For the record, I am an animal lover who grew up with many pets and spent a great 14 years with my dog, Murphy.

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"As someone who lived in San Francisco's SoMa district for eight years, my dog Darwin and I experienced firsthand the need for even more parks and open spaces downtown, " Mr. Stoppelman says.

WSJ: Playground Plan Shows Philanthropy's Swing Toward Home

Nevertheless, the itch returned last year, when, during an extended existentialist spin-out, the same family dog I had abandoned so many years ago dragged himself to my side and refused to leave.

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Nearly 30 years later, I feel the same low-dog April blues regarding my 10-stock portfolio.

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