? Trivia Eileen Hill 624-3945 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m. Veterans of Woodbridge Rick Van De Boom 923-4709 2nd Monday @ 11 a.m. ~ Trying to Make It Simple Walking Indoors Jacque Reynolds 629-8508 M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. Dear Simple, 510Wheels of Woodbridge Steve Ray 876-2962 1st Tuesday @ 10:30 a.m. Guess what? The wife is wrong and you are right. Something you don’t hear Wine 101 Jon Ford 815-9803 Days vary too often, I’ll bet. Once the backyard is completed and inspected, you may Wii Bowling Rick Hyden 639-2003 Tuesdays @ 1always p.m. be perform simple changes with shrubs and plants. Trees must 5 feet or, in some cases, Polly further from the665-7236 fence. If 3rd youWednesday are in doubt, Women of Woodbridge Smith @ 11follow a.m. your wife’s advice, request approval. Woodbridge Monday through Friday

Pool Hustlers Ron Plummer 609-4350 @ 12 - 3 p.m. ~ ARChie Woodbridge Book Group Patty DeRoos 239-2833 1st Wednesday @ 10:30 a.m. Woodbridge Senior 408Do youClub have questions you want to ask but hesitate to do so? ARChie is Softball John Ochoa 981-3499 Seasonal here to answer any and all questions related to the architectural review and Woodbridge 408-to the ARC 3rd Wednesday @ 4:30 p.m. design questions contacting Seniorsguidelines. Golf Club Submit Mikeyour Patterson 640-9768 in theby Oxford Room Leilani Rodriguez at 824-7581 or lrodriguez@ourwoodbridge.net Meets every other Monday Woodbridge Singers Elizabeth Cunning 647-4380 @ 6:30 p.m.

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

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

Contact Dave Basehore Sue Edmiston Betty Buff Babara Silva Carolyn Johnson

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

www.ourwoodbridge.net

WOA Groups and Clubs: Groups & Clubs

Contact Artists & Crafters Penny Dauler Ballroom Dance Patti Barnhart Bocce Ball Rick Hyden Bridge Don St. Lawrence Mary Braun Bunco Susan Holt Canasta Judy Simpson Chair Volleyball Dave Steffy Chess Club Jack Dauler Cooking 401 Jan Spence Crochet/Knitting Kathy Topping Cribbage Dave Steffy Drama Michelle Paradis Pat Buxton Game Night Rick Hyden Hand & Foot Sue Cameron Ladies Billiards Mary Braun Line Dancing (Beginning) Sue Lough Line Dancing Patti Barnhart Line Dancing (Evening) Bill Goodwin Men of Woodbridge Chuck Harvey

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

National (American) Mah Jongg Neighborhood Watch Group Oil Painters

Cindy Carlsen Bob Hall Patti Barnhart

239-5712 629-8838

Paddle Tennis Pickleball Ping Pong

Stan Sutfin Barbara Shapiro John Goodman

815-9735 823-3343 629-8200 510-9098997 239-8235 815-9343 239-2983

Pinochle

Robert Philis Al Sanchez Poker Joe Victoria Radio Controlled Flyers Bob Umberger

Meeting Day and Time M-F. Time & Workshops vary Fridays @ 4:15 p.m. SU & TH @ 2 p.m. Mondays @ 10 a.m. 3rd Monday @ 6:30 p.m. Fridays 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tuesdays @ 5 p.m. (days vary) 2nd & 4th Monday @ 4 p.m. 3rd Tuesday @ 2 p.m. Thursdays @ 10 a.m. Tuesdays @ 7 p.m. Thursdays @ 1 p.m. Wednesdays @ 6:30 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays @ 6:30 p.m. W-SA-SU @ 1 p.m. Mondays @ 1 p.m. Thursdays @ 9:15 a.m. M-W-F @ 9:15 a.m. Fridays @ 6 p.m. 2nd Monday @ 10 a.m. Wednesdays 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Fridays 1 - 3 p.m. Block Captains will be notified of meetings Tuesdays @ 9 a.m. Mondays @ 4 - 5 p.m. at Liberty Park M-F. Time varies M & TH @ 1 - 3 p.m. Mondays @ 2:15 p.m. Thursdays @ 1 p.m. & 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. & Fridays @ 5 p.m. Days and times vary

Robotics

Don St. Lawrence 825-7137 Tuesdays @ 6:30 p.m. Westport Room, Scrapbookers Elaine DeSouza 603-9796 3rd Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 818429-1221 647-2695 Tuesdays @ 12 - 3 p.m. Shang-hai Rummy Cindy Carlsen 408Thursdays @ 4-5 p.m. Social Dancing Anthony Aquino 206-8993 in the Multipurpose Room Strummin’ Wonders Carla Marquardt 624-3754 Mondays @ 2 p.m. Tennis Mel Topping 239-8718 TU-TH-SU @ 8 a.m. Trivia Eileen Hill 624-3945 3rd Tuesday @ 7 p.m. Veterans of Woodbridge Rick Van De Boom 923-4709 2nd Monday @ 11 a.m. Walking Indoors Jacque Reynolds 629-8508 M-W-F @ 8:30 a.m. 510Wheels of Woodbridge Steve Ray 876-2962 1st Tuesday @ 10:30 a.m. Wine 101 Wii Bowling Women of Woodbridge Woodbridge Pool Hustlers Woodbridge Book Group Woodbridge Senior Softball Club Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club Woodbridge Singers

Jon Ford Rick Hyden Polly Smith

815-9803 Days vary 639-2003 Tuesdays @ 1 p.m. 665-7236 3rd Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Monday through Friday Ron Plummer 609-4350 @ 12 - 3 p.m. Patty DeRoos 239-2833 1st Wednesday @ 10:30 a.m. 408John Ochoa 981-3499 Seasonal 4083rd Wednesday @ 4:30 p.m. Mike Patterson 640-9768 in the Oxford Room Meets every other Monday Elizabeth Cunning 647-4380 @ 6:30 p.m.

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

W oodbridge Woodbridge LIFELIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net www.ourwoodbridge.net

â&#x20AC;&#x2030;Reaching Out

Lakeview Clubhouse: 824-7581 Board of Directors

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

Operations Manager

Ramon Rivera 824-7831 rrivera@ourwoodbridge.net

Activities/Events Coordinator

Jennie Custodio 824-7927 jcustodio@ourwoodbridge.net

Office Coordinator

Leilani Rodriguez 824-7581 lrodriguez@ourwoodbridge.net

Maintenance Supervisor

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

Management

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

The opinions expressed in

Woodbridge LIFEĘźs feature

articles, paid advertisements and editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge Owners Association.

WOODBRIDGE LIFE MISSION STATEMENT: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Woodbridge LIFE is a celebration of the diversified residents of Woodbridge by Del Webb in Manteca â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a look at their accomplishments, an exploration of their hopes and dreams, a place to share joy, announce activities and bring neighbors together. Woodbridge LIFE strives to enhance the lives of all residents and exceed expectations with informative articles, lively features, a calendar of events and more.â&#x20AC;?

May72018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 7 Page â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016

Woodbridge LIFE

2401 Morning Brook Drive Manteca, CA 95336

209-824-7581

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EDITOR

ADVERTISING

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

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

Woodbridge LIFE is a free monthly 8PPECSJEHF -*'& JT B GSFF NPOUIMZ publication of the Woodbridge Owners QVCMJDBUJPO PG UIF 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST Association, a nonprofit organization serving "TTPDJBUJPO B OPOQSPmU PSHBOJ[BUJPO TFSWJOH the residents of the Woodbridge by Del Webb UIF SFTJEFOUT PG UIF 8PPECSJEHF CZ %FM 8FCC community in Manteca, CA. Woodbridge DPNNVOJUZ JO .BOUFDB $" 8PPECSJEHF LIFE invites stories, photographs, comments, -*'& JOWJUFT TUPSJFT QIPUPHSBQIT DPNNFOUT cartoons, jokes and any other information that DBSUPPOT KPLFT BOE BOZ PUIFS JOGPSNBUJPO UIBU would be of interest to residents. We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and XPVME CF PG JOUFSFTU UP SFTJEFOUT 8F SFTFSWF edit for content and length. We also reserve UIF SJHIU UP BDDFQU PS SFGVTF TVCNJTTJPOT BOE the right to refuse advertising or articles that FEJU GPS DPOUFOU BOE MFOHUI 8F BMTP SFTFSWF in our opinion do not reflect the standards UIF SJHIU UP SFGVTF BEWFSUJTJOH PS BSUJDMFT UIBU of the newspaper. The Woodbridge LIFE JO PVS PQJOJPO EP OPU SFnFDU UIF TUBOEBSET advertising contract permits each advertiser toPG UIF OFXTQBQFS ÉŠF PQJOJPOT FYQSFTTFE conduct one event per year in the Lakeview XIFUIFS CZ QBJE BEWFSUJTFNFOU PS FEJUPSJBM Clubhouse Multipurpose Room. The opinions DPOUFOU EP OPU OFDFTTBSJMZ SFnFDU UIF WJFXT PG expressed, whether by paid advertisement or editorial content, do not necessarily reflect the UIJT OFXTQBQFS PS UIF 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST views of this newspaper or the Woodbridge "TTPDJBUJPO $POUFOU TVCNJUUFE NBZ CF FEJUFE Owners Association. Content submitted SFQSJOUFE BOE BDLOPXMFEHFE XJUIPVU DPOTFOU may be edited, reprinted and acknowledged VOMFTT TQFDJmDBMMZ SFRVFTUFE 8PPECSJEHF -*'& without consent unless specifically requested. QSPPGSFBEFST VTF UIF "TTPDJBUFE 1SFTT 4UZMFCPPL Woodbridge LIFE proofreaders use the iUIF KPVSOBMJTU T CJCMF w BT B XSJUJOH BOE FEJUJOH Associated Press Stylebook, â&#x20AC;&#x153;the journalistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SFGFSFODF ÉŠF QVCMJTIFS JT OPU SFTQPOTJCMF GPS bible,â&#x20AC;? as a writing and editing reference. The VOTPMJDJUFE NBOVTDSJQUT PS BSUXPSL .BUFSJBMT publisher is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. Materials submitted TVCNJUUFE XJUI B TFMG BEESFTTFE TUBNQFE with a self-addressed, stamped envelope will FOWFMPQF XJMM CF SFUVSOFE $POUFOUT DPQZSJHIU beÂŞ returned. Contents copyright ÂŠ 2018 by CZ 8PPECSJEHF 0XOFST "TTPDJBUJPO Woodbridge Owners Association. No part of /P QBSU PG UIJT QVCMJDBUJPO NBZ CF SFQSPEVDFE this publication may be reproduced without XJUIPVU XSJUUFO QFSNJTTJPO PG UIF QVCMJTIFS written permission of the publisher.

&RQWDFW XV

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EVERY CHILD DESERVES A LOVING, STABLE FAMILY WHERE THEIR BEST INTERESTS ARE PREEMINENT.

In Memoriam Your Support Makes This Possible In tribute to a loved one who has died, Woodbridge LIFE DONATE TO OF aAGAPE welcomes residents NOW to submit up THE to 100KIDS words and 2-inch x 2-inch photo (optional) for publication. Send submissions by email to wblife2017@gmail.com Agape Villages Foster Family Agency

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Page 8 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2018

Woodbridge Owners

Woodbridge Owners Association Association Committees

ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW â&#x20AC;˘ Jacquie Alexander, Chair alexander-fox@comcast.net ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW209-823-2914

Committees

COMMITTEE â&#x20AC;˘ FINANCE Jacquie Alexander, Chair â&#x20AC;˘ Jacob Lewis, Chair alexander-fox@comcast.net lijalewis@comcast.net 823-2914 647-2995 LIFESTYLE

W oodbridge LIFE

Coming to Woodbridge

Coming to Woodbridge EVENTS and ACTIVITIES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2018 Submitted by Jennie Custodio, Activities & Events Coordinator

WINE TASTING BUS TRIP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, May 3 @ 11 a.m. Thorson Financial hosts a complimentary wine tasting and lunch bus trip to Viaggio Estate and Winery in Lodi. It will include a talk by Tom Thorson on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Four Ways to Avoid Running out of Money in Retirement.â&#x20AC;? Space is limited to the first 50 people. Please fill out an Emergency Contact form at the front desk. RSVP at the front desk. FREE

FINANCE COMMITTEE â&#x20AC;˘ John Baber, Chair jbaber@ourwoodbridge.net â&#x20AC;˘ Jacob Lewis, Chair 824-7927 lijalewis@comcast.net MARGARITAS & MARIACHI â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, May 3 @ 5 p.m. 647-2995 COMMUNICATION â&#x20AC;˘

Carol Jo Hargreaves, Chair

LIFESTYLE Woodbridge LIFE Editor and Directory Chair Chair â&#x20AC;˘ Jennie Custodio, cjohargreaves@gmail.com jcustodio@ourwoodbridge.net 823-3538 824-7927

WELCOMING COMMITTEE â&#x20AC;˘ Diana Clements, Co-Chair COMMUNICATION tenor4@comcast.net â&#x20AC;˘ Carol Jo Hargreaves, 665-4353 Chair â&#x20AC;˘

Woodbridge LIFE Editor and JeannieChair Tebbutt, Co-Chair Directory jltebbutt@gmail.com WBLIFE2017@gmail.com 923-4356 823-3538

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

â&#x20AC;˘ Bill Barnhart WELCOMING COMMITTEE bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us â&#x20AC;˘ Diana Clements, Co-Chair 629-8838 tenor4@comcast.net 665-4353

â&#x20AC;˘

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

NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS â&#x20AC;˘ Bill Barnhart, Co-Chair bill.barnhart@mrbconsulting.us 629-8838 â&#x20AC;˘

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

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

www.ourwoodbridge.net

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Clubhouse! Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a mariachi trio here, merengue lessons from our Social Dancing class and margaritas! A taco truck will also be here selling tacos and quesadillas on the patio. In the Multipurpose Room/Patio. RSVP at the front desk. $10 COMMUNITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, May 5 @ 8 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Woodbridge community opens its garages for the popular all-day event. Great finds and good deals in store. PAPER SHRED â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, May 5 @ 8:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Free paper shredding event hosted by Access Information. Bring documents that need shredding. No need to remove staples, paper clips, etc. In the Clubhouse parking lot. FREE CASINO BUS TRIP TO BLACK OAK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday, May 7 @ 8:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Board the bus to Black Oak for a five-hour stay and win big. Each player receives $10 in slot play, $5 match play and a $5 food voucher. Please arrange to be at the Clubhouse by 8:15 a.m. Remember, the Emergency Contact form at the front desk must be completed before departure. Pay at the front desk. $16 CASH ONLY (does not include tip for the driver)

Tico Padayhag, contemporary keyboard player, Jim Lubell, whose vocal style is that of great country singers, second keyboard player, Eric Padayhag, a master soloist who sings and grooves with impeccable taste, and, master of all bassistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; music styles, Paul Montoya, who rounds out the musicianship! They pride themselves on vocal harmonizing consistent with each songâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blend. These five experienced musicians provide a smooth sound with musicality second to none. In the Multipurpose Room. Pay at the front desk. $10 MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DAY BREAKFAST â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday, May 13 @ 9 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Men of Woodbridge will be hosting their annual Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Brunch. On the menu are eggs, sausage, pancakes, coffee, OJ and mimosas. Breakfast served between 9 and 10 a.m. only. In the Multipurpose Room. Purchase tickets at the front desk. $7 WESSON HEARING PRESENTATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday, May 14 @ 4 p.m. Wesson Hearing Aid Center returns for their annual Spring Health & Wellness Event. They will present on the importance of brain hearing. Light hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres and beverages will be served. In the Multipurpose Room. Sign up at the front desk. FREE COOKING 401 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, May 15 @ 2 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Join Harriet Applegarth as she shares her recipe for Crab Rangoon appetizers. In the Quincy Room. RSVP at the front desk. $5 WINE 101 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, May 17 @ 6 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Win a prize at the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wine 101 Trivia Contest Night.â&#x20AC;? Participants should bring an appetizer to share with the class, a wine to share at their table and their own wine glasses. The community table will be stocked with a variety of foreign and domestic wines to taste. In the Multipurpose Room. Pay at the front desk. $3

WOODBRIDGE SINGERS & DANCERS CONCERT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monday, May 7 @ 6:30 p.m. and Tuesday, May 8 @ 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Enjoy songs and skits from Rodgers & Hammersteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;State BOARD MEETING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wednesday, May 23 @ 4 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Fair,â&#x20AC;? along with tunes made popular by Frank Sinatra, The WOA board will discuss operational topics, management Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul & Mary, Tony Orlando & Dawn and a issues, finances and other subjects. The board encourages all :KHQ \RX KDYH VLJQHG XS IRU DQ HYHQW DFWLYLW\ RU WRXU DQG \RX Ă&#x20AC;QG \RX DUH surprise encore presentation. Three performances to choose homeowners to attend. This meeting is for homeowners only. Important Notice attend, asthe a courtesy to others, from. You may bring a dessert to share unable after theto concert. Inplease, In Multipurpose Room. call the Clubhouse front desk WR FDQFHO ,I WKH HYHQW KDV D ZDLWLQJ OLVW WKH IURQW GHVN FDQ Ă&#x20AC;OO WKH About Cancellations the Multipurpose Room. Pay at the front desk. $3from the list. Thank you. vacancy HAND LETTERING & CALLIGRAPHY CLASS with SONIA PAZ YOSEMITE TRIP with SETNESS TOURS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, May 8 and Thursday, May 24 @ 6 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A spring-inspired themed Wednesday, May 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve teamed up with Setness Tours to workshop to learn the basics and the art of hand lettering offer a two-day trip to Yosemite. Please refer to the brochure presented by local artist and designer, Sonya Paz. Price includes on the flyer board for trip details. Sign up with Setness Tours use of tools, paper and supplies. You will also receive your own directly via email at robin@setness.com or by phone at class kit that includes a favorite brush pen, paper, templates and 476-8486. $389 per person, double; $489 per person, single. a hand lettering basics workbook. Each attendee will go home with a hand-made spring-inspired project and the kit so you may NEW RESIDENT ORIENTATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, May 10 @ 10 a.m. continue your new hand-lettering journey at home. Limited to Learn more about your Woodbridge Owners Association and the first 40 people. In the Westport Room. Sign up at the front join the Clubhouse team as they answer your questions. Learn desk. $32 about the association structure, the Architectural Review process and the resources and activities available to you. In the HAPPY HOUR with JERRY LOPES - Friday, May 25 @ 5 p.m. Oxford Room. RSVP at the front desk. Happy Hour is back! Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kick off the summer season on the patio with Jerry Lopes and root beer floats. BYOB and SIP FOR SCHOLARSHIP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday, May 10 @ 5 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Take a appetizers. Please do not set up before 3 p.m. Lakeside seating trip down Route 66 while you take a Sip for Scholarship. Join by ticket or cash donation. Sign up at the front desk. $6 the Women of Woodbridge for food, sweets, wine and beer tasting, music and raffles. Raffle tickets will be sold a few days GALLO CENTER PRESENTATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, May 29 @ 5:30 p.m. before and at the event. In the Multipurpose Room. Sign up at On the patio. Sign up at the front desk. FREE :KHQ \RX KDYH VLJQHG XS IRU DQ HYHQW DFWLYLW\ RU WRXU DQG \RX Ă&#x20AC;QG \RX DUH the front desk. $25 unable to attend, please, as a courtesy to others, call the Clubhouse front desk POTLUCK with DJ ELITE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Wednesday, May 30 @ 5 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The WR FDQFHO ,I WKH HYHQW KDV D ZDLWLQJ OLVW WKH IURQW GHVN FDQ Ă&#x20AC;OO WKH DANCE WITH THE BAD HABITS BAND â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Saturday, May 12 @ 5 Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best DJ is coming to Woodbridge. Please bring a dish vacancy from the list. Thank to you. p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Bad Habits Band is making their Woodbridge debut. serve eight. In the Multipurpose Room. Sign up at the front The band consists of the great blues-style guitarist and vocalist, desk. FREE

Important Notice About Cancellations

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

May 2018 • Page 9 Summer Clubhouse Hours (5/1 through 8/31) NOTE: Dates may vary seasonally.

May Events and Activities

Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, 8 a.m. to - 8 p.m.

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Summer Clubhouse Hours (5/1 through 8/31

Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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and activities are listed on page 8. More information about these as well as Woodbridge Clubs and Groups may be found on the Woodbridge portal and at the Lakeview Clubhouse.

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

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W oodbridge LIFE

Page 10 • May 2018

www.ourwoodbridge.net

At the Clubhouse ææ CRAFTERS CORNER By Debbie Cosetto e crafters had a busy April. It was a fun month, which culminated with our Funky Fashion Show. Thank you to all who attended and we hope you had a great time. The money we made from this event will support the Artists & Crafters group’s philanthropic activities.

Monday, May 21 at 10 a.m. – KAISER BREAST CANCER PILLOW WORKSHOP. In this workshop led by Martha Harman, the talented ladies make pillows for breast cancer patients. Please come help put these pillows together and know your talent and energy is going toward helping someone who is facing a health challenge. You don’t need to know how to sew to help! (Materials provided by Kaiser Hospital.)

Now, onto the month of May. I’m excited to let you know of a new class that’s coming up this month. Carolyn Johnson will be teaching a Floral Arranging class. If you’re someone like me who appreciates beautiful flower arrangements but has had trouble making them, this may be a class for you. Carolyn will teach some of the basics of floral arrangement and design.

Friday, May 25 at 10 a.m. – Kathy Dezotte will lead the WOODBRIDGE ROCKS class. Kathy will teach attendees how to paint the fun rocks people are discovering all over the community and beyond. Rocks, paints and brushes will be provided.

Have you ever wanted to try watercolor painting? Molly Cooper teaches a Watercolor Painting class just about every month. You can see the example of her upcoming class project in the window of the Westport Room. Come on down and give it a try. And how about those fun decorated rocks that have been spotted around Woodbridge? Why not create some of them yourself. Come to the Woodbridge Rocks class. The multi-talented Kathy Dezotte will teach you some fun ideas for decorating them. Here’s what the Artists & Crafters group has going in May: Friday, May 4 at 10 a.m. – Artists & Crafters GENERAL MEETING. Thursday, May 10 at 12:30 p.m. – Carolyn Johnson will lead a FLORAL ARRANGEMENT class. This class will provide attendees with some of the basic techniques/ideas of floral arranging. Friday, May 11 at 12:30 p.m. – Molly Cooper will teach a WATERCOLOR PAINTING class. This month’s painting is entitled “Geraniums by the Window.” Friday, May 18 at 9 a.m. – The SCRAPBOOKERS will gather to work on their individual albums/projects. This group meets once a month.

Friday, May 25 at 1 p.m. – WOODBRIDGE QUILTERS will meet for their bi-monthly Show and Tell. Come see some beautiful quilts, wall hangings and other projects these talented ladies have been working on. We post our Artists & Crafters calendar of activities for the month on the easel outside the Westport Room. Sign-up sheets/class supply lists for all classes are also located on the easel. Make sure to check out the window displays of the Westport Room. We try to display current and upcoming class samples in the window. We also have samples displayed from groups that meet regularly, as well as samples from our philanthropic groups. Come on down and join in the fun – we’d love to see you. Have a great month!

Pleasant Journeys Doni Cicero

Destination Specialist

(209) 551-8174

Pleasantjourneys@comcast.net

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

May 2018 • Page 11

ææ WOODBRIDGE book GROUP y Judith Mohr B

Book Group

n April 4, the Woodbridge readers enjoyed a vicarious two-year Caribbean cruise aboard Receta with author Ann Vanderhoof as we discussed “An Embarrassment of Mangoes,” a collection of recipes and recollections of a life-changing adventure. Lynn Brazen, our discussion leader, even baked Spicy Island Gingerbread — from one of the book’s recipes — to give the group an authentic taste of the journey. On May 2, readers will tackle Thomas Wolfe’s “You Can’t Go Home Again,” the story of a young writer longing to make his mark upon the world with a sweeping portrait of America and Europe from the Great Depression through the years leading up to World War II. Lucille Willit will lead the discussion. All are invited to attend even if they haven’t read the book. The books selected for upcoming months include:

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W oodbridge LIFE

Page 12 • May 2018

www.ourwoodbridge.net

ææ woodbridge singers

Woodbridge Singers and Dancers Spring Concert By Elizabeth Cunning

say the same thing every year: “This year’s Spring Concert is going to be the best one ever!” And it’s true; the concert that is currently being rehearsed will be one to remember. Woodbridge Singers and Dancers are coming your way with a variety of songs made popular by Frank Sinatra, The Kingston Trio, Peter, Paul and Mary, Tony Orlando and Dawn and more. Our own Frank Perez will be singing and playing guitar on several favorites that will have you remembering back when you first heard them on the radio, and you get to sing along. Yvonne Bechthold, our gifted keyboardist, keeps us on pitch, always with a smile. Photo by Charm Mathis

And who doesn’t like to go to Woodbridge Singers led the national anthem at the Stockton Ports 2018 Silver Sluggers Opening Night. The evening was cool and windy the fair? You will think you are and it even rained later on in the game but all this did not dampen enthusiasm for having a good time! Stockton Ports beat Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, 5 to 3. on the midway as a special cast of characters brings to life portions of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “State Fair.” Skit Director Linda Takita has taken the reins to choreograph a fantastic musical number that will have you all smiles. And is that the smell of cotton candy and popcorn wafting in the air? Well, it just might be! There are a few surprises along the way and a grand finale not to be missed. Hope to see you there.

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Please RSVP at the front desk. Tickets are $3 each. You may bring a dessert to share after the concert.

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May 2018 • Page 13

ææ women of woodbridge y Polly Smith B Get Your Kicks

ay is a time when the flowers are flourishing, the grass is green and the Women of Woodbridge (WOW) group is in full swing. The Sip for Scholarship (SIP) is Thursday, May 10, for which the Clubhouse Multipurpose Room will be transformed into Route 66. Proceeds of this event provide scholarships for eligible local students who are going to a junior college or a trade school. We have had so many people participating to make this event such a success year after year. Thank you to all the volunteers and guests. On Wednesday, June 20, we will hold our Meet and Greet at 6 p.m. on the Clubhouse patio. Bring a hors d’oeuvres to share. WOW will provide wine and water. Come for fellowship and get to know each other better in a casual environment. Our pamphlet has been updated thanks to Sharon Borstad and Carole Pfoutz. Please stop by the flyer board and pick one up. See you at our regular monthly meeting Wednesday, May 16, at 11 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room. Polly Smith, president Mickie Gattuso, vice president

Karen Nickell, secretary Sue Edmiston, treasurer

Page 14 • May 2018

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ææ men of woodbridge

Sunday, May 13 One seating: 9 to 10 a.m. Lakeview Clubhouse Multipurpose Room

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH

Treat the mothers in your family to mimosas, orange juice, scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, fresh fruit, coffee and water. Sign up at the front desk. $7 per person.

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Gardener’s Corner By Master Gardener Cate White

ulinary herbs are some of the most rewarding plants to grow. They do especially well in our Mediterranean climate, have mostly low water requirements and provide us with a bounty of flavors to liven up our favorite dishes. Herbs are classified as either perennials or annuals. Shrubby perennials include rosemary, both upright and prostrate, the thymes, including English, silver and lemon and common sage, which can be green or purple. Oregano, marjoram, French tarragon, chives and mint are lower growing plants that die back partially or completely in the winter. Oregano can be Greek, Italian or Mexican and mints include peppermint and spearmint, among countless others. Basil, including Thai, purple and Greek varieties, is an annual, as are cilantro, dill and summer savory. A few herbs, such as parsley (both flat leaved and curly) and fennel, are biennials, meaning they grow through one season, then set seed and die the following season. These are only a few of the many varieties available. Happily, herbs are not fussy about types of soil, fertilization or water. Basil, chives and mints like regular watering, while others have low water needs. They are mostly pest free, although aphids can be a problem as well as white flies and spider mites. Chives may be attacked by bulb mites, small insects that look like aphids clustering at the base of the plant. Strong frequent sprays of water can discourage aphids, white flies and mites. Neem oil or insecticidal soaps are also good controls, although they will probably have to be reapplied several times. When planting herbs, it is important to keep in mind their mature size, water needs and growth habits. A few, such as parsley, fennel, dill and cilantro prefer cooler weather, growing best in spring or fall. These can grow to about 1-1/2 to 2 feet tall and about 12 inches wide. Perennials are best planted in spring or fall and can last many

Photos contributed

seasons. Upright rosemary is the largest of these, growing to 4 or 5 feet tall and about 2-1/2 feet wide, although they will withstand heavy pruning. Prostrate rosemary makes a good ground cover, about 8 Cate White inches in height and spreading several feet. Sage and thyme reach 1-1/2 to 2 feet in height and width. Chives and tarragon will die back completely during the coldest months, while the growth of marjoram, oregano and mint will slow, and they should be cut back to just above ground level. With the exception of chives, these are spreading low growing plants. All herbs should be trimmed often to keep growth neat and compact. Use the cuttings to season your cooking. Most herbs, except the upright variety of rosemary, grow well in large pots. You can even group several together in a half-barrel. Many are quite attractive, adding interest to a perennial bed. Mint should always be contained in a pot to keep it from taking over your yard. Keep plants with low water requirements grouped together. There are many books showing layouts for herb gardens from informal to the formal knot gardens found on fancy estates. Herbs are calling you to let your creativity loose in the garden and in the kitchen!

May 2018 • Page 15

May Garden Checklist

• Control ants with baits or traps. Eliminate standing water in flowerpots, drain pipes and gutters to control mosquitos. • Keep monitoring citrus for Asian Citrus Psyllid. • Look for oozing or dead limbs on apple, crabapple, pear and pyracantha. This is a sign of Fire Blight. • Continue monitoring and adjusting irrigation according to the weather. • Apply mulch to bare areas. • Check for signs of powdery mildew on apple, crepe myrtle, rose and stone fruits. Control with Neem oil. • Put out and maintain yellow jacket traps. • Plant or sow seeds of cucumber, squash and melons. Start seed potatoes. Also plant summer annuals such as zinnias, petunias and vinca. • Aerate lawns that get heavy foot traffic. • Fertilize cane berries, citrus, deciduous fruit trees, palms and heavy flowering shrubs with slow release fertilizer if not done in March or April.

Page 16 • May 2018

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SCENE @ the Clubhouse Woodbridge LIFE staff visited the Lakeview Clubhouse Friday, April 13, to find activities and pastimes residents were enjoying. WBL photos by Sharyl Burgeson Captions by Sharyl Burgeson and Shelley Tate

In the Fitness Center, Bobbi Donaldson works out on the hip abduction machine after a vigorous spin on the elliptical. Because she works and has every other Friday off, Bobbi is able to work out on her day off as well as some evenings and weekends.

Meeting of the minds – (L to R): Residents Marge Nelson, Sandy Stanger, Mary Jo Kusalo and Jacque Reynolds meet for coffee and chat every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Jennie Custodio, Activities/Events Coordinator, joined the group on this occasion.

Harriett Applegarth (L) talks with Diamond Gals softball coaches Dottie Aubrey and Connie Reed about the roster and team line-up for Saturday’s 9 a.m. game.

After his daily exercising, Ron Patel takes a moment to read the paper and drink a cup of coffee before going home to relax.

Sharon Kuderca browses through the activities at the flyer board after her Line Dancing class. She loves this display of activities and the posters in the Community Living Room foyer. Sharon recently retired and is now enjoying daily Woodbridge activities as well as those offered on weekends or in the evenings.

The Tai Chi class, taught by Manteca resident Carolynne Clifton, practices the “Brush Knee” pose. Shown behind Carolynne are Ben Supremo and Sherry Lee.

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Lynn Ramos, a five-year Woodbridge resident, makes it to the gym five times a week to work out on all the machines.

Al Montoya has lived here for two years and uses all the machines, including arm curls and free weights.

May 2018 • Page 17

Wayne Gordon works the seated leg curl machine on this day in the Clubhouse Fitness Center. He refers to his buddies as “Gym Rats,” as they’re here with him most days to work out.

… … … … … … … … … … … Woodbridge artist Kathy Dezotte frequently creates posters for the Clubhouse foyer to publicize upcoming events.

Page 18 • May 2018

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Clubhouse 10 Anniversary th

Continued from clubhouse ANNIVERSARY page 1 Article and captions by Mike Spence Photos from the collection of Dreanna Langdon

There are many facts and items of trivia to relate about the history of the Clubhouse. Here are but a few of which you might not be aware: The indoor pool is often mistaken as an “Olympic-sized” pool but given that it’s only 75-feet long, it is considered a short course competitive pool. You’ll need to swim 70 laps in the pool to cover a mile. The floating lane ropes aren’t there so much to mark the lanes but to minimize waves and chop from other swimmers. The lane markings are in tile on the bottom of the pool where the head-down swimmers can see them. The largest HVAC unit on the Clubhouse roof services the indoor pool. It doesn’t heat or cool but does move (“exchange” in HVAC speak) a lot of air to keep condensation from forming on the windows and elsewhere. All the paint used in the indoor pool area is two-part epoxy paint to further resist moisture. The second story walking track flooring is actually a form of painted rubber matting. The same contractor installed the walking track and Multipurpose Room (MPR) flooring. You’ll need to complete 24 laps to cover a mile. The Clubhouse looks like a clapboard-clad wood building but it’s not. The skeleton of the building is steel. It is covered with cement board resembling wood clapboard. The exterior trim is also cement board. The interior walls are sheet metal channels covered with drywall. There are not a lot of flammable parts to the building. Do you think we really need the balloons to hold up these columns any longer? They’ve been up for four months!

The MPR is 3,000 square feet (larger than any home built by Pulte in Woodbridge). The floor is a floating sports floor (think basketball court). The flooring boards lie on sheets of thin foam, not directly attached to the concrete slab. The foam gives the floor “spring” and prevents the wood from wicking up moisture from the slab. The electric shades on the north windows were added after WOA took ownership of the building. The two rooms across from the Andover Room were originally called the “Club Room” and the “Arts and Crafts Room.” There was some confusion among residents about using the rooms for purposes not implied by their respective names. About four years ago, the rooms were renamed the more generic Oxford and Westport, both with Norman Rockwell connections. The Fitness Center has a wide assortment of cardio and strength equipment for residents’ use. The developer purchased the original equipment at a cost totaling over $130,000.

Past director Carl Hansen was Pulte’s superintendent for construction of the Clubhouse. He lounges with his wife, Lauralee Hansen, in what is now the Fitness Center.

When the developer applied for a building permit for the Clubhouse, its estimated value was $4.5 million. The clock tower’s tippy top is 70 feet above the parking lot, making it one of the tallest buildings in Manteca. The Great Wolf Lodge set to be built near Costco is planned to be five stories or 10 feet shorter than the clocktower. We’ll have to wait for the hotel to be built, but for now, WE WIN!

The Multipurpose Room’s first party, the “Dusty Shoes” party, during Clubhouse construction in 2007.

Before the walking track was installed, the second floor was just a place to hang out.

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W oodbridge LIFE

May 2018 • Page 19

The Quincy Room kitchen is used for demonstrations, classes, potlucks and parties.

WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz Captions by Carol Jo Hargreaves

The 3,000-square-foot Multipurpose Room is used for meetings, concerts, classes, parties, indoor sports and other large gatherings.

The Community Retreat and lending library, a comfortable place to read, watch television, visit and enjoy a cup of coffee.

The Living Room contains a beautiful stained glass panel, commissioned to be the “signature” Rockwell statement of the Clubhouse. It captures the well-known “Stockbridge at Christmas” street scene, except uses Woodbridge models and lake.

The Clubhouse front desk, hub of activities at Woodbridge. This is the information center of the community, the place to ask questions and to sign up for activities, events and classes.

The indoor short course competitive pool is a place for exercise, water aerobics classes, play and fun water events.

Lake Rockwell, named for the well-known painter, was created to enhance the family generational experience through popular catch-and-release fishing.

Bob Hall pays tribute to Lakeview Clubhouse with a painting on the tailgate of his pickup truck.

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 20 • May 2018

Old Like a Tree Article and WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz

t was shortly before one of those “round” birthdays, which make one feel a million years older than the day before. The best woman in the world – the only one who always knows what is best for me – noticed my crisis and said, “It is time that you talk to somebody older than you.” And since I wouldn’t settle for anyone but the greatest authority on old age, we took a trip to the White Mountains at the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada to meet the world’s oldest living being, a tree named Methuselah.

Methuselah is actually an understatement. The biblical Methuselah lived to see the age of 969 years, for a bristlecone pine tree, that isn’t even adolescence. Methuselah’s namesake in the White Mountains has a confirmed age of 4,780 years. It has lived almost five times as long as Noah’s famous long-lived ancestor.

The Methuselah-like age is not the only bristlecone fact defying logic. Human science has established a “tree line” - an altitude above which trees cannot exist Bristlecone pines live above the tree line – and only there - at 11,500 feet. It is here, in a dry, arid climate and on poor limestone soil, that Methuselah and his siblings do what no other plant can do: survive, even thrive. And they have done so for millennia. There are about one hundred trees growing in the Ancient Bristlecone Forest. These trees are so old that sometimes the moon stops on its path across the sky to listen to their stories. The oldest tree started growing around the time the Great Pyramid of Giza was completed (2,600 B.C.). They were already 1,400 years old when the Greeks fought in the Trojan War. When Jesus Christ was born, they were 2,600 years old and when Christopher Columbus set sail, they had passed the 4,000-year mark. They were almost 4,400 years old when the United States declared independence and had reached the age of 4,450 when California joined the Union.

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In order to protect Methuselah from souvenir hunters and people who would just “love it to death,” the U.S. Forest Service does not disclose the tree’s location. It only hints that Methuselah is one of the trees right along the trail in the Ancient Bristlecone Forest. When I visited, I expected age-old giants like the sequoias and was in for a surprise. Most of the gnarly old fellows were not taller than 8 or 10 feet. On average, a bristlecone gains one inch in girth every 100 years, and sometimes, they even grow backward. They are the only plants in the world that have developed an ability to hibernate. When times get rough, they shut down and shed most of their bark and needles. But as long as one piece of bark, one root and one water vessel are still alive, the tree keeps breathing and comes back to full life when times get better. And even if there is only one branch alive, that branch still carries the main prerequisite to being considered alive, its reproductive ability. More than four and a half millennia old, even the hoariest bristlecone can still generate cones with viable seeds. With that much time to grow, each one of the ancient trees has developed a true, individual character. I approached the one that looked the oldest and wisest, a short, weathered fellow that was a mere seedling when King Tut was a boy. When I asked him, “What do I have to do to grow as old and wise as you?” I could almost see him smile when he answered, “As little as possible.”

W oodbridge LIFE

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May 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 21

Of White Mice and White Trees Article and WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz

verybody has seen albinos, perhaps even the famous white lab-mice, Pinky and Brain, and Siegfried and Royâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s white tiger. There are white whales, white elephants, white snakes and white owls. But, have you ever heard of a white tree? Among animals, albinism is not much more than a curiosity caused by the absence of pigmentation. For plants, albinism is a death sentence. It means a total absence of chlorophyll, without which no plant can survive. There is one exception, however: the Albino Redwood. There are only a few of these trees in the entire world. Two grow in Humboldt County, one in the Santa Cruz Mountains and one in Big Sur. They are old, small and well hidden. To the Pomo Indians in Northern California and to the Esselen Indians of the Big Sur coast, these trees were sacred and their leaves were used in cleansing ceremonies. The Native Americans did not question the wisdom of their creator to allow something that should not be possible to continue to grow.

times of need. If a tree catches a disease, the others nearby supply it with extra enzymes to get healthy. If a tree is struck by lightning and loses its branches and needles, the others nearby supply it with nutrients until all of its limbs have grown back.

The albino redwood cannot perform photosynthesis and thus, left alone, it would starve to death. The surrounding trees supply it with nutrition. In return, the complicated chemistry of the albino allows it to filter out any harmful chemicals from the ground water, keeping the surrounding trees healthy. Therefore, while the albino does not get enough nutrition to grow big and tall, it certainly can grow old â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even older than the average redwood. It was a strange picture, seeing a snow-white, 8-foot short, old redwood tree standing there, surrounded by its ten times taller, healthy brothers and sisters. It seemed I could hear the tree whisper, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you have a good and strong family that supports you, it is OK to be a little bit different.â&#x20AC;?

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investigative minds had to get to the bottom of the mystery and so it was discovered that redwoods grow in families with entangled, interconnected roots to help each other in

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Page 22 • May 2018

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Dancing With Romance By Marie Evans and Tina Morales

exican-American residents Jose and Tina Morales’ hobby used to be Mexican folk dancing. The two began dancing after Tina’s mother heard on the Spanish radio station in San Jose that the Consul General of Mexico, civic leader Guadalupe Suarez, was recruiting people interested in learning Mexican folk dances. Tina’s mother enrolled Tina in the group. After Tina attended a couple of classes she asked her boyfriend, Jose, if he would like to be her dance partner. Jose accepted. Thus, Tina and Jose were able to spend more time together. Tina’s mother had strictly limited their dates to one a week, certainly not enough for this young couple. Tina and Jose recruited more friends and family to join the dance group and Jose drove them to and from classes twice a week, as well as to performances. As they learned the dances, they learned about the region the dances were from and about Mexican culture and music. Susan Cashion and Ramon Morones founded Grupo Folklórico Los Lupeños de San José, now one of the oldest Mexican folk dancing companies in the U.S., in 1969. An overwhelming number of dancers responded to the Consul General’s invitation. The group danced Mexican folk dances that varied according to the region from which each dance originated. Dancers’ costumes reflected the origin of the dance number performed. Tina’s mother was a very good seamstress and made all of Tina’s dancing dresses. Colorful skirts and shirts were worn for dances from Jalisco. Beautiful white, lacy dresses and white pants and shirts were worn for dances from Veracruz. Wide, ruffled skirts and boots and cowboy hats, jeans and boots were worn when dancing the polka. The dance instructor explained meanings of the dances to the audience so they could enjoy performances even more. One dance was called a snake dance (La Culebra) where the men danced in Photo contributed a single line, moving like a snake and slapping their

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hats on the floor, while the girls formed a huddle and pretended to be afraid the snake might bite them. The dance music was very lively and usually played by a mariachi group. Many of us are acquainted with the Mexican Hat Dance (El Jarabe Tapatio), which Jose and Tina proudly danced as a solo act many times. The act gave Jose and Tina a chance to sneak a kiss behind the hat in secret from the audience at the end of their dance.

Los Lupeños performed in many places and for many special occasions. A high point was when the troupe performed in Sacramento for the Folk Dance Federation of California in cooperation with the Sacramento Council of Folk Dance Clubs. There were dancers performing German, Greek, Russian, Israeli, Macedonian and many other countries’ dances. Jose and Tina had the opportunity to talk, dance and eat with these dancers and even to exchange dance steps. Jose and Tina performed for Governor Ronald Reagan in Foster City and other dignitaries running for office. Los Lupeños also danced on Channel 11 television, the only Spanish-speaking TV station at the time that only aired on Sundays for about two hours. This was very special for the performers. Tina and Jose danced together with Los Lupeños for about three years. Their last performance was at Santa Clara University in 1971. The couple eloped and was married in 1971. Their first child was born in 1972. After their last child was born in 1975, they joined Tina’s brothers’ dance group, Raises de Mexico (Roots of Mexico). They joined so their children could learn Mexican folk dance as well as about their Mexican culture.

Tina and Jose learned to show appreciation when someone was performing for them, even if it were a piano player in a bar. After all, he or she was working to entertain others so Tina and Jose were taught to show their appreciation for others’ work with a smile, a clap of the hands or something. Regrettably, Jose and Tina are no longer able to dance Mexican folk dance because Tina has problems with her knees and feet. They still love to watch Mexican folk dancing and listen to mariachi music, and they will definitely be moving their feet while sitting and watching the dancers dance.

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May 2018 • Page 23

Unique Hobbies

By Marie Evans

talented artist, Genie Becker began her art as a young woman by learning to paint in oil and pastels. One of her paintings of a Dalmatian firedog appropriately hangs in the Manteca fire station at the corner of Madison Grove and Lathrop Road. Genie, a retired registered nurse, branched out into porcelain painting when she moved to Woodbridge. Her first teacher was the well-known Woodbridge resident Mary DiMaggio who was teaching a class in porcelain painting just as Genie was developing an interest in this art. As Genie developed her new talent, she became very involved in the art, joining such associations as the California Association of Porcelain Artists and the Camellia City Porcelain Artists, Sacramento. She also attends seminars to learn and improve her art, which is delicate and lovely. Genie sometimes trims her pieces in the expensive gold often seen on fine china. It is generally believed that the art of painting lovely china began in China – hence the name. Genie obtained a kiln so she is able to fire her art in her own kiln and in the convenience of her own home. A kiln effectively bakes the colors into the porcelain and each firing emphasizes the colors used by the artist. How many firings the artist uses depends upon what is wanted. Sometimes several firings are required.

Genie paints jewelry, teapots and cups and the associated items involved in serving tea, as well as lovely cake plates and other serving dishes, wall decorations and more. All are pretty and beautifully colorcoordinated. Genie and her present teacher, Nancy Myatt, created a little pot to hold loose tea in a teapot. This is useful in keeping tea leaves in place and stopping them from floating to the top as they are contained in a decorated little pot of their own, allowing the hot water in as water and out as tea.

WBL photos by Volker Moerbitz

Genie Becker, Talented Porcelain Painter

You see Genie’s sense of whimsy and humor in other items such as a little mouse painted in a tan brown or an unexpected splash of bright red that emphasizes other beautiful colors Genie has chosen. Some items she creates are useful as well as beautiful. She is very creative and everything I saw was lovely – and often interesting – as is the rhinoceros that, as you look at the plate, is turning with its tusk pointing directly at … you! It looks real, even though much smaller than a real rhinoceros. Genie has also painted other wild animals such as tigers whose colors show beautifully on the porcelain dish. Thank you for sharing your talents with us, Genie!

Page 28 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2016 Page 24 â&#x20AC;˘ May 2018

Triker's Travels

Woodbridge LIFE W oodbridge LIFE

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Trikerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Travels

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By Judy McNamara

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time again â&#x20AC;Ś the boys and girls of spring and summer are taking over Del Webb Field for another year of fantastic softball. How lucky we are at Woodbridge to watch some really good softball at the risk of players possibly sustaining knee injuries and torn ligaments, not to mention shoulder rotator cuff problems. Yaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gotta love these Silver Sluggers and Diamond Gals who believe the pain wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last forever but the memories will. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what

brings them back every season. The game of softball began in 1887 and was invented by George Hancock who was a member of the Chicago Board

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of Trade. The game was originally played indoors using a broken broom handle and a boxing glove tied up with twine. They called the game mushball. As the game evolved and play moved outdoors, the equipment got better and better. Most of us remember hitting with a wooden bat but by 1970 aluminum bats were being used. Then in 1993 came the titanium bat followed in 2000 by composite bats. During game time, you can see all the different, colorful bats resting against the fence, each delivering a contact of its own. Despite the term â&#x20AC;&#x153;softball,â&#x20AC;? the ball is actually not soft. However, it is larger than a baseball. This is the first season Woodbridge has fielded seven menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teams. Two of the teams, the red and the green, only play on Saturdays. The rest of the teams play during the week. There are a lot of games on the schedule, so you will need to check for the ones you can attend. Two teams of Diamond Gals will be playing, too, with at least 12 very good new players this season. Diamond Gals

Team 6 - Red

Team 7 - Green

Bob Gotelli Brian Jones Dave Avelar Ben Casillas Vern Mendes John Peterson Al Sanchez Russell Stark Mario Vernali Joe Victoria Will Webb Fred Womack

Mike Frary Phil Rankin Sam Barney Mike Belcher Mike Bell Ed Burnett Brian Conway Mike Coughlan Steve Foster John Jones Jerry Larson

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like football. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make up no trick plays.â&#x20AC;? ~ Yogi Berra

Play ball!

May 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 25

play every Saturday at 9 a.m. Besides supporting the teams, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also get to enjoy wonderful entertainment and socialize with the spectators while having your morning coffee and doughnut or other great food from the Snack Shack. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;A hotdog at the game beats a steak at the Ritz!â&#x20AC;? ~Anonymous.) The umpires are an integral part of the game, too. Spectators frequently heckle these men and women in blue (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dang, Blue! Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen better eyes on a potato!â&#x20AC;? ~Anonymous). And, as Paul Bowers says, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;grumpiresâ&#x20AC;?! In the words of the legendary umpire, Bill Klem, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It ainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t nothinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; till I call it.â&#x20AC;? So, come out and support our Silver Sluggers and Diamond Gals, get great food at the Snack Shack and get to know your neighbors in the bleachers. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a win-win for everybody!

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Thirty-five women attend regular practice and Saturday games. Dave Reed and Mike Spence serve as base coaches at games.

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Softball INSIDE A ROOKIE By Debby Hickey

“P

ut me in coach, I’m ready to play…” is the walk-up song one rookie chose for his first season on the Silver Sluggers. At his first practice game, he got a taste of things to come. He got two hits at bat and two pats from the coaches, so he can’t wait for the season to get underway! As a matter of fact, Coach Bob told his team, “Anyone who had two or more hits today, DO NOT wash your uniform!” Only a rookie can understand what other rookies feel during the preseason – the excitement, the apprehension, the insecurity and the anticipation. He’s spent his 40 core years working up through the ranks of his career, gaining confidence, experience and expertise. He can conduct large meetings, give comprehensive training, complete negotiations with top professionals, handle emergencies, troubleshoot problems and address business catastrophies. BUT, he is scared to death to set foot on a softball field! This is probably the biggest challenge an over-55-year-old male faces when returning to play! The nerves are real. His thoughts include, “I cannot let the team down,” “I cannot let my coach down,” “I cannot let the fans down.”

DALE BITTLE: By Debby Hickey

As the first game of the season gets underway, however, most nervousness is gone. Somehow a transformation takes place — and the rookie becomes the 12-year-old boy again. There’s only one thought in his mind: I’m ready to play ball! Oh, boy! When he takes his first step onto the fresh, expensive composite dirt in his dirty new cleats, with glove in hand — walking out to the field with his 10 comrades, he’s ready to work as a cohesive unit and battle the opposing team’s batters. He’s practiced those double play drills over and over again and his head is filled with words of wisdom from the coach. Yes, he’s competitive in spirit but his biggest goal is simply to have fun. (Well, that plus savor the after-game beer currently chilling in his cooler!) This is what 100+ Woodbridge men and women have signed up to do this year. Come on out and watch the seven Silver Sluggers teams and four Diamond Gals squads battle it out on the field, grab a hot dog from the Snack Shack, jam to the music and join in the fun. See you there. Let’s play ball!

The Rookie

ew resident Dale Bittle came out to the softball field last season and was blown away by the softball players — most of whom were older than he (he’s 58) — by their agility and ability on the field. “Can I do that?” he wondered. So this season, Dale signed up to be a part of the Woodbridge Senior Softball Club (WSSC). He didn’t think he could actually play (he has a bad knee and can’t run), so just in case, he signed up for umpiring, score booth and griller at the Snack Shack as well. He bought a new glove and new cleats; then he and I started tossing the ball. I noticed he kept sliding his new shoes in the grass (I was mortified — he just bought them and now he is getting them dirty!), but he said there is nothing more embarrassing than wearing new stuff — like new clothes on the first day of school! No, he wanted his cleats to look lived in! On the morning of his first practice attendance, Dale laid out layers of clothing, put his dirty new cleats in his gym bag and told me how odd it felt, that at his age, he should feel trepidation, or nerves, to go play ball. But he went anyway, and once there, it was all but lost in the instant camaraderie amongst the guys. Dale played catcher to pitcher Brian Jones (pitcher for last year’s Red team) and felt at ease with him. He wanted to do a good job, and that entails preserving your pitcher’s energy as much as possible. (Dale explained to me that you must throw the ball back targeting the pitcher’s head, so he can easily catch it and be ready for the next pitch. And if you retrieve the ball from the dirt, you need to wipe it off in your glove before returning it. You position yourself to catch wherever the pitcher throws and you alert him to anything going on behind him.) Dale would signal to Brian, then fire the ball back to him — perhaps a little too exuberantly — Brian had a puzzled but appreciative look on his face! When it was time to bat, Dale drew on his past baseball experiences to set his stance. Kind advice from others helped him adjust to hitting a lobbed softball (as opposed to a straight-thrown hardball; apparently there is a big difference in when you begin your swing). As he got more comfortable in the batter’s box and was hitting over the infielders’ heads toward left field, he noticed a guy with

a clipboard watching him from behind the fence. Well, he did what any mature, adult male would do — show off! He changed his stance mid-pitch and hit out to right field — where nobody was! He glanced back at the clipboard guy, who grinned back! Draft day came and Bob Perrin, coach of the Blues Brothers team, chose Dale. Now practice will include bonding with teammates and cohesion within the unit. Dale asked the coach to teach him, train him and help him make adjustments to be the best he can be. And that’s exactly what Coach Bob did — he tried him out behind the plate, on first base, and then in the outfield … (huh? outfield? But he can’t run!) Then Dale fielded a ball and fired it over to the second baseman — accurately! He figures coach wants to observe any and all skills he might have — and that’s a good thing. At bat, coach observed him and asked, “What do you think you are doing wrong?” Dale replied, “You tell me — I want to smack the ball.” “Keep your shoulder up, look at the ball (not the pitcher) and swing straight all the way through.” Soon after adjusting, Dale started smacking the ball. Dale was surprised that no one chided each other when errors were made. Instead, there was nothing but support from all teammates. He says Coach Bob is “stern, and firm,” and will do whatever it takes to help you. Bob told him, “Yeah, you’re getting this” and Dale replied, “You’re a good coach.” He has seen total professionalism from this club. Everyone lifts each other up and has each other’s back. Dale says it’s all so overwhelming and he can’t wait to play the first game. I encourage all fans to come out and watch Dale and all of our rookies this year — as well as our seasoned players. Their level of play will impress you. The ambiance is fun, the music is great, there’s lots of food and drink and people to meet! Game days are Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, all starting at 9 a.m. See you there! Play ball!

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Softball

NEW WOODBRIDGE SENIOR SOFTBALL WEBSITE By Charm Mathis

Softball Is Finally Here

he Woodbridge Senior Softball Club is excited to share our new website where you can see the highlights of all the games and happenings around the softball field. Go to https://silversluggers.net

By Polly Smith

Even though we were not able to have our “official” Opening Day celebration April 7, the season has begun. The rain is good for our beautiful field and will keep it healthy throughout the season. We have now been playing softball for one month. If you have missed cheering on your neighbors and friends, come out to the field Wednesday, starting at 9 and 10:30 a.m., Friday at 9 and 10:30 a.m. and Saturday starting with the Diamond Gals at 9 a.m., followed by Silver Sluggers at 10:30 and again at noon. Not only will you enjoy some good softball but also on Wednesdays and Saturdays the Snack Shack will be open. Hot dogs always taste better when you are watching a softball game. We are planning a 10-year softball celebration at the field Saturday, August 4. This event will kick off the second half of the season. Mark your calendar and come out to the field for a fun time with a few surprises.

Travel Adventures

Want to help? Snap a picture of the action on the field, around the Snack Shack, in the score booth or in the stands and send it to us. It’s easy! Just go to our website (https://silversluggers. net), click the menu page “About Us” and scroll down to “Capture a Picture.” From there, click on our email link and send us your pictures: woodbridgesilversluggers@gmail.com

Photos contributed

Let’s share the excitement of this 2018 season with our family, friends and neighbors who come together to play the game we all love.

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May 2018 • Page 27

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Page 28 • May 2018

W oodbridge LIFE

ææWoodbridge Seniors Golf Club

www.ourwoodbridge.net

March Putting Tournament Results

By Mike Patterson

Submitted by the Perrins

onday, March 26, fifty Woodbridge Seniors Golf Club golfers did it again. We played the Tracy Golf and Country Club course in winds that pushed and pulled our shots to new destinations. The game was a scramble with a blind bogie, so, at the end of the tournament, Dan Theal announced that scores from six of the 18 holes wouldn’t count. It was a fun variation of golf and a great day of golf and camaraderie. Congratulations to the 20 plus players who received prize money. Not a member? Come join us at on next tournament, Monday, May 14, at Creekside Golf Course, Modesto. 9:30 a.m. shotgun start. Entry fee is $42. Guests pay an additional $5 and are always welcome.

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May 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 29

Pickleball Corner By Marcia Umberger

n Thursday, April 12, the Pickleball group held its second round robin of the year. This one was in the evening so those folks who are working could join us. We had a terrific turnout of eight women and eight men. The women played each other as did the men. Everyone played seven games with the top two women and men playing a championship match. Participants in the championship match were Ruby Cawley and Tim Sells versus Cindy Carlsen and Frank Mello. A hard match was played with Ruby and Tim coming out the winners. Everyone had a great evening. We always encourage residents to come out and play with us. The Pickleball group sponsored a Newcomers Expo on Tuesday, April 17. This was a special event held to encourage more people to come out to the pickleball courts and learn this fastgrowing sport. If you missed it, you can always call Joe Victoria at 815-9343 to arrange a lesson or two.

Pickleball winners (L to R): Frank Mello, Cindy Carlsen, Ruby Cawley and Tim Sells.

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W oodbridge LIFE

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Simple Home-Cooked Favorites

Paula uses her freezer for healthy home-cooked meals Article and WBL photo by Sharyl Burgeson

Paula Beck and her younger sister, Pat Peirano, also a Woodbridge resident, didn’t do a lot in the kitchen while growing up. “Oh, we had our chores of setting the table and washing the dishes but our mother was the cook.” One semicooking chore the girls helped with was stirring the polenta, a two-hour task. “The polenta was often a side dish for chicken cacciatore and/or doves that our father and cousins would hunt. After the hunt, our mother would invite all hunters and their families over for a polenta-dove feed. We would eat the polenta soft for those night’s dinners and leftovers were fried the next morning for breakfast,” Paula remembered. It wasn’t until Paula was 19 and married that she began cooking on her own. “These were the ‘60s and I would make my husband’s favorite casserole, tuna noodle, frequently, and it was only later that I discovered our two daughters complained, ‘Not again,’ to my sister. I also was not particularly fond of that casserole but we ate it anyway.” Paula used to can, mainly peaches and tomatoes, and has always enjoyed baking, especially cookies and quick breads like zucchini, pumpkin, banana and persimmon. “If they have nuts, the breads and cookies are always better,” Paula stated. Today, Paula doesn’t cook as much but still tries to eat “healthy.” “For instance, I’ll cook a tamale pie or spaghetti casserole in a 13” by 9” pan, or crock pot a roast or stew or make a big batch of soup which I’ll freeze in individual containers for future meals.” A big batch of “Quick Minestrone” from “Mangiamo (Let’s Eat), A Collection of Family Recipes” by Sylvia Sebastiani is Paula’s go-to recipe now. She has made the recipe her own with the addition of pesto. Paula doubles the recipe, adds the pesto and declares, “This is not a thick minestrone and I feel the sherry really makes the soup. I’m not too sure you can even taste the sherry but I’ll never omit it.” Paula has been making this soup which includes her very favorite vegetable, Swiss chard, for 20 years.

May 2018 • Page 31

Paula Beck shows the 60-year-old pot she uses for “Quick Minestrone.” This soup, Caesar salad and garlic bread round out the Italian menu her long-time Stockton friends request whenever they visit.

QUICK MINESTRONE Simmer 1 hour or more Serves 6 Ingredients: 1 pound 11-ounce can red kidney beans 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon garlic salt 1 clove garlic, pressed ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon oil ¼ cup chopped parsley 1 small zucchini, unpeeled and cut into small cubes 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 small carrot, diced 2 green onions, chopped 4-5 leaves Swiss chard, chopped 3 tablespoons butter 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce or 1 can solid pack tomatoes, mashed 2-½ cups water ½ cup dry sherry ¼ cup uncooked elbow macaroni (optional) ¾ tablespoon pesto Grated Parmesan cheese Several leaves of fresh chopped basil and/or ½ cup of cubed potato may also be added. Directions: Place undrained beans in a large pot; mash about 2/3 of the beans and leave the rest whole. Add salt, garlic salt, garlic, pepper, oil and parsley, stirring well. Then add all the vegetables, butter, tomato sauce and water. Simmer 1 hour or more and then add sherry. If desired, macaroni may be added at this point. Turn off stove and let soup rest 15 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese before serving. If soup seems too thick, add more water.

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 32 • May 2018

ææDid You Know. . . BBQ Compiled by Mike Spence

May is National BBQ Month and May 21 is National BBQ Day, but did you know? • According to the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, barbecue, the verb, is cooking over flame or hot coals and is never to be spelled barbeque, Bar-B-Q or BBQ. Microsoft spellcheck is not as picky. • Per Money Inc., the most expensive stand-alone barbecue/grill is the Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Freestanding Grill with Sideburner, MSRP $20,695 and available from Williams-Sonoma for $21,595 ($900 more) plus tax and shipping. • BBQ, the acronym, stands for “Better Be Quick.” • It appears BBQ, the cooking method and device, originated on several Caribbean islands where the Arawak people lived, most notably on modern day Hispaniola. • The Spanish explorers of the Caribbean borrowed the Arawak word barabicu, translating it to barabacoa, “framework of sticks set upon posts.” • BBQ is low and slow cooking using indirect heat often with smoke, while grilling is moderate to high direct dry heat. • The Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association (HPBA) estimates that 1.47 billion BBQ grills were sold in 2016. • The Arawak people may have originated BBQ but the residents of the southeastern states of the USA perfected it. Just ask ‘em! • In the southeastern states, BBQ was almost exclusively pork, quite possibly due to local availability. Prior to the Civil War, by one estimate, Southerners ate five pounds of pork for every pound of beef. • The capturing and cooking (whole) of wild pigs was called by the Cajun word boucheries or “pig pickin’s.” This appears to be the beginning of the modern southern BBQ, the event or gathering. • In 2013, Lexington, North Carolina, claimed the title of “The Barbecue Capital of the World,” boasting one BBQ restaurant per 1,000 residents. • Frito-Lay BBQ potato chips are not BBQ’d nor does the dry rub flavor profile match the most common ones used in America. • The worst job in the world – BBQ judge – where perfectly cooked pork ribs are served with regional treatments: one with a mustard-based sauce, one with a vinegar-based sauce, another with a tomato-based sauce and the last smoked with just a dry seasoning rub. There’s no correct (or safe) answer. Don’t take the job unless you’re really hungry and can run fast! Resources: HPBA.org, Associated Press Stylebook 2017, grammarist.com, en.wikipedia.com, storysouth.com, moneyinc.com, okramagazine.org and usda.gov

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

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Eldon.Regua@gmail.com

Cirella T. Regua, BA, GRI, SRES, SFR, PMC Realtor/Notary BRE#01466468

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408-519-6466 (fax) CirellaRegua@aol.com

Woodbridge Residents

www.ourwoodbridge.net

W oodbridge LIFE

May 2018 • Page 33

Commemorating Manteca’s Centennial and Honoring our Grandfather WWI Veterans By Bill Barnhart

he Veteran’s Mural Project (VMP) in Manteca is nearing completion with the fifth mural honoring those of our grandfathers who served in this “War to end all Wars.” The first war to be fought for freedom of all people started in Europe and spread to include the entire globe. This mural completes the VMP, which includes murals depicting the War on Terror, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, World War II and now, World War I. Several Woodbridge residents have been directly involved in the installation of these murals on the side of the Bedquarters building at the intersection of Main and Yosemite Streets. Bill Buffington, Jack Dauler, Roger LaPresle, Fred Gallegos, Dave Reed, Gene Bedard, Dave Steffy and I, Bill Barnhart, have all become intimately familiar with the side of that building over the past few years and have sustained a few bruised knuckles during our work.

Public Art for a Better Community

VETERANS’ MURAL PROJECT Manteca Mural Society cordially invites the public to the dedication of the

WWI Mural “Zero Hour”

and the completion of the Veterans’ Mural Project.

We hope you will attend the dedication ceremony Saturday, May 19, to show appreciation for those who served in this war to help preserve the freedom we enjoy today.

SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2018 • 10-11 AM

Corner of Main Street and Yosemite Avenue, downtown Manteca Join us after the dedication for Manteca’s Centennial Celebration Birthday Party, a community event with free admission, entertainment, carnival games, a car show, birthday cake, popcorn, and more! Bring your family & friends!

WOODBRIDGE REAL ESTATE SERVICES

BEN ADRIAN Woodbridge Resident

Eagle Scout, Military & Law Enforcement Veteran

New, Resale, Probate, Relocations, Property Management Realtor BRE# 01764805 Home Buyers Realty

209-679-1056

Email: bensell4u@gmail.com www.BenJAdrian.com CVAR & LAR Masters Club Member \

Get The FREE Value Of Your Home: Call/Text or Email me TODAY! Support Your Community, Hire a Woodbridge Resident

Photographs submitted by Ella Yates

W oodbridge LIFE

Page 34 • May 2018

Where in the world?

www.ourwoodbridge.net

1. Jacob and Linda Lewis at Giants Spring Training, Scottsdale, Arizona.

Wow! Woodbridge LIFE has been circling the globe with our wandering residents! We will do our best to include ALL travel photographs, but space and clarity will dictate. Preference will go to those not featured in previous editions and, yes, to those in exotic locales and interesting photo ops! Send images electronically to wblife2017@gmail.com using high resolution or actual size. Thank you for your contributions. We’re happy that you continue to enjoy Woodbridge LIFE. If your picture isn’t here, look for it in the coming months and keep sending them in! Sorry, we can no longer accept print photos.

2. John and Connie Gannon (left) along with Julie and Don Vehrs (right) were in Scottsdale, Arizona, at the same time and went to two Giants Spring Training games together. The Giants won both. 3. Ray and Pepper Noble pose by the “Kingdom of the Gods” at the Avanta resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Ole! 4. Overlooking Jerusalem. (L to R): Roger and Anne Gibson, Yvonne Perez, Susan and Curtis Holt, Kim and Jerry Jackson.

1. 2.

o t o h P l e v Tra

Send travel photos to WBLIFE2017@gmail.com

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

W oodbridge LIFE

www.ourwoodbridge.net

May 2018 • Page 35

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W oodbridge LIFE