Village at Valley View

Stop the Sneezes

Those who suffer from seasonal allergies should keep windows closed, avoid being outdoors between 5 and 10 a.m. when pollen counts are at their highest and stay away from freshly cut grass.

Chocolate Bunny Bonanza

More than 90 million chocolate bunnies are sold in the U.S. each year.

The Power of Pecans

Celebrate National Pecan Month in April with a handful of these nutritious nuts. Rich in antioxidants and more than 19 vitamins and minerals, pecans are an excellent heart-healthy snack. Studies show that pecans may also help lower the risk for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Free Tax Advice

The Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program provides free tax help to people 60 and older. For details, visit irs.gov. AARP also offers free help to qualifying taxpayers. Call (888) 227-7669.

Sprinkle Speeds

Scientific measurements show that raindrops fall through the atmosphere at speeds of 5 to 20 mph.

Protecting the Environment

The overwhelming public support for the first Earth Day in 1970 led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. Earth Day is celebrated on April 22.

A Little Rain Must Fall

“The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” —Dolly Parton

Green Spaces Linked to Longevity

Recent studies indicate that access to green space may contribute to longer life expectancy. The presence of trees, gardens and houseplants can reduce air pollution and improve mental well-being, leading to increased health and happiness.

Thank a Tree

Breathe easy on National Arbor Day, the last Friday in April: One large tree provides a day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people.

Good With Chimps

Anthropologist and conservationist Jane Goodall, well-known for her intensive study of chimpanzees, was born in London, England, on April 3, 1934, and passed away in October 2025 at the age of 91. Her formal title was Dame Jane Morris Goodall, though she preferred to be called Jane.

Laugh Lines: Bird Puns to Crow About

Here are some corny bird puns that are so funny, you won’t be able to stop raven about them! Don’t egret missing these!

• Someone has been robin banks lately. The police need help to quack the case.
• Did you hear about the woodpecker who found some really firm bark? It was im-peck-able.
• A restaurant tried adding pelican burgers to its menu, but the meal’s big bill ruffled some feathers.
• My friend was keeping a sick bird in his house, but then he was told that it was ill eagle.
• Turkeys are terrible batters. They always hit fowl balls and get tagged out at first baste.
• The neighbors asked me to watch their pet parrot while they were on vacation, but it was too much of a bird-en.
• Her favorite dance is the chicken dance. It’s poultry in motion.
• Watching chicks hatch is so egg-sighting!

Toucan play at this game! Can you think of any bird puns?