Issuu

SPRING POTLUCK

Spring is oﬃcially in full swing and we’re all enjoying the warmer weather, watching the green come back and, unfortunately, s ll ba ling the weeds fueled by the abundant winter rains. Let’s take a break from all those nasty weeds and gather with our friends and neighbors for one of our fabulous RVME potluck dinners.

Thursday, April 23rd at 5:30 p.m.

The sign-up sheet is in the clubhouse or you can sign up any me by emailing windypond@gmail.com. Guests are welcome for a $5.00 per person charge.

If your plans change & you become unable to a end, please give us a courtesy no ﬁca on.

Remember to bring a few dollars for the 50-50 raﬄe. Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. Dona ons are always welcome. Every dollar le in the Dona on Box is used to help fund future social events. So give what you can when you can. We thank you for your generosity!

RVME HOA Executive Board ROSTER

For the term starting May 1, 2025 (Rev. 11/1/2025)

PRESIDENT – Barbara Richards (707)486-8285, barb530@att.net

1ST VICE PRESIDENT - Norma Smith-Davis (707)696-2538, nsdavis2@me.com Sunshine Lady – Kimberly Sherman (707)246-8751), cherrysweet63@yahoo.com

2ND VICE PRESIDENT – Gwen Adkins (707)484-7328, gadkins33@yahoo.com Welcome Coordinator — Gale Grubb (707)236-4556, galegrubb@gmail.com

3RD VICE PRESIDENT – Gail Lake (707)326-8356, windypond@gmail.com

Social Committee Lead Co-Chair—Gail Lake Co-Chairs: Dona Mitchell (707)536-9090, donawalt@aol.com, and Martha McDonald (707)291-9169, martha.mcdonald1013@gmail.com

SECRETARY—Caitlin Downing (707)308-9937, downing.ck2@gmail.com

TREASURER—Janet Murphy (707)539-8525, murphy-janet@sbcglobal.net

AUXILIARY FUNCTIONS:

Coffee & Donuts—Gwen Adkins (707)484-7328, gadkins33@yahoo.com

COPE (Citizens Organized to Prepare for Emergencies) – Joan Lutz (707)538-2119, jrlutz5555@att.net

Friendly Connection – Belinda Riehl, Editor (805)279-4193, belinda.real@gmail.com

MANUFACTURED HOME COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS:

SRMOA (Santa Rosa Manufactured Homeowners Association) – Kathleen Needels (707)538-8688, sunshine5556@sbcglobal.net

GSMOL (Golden State Manufactured-Home Owners League) – Norma Smith-Davis (707)696-2538, nsdavis2@me.com

CARA (California Alliance for Retired Americans) – Norma Smith-Davis (707)696-2538, nsdavis2@me.com

Hello. Today is a wonderful Spring day. As I near th e end of my term as HOA President, I look at the ac vi es that your Social Commi ee has accomplished. There was a great Super Bowl gathering, an outstanding holiday meal, and the list goes on. The wonderful people on the Social Commi ee con nue to work on ac vi es that we all enjoy. This is made possible by your generous dona ons.

The Free Table is back, Coﬀee & Donuts happens on the ﬁrst Friday of every month, and a volunteer con nues to send cards recognizing events in resi dents’ lives. Another volunteer welcomes new residents. COPE is available for emergencies, and this volunteer keeps track of the medical equipment that can be borrowed by residents.

We have been very fortunate to have a monthly newsle er that has been made possible by another volunteer.

I want to thank all the wonderful volunteers who make our park such a special place to live. All the volunteers and Board members are listed in the Friendly Connec on. Take a minute to thank them for volunteering.

One last item: Your HOA Board has been working hard to have speed limit signs placed throughout the park. Hopefully, this will be a reminder to everyone that the speed limit is 15 mph.

FROM YOUR HOA EXECUTIVE BOARD

SUBMITTED BY NORMA SMITH-DAVIS, 1ST V.P.

At the last several General HOA meetings, residents have asked us to please do something about vehicles speeding in the park. We are happy to report that we will be getting five speed limit signs at various locations in the park. Some of these signs may even have lights on the them. Our sincere thanks to our new managers and the park owners for facilitating this. You should see the signs in the coming weeks. Hopefully this will make the park safer for scooters, walkers, and for people backing out of their driveways.

SOCIAL EVENTS REPORT

By Gail Lake

Spring has sprung and we are s ll busy pulling those pesky weeds. A wet February has guaranteed that they will con nue to poke up their nasty li le heads for a while. Let’s take a break, wash up our dirty hands and head over to our Welcome Spring Event on Thursday, April 23rd at 5:30 p.m. This will be the ﬁrst potluck this year. Let’s see if we can beat the fantas c spread we had at our Christmas dinner. It will be tough but I have faith in you!

April is also HOA Board elec ons for President, 2nd Vice President and Treasurer. Please take this me to join in this important process by a ending the RVME Homeowners Associa on mee ng April 16th at 6:00p.m.

May is the month to honor our resident volunteers. We will be celebra ng our nominees at a Volunteer Recogni on Pizza Party Thursday, May 21st at 5:30 p.m.

All that we will require is that the nominee be a resident and that you provide a brief reason for the nomina on. The May Friendly Connec on will have more speciﬁc informa on on how to submit your volunteer of choice.

Our summer events begin with the ever-popular Hawaiian Luau featuring Deb Wright and her friends. We are s ll wai ng to nail down a Saturday in June that works best for Deb. We’ll let you know as soon as possible. Your HOA will provide pulled pork sandwiches. We ask our residents to bring a side dish or dessert to share. And don’t forget to wear your best aloha duds!

Thank you for your help and support.

Gail Lake

Social Commi ee Lead Co-chair (707) 326-8356 windypond@gmail.com

2026 RESIDENT DIRECTORY

We only print the Resident Directory once a year. But we try to keep you up-to-date. Unfortunately, several long-time residents have recently passed away. Please make these changes to your printed copy.

Donna McCulloch

Bunny Howlett

David Comstock

UPCOMING EVENTS

HOA Annual ELECTION Membership Meeting, April 16th, 6:00

Welcome Spring, April 23rd, Full Potluck, 5:30

Volunteer Appreciation, May 21st, Pizza & Salads, 5:30

June Luau TBD

Summer Celebration, July 9th, 5:30

From the profundity file:

In seeking truth you have to get both sides of a story.

–Walter Cronkite

Honoring a Tradition — Inviting New Leadership

A er nearly ten wonderful years of co-chairing our annual Cra Fair and Charity Bake Sale— ﬁrst with Jo Ann De Luca and then with Debbie Schlack—it’s me for me to step back and make room for new energy, fresh ideas, and perhaps even a reimagining of the event to best serve our community today.

Over the years, a small and faithful group has provided not only leadership but much of the hands-on work. Their dedica on has been a gi to our en re community. For this tradi on to con nue, that responsibility now needs to be shared more broadly.

It may help to know that cra ing experience is not required to coordinate the Cra Fair. Many responsibili es involve communica on, organiza on, and vendor contact. Comfort with basic computer use and email is important, since much of the coordina on happens electronically — but tasks can be divided into manageable pieces and shared between cochairs.

The Cra Fair and Charity Bake Sale may each have their own coordinator, and both roles can be shared. Many suppor ng tasks are light duty and can be done seated or in short shi s.

If we are unable to ﬁnd new leadership, this cherished event will need to come to an end. But with even a few willing volunteers, it can con nue to thrive.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a ending or suppor ng this event, I would love to talk with you about what’s involved. I am commi ed to making any transi on smooth and well-supported.

With sincere thanks,

Carol Campanelli

(on behalf of Jo Ann De Luca and Debbie Schlack)

707-237-1615

forsamie@sonic.net

As we step into April 2026, I extend my warmest greetings to you and your loved ones. I trust this message finds everyone in good spirits and health.

The very name 'April' is rooted in the Latin 'aperire,' meaning 'to open,' perfectly encapsulating the season's spirit. It's a time when nature, after its winter slumber, bursts forth in a vibrant display of blossoming flowers and lush greenery. For many, this transition symbolizes renewal, an invitation for personal growth, and a moment to reflect on new opportunities unfolding for us, our families, and our wider circles.

April isn't just about natural rejuvenation; it's also packed with culturally significant dates. The month kicks off with April Fools' Day, a lighthearted occasion that encourages playful pranks and shared laughter – a wonderful reminder not to take life too seriously. Later in the month, on April 22nd, we observe Earth Day, a crucial moment to reaffirm our commitment to environmental stewardship. This year, I've deepened my personal efforts towards sustainability, finding small yet impactful ways to contribute. I'm curious, what steps are you and your family taking to support our planet?

April's weather can be famously unpredictable, shifting between bright sunshine and invigorating showers, giving rise to the saying, “April showers bring May flowers.”

Beyond its natural phenomena, April holds symbolic significance through its birthstones and flowers. The primary birthstone, the diamond, elegantly represents strength, enduring love, and unwavering clarity. For those seeking alternative symbolism, quartz offers its reputed healing and energizing properties. The humble yet striking daisy, with its pure white petals, is April's designated flower, embodying innocence, purity, and true affection.

Astrologically, April bridges two dynamic zodiac signs. From March 21st to April 19th, we celebrate Aries, known for their fiery spirit, boundless enthusiasm, and natural leadership. Following this, from April 20th to May 20th, we enter the realm of Taurus, characterized by a grounded practicality, a love for comfort, and a deep appreciation for beauty. It's always fascinating to observe how these traits manifest in the people around us. Do you find yourself connected to either of these signs, perhaps even embodying their characteristics?

Ultimately, April encourages us to embrace these themes of renewal and growth in our interactions. It's a beautiful reminder that kindness, much like the spring blossoms, can flourish and spread joy when nurtured. Let's make an intentional effort this month to connect with others, practice empathy, and allow the season's vibrancy to inspire open hearts and collective well-being.

Until next month, be well, take care of yourselves.

Warmly,

KIM S (Kimberly Sherman, Your Sunshine Lady) cherrysweet63@yahoo.com

FREE TABLE NEWS in the Laundry Room

All residents are invited to browse the table or drop off items that your neighbors may want.

New rules: Sign in on the provided sign-in sheet with your name and phone number. Find an empty number. Then, write that number on the masking tape and place the tape on the items.

Residents and guests only.

Each item must be dated (materials are provided). If your item is still on the table in 3 weeks, please take your item home. ONLY CLEAN, GENTLY-USED ITEMS.

Must be in working order.

No food, books, large electronics, or items on the floor. Ask yourself, ”Would I give this to a friend?”

If you find the table messy or junky, please call Norma 707-696-2538. We have a committee of 7 who check the table every day.

Enjoy!

It’s Back! Now on Wednesdays

Bingo has returned to RVME! Bingo will be held in the Clubhouse on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6 pm. Wednesday, April 15th will be our next Bingo. We’ll have 6 regular games and a blackout game. 6 games for 50 cents, plus blackout for 50 cents more per card. The Blackout prize will be $100. We’ll have snacks!

So mark your new calendars for the following dates: Wednesday April 15th , Wednesday May 20th , Wednesday June 17th And Wednesday July 15th

For ques ons or comments, email jacqua@sonic.net.

Presented by your RVME HOA Social Commi ee

Volunteer Recogni on Pizza Party

Join us in the clubhouse on THURSDAY, MAY 21ST AT 5:30 p.m. to celebrate our fabulous RVME community. Let’s recognize all those who volunteer to help with ac vi es and those who are unsung heroes behind the scenes, quietly giving their me to help their friends and neighbors.

Food at this year’s celebra on will be diﬀerent from previous years. Your HOA will be providing pizza, salads, and a cake for dessert. Bring your favorite beverage, or enjoy our water.

The sign-up sheet will be in the clubhouse as we get closer to the event. Or you can always sign up any me by emailing windypond@gmail.com. Guests are welcome for $5.00 per person. If your plans change and you become unable to a end, please give us a courtesy no ﬁca on.

Remember to bring a few dollars for the 50-50 raﬄe. Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5. Dona ons are always welcome. Every dollar le in the Dona on Box is used to help fund future social events. So, give what you can when you can. We thank you for your generosity!

SANTA ROSA MANUFACTURED HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

April 2026

To: our Members and all Park Residents

From: President – Paula Shaul

We currently have new sub-committees working on the Senior Park Overlay enactment and on website management and update. We are also working to improve our outreach and communication with our members and all park residents.

Stay tuned and bear with us as we re-invigorate our mission of advocacy for mobile home owners in Santa Rosa!

Next General Meeting

Saturday May 9, 2026 – 1:30 pm

Rancho San Miguel – 2665 Hardies Lane, Santa Rosa

Guest Speakers – former Mayor of SR – Natalie Rogers and representative of SR City Planning Dept.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Rincon Valley Park contact – Kathleen Needels 707 799-5088

REDWOOD EMPIRE FOOD DISTRIBUTION

Our local food distribution takes place at the PEP Housing complex located at Acacia Lane & Sonoma Highway every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month from 10:30–11:30 AM.

The distribution typically includes chicken, eggs, bread, milk, cereals, nuts, produce, and more. Additionally, there is a special box for seniors containing pantry staples. No financial questions are asked—just show up.

For questions, to volunteer, or for more information, please contact the Redwood Empire Food Bank at (707) 523-7903. We look forward to seeing you there!

Katie Karns | Hunger Relief Worker & Volunteer Coordinator

Redwood Empire Food Bank

LIBRARY NOTES for APRIL 2026

Titles of possible interest from our Library shelves:

Historical -WWII

“Operation Columba” - Gordon Corera – The secret pigeon service used by British intelligence to communicate with the Resistance in occupied Europe.

American Mystery

“Iron Lake” - William Kent Krueger - Irish-Native American Cork O'Connor investigates a Minnesota Judge's murder and a boy's disappearance.

British Memoir

“Lady in Waiting” - Anne Tennant, Baroness Glenconner – My extraordinary life in the shadow of the Crown. A close confidante of Princess Margaret offers candid, witty, and often heartbreaking insights into royal life.

Historical Fiction

“Mistress of the Ritz” - Melanie Benjamin – based on the true story of Blanche and Claude Auzello, the American mistress and French director of the Hotel Ritz in WWII, working for the French Resistance while hosting Nazis.

Youth Fiction

“The Blessing Effect” - Robert K. Pozil – helps students and parents see how powerful, life-changing impacts occur from intentional kindness.

Health/Healing

“The Plant Paradox” - Steven R. Gundry, MD – how Lectin proteins found in 'healthy' grains and beans and dairy products create systemic inflammation and weight gain.

Your Library Contacts

Kathleen 707 799-5088, Gale 707 236-4558, Curtis 707 521-9134

RINCONSLIST

To post on Rinconslist, email your ad and picture to belinda.real@gmail.com by the 10th of the month for the next issue.

RINCONSLIST

To post on Rinconslist, email your ad and picture to belinda.real@gmail.com by the 10th of the month for the next issue.

SUBMITTED BY DAVID ADAMS davidwadams@gmail.com

Is Your Laundry Room Making You Sick?

The Hidden Dangers of Synthe c Scents

That "fresh linen" or "spring meadow" smell might feel clean, but it’s o en a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals. Tradi onal dryer sheets and liquid fabric so eners are among the most toxic products in the average home.

What’s Hiding in Your Dryer?

Most synthe c fragrances are made from petroleum-based chem icals that don't just stay on your clothes— they coat your skin and vent into the air you breathe.

Acetaldehyde & Benzene: Known carcinogens o en found in dryer vent emissions.

Phthalates: Endocrine disruptors that can mess with your hormones.

Toluene: A neurotoxin linked to headaches and loss of coordina on.

Quats (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds): Chemicals that make clothes feel so but are known triggers for asthma and skin irrita on.

The Impact on Your Health

Exposure to these "forever scents" can lead to:

Respiratory Issues: Diﬃculty breathing, asthma ﬂare-ups, and chronic coughing.

Skin Irrita on: Contact derma s, eczema, and unexplained rashes.

Neurological Eﬀects: "Brain fog," migraines, and dizziness.

Environmental Toll: These chemicals are non-biodegradable and harm aqua c life when washed into the water system.

Safe & Simple Alterna ves

You don’t have to sacriﬁce so clothes for your health. Switch to these non-toxic op ons today:

Wool Dryer Balls: The gold standard. They reduce drying me, so en fabric naturally, and last for years.

Essen al Oils: Add a few drops of organic Lavender or Lemon oil to your dryer balls for a safe, natural scent.

Dis lled White Vinegar: Add a splash to the rinse cycle. It acts as a natural so ener and kills odors without leaving a vinegar smell.

Air Drying: The healthiest (and cheapest) way to get that truly fresh scent.

Tip: If you can smell your neighbor's laundry from down the street, those chemicals are entering your lungs. Protect your air quality by going fragrance-free!

Breathe Easier. Choose Non-Toxic.

RINCONSLIST

To post on Rinconslist, email your ad and picture to belinda.real@gmail.com by the 10th of the month for the next issue.

RINCONSLIST

To post on Rinconslist, email your ad and picture to belinda.real@gmail.com by the 10th of the month for the next issue.

PET CARE AVAILABLE

Going on vacation? Recovering from surgery? I can help! I am your neighbor at 120 Redwing and have helped neighbors for eight years. References available.

Short term pet care includes:

Dog walking, feeding, and cuddles

Cat visits, feeding, litter box cleaning, and TLC

I can also water plants, pIck up mail, and put out trash bins, if needed.

All for $10 per visit!

Contact: Charlotte at 707-921-8259. (Call or text)