Word of the Month: Cudgel

David Zapatka Friend and fellow bridge player, Susan, writes, “I recently read a new word, ‘cudgel.’ Would you research this word for your column?” Cudgel—cud·gel noun: A short, thick stick used as a weapon. verb: To strike or beat with a cudgel; metaphorically, to forcefully apply or exert something, such as pressure or influence Origin…

SaddleBrooke Community Outreach Happenings – July 2025

Is Your House a Candidate for the SBCO Home Tour? Nancy McCluskey-Moore Each year SaddleBrooke Community Outreach (SBCO) hosts a tour of remodeled homes designed to show SaddleBrooke and SaddleBrooke Ranch residents changes that may inspire their own home improvements. This event helps SBCO inform both communities about its food, clothing, enrichment, and educational programs…

Democratic Club Hosted Visit by Common Defense

M.C. Nelson The Democratic Club of SaddleBrooke Ranch hosted a visit by Common Defense—the largest grassroots membership organization of progressive veterans standing up for our communities against the rising ride of racism, hate, and violence. They vow to organize together against those who seek to divide us so systems can not be rigged for economic…

In Passing – July 2025

Richard Lee Gillaspie Richard Lee Gillaspie was born on Jan. 14, 1954, to Jack and Betty (Walbrecht) Gillaspie. He passed away on June 6, 2025, at the age of 71, surrounded by his wife and daughter, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. Rick was born and raised in Corvallis, Ore., graduating Corvallis High School in…

Wine Club News and Happenings

Jerri Wunder Summer is such a fabulous season here at Saddlebrooke Ranch (SBR). The SBR Wine Club kicked off the season in great style with a sold-out patio mixer, “Summer Sips Chilling and Grilling,” in May. It was coordinated by Debbie Chapman and Marilyn Heasley. Next up on the Summer agenda was Movie Night on…