MVMCCManagemen� Updat�
Work completed
• Pruned the third round of 51 trees
• Built two retaining walls using this year’s budget
• Finished defensible-space cutback of the Park perimeter
• Conducted bid walk for clubhouse roof replacement
• Received estimate for repairing dry rot/termite damage on the ground floor of the clubhouse
Work in Progress
• Scheduled fourth and fifth rounds of tree pruning
• Beginning construction of a third retaining wall
• Reinstalling and landscaping Park bench in front of pump house 1
• Asphalt work is scheduled for September 26, 29, 30
• Beginning installation of two drainage tracks in existing driveways to prevent water intrusion under homes
Check Your Name Off for the New Directory
by Erma WHEaTlEy
Yes, a new directory is coming. But first we need to know if all your information is correct. In the white notebook on the lobby counter, please check off each section that starts with your:
LAST NAME • FIRST NAME • ADDRESS
The sooner you check off your information in the three sections, the sooner we’ll have a new directory.
Deadline to Submit Articles
T H E ECHO 2025
marin vallEy mObilE COunTry Club
100 M a R in V a LL ey d R i V e • no V ato , C a 94949 415-883-5911 / 415-883-1971 fax www.marinvalley.net
general Manager Matt Greenberg gm.mvmcc@gmail.com a MHB Group Region 8 Publication www.mobilehomeboard.com
editor Anila Manning CoPy editor Mary Barbosa graPhiCs Erma Wheatley
Proofreaders Mary Barbosa, John Feld, Carol-Joy Harris
Laura Kradjan-Cronin, Tara Plocher
teChniCal Consultant Rene Prado
d istri B ution Cecil Sherrod with Gunnel Bergstrom, KC Casey, Mark Crocker, Lucinda Daly, Brynda Foster, Anne Glasscock, Mike Holland, Julie Manson, Tom Nadolski, Ellen Jane Schulz, Pat Thurston, Richard Waibel, Janet Willett
o rganizations and c o MM ittees
Pac B oard
P resident John Hansen 415-847-7155
VP/direC tor Park oPerations Jay Shelfer 415-250-0375
seCretary Carol-Joy Harris 415-883-2824
treasurer Stephen Plocher 415-302-9043 at large Brad Witherspoon 415-218-9583
ad hoC negotiating CoMMittee John Hansen, Jay Shelfer standing CoMMittees
CaPital ProjeC ts John Hansen, Jay Shelfer
CoMMuniCations Mary Currie, Chair; Carol-Joy Harris, Charlotte Weiser
finanCe Stephen Plocher, Chair finanCe suBCoMMittees
Pro forMa (Budget Master-Planning) Stephen Plocher, Greg & Sheri Smyth, Brad Witherspoon finanCial assistanCe Brad Witherspoon grants and low-interest loans
Serena Fisher, Michele Rodriguez internal finanCial resourCes John Hansen, Sue Meyer, Brad Witherspoon
MVest Bill Davis, Chair; Pauline Clucas, John Feld, David Gray, John Hansen, Pam Hyer, Stephen Plocher, Erma Wheatley, Brad Witherspoon
PoliCy Serena Fisher, Alan Gump, John Hansen hol B oard
P resident John Feld 510-495-4138
1st ViCe President Ed Collins 415-377-7696
seCretary Anne Lakota 415-713-4606
t reasurer Tara Plocher 415-302-5992
eVents & aC tiVities Janie Crocker 281-414-3984
a t l arge Michale Dancer 415-519-3395
a t l arge Sandy Zeichner 415-902-5143
a t l arge Charlotte Kells 617-306-0265
a t l arge Kamala Allen 415-306-6865
a t l arge Jill Boland 415-827-3381
standing CoMMittee: P ark M arket
Jill Boland, Chair; Lynda & Dave Baker, Ginger Christie, Mary Coyne, John Feld, Edgar Furlong, John Hansen, Sally Harris, Susan Hoff, Meg Jordan, Anne Lakota, Joan Leopold, Gary McClendon, Deb McNeil, Sue Meyer, Steve & Tara Plocher, Michael Theircof, Brad Witherspoon M ar Val B oard
President Carolyn Corry 415-370-6403
1st VP, Bar Manager Anne Glasscock 415-601-3047
2nd VP/reserVations Susan Hoff 707-365-9426
seCretary Connie Marelich 415-382-3350
treasurer Vicki Waddell 415-382-8684
direC tor, hosPitality Larr y Moore 415-883-0486
direC tor, logistiCs Larry Cohen 415-883-7786
Chair, liBrary Sandee Duncan 415-883-3034 Chair, PuB Pat Thurston 415-884-0740
by JOHN HANSEN
PAC&MVC L ette� to R e�id ent�
A
Message from Your PAC and MVC Boards
The journey toward resident ownership continues. I want to thank everyone who attended the City Council meetings on August 26 and September 9. Thank you for the colorful signs — and a big thank you to those of you who stood up and voiced our position. We are delivering our message, and we’ve received great media coverage.
As of this writing, we await the City of Novato’s agreement to meet with us in person, so we can truly open discussions for a win-win negotiation.
We’ve all worked very hard to get to this point, with more than 83% of Marin Valley households having joined the Marin Valley Cooperative — a true signal that most residents want the Park to become resident-owned.
Yes, some misinformation has appeared in the news and been voiced by nonresidents at City Council meetings, but the City staff and Council know the truth.
We are ready to take charge of our own fate and remain an affordable, secure, and sustainable senior community. We just hope and pray the City Council can find their way to seeing this.
Keep the faith!
Policy Committee Update
by alan GumP and SErEna FiSHEr, MVC Policy Committee
The Policy Committee’s subcommittee working on the Operating Rules has completed its draft review and updates. In August, we convened another subcommittee to review the set of Bylaws provided by ROC USA in December 2024. That draft had been vetted by California attorneys and was considered compliant with state requirements. The Bylaws Subcommittee completed its review and proposed revisions in late August.
We are currently awaiting the MVC Board availability for their review before both the draft Operating Rules and draft Bylaws are forwarded to our attorney, Karen Tiedemann. Once her legal review is complete and any necessary corrections have been made, we will convene community workshops to vet the Operating Rules and Bylaws with the community before moving on to MVC Member votes on each of the drafts.
We will proceed with the first step, MVC Board review, once we have greater clarity on the status of our negotiations with the City. If it appears likely that a purchase
agreement can be reached, we will initiate the formal review and approval processes.
Please Note:
• The PAC currently operates under the existing PAC Bylaws and will continue to do so until ownership of the Park is transferred to MVC.
• The MVC Board will continue to operate under the MVC Interim Bylaws until the permanent Bylaws are approved by the MVC Board and ratified by the Membership, and the Park is formally transferred to MVC ownership.
• The community Rules that have been in force for several years remain unchanged. The new MVC Operating Rules will not take effect until the Park is transferred to MVC ownership.
The Policy Committee wishes to thank the community volunteers who dug into this process and added truly valuable insights and perspectives, significantly improving both the draft Operating Rules and draft Bylaws.
Our Home, a Sweet Hive
by bill DaviS, MVEST Chair, Director, Novato Fire District
We owe so much to honeybees. I think it was Einstein who said that if it weren’t for bees, the human race would cease to exist. They’re all around us — even in the most arid places, they’re busy crosspollinating flowers, bushes, and trees so that life can continue to regenerate. We owe so much to them, but we tend to forget about them. You might ignore them, but without them, our future would be bleak.
Seniors are much like bees. They’re all around us, easily identified by their gray hair and leisurely way of walking — and, for that matter, driving. And, like bees, seniors have a strong sense of community and purpose. Mess with their hive, and they will swarm and come after you.
That happened at the Novato City Council meeting in August, when over 125 “bees” showed up to protest the ongoing mismanagement and uncertain
future of their hive — the Marin Valley Mobile Country Club community of senior citizens. They were there to make one thing perfectly clear: They want hive security in the last phase of their life. Their strength lies in numbers and in the mutual support of a community where — whether rich or poor, healthy or ill, hungry or well-fed — they care for each other. They’re grateful to live out their lives in this wonderful country, state, and country, and they intend to do so with dignity and security.
So, yes, the future is bright. The Novato City Council has now been formally reminded of its responsibility to this senior community. It’s not just about money; it’s about shared values — security, health, and quality of life for all, including those over 55.
There’s an ever-present threat that a for-profit corporation could come in and purchase the Marin Valley Mobile Country Club, redirecting its future for the benefit of distant investors
Beat the Heat
by JOHn FElD
The worst of the summer heat seems to be behind us, but in case it decides to make a comeback, remember that the
in isolated boardrooms. To date, the City of Novato has not demonstrated effective stewardship of the Park. Could the senior residents — with their years of life experience and collective wisdom — do a better job if they owned and managed it themselves? Based on what was made clear at the last City Council meeting, the answer is a resounding yes.
Hive security is their top priority. These seniors have voiced loudly and clearly that they are ready to take responsibility. They believe they can manage the Park more effectively than the City, which has allowed years of deferred maintenance that now threatens residents’ health and well-being.
After all, you don’t get to be a senior citizen without learning something about how to live well with others — how to support your family, your community, and your neighbors — and how to build and sustain value for everyone. ■
clubhouse is your personal, airconditioned haven. It stays cool even during power outages. You’ll also find a spray mister in the breezeway, perfect for a quick cooldown.
Turn on the faucet, turn the valve up vertically, and set the timer for the appropriate amount of time. ■
MAR VALMAR VAL Mess�ge
Dear Friends,
Halloween, celebrated on October 31, is a holiday marked by trick-ortreating, jack-o’-lantern carving, and costume parties. While today’s celebrations are primarily secular — focusing on fun, creativity, and community — the holiday has deep roots in ancient Celtic, Roman, and Christian traditions.
At its core, Halloween is a time to embrace the supernatural, mark the end of the harvest season, and honor those who have passed. Themes of death, spirits, and the afterlife remain central, as Halloween originated as a festival for the dead.
Mar Val will be celebrating Halloween this year with our annual Black Cat event on October 25. Prizes will be awarded for Best Costume in the following categories: Female, Male, Couple, and — new this year — Group. So get with your neighbors and start plotting a group costume! How about wearing different colors and being a box of crayons? Or donning leather jackets for some Hell’s Angels? Perhaps yellow-and-black outfits to “bee” bumble bees — or dressing up as two trees holding a clothesline with real clothes. The possibilities are endless. Pick your group wisely.
Chef Larry will be serving up some delicious “Poodles ’n’ Noodles” and “Guess This Mess” from the Park’s newest eatery, the Roadkill Café. And once again, Cherrie Dougherty will be baking up a storm for our Faboolous Bakery Boutique, featuring pies, cakes, fudge, and cookies available for purchase — perfect for dessert at Black Cat or to take home.
This is an immense project, and we are asking our Park bakers to contribute something sweet to help make it a spooktacular success. A signup sheet will be on the clubhouse counter.
Please help make this event a grand success. All proceeds from Black Cat — Mar Val’s only fundraiser — go toward the cost of our annual liquor license.
We look forward to seeing you at Black Cat!
Sincerely,
Black Cat Fundraiser
(Mar Val’s annual liquor license fundraiser)
Saturday, October 25
5 pm Cocktails 6 pm Dinner
Black Cat Spooky Costume Party Cash prizes for Best Costumes and FaBOOlus Bake Sale
Featuring our new menu from Roadkill Cafe Poodles ’n’ Noodles (Meaty Macaroni) or Guess This Mess (Vegetarian Lasagna) Salad & Garlic Toast
Bakery Treats for Sale
$17 per person
Reservation deadline: Wednesday, October 22 @ 5 pm or when 110 reservations have been received.
Make checks payable to Mar Val Questions – Call Susan Hoff @ 707-365-9426
Mar Val Thanksgiving Dinner
Saturday, November 22
5 pm Cocktails 6 pm Dinner
Menu
Turkey and Dressing
Sweet Potatoes
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
Green Bean Casserole
Cranberry Sauce
Rolls
Pumpkin Pie
Reservations: $17 per meal
Limit: 2 persons per household
Reservation deadline, November 20 @ 5 pm (or earlier, if 120 reservations are received before the deadline) Reservations will NOT be accepted prior to November 1
Even if you have generously volunteered, YOU MUST STILL DEPOSIT A RESERVATION CHECK PRIOR TO THE DEADLINE
Questions? – Call Susan Hoff @ 707-365-9426
Greetings,
HOL Home Owner�Le�gue Message
Craft Market and Flea Market
Our next Craft Market is on Saturday, September 27 from 1 to 4 pm in the ballroom. This time, we’re adding a new twist — a flea market! If you remember the charming rummage sales from earlier Mar Val Black Cat events, this will be similar.
This is your chance to turn your clutter into cash. Whether it’s a vacuum cleaner, a food mixer, your father’s old watch, your grandmother’s jewelry, or clothing you no longer need — bring them to sell. We'll provide a table, and you’re welcome to stay until your items are sold, bartered, or given away. There will also be a table for donated items such as furniture, vases, and other household goods. You don’t have to stay, but if you do, you can savor the wonderful baked goods from Karen Muhly and Cherrie Dougherty! Invite your friends and family to donate, sell, and join the fun. Contact Tara Plocher (taraplocher@gmail.com) to reserve a table. Setup is 12–1 pm.
A Big Thank You to Suzie Lahr
Suzie Lahr has been curating the clubhouse art for many years. Due to health concerns, she has decided to step back from her gallery duties. All of us — and especially the artists among us — are deeply grateful for the dedication and care Suzie has put into the many changing exhibits. The rotating gallery exhibits have displayed, and will continue to display, a magnificent collection of resident art, and they stand as a testament to her artistic talents and tireless commitment. Thank you, Suzie, for all you have done.
New Gallery Hanging October 5
On that note: Artists, get your creations ready for the next gallery exhibit installation on Sunday October 5. We are excited to welcome David Gray as our new gallery coordinator, along with support team Anne Lakota and Jae Tillinghast. They will be checking in art between 10 am and noon. If you currently have a piece on display, please plan to pick it up at 10 am on October 5, or arrange for someone else to collect it for you. We do not have a place to store art safely.
Dump Run
Ed Collins and his trusty team of volunteers will host the next dump run on October 25. If you have items to get rid of, text or email Ed well in advance (415-377-7696; mrtec@ hotmail.com). He is already receiving requests, so don’t wait too long to reserve your spot. If you’re looking for some exercise and a fun time, Ed is also looking for volunteers to help load and unload. A healthy back, a pair of gloves, and a couple of hours are all you need. (See p. 10.)
New Refrigerator
Thanks to Jill Boland, who so wonderfully organizes our fabulous free food program, we’re getting a major upgrade. Jill submitted her first-ever proposal — for a new fridge — to the Extra Food organization, which administers the food distribution program. Her proposal was accepted, and a brand-new industrial fridge and freezer should already be installed by the time you read this.
We are incredibly grateful to Jill and Extra Food for making this happen
and improving our Park Market. Once this new item is in place, we will be looking for an additional energyefficient refrigerator/freezer.
Vaudeville Show
The Marin Valley Players, the creative group behind our last two hugely successful plays, are back with a Vaudeville Show! We are looking for local entertainers to perform short acts. This is a chance to show off your talent, whether it’s standup comedy, singing, magic, or even plate-spinning. Don’t be afraid to be a little silly or even ridiculous — we want to be entertained! To audition, come to the ballroom either Wednesday, October 15, at 6:30–8:30 pm or Thursday, October 16, at 2–4 pm. Contact Sandy Zeichner (zeichbea@gmail.com), Michale Dancer (michale@stilllifegifts.com), or Janie Klimes (janieklimes1948@ gmail.com) (See p. 13.)
New Sound System
John Hansen has generously donated a new amplifier and speaker for events in the Fireside Room and other spaces. This easy-to-use sound system has a microphone for presentations and Bluetooth capabilities for playing music directly from your phone. It will be stored in the HOL shed near the breezeway. If you’d like to borrow it for your event, just ask any HOL board member to get it for you, and please remember to return it promptly. Contact me if you need a quick lesson on how to use it.
John Feld
HOL PreSident johnmfeld@gmail.com 510-495-4138
Ed Collins and Park Dump Runs
Since the fall of 2020, Ed Collins has been providing a simple but invaluable service for the residents of our Park: dump runs.
From Overflowing Dumpsters to a Better Way
Before Ed stepped in, the Park rented large Dumpsters a few times a year for oversized items that didn’t fit in weekly garbage cans. While the idea was good, in practice it became a problem. People dropped items off before the Dumpster arrived, piled trash to overflowing, and left junk scattered on the ground. Even nonresidents took advantage. Eventually, the system was discontinued due to misuse and the mess it created.
How the Dump Runs Started
Ed’s idea came after one of his summer rafting trips. He realized that the trailer he used for boats and gear could also be used to haul junk. He started by cleaning up his own property, then offered to take a few items for
October 25 • 9 am – 4 pm
neighbors. From there, the concept of community dump runs was born.
Instead of using one central Dumpster, residents now place their items neatly in their own driveways. Ed and a small team of volunteers collect and haul them away. This simple shift eliminated the mess and misuse, while giving everyone a reliable way to clear out unwanted items.
How It Works Today
Five years later, the dump runs are an established part of Park life. Each run typically serves 30–35 homes, with a morning run and an afternoon run. Residents simply text or email Ed to be added to the list. On dump day, Ed is joined by four or five community volunteers. Recent helpers include Deb McNeil, Kevin Mulvany,
Charles Watson, and Paul Weinberger, among others who have pitched in over the years.
The program is supported by HOL, which covers truck and trailer rental costs as well as dump fees. Resident donations typically cover about half the cost. Almost anything can be hauled away, with a few exceptions: no pressuretreated wood, cardboard, paint, oil, or other toxic materials. Electronics should be taken to an electronic recycling center, and oil to a hazardous waste center. A fee of $25 is charged for large items such as appliances or mattresses — if they fit.
Looking Ahead
What started as three runs a year has now settled into two, with the option of adding a third if another volunteer organizer steps forward. The next dump run will take place on October 25.
If you’d like to “play garbage hauler,” there’s plenty of time to get involved — and it’s more fun than you might think! Volunteers are welcome to join for the morning, the afternoon, or both. ■
PLEASE NOTE Time change for the Rollin’ Root in October — Noon–1 pm
How to Have Difficult Conversations WORKS HOP
by MICHAEL HAGERTY
Thursday, October 16 Fireside Room • 4–5:30 pm
Want to ask a noisy neighbor to keep it down at night?
Hoping for a holiday dinner without a political argument with that opinionated uncle?
Worried your concerns about the Park purchase are not being heard?
Come for another engaging training session with Ed Collins and Michael Hagerty on navigating tough conversations. You’ll learn how to diffuse anger and appeal to others’ own deeply held values — without compromising your own.
We’ll share proven techniques inspired by Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication and Harvard Negotiation Project’s Getting to YES by Roger Fisher and William Ury.
By the end of the session, you’ll have some great tips on how to build bridges instead of walls. ■
Introducing a new column — The Art and Science of Living Well by Nan Watanabe, who teaches our Group Strength Training class every Sunday from noon to 1 pm in the Bamboo Room.
Why Strength Training Matters at Every Age
by NAN WATANABE
Strength training isn’t just for athletes — it’s essential for healthy aging. As we grow older, we naturally lose muscle mass and strength, a condition known as sarcopenia. This decline can lead to weakness, balance issues, and an increased risk of falls. Strength training helps slow this process, helping seniors maintain independence and vitality.
Studies show that regular resistance training helps preserve muscle mass, bone health, and confidence in movement. ■
Source: Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
Gary McClendon
by MARTY GELMAN
Monday, October 27 • 4:30 pm • Fireside Room
We are pleased to introduce one of our residents, Gary McClendon, who has had an exciting career spanning over 40 years in the entertainment lighting industry. His expertise has led him to work on feature films, the Super Bowl, the World Series, and live entertainment. Many of our residents are likely to have seen his accomplishments firsthand. We hope you enjoy his presentation. ■
A Tribute to the Past AUDITIONS
Wed, Oct 15 • 6:30-8:30 PM Thu, Oct 16 • 2:00-4:00 PM
Come prep ared with your act!
Auditions last 10-20 minutes per act. Show us your performance and explain how you envision costumes, props, or special touches.
PERFORMANCES
Sat, May 16 • 7:00 PM Sun, May 17 • 2:00 PM
All talent welcome - the quirkier the better SPONSORED BY QUESTIONS? 415-902-5143
Auditions
Wednesday, October 15 6:30–8:30 pm
Thursday, October 16 2–4 pm
Come prepared with your act!
Auditions last 10–20 minutes per act. Show us your performance and explain how you envision costumes, props, or special touches.
All talent welcome — the quirkier the better.
Performances
Saturday, May 16 • 7 pm
Sunday, May 17 • 2 pm
Fallen Leaf Summer Potluck
by MICHELE RODRIGUEZ and KC CASEY
The Fallen Leaf neighbors held their second annual summer potluck party on Sunday, September 7 at 5 pm, post-49’er game! It was a beautiful day for an outdoor gathering, and 23 longtime and newer neighbors, including Donya Drummond and Sheri & Greg Smyth, attended.
There was plenty of good food, conversation, laughter, and shared hope. It felt so good to be together. The waning days of summer seemed the perfect time to celebrate our satisfaction with life in Marin Valley and the friendships we’ve made. ■
My Time in San Quentin
by LORNA SASS
Before I moved to California, San Quentin felt like a distant, mythical, and very scary place. This infamous prison had been on my radar even while I was still living in NYC, as my dear friend, literary agent Sarah Jane Freymann, had helped one of the prisoners, Jarvis Jay Masters, get his memoir published.
Masters lived in solitary confinement on death row in SQ for 21 years, as punishment for a crime there is substantial evidence he did not commit. I joined the Free Jarvis (www.freejarvis. org) movement to link with lawyers and other concerned citizens committed to setting him free.
During his time on death row, Jarvis became a Buddhist and wrote his memoir, That Bird Has My Wings: The Autobiography of an Innocent Man on Death Row. The book was Oprah’s Book Club selection in September 2022, and his story is also the subject of The Buddhist on Death Row by David Sheff.
When I’m driving around locally here in Northern California, I am always astonished by how the tall, expansive San Quentin complex dominates parts of the San Francisco skyline. I was dismayed to learn that, despite the prison’s magnificent location overlooking San Francisco Bay, the windows in the cells were purposely placed so high that inmates couldn’t see the view — lest it lift their spirits.
As a sensitive soul, every time San Quentin came into view, I would feel sorrow for Jarvis and for everyone else stuck behind those walls. I spontaneously started sending blessings to the prisoners and praying that those in charge of our dreadful prison system would find more benevolent ways to treat people — many of whom, for lack of receiving the love they needed — committed crimes out of anger or despair.
For many years, I’ve been singing every Sunday afternoon in the Joyful Noise Gospel Choir at St.
Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Sebastopol. I’ve loved how within minutes our extraordinary director, Benjamin Mertz, has us singing in harmony — clapping and dancing along to his toe-tapping, syncopated piano accompaniment.
One day, Benjamin announced that we had the opportunity to sing for SQ inmates celebrating their graduation from various educational programs. I was thrilled at this chance to bring musical joy into the prison, but very quickly I seized up in fear. You see, dear reader, my body remembered how awful it felt to visit my schizophrenic brother in various snakepit mental institutions. When the door closed behind me during visits, I was locked inside with the terror that I might never get out.
But this chance to celebrate with the SQ prisoners was too joy-filled for me to resist, so I calmed myself down, signed on to join the group, and went through the required clearance process.
On the day of the recital, I arrived in the prison parking lot with a pounding heart. The heavy iron gates were imposing. After a while, the guards began checking us in one by one — about 20 of us, all white folks. But wait, our amazing Black choir director, Benjamin, was denied entrance. What? Somehow his clearance was mysteriously not clear enough to allow him to fulfill his role.
We all felt the need to stand behind Benjamin in solidarity and cancel our performance, but with great dignity he encouraged us to go ahead with it for the benefit of the prisoners. So we did. The only problem was, we weren’t allowed to bring in pencils or paper, and the longtime choir member Benjamin had put in charge was frantically trying to recall which songs we had rehearsed.
After about ten minutes of disorientation, a prisoner in the audience stated loudly in a
mellifluous, preacherly voice, “There is no need for concern. The Lord is the best choir director there is, and He will take care of everything!”
We all let out a sigh. It struck me that this devout man — who, I later learned, had spent 40 years behind bars — had found transcendent freedom while still in bondage.
Our substitute choir director, though culturally Jewish, clearly took in those words. She visibly relaxed, organized us into our places, and began leading us confidently in song. Slowly, the audience responded, swaying with the music, some of them standing up and singing along while clapping. It grew into an hour of unabashed joy, a shared feeling of harmony and unity among us all.
When we finished and received a standing ovation, I felt sad to leave. I wanted to talk with the prisoners, but we had been instructed not to. Benjamin was waiting outside the gates, and together we sang a few more gospel tunes — many of us with tears rolling down our cheeks.
I still send blessings and prayers whenever San Quentin comes to mind, and I feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to bring a spark of joy to those locked inside. Like most gifts we give, I received back double or triple what I offered. ■
P.S.: The Gospel choir has now moved to Petaluma, where we sing twice a month on Saturdays at the First Presbyterian Church from 2–3:30 pm. If you’d like to join the mailing list, contact joyfulnoisegospelsingers@gmail.com
Here’s a link if you’d like to read more about Jarvis Jay Masters: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jarvis_ Jay_Masters)
Summer Birds of the Northern Rockies
Text and Photography by DAVID GRAY
My kestrel article in the September 2025 Echo focused on just one of the species of birds we observed while visiting the Continental Divide in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. But I would be remiss in not fleshing out some of the other species we encountered, particularly at the Harriman State Park in Idaho, about 40 miles west of Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks. All of these species are ones we also see in or around our Park!
The belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) ranges across all of North America up to the Arctic Circle, plus Central America and the Caribbean. We see them on the coast and along the rivers and streams of California, and this male sat still just long enough for me to capture his portrait.
Numerous waterfowl dotted Harriman State Park, including this Caspian tern (Hydroprogne caspia), which was hunting — soaring and hovering above Silver Lake.
A male yellow warbler (Setophaga petechia) was foraging for insects in the evergreens — seen here contemplating his next leap. Their range is similar to the belted kingfisher's, only larger, extending down into northern South America.
A small flock of migrating Cedar waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum) were enjoying berries in the bushes along the shores of Henry’s Fork of the Salmon River, where I also discovered a favorite bathing area of several species, including this damp Western tanager (Piranga ludoviciana).
A downed tree allowed fresh water to flow in, while its bare branches served as perches where birds queued up to bathe or dried themselves afterward.
Lastly, as we headed home through Indian Springs, Idaho, Nancy and I were walking at dusk after a soak in the hot springs when the familiar screech of an immature great horned owl (Bubo virginianus) rang out. (GHOs develop their signature “who-who-who” calls as adults.) Looking around in the fading light, I found it sitting atop an old wooden fence post. I speed walked back to the campervan — taking care not to spook the owl — grabbed my camera and supertelephoto lens, and speed walked back behind some trees. From about 25 yards away, I approached slowly, taking a few quiet steps closer each time it looked away. It never seemed concerned about my presence — and never flew away. Screech!
Wishing you all a very happy October! ■
OCTOBER
OCTOBER
Latin Lingo Dutch Brush Master
ALMA MATER
CARPE DIEM
CAVEAT EMPTOR
DE FACTO
E.G.
ET CETERA
ET TU BRUTE
EX NIHILO
IN MEDIAS RES IN VINO VERITAS
IPSO FACTO MAGNUM OPUS
NON SEQUITUR
PER CAPITA
PER SE
POST MORTEM
PRIMA FACIE
PRO BONO
QUID PRO QUO
STATUS QUO
Across
1. Shaggy Scandinavian rug
4. Colgate rival
9. Common Market inits.
10. Sled dog
11. “Casablanca” pianist
12. Ms. Williams in aquamusicals
13. Ancient rival of Athens
15. First word of the Constitution
16. Aleppo’s land
18. Word in a simile
20. Quantum theory pioneer Max
23. Wet lowland
25. “Smoking or ___?”
26. Gauchos’ weapons
27. Big deal
28. Doesn’t ignore
29. Tennis match part
Down
1. Remainder
2. “Awright!”
3. High points
4. Dark
5. “From ___ with Love”
6. “C’___ la vie!”
7. Bias
8. Phoenician trading center
14. Action on the side
17. Kournikova and Karenina
18. Court order against antisocial behaviour
19. Mop up, naut.
21. The “C” in U.P.C.
22. Masseur’s target
24. Bass, e.g.
The headline is a clue to the answer in the diagonal.
October Sudoku
How to solve sudoku puzzles
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.
TRIVIA TEASER
T Time
1. What company is represented on the New York Stock Exchange ticker by the letter T? a-Target, b-Radio Shack, c-AT&T, d-Kodak.
2. Who played the title character on the TV cop show "T.J. Hooker"? a-Jack Lord, b-William Shatner, c-Erik Estrada, d-Burt Reynolds.
3. In what city could you ride the commuter rail service known as the T? a-San Francisco, b-San Antonio, c-Boston, dMiami.
4. What is the middle name of Captain James T. Kirk on "Star Trek"? a-Taylor, b-Thomas, c-Timothy, d-Tiberius.
5. In what country would you find the headquarters for the T-Mobile telecommunications service? a-Germany, b-Norway, c-Canada, d-South Korea.
6. White blood cells known as T-cells get their name because they mature in what part of the human body? a-Teeth, b-Thalamus, c-Thymus, d-Tegument.
7. One way of investing your money is with the purchase of T-bills. What does the T in T-bill stand for? a-Tax, b-Tangible, c-Transaction, d-Treasury.
8. What 1962 instrumental hit with an edible title was the highest-ranking song on the Billboard Hot 100 chart by Booker T. and the MGs? a-"Bread and Butter," b-"Cotton Candy," c-"Green Onions," d-"Sugar and Spice."
9. T-Bag was the nickname of a villain played by Robert Knepper on what Fox TV drama series? a-"Oz," b-"24," c-"Touch," d-"Prison Break."
10. What did the T stand for in the names of T.E. Lawrence and T.S. Eliot? aThomas, b-Theodore, c-Tyler, d-Terrell.
QUOTES
Riches don't make a man rich, they only make him busier. Christopher Columbus, discoverer of America in 1492.
By prevailing over all obstacles and distractions, one may unfailingly arrive at his chosen goal or destination. Christopher Columbus, discovered the new world in 1492
Everything you've ever wanted is on the other side of fear.
George Addair, Founder of the Omega Vector, a self knowledge program
A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds.
Francis Bacon: English philosopher, statesman, scientist and author
When you forgive, you in no way change the past -- but you sure do change the future.
Bernard Meltzer, radio host of "What's Your Problem" in Philadelphia
He who conquers others is strong; he who conquers himself is mighty.
Lao Tzu: philosopher of ancient China
You have a clean slate every day you wake up. You have a chance every single morning to make that change and be the person you want to be. You just have to decide to do it. Decide today's the day. Say it: this is going to be my day.
Brendon Burchard, author, of The Millionaire Messenger.
Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, but a thing to be achieved.
William Jennings Bryan: American politician from the 1890s
I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.
Edward Everett Hale, editor and author of 60 books
The Lighter Side
Leather
When a woman wears leather clothing, a man's heart beats faster. His throat gets dry. He gets weak in the knees and begins to think irrationally.
Ever wonder why?
She smells like a new truck!
Old man
He was eating lunch at a truck stop when three bikers walked in. The first pushed his cigarette into the old man's pie, then took a seat at the counter.
The second spit in the old man's milk, then took a seat at the counter. The third turned his plate over and then took a seat at the counter.
The old man left without a word. One of the bikers said to the waitress, "Humph, not much of a man is he?"
The waitress replied: "Not much of a truck driver either. He just backed his truck over three motorcycles."
What to do
An elderly couple just bought cellphones and learned how to text. She was the romantic type and one afternoon sent him this message.
"If you are sleeping, send me your dreams.
If you are laughing, send me your smile.
If you are eating, send me a bite.
If you are drinking, send me a sip.
If you are crying, send me your tears. I love you."
The husband texted back to her: "I'm in the bathroom. Please advise."
Answer to 'T Time'
1-c, AT&T
2-b, William Shatner
3-c, Boston
4-d, Tiberius
5-a, Germany
6-c, Thymus
7-d, Treasury
8-c, "Green Onions" 9-d, "Prison Break" 10-a, Thomas
Awareness Months
Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month.
October 2025 Calendar
Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
German-American Heritage Month. National Crime Prevention Month.
National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. National Dental Hygiene Month.
National Polish-American Heritage Month.
Fire Prevention Week. Oct 6-12. Contact Lens Safety Month
Holidays and Special Days
1-2, Yom Kippur, holiest day in Judaism, begins at sundown with fasting and prayer for atonement.
1, National Homemade Cookies Day, celebrates baking and sharing homemade cookies.
2, Gandhi Jayanti, India, honors Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday with tributes to his nonviolence legacy.
4, National Taco Day, honors tacos with food events and promotions nationwide. Sometimes listed as October 7.
5, World Teachers’ Day, recognizes educators’ contributions to learning and society.
6-13, Sukkot, Jewish festival begins at sundown, celebrates harvest and Israelites’ desert journey.
6, National Coaches Day, honors coaches for mentoring and inspiring athletes.
7, National Frappe Day, celebrates frothy coffee drinks with café specials.
8, National Pierogi Day, honors Polish dumplings with culinary events.
9, Fire Prevention Day, promotes fire safety awareness with local events.
10, World Mental Health Day, raises awareness for mental health support and care.
12, National Farmers Day, honors farmers’ contributions to food and agriculture.
13, Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day, United States, federal holiday commemorates Columbus’s arrival or honors Native American cultures; banks and post offices closed.
15, National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day, honors families affected by loss.
16, World Food Day, promotes global action against hunger and food insecurity.
17, National Pasta Day, celebrates pasta with recipes and restaurant specials.
18, National Chocolate Cupcake Day, honors sweet treats with baking and indulgence.
20, Diwali, Hindu Festival of Lights, celebrates good over evil with lamps and festivities.
21, Bandi Chhor Divas, Sikh holiday commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release from prison.
24, United Nations Day, marks the UN’s founding with global peace events.
25, National Greasy Foods Day, celebrates indulgent comfort foods like fries.
27, Navy Day, United States, honors the U.S. Navy’s service and contributions.
28, National Chocolate Day, celebrates chocolate with sweet treats and promotions.
29, National Cat Day, honors feline companions with pet adoption events.
30, National Candy Corn Day, celebrates the iconic Halloween treat.
31, Halloween, United States, festive day with costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky decorations.
Events and Festivals
1-4, New Holland Farmers Fair at New Holland, PA. Showcases agricultural displays, food vendors, and community events.
1-13, Holland Ridge Fall Flower Festival at Cream Ridge, NJ. Features sunflower fields, u-pick flowers, and food trucks.
1-27, Tri State Sunflower Festival at Swedesboro, NJ. Offers sunflower picking, hayrides, and family-friendly activities.
1-25, Maple Leaf Farms Fall Fun Fest at Manalapan, NJ. Includes pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and fall-themed games
1-27, Harvest Village at Holmdel, NJ. Features fall crafts, food vendors, and seasonal activities.
1-31, Fall Harvest Days at Norz Hill Farm, Hillsborough, NJ. Offers hayrides, pumpkin picking, and farm-fresh food.
1-31, INKTOBER. Artists create one ink drawing daily, shared online at inktober.com.
2-5, North Carolina State Fair at Raleigh, NC. Features rides, livestock shows, food vendors, and live music.
3-5, Unionville Community Fair at Kennett Square, PA. Showcases local crafts, food, and agricultural exhibits.
6-10, Manheim Community Farm Show at Manheim, PA. Highlights farming, crafts, and food competitions.
10-12, Autumn Leaves Festival at Mount Airy, NC. Offers soul food, bluegrass music, and craft vendors.
10-13, New York Comic Con at Manhattan, NY. Showcases pop culture with celebrity panels and cosplay events.
10-13, Food Festival at Tanger Outlets, Deer Park, NY. Features global cuisine, live music, and family activities.
13-18, Dillsburg Farmers Fair at Dillsburg, PA. Features agricultural exhibits, food stalls, and community events.
17-27, Pensacola Interstate Fair at Pensacola, FL. Offers rides, entertainment, and food vendors.
18-19, Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival at Jim Thorpe, PA. Showcases autumn scenery, crafts, and live music.[
18-19, Pittsburgh Monster Pumpkin Festival at Pittsburgh, PA. Features giant pumpkins, food trucks, and family fun.
18-19, Crafts in the Meadow at Richboro, PA. Offers handmade crafts, art, and local food vendors.
19, Kennett Square Clover Market at Kennett Square, PA. Features artisan crafts, food trucks, and live music.
20-26, Arizona State Fair at Phoenix, AZ. Includes rides, food vendors, and live entertainment.
What you should know about Lyme disease
Tick bite rates are soaring across the U.S. as the hungry arachnids expand their typical geographic areas and stay active for longer periods each year. According to Healthline, that means that Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses are on the rise, too.
Lyme disease is most commonly associated with bites from deer ticks. Before feeding, these sesame seedsized bugs sport brown or reddish-brown bodies with dark plates that resemble shields on their backs. They're most prevalent in the Northeast and Midwest, particularly in wooded areas.
In humans, Lyme disease can develop as quickly as one day after a bite. The classic early symptom is erythema migrans, which is a bulls-eye shaped rash around the bite. Other early symptoms can include fever, chills, enlarged lymph nodes, vision changes, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. In its later stages, complications from Lyme disease can include meningitis and heart arrhythmias.
Both early and advanced Lyme disease are treatable with antibiotics, though complications may take time to resolve.
The best way to combat Lyme disease is not to get it in the first place. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants on walks in wooded areas, ideally in lighter colors that will make it easier to spot a dark-colored tick. Apply bug repellent that contains permethrin to the outside of your clothing, use DEET repellent on your skin, and stay away from areas with heavy undergrowth. After you return home, check yourself (plus kids and pets) for any unwelcome hitchhikers, and throw your hiking clothes in the dryer to let the heat kill any ticks you didn't see.
If you find a tick embedded in your skin, use a tissue to firmly grasp the body and gently pull it out. Don't yank it -- this might leave the tick's head still stuck in your skin. Once the tick is out, clean the area and your hands with soapy water (or hand sanitizer if soapy water is unavailable) and flush the tick down the toilet or drown it in rubbing alcohol as soon as possible. If you're out in the woods when you remove the tick, trap it in a sealed container (such as a plastic baggie) until you can safely dispose of it.
Eat these veggies to reduce colon cancer risk
If you weren't sold on broccoli just yet, it might be time to reconsider your position after a new study found that higher consumption of cruciferous vegetables was associated with a significantly decreased risk of colon cancer.
According to Fox News, Chinese researchers analyzed data from 17 studies with nearly 640,000 total participants and found that the group that ate the most vegetables were 17 percent less likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer than the group that ate the most vegetables.
Researchers found that the cancerfighting benefits started with participants who ate just 20 grams of vegetables per day. The benefits stacked up with higher vegetable consump-
tion, leveling off at about 40 grams per day.
Cruciferous vegetables, which includes broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and cauliflower, contain compounds called glucosinolates that break down into substances called isothiocyanates during digestion. Isothiocyanates can help kill damaged cells or slow or stop the growth of unhealthy or potentially malignant cells.
While the researchers noted some limitation in the study's design, the data still illustrates a strong link between lower vegetable consumption and colon cancer. Low consumption of dietary fiber and vegetables and excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption are all associated with increased risk of colon cancer.
Health in the News
Eli Lilly to seek approval for new weight
loss drug
Pharmaceutical manufacturer Eli Lilly has announced that it will seek approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the weight loss drug orforglipron. According to the New York Times, the GLP-1 drug is administered in a daily pill, unlike popular injectable GLP-1s like Ozempic and Wegovy. Participants in Lilly's clinical trials lost an average of 27.3 pounds each.
Pancreatic cancer vaccine shows promise
Early trials of a one-size-fits-all pancreatic cancer vaccine indicates that it may be effective at preventing recurrence of difficult-to-treat pancreatic cancers. According to NBC News, the vaccine targets KRAS gene mutations, which are associated with up to 90 percent of pancreatic cancers and 40 percent of colorectal cancers. The vaccine stimulates an immune response that targets and destroys cells with KRAS mutations.
Experts say that "Ozempic blindness" fears may be overblown
GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may slightly increase the risk of certain eye conditions and vision loss, but experts say that there's no reason to panic. According to two new studies published in the journal JAMA, patients with type 2 diabetes who take GLP-1s may face a modestly increased risk of diabetic retinopathy, but are still at decreased overall risk of life-threatening complications. The study authors recommended regular screening and monitoring to detect potential vision complications early.
