Crafting 9:30 - 11:00AM Hand & Foot 11:00AM - 1:30 Hula Night 6:00 - 8:30 PM 24
Dominoes 12:30-4:00 PM
Movie Night 6:30 - 8:30 PM “His Girl Friday” 25 Recycling 8:30 - 10AM CA-CRV SWAPMEET 8:30AM12:30 PM 26 27
Computer Talk
9:00 - 11AM
Bridge 1:30 - 4:00 PM 28 29
Bible Reading
10:00- 11:00AM
Pinochle 12:00 - 2:00 30
Crafting 9:30 - 11:00AM
Hand & Foot 11:00AM - 1:30
Hula Night 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Dear Fellow Residents,
Acting President’s Message
April 2026
Spring has officially sprung, and April is here with its classic mix of sunshine, surprise showers, and plenty of reasons to gather and enjoy each other's company! Who knows—maybe those April showers will bring us even more May flowers. As your acting president, I'm thrilled to share some wonderful opportunities to connect, play, learn, and declutter this month:
● Sunday, April 12th at 5:30 PM - Games People Play Night (2nd Sunday Potluck+)
Dust off your favorite board games, card decks, or that Mahjong set that's been waiting for its big moment! Bring your game of choice or play a game that someone else brought and bring a snack to share, and let's see who reigns supreme in friendly competition. No sore losers allowed... or at least, keep the excuses creative!
● Tuesday, April 14th at 6:30 PM - Special Speaker Event
Join us for an insightful and thoughtful evening hosted by Barbara Rathbun featuring Nancy Williamson. Nancy will share practical guidance on making end-of-life arrangements and leaving a meaningful legacy. It's an important topic handled with care and compassion—perfect for planning ahead.
● Saturday, April 25th from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM - Swap Meet
Co-hosted by Joyce Lavrar and Shirley Nathan, this is your chance to trade treasures, recycle gently used goods, and maybe discover that one item you've been secretly hoping someone else would part with. Come with stuff to swap or just to browse— either way, it's a great way to lighten your load and brighten someone else's day!
Looking ahead, our Cinco de Mayo celebration in May is already in the works, and it's shaping up to be a fiesta worth marking on your calendar (Sunday, May 3rd, 11 AM - 3 PM). More delicious details coming soon—stay tuned! Thank you all for making our community such a vibrant and supportive place. Whether you're rolling dice, sharing wisdom, or hunting for bargains, let's make April another month full of good times and great neighbors.
Best regards,
Tom
April Celebrations
ALL RESIDENTS
are welcome at the April 4th 10 AM ABC/Newcomers event to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries as well as welcome new residents and chat up a storm, while enjoying coffee and light snacks. Join us!
Happy Birthday!
4/18 Michael Schaffer (#222)
4/19 Vi Sullivan (#173)
4/24 Sonja Jestadt (#146)
4/26 Baole Wang (#168)
Happy Anniversary!
4/21/67 Daisy & Roberto Morales (#119)
April News:
Starting on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 10 AM, chair exercising sessions will be led by Peggy and Eugene Ludwico in the clubhouse.
Coming Up -- Willow Ranch Events - ALL residents are welcome!
Saturday, April 4, 10 AM - Annivs/Bdays/Comms/Newcomers
Tuesday, April 7, 6:30 PM - Residents Meeting
Sunday, April 12, 5:30 PM - 2nd Sunday Potluck + GAMES
Tuesday, April 14, 6:30 PM - Special Speaker (See page 8)
Wednesday, April 22, 6:30 PM - Bingo
Friday, April 24, 6:30 PM - Movie Night (“His Girl Friday”)
Saturday, April 25, 8:30 AM - Swap Meet
Saturday, April 25, 8:30 AM - Recycle (plastic bottles/ aluminum cans ONLY w/CA CRV or CA Refund on them)
Saturday, May 2, 10 AM - Annivs/Bdays/Comms/Newcomers
Sunday, May 3, 11:00 AM - Taco Truck (Cinco de Mayo)
Check flyers (in your Willow Ranch mailtube) re: event details!
Editor’s Ramblings…
This and That…This is kudos to Tom Jackson as the Willow Ranch Association’s acting president. He has brought a much-needed energy and fresh look at our community, and that has helped others who are active in our community to look anew as well. He has wanted to increase opportunities for residents to come together through enjoyable activities. Of course we have the ongoing items that can be seen on the monthly calendar, and we have had and will have other activities to broaden the range of offerings.
Recently, February featured a Chinese New Year, delicious potluck dinner with a lot of mixing and camaraderie. The following afternoon, a Chinese music program showcased singers and musicians to delight the audience. In March we began a monthly series of events called “2nd Sunday Potluck +” where we start with a snacky/finger food potluck followed by either Karaoke/ Sing-along or Games. March’s event was Karaoke/Sing-along, which was fun and tasty. Also, in March was the St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast. April’s fun and education will be 2nd Sunday Potluck + Games, Chair Exercise with Eugene and Peggy Ludwico, a guest speaker on Senior Planning, and a Swap Meet. May welcomes a Taco Truck experience.
That is why I use quotes: “Quotes often capture powerful ideas in just a few words. Many readers turn to quotes for inspiration because they reflect wisdom fathered from years of experience. Whether spoken by leaders, artists, writers, or public figures, quotes can motivate people to think differently about obstacles & opportunities. They provide a small but meaningful insight that readers can reflect on throughout the day.” (Economic Times by Shreya Biswas)
Join hosts Peggy and Eugene Ludwico on the 4th Friday at 6:30 PM of each month for a movie that is sure to entertain FREE POPCORN and SOFT DRINKS
Mark your calendars for Friday, April 24 @6:30 PM to see the movie
“His
Girl Friday”
Starring: Cary Grant Rosalind Russell
When a newspaper editor’s ace reporter ex-wife is about to quit her job and remarry, he buys himself time to win her back by promising her an exclusive interview with a death row convict.
Vera Neumann’s Recipe Book
Favorite Family Meatloaf
Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
2 eggs, beaten
1 slice bread, crumbled 1/2 cup tomato paste
1/2 green pepper, seeded and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper
1/4 cup catsup
1 tablespoon each prepared mustard
1/2 cup finely chopped parsley and brown sugar
Lightly mix ground beef, bread, green pepper, onion, garlic, parsley, beaten eggs, tomato paste, salt and pepper. Loosely pack mixture into glass or ceramic loaf dish. Mix catsup, mustard and brown sugar; pour evenly over meatloaf. Microwave, uncovered, at full power 8 to 10 minutes. Allow to stand 5 to 8 minutes before slicing. Makes 5 to 6 servings.
Note: A meatloaf cooks even better in a ring mold. If you wish, place a glass custard cup in the center of a round cake or pie dish. Eliminating the center helps to cook the meatloaf evenly throughout.
Delicious dessert - Dump cake
Ingredients:
1 20-oz can crushed pineapple & juice
1 15-oz can fruit - sliced peaches, pears, fruit cocktail - your choice
1 pack yellow cake mix
1 cup melted butter
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Place pineapple in greased 9 x 13 pan; cut up other fruit and add to pan. Add a little more juice. Spread cake mix evenly over fruit. Pour butter over cake mix. Then nuts, if desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream - enjoy!
SWAP MEET
SATURDAY, APRIL 25 - 8:30 AM TO 12:30 PM
@ WILLOW RANCH CLUBHOUSE
CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSETS AND CUPBOARDS AND BRING GENTLY-USED CLOTHING AND SMALL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS TO SWAP WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS FOR FURTHER INFO: CONTACT
JOYCE LAVRAR (408-466-5569) or SHIRLEY NATHAN (650-269-3065)
Some specifics:
Nothing is sold; everything is FREE
If you have so much stuff that you could use your own table, please let Joyce or Shirley know.
If you have big/heavy items, don’t bring them down to the clubhouse; instead take a picture to display at the clubhouse. Whatever is not taken, you can either take back with you, or we will take it to Goodwill afterward (EXCEPT for HEAVY ITEMS).
The only way to make space for the new is to release the old. --Anonymous
Release what you no longer need to make way for what you want. --Unknown
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. If you’re not using it, release it graciously to someone else….
--S. J. Scott
“First comes thought; then organization of that thought into ideas and plans; then transformation of those plans into reality.” --Napoleon Hill, author
“If you want to make an easy job seem mighty hard, just keep putting off doing it.” — Olin Miller, writer
Jim Benedetti February 2026 R.I.P.
great-grandchildren live. Jim enjoys cooking…He hopes to do his part to help make WR an even better place to live.”
(Editor’s note: That last sentence he more than lived up to, serving for nine years as an officer or board member of the Association, serving for eight years as the Bingo caller, writing the “Man in the Kitchen” column for this magazine for seven years, and sometimes working as an assistant in the Maintenance Department at Willow Ranch. He often participated in monthly dinners and was an avid Pinochle player and more recently joined in playing Hand and Foot. His smiling face will be missed!)
Chinese New Year Potluck February 21, 2026
I came across the word “chiffonade” recently and wasn’t sure what it was, so I looked it up on the all-knowing internet. I am not trying to trample on Vera’s cooking territory, but after I found this explanation, I thought that I would share it in this column.
“Chiffonade is a French culinary technique for cutting leafy greens and herbs (like basil, mint, or spinach) into long, thin ribbons by stacking, rolling them into a tight cylinder, and slicing thinly across the roll. This method creates delicate, uniform strips that are ideal for garnishes, salads, soups, and pasta, as it prevents bruising and allows for even distribution of flavor. (End product shown in photo)
“How to chiffonade:
● Wash and dry: Thoroughly wash and dry your herbs or leafy greens.
● Stack and roll: Stack the leaves flat, then roll them tightly into a cigar-like cylinder.
● Slice: Using a sharp knife, slice thinly across the roll, moving your fingers back as you cut.
● Separate: Gently separate the ribbons with your fingertips.”
Everyone has a “risk muscle.” You keep it in shape by trying new things. If you don’t, it atrophies. Make a point of using it at least once a day. --Roger von Oech, author
Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. --Ralph Waldo Emerson
WILLOW RANCH ASSOCIATION INFO UPDATE FORM
$10/person annual 2026 WRA dues payable at any time
Pay by cash or personal check, payable to Willow Ranch Association. If you have an update to your info listed in the directory, please update your contact information and important dates below. Always include the space # and name and fill in the line that has changed. If you have not been listed before in the directory, but would like to be in the next version, please fill in lines that you want included (space #, name(s), telephone #(s), and emails). Birthday and anniversary info will only be included in the appropriate months of the Waggin’ Tongue, not the directory.
All info__ Name/Space _____ Phone ____ Email _____ No information_____
SPACE #_______ NAME(S) ______________________________________
BIRTHDAY: NAME MONTH DAY_____
BIRTHDAY: NAME MONTH DAY_____
ANNIVERSARY DATE (MONTH/DAY/YEAR) __________________________
When you complete this form, please put it in the mailtube at space #180 (Josie Jewett) or the Association’s white mailbox to the right of the calendar/bulletin board in the Willow Ranch clubhouse.
Do you know…
Richard Kade
... the difference between eccentric and "certifiable?" The punch-line to this classic joke is "the size of your bank account balance."
All kidding aside, why do we tend to see seeming visionaries, decades or even centuries later, as often being "a tad off”?
Thinking about the opening paragraph, how does thought work? Whether thinking in analytical, emotional terms or even just trying to jog memory for some name that momentarily eludes recall, what is thought beyond synapses making or missing their connections?
As civilization has toggled between the spoken and written word, expression of thoughts in order to collaborate seemed to be what placed human beings on a higher level than other life forms.
Since most of us tend to learn far more from when things go amiss than when all works out well by happenstance, more light is shed upon this from quick consideration of how thought or cognition -- thinking about how we think -- occurs.
For the most part, we seldom tend to think in words unless we are reading, writing or speaking. Even in such instances, if we suddenly start to feel hungry, few of us will think, in words, "I'm hungry. On the right side of the third shelf of the fridge are the left-over ..."
No. The more likely occurrence is a mental picture of that shelf and, probably, in quick order the left-over(s) will be consumed. IQ has little to no bearing on any of this.
More often than not, when trying to solve some sequential series such as a chess game or even Rubik's cube, the breakthrough -- "Eureka!" moment -- occurs when not thinking in "normally active" terms. A case in point is the invention of the first two microprocessors for Intel by Federico Faggin.
In his book, Silicon, Dr. Faggin tells how his insight had little to nothing to do with his training in physics and far more with his youthful hobby of flying radio airplanes. He has since broken the action of thought into a formula shown below:
Then again, the 1997 Apple ad, "Here s to the crazy ones ..." does bear directly on this matter as well as even the so-called race for "AI supremacy."
That tangent and why artificial intelligence (AI) will never replace human innovation will be the topic of another trivia piece soon.
Where Did That Come From?*
by Lynn Killitz
Curry favor
This is an intended pun.The Middle English word "favel” means horse. A groom wishing to impress his master would “curry” his horse diligently.
Double-Cross
This word comes from prizing fighting. The fighter who intentionally loses a fight “crosses up” the spectators and those who have bet on him to win. If he was supposed to lose but wins after all he “crosses up” his manager and those who bet on him to lose. These two “cross ups” make a “double cross.”
Blind Justice
Justice is usually represented in Greek statues as wearing a blindfold and holding a pair of scales. Greek Lady Justice was blinded so she could weigh the evidence without seeing the status of the accuser or bribes that were being offered to her. Most courthouses display Lady Justice to symbolize fairness without prejudices. However, In Virginia City of the Old West the statue of Lady Justice on the Storey County Courthouse held a sword and scale and no blindfold. Some say because frontier justice was not blind and fully aware of those it discriminated against.
Scot-Free
This term has no relationship to Scotland. The term “scot” comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “sceot,” meaning “money put into a general fund” - hence, a tax. The “scot” was the original income tax because it was levied based on ability to pay. Scot-fee meant tax free.
Tycoon
The name comes from the Japanese “tai kun” which means “great prince.” This term was only used when speaking to foreigners in an attempt to impress the foreigners with their own importance and the sovereignty of their ruler. Commodore Perry brought the word back with him from Japan in 1854.
Skinflint
Bits of flint were once used to make a fire. The rocks could be split into smaller and smaller pieces and each piece could be used to start the fire. The “skin” was the very last, thinnest layer. A person trying to save money would split the flint down to its final layer or “skinflint.”
*Selections from Dictionary of Word Origins by Jordan Almond and other sources.
2nd Sunday Potluck + Karaoke March 7, 2026
On page 15 I wrote a second “Editor’s Ramblings” to explain some of the challenges that I had with this issue, and I originally planned to include pictures from the potluck/karaoke event, but I can’t because they will cause the issue to be too large for submission. Instead here’s my take on the event. About 25 people turned out and most, if not all, brought food to share. With food in hand, all found niches of conversation that added to the camaraderie. When most had finished eating, it was time to begin the karaoke. Wolf Neumann as host and Laura Gaither as technician led us through varied songs that were requested by those present. Most songs were sing-alongs with an occasional true karaoke (where only one or two persons sang) thrown in. At one point a Chinese song delighted the group, led by two native speakers who were joined by others who could read the Chinese characters, too. Though there was an occasional glitch with the technology, it was a fun time. The event ended around 7:15.
Funds Received for February 2026 CASH BSM for ABC $30.00 CASH 2026 Membership Dues $40.00 Checks 2026 Membership Dues $70.00 CASH Danny’s Recycling Center $57.00
for February 2026 CK# 1508 Linda Stookey - Bingo Treats $60.25
Kevin S. - Outside Services $50.00
Sharon Prentice - Recycle Donuts $14.50
Gifts to give all year long…
Clean out his garage -- Make coffee for someone -- Make some cookies -- Write a nice letter to the editor -- Thank the cook for dinner -- Give him or her a squeeze for dessert -- Don’t discuss the election with your mother-in-law -- Take your mother to lunch -Smile at a meter maid -- Send a product manufacturer a complimentary letter -- Buy the wine she likes -- Buy the cheese he likes -- Say something nice instead -- Send a “care” package to a shut-in -- Give a plant to someone -- Take an apple to your boss -Forgive an old grudge -- Talk to someone who’s lonely (To be continued)
# 214 > Remove Jim Benedetti (passed on)
WRA Meeting Minutes
March
3, 2026
The March 3rd meeting of the Willow Ranch Association was called to order at 6:30 PM by president Tom Jackson. All Board members were in attendance with the exception of Jim Burrmann and Cathy Smith. Other members from the community in attendance were Sharon and Ed Prentice, Lan Sherlock, Pat Casey and Dennis Archer. Minutes of the February meeting were approved. The Treasurer’s Report was reviewed and filed for audit.
Memorials & Sunshine – Linda Stookey sent a get-well card to Pat Casey and to Dina Bensen, and a card of condolence to Shawn Cole after the passing of Jim Benedetti.
The Chinese New Year potluck was a huge success with over 40 residents participating. Thanks to Feng Liu, Carol Tam and many more. Xiangying Zhang’s music presentation was very entertaining.
NEW BUSINESS
Ideas for the two events in March were finalized. Plans for the “2nd Sunday Potluck” on April 12th and games were agreed upon. Tuesday, April 14th will have a guest speaker at 6:30 in the evening. (Editor’s note: See page 8 for details of this event.)
The Saturday, April 25th Swap Meet is still in the planning phase. The Board will meet on Tuesday, March 10 to finalize job assignments for the Cinco de Mayo/Taco truck event on Sunday, May 3rd.
Josie is working on the menu for the St. Patrick’s Day breakfast to be held on March 21st. It was proposed that the “2nd Sunday Potluck +” recurring events be placed on the Waggin’ Tongue calendar.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:3o PM, and the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 7th at 6:30 PM.
Rizanne Miraglia, WRA Secretary
Editor’s Ramblings - Part 2…
This is crazy! In late February and early March we had so much fun that I had trouble putting together this issue of the Waggin’ Tongue. We had so many pictures of the events that I had to cut down on pages, severely limit the number of pictures and remove graphics in order keep the size under the allowed amount by the publisher. More craziness is that the publisher is having printing challenges that have caused delays for the February and March issues, which some of you may have noticed. As I am writing this (March 14th), the March issues have not been received.
Kindness Korner Kindness Begets Kindness*
“After 33 years of serving the Demarest, New Jersey community as a mailman, Joe DiTore is retiring. DiTore was beloved by residents not just for delivering their mail, but for going above and beyond to help them with errands, check on their homes, and provide comfort during difficult times. The community organized a special sendoff to show their appreciation for DiTore's decades of kindness and service.
“For the past 33 years, DiTore has been more than just a mailman to the residents of Demarest. He would let them know if their garage door was left open, help with errands around town, and even serve as an emergency contact. When a resident's dog passed away, DiTore gifted the owner a bracelet with the dog's name on it. Residents say DiTore genuinely cared about their wellbeing and they, in turn, cared deeply for him.
“DiTore's story highlights the important role that postal workers can play in fostering a sense of community and looking out for vulnerable residents. In an era where many people feel disconnected from their neighbors, DiTore's commitment to going the extra mile for the people on his route is a heartwarming example of the positive impact one person can have.”
*(Editor’s note: Some of you may have seen this story if you watch CBS Sunday Morning. I first saw and heard this story watching the show, but I couldn’t easily find the transcript of the segment. The above story I found on a website called nationaltoday.com, and it may have gotten the info from a publisher, online or other, called Demarest Today, By the People, For the People.)
Sunshine and Memorial Report
Cards of encouragement were sent to: Pat Casey
Dina Bensen
A card of comfort was sent to: Shawn Cole
Please let me know if you know of someone in need of encouragement or comfort.
Linda Stookey, Contact Person 408-594-3548
lstookey3@gmail.com
Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.
--Seneca
Newcomers
If you are new to Willow Ranch, we have a newly revised Residents’ Directory to give you. Also, on page 2 there is a calendar of activities open to all who wish to participate. Of special interest might be the ABC event on the first Saturday of the month at 10 am in the clubhouse. It’s an informal time to celebrate the month’s birthdays and anniversaries and a chance to meet neighbors. We look forward to meeting any new residents.
Welcome to new residents! # 74 Josie Jewett 408-743-5911
Meaning Well
A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, watching his wife, who was looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off, he asked what she'd like to have for her birthday.
“I'd like to be eight again,” she replied, still looking in the mirror.
On the morning of her birthday, he arose early, made her a nice big bowl of Coco Pops, and then took her to the Adventure World Theme Park. What a day! He put her on every ride in the park; the death slide, the wall of fear, the screaming roller coaster, everything there was.
Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park. Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal with extra fries and a chocolate shake.
Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite candy, M&Ms. What a fabulous adventure! Finally, she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed, exhausted.
He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked: “Well, Dear, what was it like being eight again?"
Her eyes slowly opened, and her expression suddenly changed. "I meant my dress size, idiot!!!”
The moral of the story: even when a man is listening, chances are he still gets it wrong!
Puzzles and Word Games you
Paul Revere Southern Flower
Adams Belfry
Boston
British
By land
By sea Church
Concord
Dawes
Firing
Grenadiers
Hancock
Horse Lantern Lexington March Midnight North end Patriot Paul Platoon Revere Revolution Ride Signal Silversmith Troops
Warren
Across
1.Computer memory units
5.High school class
8.Need for fishermen
9.Regrets
11.Jason’s ship
12.“Cogito, ___ sum”
13.It isn’t silver or gold
15.Long, long time
16.Some baby toys
21.Cosmetic additive
22.Hokkaido people
24.Poet Angelou
25.___ tide
26.Battle of Britain grp.
27.Opens a door
Down
1.CEO’s degree
2.Make, as money
3.Garbage in, garbage out
4.Unhearing
5.Largest island in the world
6.Circular domed
dwelling
7.Prefix with phone
10.Costa del ___
14.Jersey call
16.Battering device
17.Winged
18.Spanish painter
19.In ___ of
20.A breeze
23.Bull markets
How to solve sudoku puzzles
April Sudoku
No math is required to solve a sudoku. You only need logic and patience.
Simply make sure that each 3x3 square region has only one instance of the numbers 1-9. Similarly, each number can only
appear once in a column or row in the larger grid. The difficulty on this puzzle is easy.
The headline is a clue to the answer in the diagonal.
TRIVIA TEASER
I Feel Like a Number
1.What actor was offered the role of 007 for The Living Daylights, but lost out due to his contractual obligations for the TV series Remington Steele? a-Colin Firth, b-Tom Selleck, c-Pierce Brosnan, d-Stellan Skarsgard.
2.What number was assigned to the captive title character on TV's The Prisoner? a-2, b-3, c-5, d-6.
3.Zero, Plato and Killer are friends of the title character of what comic strip? a-"Beetle Bailey," b-"Betty Boop," c-"Little Iodine," d-"Zippy the Pinhead."
4.Who played the former Borg, Seven of Nine, on Star Trek: Voyager? a-Jeri Ryan, b-Roxann Dawson, c-Jennifer Lien, d-Suzie Plakson.
5.Who played Number Two, the head henchman of Dr. Evil, in the Austin Powers movies? a-Will Patton, b-Bill Campbell, c-Robert Wagner, d-Samuel L. Jackson.
6.What rock band had a 1980 hit with the song "Hey 19?" a-Blood, Sweat & Tears, b-Steely Dan, c-The Edgar Winter Group, d-ZZ Top.
7.In 1963, Charles Schulz added a new kid to the "Peanuts" neighborhood whose name consisted of what number? a-3, b-4, c-5, d-7.
8.Zero Mostel won a Tony Award for his performance as the title character in which Broadway musical? a-Jesus Christ: Superstar, b-The Music Man, c-Pal Joey, d-Fiddler on the Roof.
9.Which title TV character had a best friend named Six? a-Hannah Montana, bBlossom, c-Punky Brewster, d-Moesha.
10.Maxwell Smart was Agent 86 on TV's Get Smart. What was the number assigned to his partner-wife, played by Barbara Feldon? a-13, b-24, c-36, d-99.
QUOTES
All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.
Martin Buber
No idea is final.
Taika Waititi
I would unite with anybody to do right; and with nobody to do wrong.
Frederick Douglass
I feel that we're all lighthouses, and my job is to shine my light as brightly as I can to the darkness.
Jim Carrey
Happiness is a simple, frugal heart.
Nikos Kazantzakis
In a dark time, the eye begins to see.
Theodore Roethke
Judge nothing, you will be happy. Forgive everything, you will be happier.
Sri Chinmoy
We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.
Kurt Vonnegut
If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there.
George Harrison
The point is not to pay back kindness but to pass it on.
Julia Alvarez
I'm an idealist. I don't know where I'm going, but I'm on my way.
Carl Sandburg
For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love.
Carl Sagan
The higher we soar the smaller we appear to those who cannot fly.
Friedrich Nietzsche
Here is a test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you're alive, it isn't.
Richard Bach
The lighter side
Psychiatry seminar
Psychiatry students were attending their first seminar. It was on emotional extremes. The professor wanted to establish some parameters, so he asked what they would say was the opposite of joy.
"Sadness," replied Mr. Nichols.
Ms. Biggs defined the opposite of depression as elation.
"And Mr. Martin, what is the opposite of woe?"
Bubba replied, "I believe that would be giddyup!"
The speeder
A man is stopped by police for speeding and the officer asks him for his license.
"I don't have one," the man says. "It was taken away for drunk driving."
So the officer asks for the man's vehicle registration.
"I don't have one," the man says. "This car is stolen and I've murdered the owner and stuck him in the trunk."
At this point, the officer calls for backup and in no time 10 police cars surround the stopped speeder.
The sergeant on the scene approaches the car and orders the man to open his trunk. He does and it is empty. The sergeant then asks for the man's driver's license. The man pulls out a valid license and vehicle registration.
"I don't get it," the sergeant says, "My officer here says you told him you had no license or registration and that you stole this car."
The man shakes his head and says, "I bet that liar told you I was speeding too."
Answer to 'I Feel Like a Number'
1-c, Pierce Brosnan 2-d, 6
3-a, "Beetle Bailey" 4-a, Jeri Ryan
5-c, Robert Wagner
6-b, Steely Dan 7-c, 5 8-d, Fiddler on the Roof 9-b, Blossom 10-d, 99
April 2026 Calendar
Awareness Months
ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH.
AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH.
BEAVER AWARENESS MONTH.
DISTRACTED DRIVING AWARENESS MONTH.
GLOBAL ASTRONOMY MONTH.
NATIONAL CANCER CONTROL MONTH.
NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH.
NATIONAL DONATE LIFE MONTH.
PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS MONTH.
STRESS AWARENESS MONTH.
Events
1, April Fool’s Day.
1, PASSOVER begins before sundown on Wednesday, April 1 and ends after nightfall on April 9.
3, GOOD FRIDAY.
5, EASTER.
5, GOLD STAR SPOUSES DAY. Since 2010, honoring surviving spouses of armed forces members.
5-11, MERRIE MONARCH FESTIVAL AND HULA COMPETITION. Hilo HI. Honors King David Kalakauna.
6-12, NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS RIGHTS WEEK.
6-12, THE MASTERS TOURNAMENT. Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, GA. Web: masters.com
7, INTERNATIONAL BEAVER DAY.
10-12 and 17-19, COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL. Empire Polo Grounds, Indio, CA. Music and arts festival. Web: coachella.com.
11, CIVIL RIGHTS ACT, 62nd anniversary.
11, NATIONAL PET DAY.
12, DOGWOOD FESTIVAL. Camdenton, MO. Spring carnival.
15, INCOME TAX PAY DAY.
16, NATIONAL STRESS AWARENESS DAY.
16-26, FIESTA SAN ANTONIO. Since 1891.
17, BAT APPRECIATION DAY.
19, OKLAHOMA CITY BOMBING REMEMBRANCE, 1995.
19-26, NATIONAL PARK WEEK.
20, BOSTON MARATHON, 130th RUNNING.
21, AGGIE MUSTER. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX. Current and former students gather to honor fellow Aggies. Web: aggienetwork.com.
22, EARTH DAY
23, FIRST MOVIE THEATER OPENS. Apr 23, 1896, New York City at Koster and Bials Mustic Hall.
23, ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS DAY.
25, ARBOR DAY. Since 1872. Web: arborday.org.
25, WORLD PENGUIN DAY.
25, FIDDLER’S FROLICS. Hallettsville, TX. Since 1971.
30, FALL OF SAIGON, 1975. Fall of Saigon: North Vietnamese tanks entered the city, and the communist flag was raised over the presidential palace, marking the end of the war.
30, NATIONAL RAISIN DAY.
International
2, Argentina: Malvinas Day. Public holiday honoring fallen soldiers of the 1982 war to regain the Falkland Islands.
4, Senegal: Independence Day. Marks independence from France in 1960.
6, Thailand: Chakri Day. Marks founding of the dynasty by King Rama I.
14, India: Vaisakhi. Sikh holiday commemorates the founding of the brotherhood of the Khalsa in 1699.
18, Zimbabwe: Independence Day. Holiday celebrating independence in 1980.
19, Eswatini: King's Birthday. Marks the birth of King Mswati III in 1968.
21, Italy: Birthday of Rome. Traditionally thought to be in 753 B.C.
25, Egypt: Sinai Day. Holiday celebrates the return of Sinai to Egypt in 1982.
26, Tanzania: Union Day. Marks the union of mainland Tanzania and the islands of Zanzibar in 1964.
Earth Day 2026: The forest is fighting back
If you've ever doubted whether big environmental goals can actually be achieved, Pakistan has a story for you.
In 2014, the Pakistani province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa launched an audacious goal: plant one billion trees. Skeptics were plentiful. But by 2018, a WWF audit confirmed the province had not only hit its target but surpassed it — planting 872 million seedlings with an average survival rate of nearly 89 percent, ahead of schedule, expanding the region's forests by 350,000 hectares. The International Union for Conservation of Nature called it "a true conservation success story," and the province became the first entity in the world to complete the Bonn Challenge, a global pledge to restore degraded land.
Energized by that success, Pakistan launched the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami in 2019 — a nationwide, governmentbacked effort to keep going. More than 500,000 green jobs were created in the process, many of them going to daily workers in rural communities who needed them most. Forest cover has measurably increased around every major planting site.
No project this large is without bumps. Independent researchers note that survival rates at some sites run lower than official estimates, and that species selection and long-term care matter as much as raw planting numbers. But even the skeptics agree: this is one of the most ambitious reforestation efforts ever attempted, and it is working.
Want to plant a tree yourself?
One Tree Planted, a Vermont-based nonprofit, operates on the simplest possible model: $1 plants one tree. Their Earth Month 2026 projects span six continents, with recent work in Mexico's Veracruz highlands restoring watershed land and supporting local farming families. You choose the region, donate what you can, and they handle the rest.
Visit onetreeplanted.org to learn more.
How to boil your Easter eggs -- don't.
The absolute best method for hardboiled eggs that are easy to peel and have no green ring around the yolk (a sulfur-iron reaction from overcooking) is not boiling. It's steaming.
This approach is backed by extensive testing by Serious Eats, Cook's Illustrated, and America's Test Kitchen.
Steaming is more consistent than boiling because steam doesn't drop in temperature when you add the eggs, cooks gently to avoid overcooking the yolk, and loosens the membrane for near-effortless peeling.
3.Place steamer or colander in the pot and add eggs, placing eggs in a single layer in the steamer basket. Cover tightly with a lid.
4.Bring to boil and steam: Set timer for 12 minutes (for large eggs; 11 for medium, 13–14 for extralarge or if you prefer firmer yolks). Keep heat on high so the steam stays consistent.
5.Ice bath shock: Immediately transfer eggs to a large bowl of ice water (or run under very cold tap water). Let them cool fully (5–10 minutes)—this stops cooking, shrinks the egg slightly inside the shell, and makes peeling effortless.
-Precise timing prevents overcooking—steam is gentler, so you avoid the high heat that creates ferrous sulfide (the green/gray tint). Yolks stay bright yellow and creamy.
The bonus is that you get fewer cracked shells, more even cooking, and it works well even with fresher eggs (though older eggs—1–2 weeks old—still peel easiest).
Step-by-Step: The Foolproof Steaming Method (for 6–12 large eggs)
1.Use eggs straight from the fridge.
2.Pour about 1–1.5 inches of water into a pot (enough to create steam but not touch the eggs).
6.Peel: Tap the egg gently on a hard surface to crack the shell all over, then roll it to loosen more. Start peeling from the wider (blunt) end—often the air pocket is there. Peel under a trickle of cool running water if needed to help wash away bits and slide the shell off. Tips
-Don't overcrowd—steam needs to circulate.
-No need for vinegar, baking soda, or salt in the water).
-For extra-large or very fresh eggs: Add 1 minute to steam time and test one first.
April showers can also bring roof leaks
May flowers are nice, but when the April showers start leaking into your living room, you have more pressing things to think about.
Roof leaks can cause serious structural damage and leave you on the hook for some very expensive repairs, which is why homeowners should know how to identify leaks early and act fast.
Some leaks may be obvious. A leak above your washer and dryer might be coming from a pipe or vent. A quick solution might be one of several waterproof leak sealers available at your home store. Even if these work, contact a professional as soon as possible.
Brown or yellow discoloration on your ceilings or walls are a common indicator of water seeping in through
your roof. According to roofing contractor Shanco, your upper rooms or attic might also feel excessively damp or smell musty, which is often a sign of mold or mildew growth.
Your roof's exterior can also offer clues. Damaged, curling, or missing shingles open up vulnerable points for water to penetrate, and can generally be repaired easily. If you notice pooling water, seek repair services right away to preserve your home's structural integrity.
If you notice water actively dripping into your home, contact a roofing company right away for an emergency repair. Don't put it off -- it might cost you your ceiling.
