Thanks, JiK..that's kind of what I expected to hear.
The persuasive words in various strengths and tones didn't seem to help any more than the whacking and wiggling.

I can't get inside/under to grab the stem with anything..the sleeve/cover is in the way.

..guess I'll be living with a running drip until I switch rooms and install a different set. Maybe I'll be able to keep the meter tool for a while and can sort of limit my water wasting a little bit that way.

The only thing I could think of to do was turn the handle a little bit toward open in case the washer wanted to fluff itself up while it isn't pressed. I'm sure it won't fluff up, but I'm sure not losing anything by trying..

Thanks