Coman named 2024 Senior Citizen of the Year
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
Liz Coman shared how surprised she was to be nominated for the Senior Citizen of the Year award by the Winters communty.
The Senior Citizen of the Year award is part of the Winters District Chamber of Commerce Toast of Winters community awards and is given out annually to a citizen who has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life for the Winters community. Coman has committed herself to education, community service, and the enrichment of the small town she calls home.
With a touch of humor, she reflected on the winding path that brought her back to Winters after first leaving it behind.
“After I graduated from high school, I was leaving this podunk town, never coming back. I went to
San Francisco and loved the city, but the boy I followed there was coming back to Winters to help his family,” Coman said.
Yet, like many who first leave the moorings of their small towns, she found the winds sending her back home. She returned with her then-boyfriend Rob Coman, now her husband, who decided to help his family’s grocery store, sealing the deal.
“We got married in ‘75 and have been here ever since,” Coman said with a smile.
A career educator, Coman earned her teaching credential and began substituting in local schools, quickly finding her calling in the classroom. Over the next few decades, she taught English, shaping the minds of countless students, and no doubt some of you readers. She more recently transitioned to be-
ing the school librarian, a role she cherished for six years before retiring. But even retirement couldn’t keep her away. Today, she works part-time with the district, focusing her efforts on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs.
“I’m all about CTE Now. I love CTE,” Coman said with conviction. “I want students to have options. I want them to be able to go to college if they want to, and it does not have to be, you know, a four-year college, it can be a community college. They can go and get some kind of certification, but if they want to, I want them to go into the trades. I want them to be able to do that.”
She is particularly proud of the district’s ability to connect students with practical, hands-on learning opportunities that translate
See COMAN, Page 2
Waggoner hosts Enrollment Information Night, class tours
Express staff
Waggoner Elementary School is hosting an Enrollment Information Night and Classroom Tour for families who want to learm more information about the transitional kindergarten (TK), kindergarten and dual-language immersion kindergarten programs.
Waggoner Principal Chrix Marcoux said his staff is “excited for the opportunity to showcase our early learning programs at this event.”
The TK and kindergarten information night is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This event will be presented in English from 5:30 to 6:15
p.m. and in Spanish from 6:45 to 7:30 p.m. Self-guided classroom tours will happen from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m. The information sessions allow families to learn more about the programs, meet the teachers, tour classrooms and ask questions. Families will also be able to pick up a registration packet at the event.
Marcoux said that Waggoner’s TK program has “steadily increased each year as we work toward a goal of universal access for four-year olds.”
Eligibility
Children who turn 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2025, are eligible to register for Transitional Kindergarten.
Children who turn 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2025, are eligible to register
for kindergarten.
Families who have questions should contact Nicole Brace in the Waggoner office at 530-795-6121 or nbrace@wintersjusd. org.
The Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees recently approved projects to add additional classrooms and a playground for the transitional kindergarten students. Trustees also approved an amount to add a new multi-purpose room project for the Waggoner site.
Waggoner Elementary school serves students in grades TK through second grade.
Additional Waggoner Elementary updates are available online at https:// wes-wintersjusd-ca. schoolloop.com or on Facebook @WaggonerDolphins.
Weather
Trustees approve new courses, ethnic studies program updates
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
At its Dec. 19 meeting, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees approved plans to enhance arts, music and academic programs across the district, including implementing new state-funded Prop 28 initiatives and finalizing updates to the district’s Ethnic Studies program. New courses with Prop 28 funds
In November 2022, California voters approved Proposition 28, which guarantees funding for arts and music education.
Assistant Superintendent Pheoebe Girimonte and staff outlined how these funds would be used
to enrich learning opportunities in Winters JUSD schools. There are several elements to the district’s Prop. 28 implementation plan, including the hiring of a second teacher to double instructional time for science, technology, arts and music at Waggoner Elementary and Shirley Rominger Intermediate Schools. A new music teacher will be hired as well, who will be focused on elementary and intermediate schools, while the school district’s current music staff will concentrate on at the middle and high school programs.
Course descriptions at Winters High School were introduced for Foundations in Music (including mariachi, piano, and guitar), Jazz Band (with an emphasis on improvisation and diverse jazz styles), and Musical Theater (incorporating acting, vocal performance, and stagecraft). Each of these courses will be offered to WHS students in grades nine through 12th and fulfill an area F – Visual and Performing Arts graduation requirement. In addition to the Prop. 28 course descriptions, an Expository Reading and Writing Course (ERWC) was approved along with the rest of the Prop 28 course descriptions by the board. The ERWC course is a free curriculum intended to bridge the gap
See COURSES, Page 2
Winters Fortnightly Club hosts Community Blood Drive on Jan. 13
The Winters Fortnightly Club, in partnership with Vitalant, invites members of the community to roll up their sleeves and make a difference by donating blood at the upcoming Winters Community Blood Drive. The event will take place on Monday, Jan. 13, from 2 to 5:45 p.m. at the Winters Community Center, located at 201 Railroad Ave. As the winter months can lead to significant challenges for blood supply, the
need for donations is particularly critical. On average, blood donations drop by 4,000 in January alone due to the holiday festivities, inclement weather, and seasonal illnesses. To address this ongoing need, January is recognized as National Blood Donor Month, highlighting the importance of blood donation in saving lives. While walk-ins are welcome, those wishing to donate are highly encouraged to make an appointment to ensure priority service.
Appointments can be made by visiting donors.vitalant.org and using the “Advanced Search” feature with the blood drive code SMFM164. Alternatively, individuals can call Vitalant at 877258-4825 and mention the blood drive code when registering. To participate as a blood donor, individuals must be at least 16 years old (with a signed parental consent form if under 18), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in general good health.
See DRIVE, Page 3
KLJ Studios/Courtesy photo
Liz Coman has been selected as the 2024 Winters Senior Citizen of the Year.
Express staff
Winters JUSD seeks Class of 2025 Hall of Fame nominations
Special to the Express
In 2018, the Winters Joint Unified School District launched the inaugural Hall of Fame, a recognition program that honors those who have gone above and beyond for our school district and community to be recognized for their work and honored for what they do.
The Hall of Fame consists of three categories: alumni, employee and distinguished service. The eligibility criteria for each group are detailed on the nomination form found on the District’s website at https://www.wintersjusd.org/hof.
Alumni are eligible to be nominated 10 years after graduation from Winters High School, an employee is eligible five years after retirement, and a distinguished service
COMAN
Continued from Page 1
directly into careers.
“The teachers are outstanding. The students, especially for folks that are kines-
inductee has no time requirements. An alumnus nominee was a student who demonstrated high quality and character and was actively engaged in school programs while in school. An alumnus nominee will have continued those qualities as a professional adult, specifically in their career/professional accomplishments, military service, or community service. Former district employees nominated must have demonstrated outstanding qualities that had a significant impact on school scholastics, athletics, or other student-centered activities. They must have had an exemplary life of community service and good character. The final category is the distinguished service inductee. This nominee is not necessarily a graduate from the district
thetic learners, handson, project-based, it’s just perfect for them,” Coman said. Her dedication to education doesn’t stop there. She actively helps bring guest
but is a local citizen or businessperson who made extraordinary contributions to the district. This person’s contribution was a significant benefit or exceptional honor to the district or one of its schools.
The submission process for this year’s nominations begins on Jan. 6, and closes on Jan. 31.
The Hall of Fame honorees will be selected and informed of their selection in mid-February. The inductees will be recognized at an Induction Ceremony on April 24. Details about the ceremony will be announced at a later date.
If you have any questions regarding the Winters JUSD Hall of Fame, please contact Anietta Kelley, assistant to the superintendent at akelley@wintersjusd.org or call the school district office at 530-795-6100.
speakers into the career technical classes, as well as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) to help students understand the level of education needed, and how to get those positions after they graduate.
“The students are able to talk to somebody who’s using drones in agriculture. You know, how did you get there? What education do I need? What’s a day like for you and your job? It’s very valuable, seeing what’s out there.”
Coman has helped bring engineers, biologists and even an editor from a certain local newspaper to answer questions for students.
In addition to getting CTE and AVID students prepared for the future by showing them what careers are out there for them after they graduate, Coman has had a hand in prepping students for mock interviews meant to simulate the kind of job interviews they’ll need to have to land some of these jobs. The now half-century-old program was first started by Coman and former WHS educator Diane Grimard and allows students to prepare resumes for their dream jobs and then perform a mock interview.
“They need to be
COURSES
Continued from Page 1
between high school and college instruction so that students can experience the kinds of rigor that they will see reading for research or responding to prompts at the college level.
The Prop. 28 committee, comprising community members and Winters JUSD staff, will oversee the allocation of funds, ensuring alignment with program requirements.
“This funding allows us to provide transformative opportunities for students while strengthening our arts and music programs,” said WHS Principal Justin Young.
Ethnic Studies program moves forward
Trustees also approved updates to the school district’s Ethnic Studies curriculum, meeting the new statewide graduation requirement effective fall 2025. The program, led by instructional coach Kristen Higgins
writing a résumé. They need to understand what a cover letter is and how to target it. They need to be practicing for interviews and doing mock interviews,” said Coman.
Beyond her professional contributions, her involvement in several organizations outside of education speaks volumes about her passion for Winters beyond the classroom. She chairs the Winters Participation Gallery, which is responsible for facilitating student-created
“This funding allows us to provide transformative opportunities for students while strengthening our arts and music programs.”
Justin Young, principal
and supported by an Ethnic Studies Task Force, emphasizes community engagement and inclusivity.
The ninth-grade, semester-long course is designed to explore cultural history, promote equity, and foster understanding. It will include a specialized English Language Development (ELD) section to ensure English learners receive the same opportunities as their peers.
“Kristen Higgins, along with Principal Young, has led a very collaborative effort, including an ethnic studies Task Force to determine what our course offering would look like,” said Girimonte. “Ms. Higgins has become sort of like an expert in the region on ethnic studies, the model curricu-
through the Extended Learning Program, which funded the Winters Healthcare mural and the Waggoner Elemenatary Spirit of Winters mural, with the help of Superintendent Rody Boonchouy. In addition to her work with WPG, she’s a member of the Winters Education Foundation (WEF), which provides funding for classroom enrichment activities, like field trips, through minigrants of up to $2,500.
“We try to help fund those things, and
“I was like a deer in the headlights. I couldn’t talk, I couldn’t find words, because I was a little bit overwhelmed. I just feel honored by it, really.”
Liz Coman, honoree
mural projects.
The gallery’s projects have become a cornerstone of the town’s identity, fostering collaboration between students, artists, and the community. Since Coman began her tenure as chair, the WPG has done four murals, with more in the planning phase. She has been able to foster a relationship between the WPG and Winters JUSD, funding murals
that’s a delight,” said Coman. “The folks who are on WEF are as passionate as I am about education and public education and making sure that the students in Winters can get as much out of their education as possible.”
She is also involved with Fortnightly, a local group that raises scholarship funds for graduating seniors.
“It is a fun group of older women, I’m going to say, experienced-in-life women,” explained Coman. The group works together to fund scholarships for education, the Ag program, and culinary programs that nurture future career possibilities for students.
lum, and additionally that she recognizes that this course is very much tied to the work related to school culture, climate, and cultural proficiency, an avenue to support students and feeling seen and recognized at winters High School.”
Young closed discussions by praising the work of staff the last couple of years on both the new Prop 28 Courses and the Ethnic Studies course descriptions.
“I’m very excited, personally, but I wanted to really echo the work on ethnic studies that Ms. Higgins and assistant superintendent Girimonte and our task force have done. It’s incredible. We’re really excited about that,” Young said.
Despite her extensive résumé of service, she was genuinely surprised by her nomination for senior citizen of the year.
“Rody Boonchouy called me, I thought it was about the mural we’re working on,” she said with a laugh. “I was like a deer in the headlights. I couldn’t talk, I couldn’t find words, because I was a little bit overwhelmed. I just feel honored by it, really.” Coman made it clear she believes that others deserve this award more.
“It was such a surprise to me. Because sure, there are people who do so much more than I do,” she explained.
But anyone who has known Liz Coman is well aware of why she deserves to be recognized.
A nomination noted that Coman plays major roles within the community and the school district and “her attention to detail and her amazing heart is what sets her apart” and that she “volunteers countless hours and pours her heart into every interaction she has.”
Since 1974, she’s been an educator and a mentor who has dedicated countless hours to making Winters a better place, whether in the classroom or out of it.
Coman will officially be recognized at the Toast of Winters awards event on Feb. 1. Ticket information will be made available on the Winters Chamber social media accounts and website at winterschamber.com.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Liz Coman speaks as the Winters Participation Gallery chair at the 2024 mural ribbon cutting ceremony at the Mariani Nut Company warehouse.
Eventos hispanos
Winters JUSD lanza nueva plataforma de gestión de la junta
Designa al primer superintendente asistente de servicios comerciales
Por Crystal Apilado
Traducido por Carol Alfonso
Este mes, el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Winters JUSD presentó un nuevo sistema de gestión de la junta para agilizar la organización y la accesibilidad de los recursos de las reuniones de la junta escolar. El pasado 16 de Diciembre, el distrito escolar lanzó oficialmente la solución de gestión de la junta GAMUT para alojar agendas y paquetes para las reuniones de su Junta Directiva.
GAMUT es una plataforma integral que ofrece módulos integrados diseñados para impulsar la productividad, mejorar la comunicación y simplificar los procesos de rutina.
El sistema proporciona un acceso seguro y sin papel a los materiales de las reuniones y permite que varios colaboradores colaboren en la misma plataforma. Con funciones que permiten una fácil búsqueda y clasificación de reuniones archivadas por tipo y fecha, el programa está configurado para ahorrar tiempo y mejorar la eficiencia en la gestión de las reuniones de la junta. El público ahora puede acceder a las agendas y paquetes de la junta haciendo clic en la pestaña “Reuniones (Meetings)” en la página de la agenda de la junta del distrito escolar en https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK. También está disponible en esta página un enlace a los recursos de las reuniones anteriores al 16 de Diciembre. Además de los materiales de la reunión, la plataforma ofrece una lista completa de las políticas de la junta en la pestaña “Políticas (Policies),” junto con la información de contacto de todos los fideicomisarios.
Actualizaciones de la reunión organizativa En la reunión organizativa del pasado 19 de Diciembre, la Junta de Fideicomisarios aprobó a sus funcionarios para el próximo período y finalizó el calendario de reuniones del 2025. Joedy Michael seguirá desempeñándose como presidente de la junta, y Everardo Zaragoza seguirá como secretario de la junta.
Los fideicomisarios Kristin Trott (Área de fideicomisarios 1) y Everardo Zaragoza (Área de fideicomisarios 5) prestaron juramento para otro período, tras haberse postulado sin oposición en las elecciones generales del 5 de Noviembre. El cronograma de las reuniones de la junta del 2025 ya está disponible en el sitio web de Winters JUSD en wintersjusd.org. Las reuniones generalmente se llevan a cabo el primer y tercer Jueves del mes a las 6 p.m. en la sala de juntas de Winters JUSD, con excepciones en Junio y otros
YCOE organiza un foro comunitario sobre inmigración con las fuerzas del orden del condado de Yolo
Especial para el Express
Estás invitado a asistir a un Foro Comunitario sobre Inmigración con la Policía del Condado de Yolo.
Escuche a los líderes de la policía del Condado de Yolo hablar sobre el es-
tado de las posibles preocupaciones de inmigración. La discusión incluirá la Ley de Valores de California (SB 54), que se promulgó el 1 de enero de 2018. La asistencia en persona es limitada. El foro será grabado. La traducción al español está
disponible por Zoom. Fecha: lunes 13 de enero
Hora: 4-5:30 p.m.
Ubicación: En persona (Oficina de Educación del Condado de Yolo) o por Zoom (virtual) Registro: https:// forms.office.com/r/ LHLmXT9k8J
Continued from Page 1
A photo ID displaying the donor’s name is also required.
Donors can help streamline the donation process by arriving well-nourished and hydrated. The entire donation process takes approximately one hour, depending on the type of donation. To facilitate a quicker check-in, donors are
encouraged to complete the Fast Track health questionnaire online at www. vitalant.org/donate/ health-history-questionnaire/fast-track before arriving at the blood drive.
meses según se indique en el calendario. Nuevo personal designado En la reunión especial de la junta directiva del pasado 9 de Diciembre, los fideicomisarios aprobaron el nombramiento de Russell Barrington como nuevo superintendente asistente de servicios comerciales de Winters JUSD. La directora de Recursos Humanos, Lisa Dennis, presentó los detalles luego de un extenso proceso de reclutamiento. El nuevo puesto se anunció a través de múltiples canales, incluidos EdJoin, CASBO, ACSA, School Services of California, CALSA y LinkedIn, del 7 de Octubre al 4 de Noviembre. El distrito escolar recibió nueve solicitudes, de las cuales se seleccionaron tres candidatos para una entrevista inicial con un panel de personal de Winters JUSD y representantes de sindicatos y organizaciones de empleados. Dos finalistas avanzaron a una segunda ronda de entrevistas con el equipo
de gabinete del distrito escolar. Barrington fue seleccionado como la opción final, con verificaciones de referencias que confirmaron sus calificaciones e idoneidad para el puesto. Dennis dijo que Barrington aporta una gran experiencia en finanzas a Winters JUSD. Se desempeñó como Oficial de Cumplimiento Tributario para el Departamento del Tesoro de los EE. UU., Analista Fiscal para el SELPA del Condado Solano y, más recientemente, como Director de Servicios Fiscales para el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Davis. Tiene una maestría en Administración de Empresas y está certificado como Director de Negocios (CBO) a través de la Asociación de Funcionarios de Negocios Escolares de California (CASBO).
“Su naturaleza amable, su tremenda ética de trabajo y sus altos estándares éticos lo convertirán en una excelente incorporación al equipo de Winters JUSD,” dijo Dennis.
Waggoner organiza noches informativas para TK/Kindergarten
La Escuela Primaria Waggoner (Waggoner Elementary) está organizando una Noche de información sobre la inscripción y un recorrido por las aulas para las familias que desean obtener más información sobre los programas de kindergarten transicional (TK), kindergarten y kindergarten de inmersión en dos idiomas. Estamos entusiasmados por la oportunidad de mostrar nuestros programas de aprendizaje temprano en este evento.
Escuela Primaria Waggoner (Waggoner
está organizando una Noche de información sobre la inscripción y un recorrido por las aulas para las familias que desean obtener más información sobre los programas de kindergarten transicional, kindergarten y kindergarten de inmersión en dos idiomas.
dida que trabajamos hacia el objetivo de acceso universal para niños de cuatro años.
Elegibilidad
Los niños que cumplan 4 años el 1 de septiembre de 2025 o antes son elegibles para registrarse en kinder tranciciional. Los niños que cumplan 5 años el 1 de septiembre de 2025 o antes son elegibles para inscribirse en jardín de infantes. Las familias que tengan preguntas deben comunicarse con Nicole Brace en la oficina de Waggoner al 530-795-6121or nbrace@wintersjusd. org. Actualizaciones adicionales de Waggoner Elementary están disponibles en línea https:// wes-wintersjusd-ca. schoolloop.com o en Facebook @WaggonerDolphins.
Your participation not only helps ensure blood is available when needed but also inspires others in the community to give. For additional questions about the blood drive or to schedule your appointment, contact Vitalant at 877-258-4825. DRIVE
People who donate in January will be entered to win one of three gift cards valued at $10,000. Information about the gift card campaign is available online at vitalant.org/Thrivein2025Giveaway.
Winters Fortnightly encourages community members to joing them in making a lifesaving contribution this month.
La Noche de Información sobre kínder transiciónal y kínder está programada para el jueves 30 de enero de 5:30 a 7:30 p.m. Este evento se presentará en inglés de 5:30 a 6:15 p. m. y en español de 6:45 a 7:30 p.m., con recorridos autoguiados por las aulas de 6:15 a 6:45 p. m.
Las sesiones informativas permiten a las familias aprender más sobre nuestros programas, conocer a los maestros, recorrer las aulas y hacer preguntas. Las familias también podrán recoger un paquete de inscripción. Los conocimientos tradicionales de Waggoner han aumentado constantemente cada año a me-
Especial para el Express
Gráfico de cortesía
La
Elementary)
Courtesy photo
Winters Fortnightly member Karen Neil donates blood at a community blood drive.
Berryessa water levels up
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa went up during the past week by 1 foot, with an increase in the storage of 17,928 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh, Solano Project Technician with the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 7, he reported the lake elevation
was 436.95 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,494,171 acre-feet of water. The SID released 57 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 40 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 32 acre-feet of water per day.
Public Safety Report
City of Winters
Fire
The Winters Fire Log will return soon. Check for updates at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.
Police Arrest Log
Dec. 27: Rubio, Gregorio R. (Age 56), Charges: Yolo SO Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~Solorio, Aurelio Jr. (Age 45), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear
Dec. 28: Boykin, John Franklin (Age 19); Charges: DUI, DUI with blood alcohol lever over .08 percent, Person under 21 driving with BAC .01 percent or higher; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail
Dec. 29: Rith, Virak Roun (Age 54), Charges: Trespass-
ing, Obstruct/Resist Arrest, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Report Log
Dec. 26: 12:13 p.m., 900th block of Railroad Avenue, Harassing/Annoying Phone Calls
~7:50 p.m., 900th block of Railroad Avenue, Violation of Court Order
Dec. 27: 9:16 a.m., 100th block of E. Baker Street, Tamper with Vehicle
~4:52 p.m., 100th block of First Street, Welfare Check
Dec. 28: 1:34 a.m., 400th block of Niemann Street, Traffic Collision
~2 p.m., 20th block of E. Main Street, Traffic Collision
Dec. 30: 7:16 a.m., 10th block of Anderson Avenue, Verbal Dispute
For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see www.winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.
Picked by Charley Wallace
Don’t miss out on important local news in in 2025! Yolo County residents can get a WE print and digital subscription combo for $30.
130 Years Ago
January 12, 1895
Francis McDonald was down from Little Portuguese canyon last Sunday. He informed the Express that the water was higher in Putah canyon, up his way, that it has been before for ten years. The creek ran four feet deep over the grade opposite Napoleon Vieu’s place and washed away a good portion of Mr. Vieu’s orchard on the south bank.
The officers of Buckeye Lodge No. 195, F. and A. M., were installed last Saturday night by Past Master George W. Hill. The new officers are as follows: George Thompson, Worshipful Master; A. B Ish, Senior Warden; J. F. Griffin, Junior Warden; J. P. Steward, treasurer; William Sims Secretary; D. H. Waughtel, Marshal; T. J. Crane, Senior Deacon; W. H. Gregory, Junior Deacon; M. O. Wyatt and George W. Hutchens, Stewards; and C. H. Wolfe, Tyler. The Winters Union High School reopened last Monday with a full complement of scholars.
L. Moody assumed the duties of the office of Justice of the Peace last Monday, and will have his office in H. Craner’s building on Main street, just west of McCoubrey’s blacksmith shop.
Arthur W. North, of this place has been appointed third assistant to the Chief Clerk of the California As-
Years Ago
Dispatches from the Express archives.
sembly.
When on the way to town last Sunday morning, James R. Briggs and wife met with a mishap that, while serious might have been worse. The horse became frightened at the train and in making a short turn, the front axle of their buggy was broken and the buggy in falling struck the horse’s heels. Mr. and Mrs. Briggs were thrown out. Mr. Briggs was considerably bruised but his wife was not hurt.
95 Years Ago
January 10, 1930
After several months delay, the Natural Gas Products Company of San Francisco was granted a franchise by the City Council Tuesday evening at the regular meeting.
E. K. Gesford, night watchman at the high school, is ill at his home this week.
M. S. And W. E. Boyd have returned after a weeks’ visit with relatives in Oakland and Berkeley.
Born to Mr. and Mrs. John Lopez, Sunday, Jan. 5, 1930, a son.
Sale and Ruggles received a car load
of coal from Utah on Wednesday. Charley Hamakawa of the Horai Company recently recovered from a severe cold.
J. R. Ruggles recently constructed a garage at his. home. His application to build was accepted by the city.
Lester Dalbey who spent the Yuletide with his parents, the H. C. Dalbeys left Wednesday to resume his course at the Chico college.
Born to Mr. and Mrs. G. E. Merchant, a girl, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 1930.
45 Years Ago
January 10, 1980
Under the chairmanship of Corinne Martinez and Andra Sawyer, the Youth Day Council has begun its activities for the celebration on Saturday April 26. Secretary Marie Borchard has sent out letters to residents asking for financial support for the yearly event, which features athletic contests, a parade and two variety shows, among the other free entertainments.
The Winters City Council took action at an adjourned meeting Tuesday evening that will lead to the awarding of Community Center contract to the apparent low bidder, Roberti and Haskell Construction of Sacramento. Meeting
with the Community Center design committee, the four council members present, Major John Martin, Jack Losoya, John Atherton and George Duncan, agreed to take $12,000 out of the city’s operating expenses to make up the deficit between what was available for the building and what the bid came in at. This money will be replaced by the sale of city property, the council indicated.
The city of Winters was one of 86 cities in the state who will have to return some of the bailout funds distributed this year. That amount has been calculated at $1,554.50, and is due, according to Kenneth Cory, state controller, by the end of January.
John and Mae Clayton of Winters celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday, Dec. 29, at a reception held for some 130 friends and relatives in Wesley Hall.
Shannon Martinez, Patty, Dan, Charlie and Bruce Rominger were among the Rominger cousins getting together at a “3rd Generation” party hosted by Frances and Wayne Campbell of Woodland last Saturday evening.
Don and Shirley Rominger entertained about 30 members of their family at a buffet supper following the annual Rominger Mud Bowl game Dec. 26. The field conditions were perfect — the score tied.
Mr. and Mrs. Martin spent the Christmas holiday with their daughter and family, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Branik, Tim, Mary Anne and Cathleen of Monrovia.
Pictured are the Butte View League championship girls basketball varsity team, holding individual trophies presented at the banquet in March 1978. Back row, (l to r) Corinne Martinez, Norma Ortega, Sharon Whipple, Uta Adler, Nancy Thomas and Gina Timperley; front row, Jody Graf, Keri Graf, Coach JoAnn Cook, Sandy Zaragoza and Mary Claire Purtill.
Arts & Entertainment
Folk-rock concert supports Meals on Wheels
Special to the Express
Offering an evening of live folk-rock music, “Spinoza’s Dream,” a benefit concert for Meals on Wheels Yolo County (MOW Yolo), will feature Davis-based musician and recording artist Dave Nachmanoff and The Usual Culprits on Saturday, Jan. 25, 6 p.m., at the Winters Opera House, 13 Main St., Winters.
The event is sponsored by Davis residents Sarah and Tom Pattison.
A $30 advance donation to MOW Yolo at www.mowyolo.org/dream-concert/ ($35 at the door, if seats remain) includes admission for one and both savory and sweet refreshments crafted in MOW Yolo’s kitchens. Wine, beer, and soft drinks will be available for purchase, benefiting Winters Opera House. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. to enjoy food, beverages, and socializing prior to the concert.
“Healthy meals are music to seniors’ ears,” states Joy Cohan, MOW Yolo Executive Director. “So, there couldn’t be a more fitting way to support our mission to nourish and engage them than with a social evening of music and delicious bites. We are grateful to the Pattisons, to Dave, and to the Winters Opera House for this opportunity.”
That the event will take place in Winters compliments the organization’s addition of a second institutional meal production facility in the city about a year ago, joining the original kitchen in Woodland. Developed in the Main
Street location previously occupied by the Buckhorn’s catering operation, the 5,300 square foot Meals on Wheels-Sutter Health Senior Nutrition Center serves as a hub for cooking and packaging thousands of frozen meals weekly. Frozen meals are at the heart of MOW Yolo’s expansion to reach seniors in rural areas of Yolo County, connect with more aging adults in underserved neighborhoods in the cities, and an increasing social enterprise approach to ensuring that 250% programmatic growth over the past three years doesn’t retract due to the end of one-time, public pandemic-era funding sources.
“A silver tsunami is headed our way, as the Baby Boom generation ages and seniors are projected to outnumber children in Yolo County within five years,” Cohan explained. “We’re
Hattie Craven Band heads to Winters Opera House
Special to the Express
The Hattie Craven Band is a vibrant and innovative musical ensemble hailing from Northern California, renowned for their unique sound that captivates audiences with its originality and depth. Join in the fun as the Hattie Craven Band performs at the historic Winters Opera House on Friday, Jan. 17, at 7 p.m.
Having grown up in a musical household and community, Hattie Craven has lived and breathed music since her early years. Her father, award winning performer and educator Joe Craven, has been a continuous source of inspiration, fueling Hattie’s own exciting musical journey.
The band crafts melodies that seamlessly intertwine the rhythmic complexities of jazz, the storytelling essence of folk, and the emotional resonance of soul creating
new music that is truly their own.
Chico-based songwriter, vocalist, educator & keyboardist Webster Moore, channels a smooth and soulful dynamic that elevates the sensation of the band. Adam Haun-Metroka, Nevada City bassist, vocalist & educator, provides an artistic flair that enriches the drive and creativity in their music. Sacramento educator and drummer Cameron Womack, was born with sticks in his hands, and brings an energized & vital heartbeat to the group. While reimagining traditional folk, bluegrass, country, jazz and pop … Hattie is also the creative force behind many of the band’s original songs, delving into themes of love, loss, and resilience. Her music resonates on a deeply personal level with every listener who experiences it. Whether perform-
working diligently amidst limited resources now to nourish 1,000 seniors each weekday, knowing that more than 8,000 seniors live in poverty countywide as of the 2020 Census. That number will grow dramatically as each year passes, and the community’s support, especially with funds, but with time and talent, too, will determine MOW Yolo’s ability to be prepared to assist them to age in place.”
Nachmanoff performs both locally and tours worldwide as a folk singer-songwriter and has served as sideman to the legendary Al Stewart in addition to teaching master classes. His 2016 "Spinoza's Dream," a philosophical-themed concept album, illuminates Nachmanoff’s dual passions as both an accomplished musician and a Ph.D. in philosophy, serving as the inspiration for this benefit concert.
The Usual Culprits complement Nachmanoff’s style with a mix of rock and Americana influences that provide a dynamic backdrop to his songwriting. The group features Martin Lewis on guitar, Nick Carvajal on bass and vocals, and Ryan Davis on drums. More information is available at https://davenach. com/the-usual-culprits.
“What Meals on Wheels does in Yolo County to care for seniors means a lot to me, because my family and I are well-acquainted with the challenges of keeping aging adults in the community safe, well-nourished, and engaged,” Nachmanoff said. “This is not the first time that I’ve performed to support food security in our community, and Joy and her team not only are dedicated to MOW Yolo’s mission, but they are solid partners with whom to collaborate to put the fun in fundraising by putting it to music.”
Built in 1876 and having served as a live music venue for nearly two decades during the Palms Playhouse’s residency, Winters Opera House now is home to the Winters Theatre Company and performances of their full season of plays. The musical performance tradition continues, however, featuring a variety of genres to complement the frequent stage productions. WTC and the Winters Opera House provide an eclectic, yet homey, setting for the “Spinoza’s Dream” material and the concert’s aim to raise funds to nourish local seniors.
ing at intimate venues or larger festivals, they consistently deliver a sound that is as refreshing as it is unforgettable, earning them a dedicated following and critical acclaim in the music community.
With a robust lineup of upcoming shows and a new recording
on the horizon, Hattie and the band invite you to stay up to date on the latest news by visiting hattiecraven. com
Come join us to hear this amazing performer and her band. For tickets and more information go to www. winterstheatre.org or call 530-795-4014.
WFoL host an evening with sci-fi author Robinson
By Diane Cary Special to the Express
Winters Friends of the Library is excited to announce a special appearance by renowned author Kim Stanley Robinson, winner of the Hugo Award for Best Novel, the Nebula Award for Best Novel and the World Fantasy Award.
Robinson’s 2020 novel “The Ministry for the Future,” which offers a vision of global cooperation to combat climate change, was named by former president Barack Obama as one of his favorite books of the year. Robinson will discuss what he has learned since writing that book, and may give
Kim Stanley
will speak at the Winters Opera House on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m.
a hint about what he is working on now.
The Atlantic has called Robinson’s work “the gold standard of realistic, and highly literary, science-fiction writing.” According to The New
Yorker, Robinson is “generally acknowledged as one of the greatest living science-fiction writers.”
Attendees are invited to bring copies of his books for signing after the talk.
Robinson’s talk will take place on Thursday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. at the historic Winters Opera House, located at 13 Main St. (upstairs) in downtown Winters. Tickets for this special event are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.
Tickets are available on EventBrite at https://bit.ly/ 4j4ycqY or visit wfol.org for more information.
“Winters Theatre Company exists to connect the community to the performing arts, and to do so featuring local talent and supporting local causes,” noted Linda Glick, a former Winters Citizen of the Year and a WTC founder. “When my friend Sarah Pattison shared her vision to sponsor a concert with Dave to benefit Meals on Wheels, I knew immediately that the event would be a fit with WTC’s commitment to contribute to the wellbeing of the community around us. We are honored to host this performance for an important cause that cares for local seniors.”
Pattison is delighted that she and her husband, Tom, have been able to leverage a donation to MOW Yolo that would have been meaningful in and of itself, into an entertaining evening and a reason to amplify the community’s awareness of MOW Yolo, its mission, and its impact.
“Bringing together people, causes and talents in Yolo County that are special to me through this sponsorship, and having the excuse to brainstorm and coordinate with all of them, is so very rewarding,” Pattison said. “That local seniors will eat more nutritiously and suffer less loneliness simultaneously makes it all the more inspiring.”
For concert details or to learn about donating, volunteering or connecting with MOW Yolo, visit www.mowyolo.org or call 530-662-7035.
Bird Alliance offers lecture, three field trips
Special to the Express
The public is invited to join the Yolo Bird Alliance at its Jan. 15 virtual meeting. This month’s lecture features two speakers, Finn Velisaris and Christopher Torres, PhD., who will talk about phoebes and flamingos, respectively Finn Velisaris, a recent UC Davis graduate will present his independent research project, “How do Songbird Nest Predator Communities and Predation Rates Change Across an Urban Gradient?” Velisaris’ talk will highlight how urbanization influences the composition of predator communities and the predation rates on nests.
Torres, an assistant professor in the deptarment of biological sciences at the University of the Pacific, will talk about “The Evolution of the Flamingo’s Smile.” Flamingos are among the most iconic birds on the planet and are one of the world’s most highly specialized birds, employing an approach to filter-feeding unlike any other species.
The meeting will be held on Jan. 15 at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. For details on how to join the meeting go to yolobirdalliance. org or facebook.com/ yolobirdalliance.
January field trips
On Saturday, Jan. 11, the public is invited to join Yolo Bird Alliance for a field trip to Bridgeway Island Pond and the Deepwater Ship-
ping Channel in West Sacramento. This field trip will be led by Lynette Williams Duman and Konshau Duman. The group will also walk up the levee and scan the Deepwater Ship Channel for water-loving birds. Near the levee, there is also a small stand of trees and bushes where there could be passerines such as spotted towhee, and orange-crowned warbler.
On Sunday, Jan. 19, Kevin Guse will lead the annual ‘Raptor Ramble.’ California’s Central Valley has one of the largest wintering raptor populations in the country. The goal of this field trip is to see how many species of raptors can be found.
On Saturday, Jan. 25, Sharon Kirkpatrick will lead a field trip to the pastures of southeastern Solano County to search for overwintering raptors and other winter visitors.
For more information on how to participate in these events, go to the group’s websites; yoloaudubon. org or facebook.com/ yolobirdalliance.
Gage Skidmore/Courtesy photo
Author
Robinson
Marc Vayssieres/Courtesy photo
Dave Nachmanoff and The Usual Culprits will perform an evening of live folk-rock music in a benefit concert for Meals on Wheels Yolo County on Jan. 25 at the Winters Opera House.
Courtesy photo
The Hattie Craven Band crafts melodies that seamlessly intertwine the rhythmic complexities of jazz, the storytelling essence of folk and the emotional resonance of soul creating new music that is truly its own.
Kevin Guse/Courtesy photo
The Yolo Bird Alliance hopes to catch a glimpse of as many raptor species as possible including the merlin.
Sports
Boys basketball team takes league opener versus Pierce
Girls basketball falls to the Bears
Express staff
Boys basketball
The Winters High School basketball teams went up against the Pierce High School Bears in their league opening games on Friday, Jan. 3.
The WHS varsity boys basketball team defeating the Bears in an away game with a final score of 61–53. The win marked a solid start considering the boys varsity team had to wait for the football team’s championship run to finish up before they could play together. Multiple players
contributed to their first league win.
Luke Felsen led the team on the scoreboard, putting up 27 points. Felsen proved his skills on the court with 8 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals.
Lane Brown made an impact on the score with 15 rebounds alongside the 9 points he put up. He also went 3 for 3 from the freethrow line.
Freshman Koa Branco contributed a significant offensive force, adding 14 points, including shooting 57 percent from the threepoint-distance.
Warriors Angel Auscenio contributed 5 points, while Miles Mariani put up 3 points and made 5 rebounds. Anthony Matamoros-Mayes added 3 points
to the Warriors score and made 6 re bounds.
Boys varsi ty head coach Jon Davis gave praise to his players’ efforts and ability to adapt as the game progressed.
“It was a good game. I’m proud of our effort on both sides of the ball,” Davis said. “We let them hang around with transition buckets and second chance scoring opportunities off of offensive rebounds. The guys did a great job making adjustments and bringing the energy in the second half.”
Their first league home
School. Junior varsity plays at 5:30 p.m. and varsity starts at 7 p.m.
Girls basketball
The varsity girls basketball team had a rough start in its league opening game last Friday, as they lost to the Bears 28–36.
Despite missing some players who were away during the winter break, varsity girls head coach
Ivan Dodic said the remaining played “played extremely hard and smart.”
Luzangely Martin led the Warriors putting up 11 points and Maci Dodic followed up wiht 7 points.
“Unfortunately we ran out of gas towards the end of the game and didn’t get the win. Nevertheless it was still a good start for us in league,” Dodic said. “Both Ahtzire Figueroa and Luz Martin played the best defensive game I have seen them play and will really help us moving forward.”
The girls varsity teams will travel to Paradise to play against the Bobcats on Friday, Jan. 10. Junior varsity plays at 5:30 p.m. and varsity starts at 7 p.m.
Girls soccer gains wins over Woodland, Pioneer
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Tuesday, Dec. 17, the Winters High School varsity boys and girls soccer team had games against Woodland High School.
The boys lost their match against Woodland High School by a score of 1–5 with the only goal of the game being scored by Alessandro Monsalve.
The girls however brought home yet another win with a final score of 1–0. It was a close game between the two teams.
Warrior Ava Muir Vickery came through with the only goal in the game off an assist by Izabella Bermudez. Idaly Lopez Sanchez was also named a standout player on the offensive side of the ball while Camila Martinez and Ava Coker made huge impacts defensively.
Kylie Baker made six saves on the night as goal keeper.
“Our compact shape was essential to our shutout, the girls did a great job staying in our tactical shape to not let the opponent have opportunities to hurt us,” said head coach Alex Monsalve.
On Tuesday, Dec 17, both teams played their second game of the week against the Pioneer High School Patriots. The varsity girls team remained
undefeated with a final score of 3–1.
Sanchez, Muir Vickery and Aylin Molina all scored for the Warriors, securing the victory against the competitive Patriot team. Molina and Raegan Hurst were superstars on the offense. Although Hurst (a freshman) was one of the smallest and youngest players on the field, she was one of the most aggressive. She made some big runs and won possession of the ball throughout the game.
Defensively it was Riley Nelson and Kenzie Cramer who stood out on the field. Nelson and Cramer, who are also freshmen, didn’t let their size stop them. Together, they stopped Pioneer from pushing up too close to the goal and worked to clear the ball and push it up field. Baker also put up six saves in the goal.
“We did an amazing job passing and moving on and off the ball, our possession did not allow the opponent to have much possession,” Monsalve said.
“We did concede our first goal of the season in this game. It was a lapse in communication, but the team showed amazing resilience and grit to come back and score three unanswered goals.”
This was a big win
for the girls considering Pioneer took home the win last year.
Unfortunately, the boys team didn’t have the same outcome and lost its game to the Patriots with a final score of 2–4.
Submit your Express Travels photo for an upcoming edition of the Express. Email the details about who is in the photo and where you are traveling to the editorial team at news@wintersexpress.com
Luzangely Martin
Luzangely Martin, a Winters High School senior, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Martin has played basketball for the Warriors all four years at WHS. Varsity head coach Ivan Dodic said Martin “has worked extremely hard on both sides of the court and it is showing in each and every game.” “Luz played the best all around game of her high school career in our league opener against Pierce High School scoring 11 points and holding Pierce’s shooting guard to zero points.”
Freshman Raegan Hurst was unstoppable against the Woodland Pioneers as she consistently took possession of the ball throughout the game.
KS Winters Photography/ Courtesy photo
FEATURES
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690
Monday, January 13
Winters Community Blood Drive, 2 –5:45 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Register at Vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 with code 'SMFM164'
Wednesdays
Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue
Upcoming Events
Thursday, January 16
Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK or www.wintersjusd.org
Friday, January 17
Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House
Saturday, January 18
Winters Open Mic Night, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.), Visit wintersopenmic.org
Tuesday, January 21
Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/
Library Services
Winters Library Public Hours (School in Session), Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8–8 p.m., Fri: 8–5 p.m., Sat: 1-5 p.m. (Mask Only 1–3 p.m.)
Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library
Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@ yolocounty.org
Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.
Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing
Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Ongoing
Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org
Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September through April), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn
Winters Museum public hours Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org Winters Open Mic, third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.).
Metaphysical Book Club, Fridays at 5 p.m., 212 Grant Ave., Sign up at dixiesbookclub@gmail.com or call 530212-5026
12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair.
Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com
Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org
Walking Meditation, third Sunday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Meet behind the Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: » St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m. » Yolo Housing office building, 62 Shams Way: Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m.
Warriors’ top sports moments of 2024
In the heart of small towns across America, sports are more than just a pastime; they are the lifeblood of the community, shaping the character of young athletes and bringing families together. Winters is no exception, where the Winters High School Warriors embody the spirit of teamwork, resilience and dedication fostered through youth sport programs and coaches who instill it in their athletes.
WHS Athletic Director Daniel Ward reflects on the standout moments and memorable performances from 2024 that have not only defined milestones in the Warriors’ journey but have also reinforced the invaluable life lessons learned on the field, court and track. From nail-biting finishes to triumphant displays of sportsmanship, this year’s highlights are set to inspire and unite a community that celebrates every victory — large or small.
1. Girls soccer wins CIF Nor Cal D5 Championship
The WHS 2023–24 girls soccer team clinched the CIF NorCal Division 5 Championship with a 3–2 win over Ripon Christian High School in Ripon on Tuesday, Feb. 27. Before the win, the Warriors won their second consecutive CIF NCS D3 Championship with a 4–0 shutout over Hamilton High School. It was their seventh championship since their first in 2014.
To celebrate, the Winters City Council declared that March 20 is now Winters High Womens Soccer Team Day. On May 13, Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry invited the varsity girls soccer team to be recognized at the Capitol with an Assembly Proclamation of Recognition
2. Football goes 12–0, wins NSCIF D4 Championship
Although the WHS 2024 varsity football team lost to Arcata High School in its quest for the title of Regional Champions, the athletes made historical gains for WHS.
The Warriors achieved a perfect season of football going 12–0 in league and won the CIF Northern Section Div. IV Championship title with a final score of 45–7
against East Nicolaus High School. Ward said they made WHS history as the first football team to ever be invited to play for the Nor Cal Championships.
Julian Herrera and Sebastian Rodriguez were selected for the first team for the All Northern Section.
Lane Brown was selected for the second team for the All Northern Section and Ward was also honored as Coach of the Year.
“This is the first time we have had someone make the first All Section Team since 2014. It is a very difficult list to make and definitely a huge honor. We were the only small school with multiple selections” Ward told the Express.
3. Girls basketball wins 21 games
In early 2024, the 2023-24 girls basket-
ball team had it’s best season in over 20 years. Thier efforts earned them a chance to compete in the NSCIF semifinals, where a win would qualify them for a state game. They brought some of their best to the first few rounds of playoffs, but fell to Trinity High School in the CIF State Div. V Championship playoff game with a final score of 40–30. However, their overall season record showed their mettle with a standing of 21–7.
4. Girls track athletes in it to win it
The WHS 2024 girls varsity athletes showed up for the Warriors throughout the season. In spring 2024, Jordan Tucker won the 100 and 200 at the Div 3 Meet and Lucy Obrist won the 100 and 300 hurdles.
Additionally, the Winters girls varsity 4x100 relay team of Violet Tuel, Varenna Terronez, Ava Muir-Vickrey and Tucker hung tight to the top at multiple meets and clutched multiple first place wins.
5. Boys soccer wins SVL Championship Ward rounded out his top sports highlights of 2024 with the boys 2023–24 soccer team who went 9-1 in league and won the SVL Championship.
Express staff
Courtesy photo Gustavo Davis and his mother Sarah McCullough (not pictured) traveled to St. Louis, Missouri. They brought their copy of the Winters Express to visit the iconic Gateway Arch.
Jack Vickrey/Courtesy photo
Girls soccer makes history for WHS sports. The Winters High School girls soccer athletes hoist the CIF NorCal Division V Championship plaque up to celebrate their historic win over the Hilmar High School Yellowjackets on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photos
The Winters High School Warriors, above, celebrate their 48-0 win over Hamilton High School in the CIF Northern Section Div. 4 playoffs. Below: Jordan Tucker gains possession of the ball for the Warriors girls basketball team against East Nicolaus.
A look at the 2025 Winters housing market forecast
Our local housing market for 2025 is shaping up to reflect a blend of statewide trends and our town’s unique character. The year ahead promises opportunities for both buyers and sellers, but several key dynamics will be at play.
In Winters, we’ve experienced steady demand over the past few years, and 2025 is likely to continue this trajectory. While the California Association of Realtors projects a 10.5-percent increase in home sales and a 4.6-percent rise in median prices statewide, our town typically experiences these trends on a slightly more measured scale. Winters remains a magnet for buyers who prioritize community and charm over urban living. In recent years,
many new builds have been purchased by older adults with flexible finances. That said, we may see growing interest from families recognizing the value and lifestyle Winters offers compared to larger cities, particularly those who felt sidelined in the market last year. Stabilizing mortgage rates, expected to settle in the mid to lower 6 percent range, will provide much-needed predictability for buyers after the volatility of recent years. This stability is good news for first-time homebuy-
ers and those looking to upgrade. However, buyers will need to act decisively, as homes in Winters — especially those priced under $600,000 — tend to sell quickly. Inventory is expected to continue lagging behind demand. With limited new construction on the horizon, sellers who market their homes strategically and price them competitively are likely to attract multiple offers from motivated buyers eager to establish roots in our area. Winters’ appeal — its blossoming downtown, strong sense of community and proximity to professional and recreational opportunities
— remains a significant draw. Even with reduced competition from new builds, presenting a well-staged, well-maintained home with features like low-maintenance landscaping or modern upgrades will resonate strongly with today’s budget-conscious buyers.
Data provides valuable insight, but as someone who works closely with clients across the region, I can tell you that transactions happen every day. Opportunities exist for both buyers and sellers, but timing, preparation, and execution are crucial. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, upgrade, or sell a cherished prop-
erty, a clear strategy tailored to Winters’ unique market dynamics will be the key to success.
Cheers to 2025! — Joedy Michael is a local real estate agent based in Winters. To inquire about market insights or more, reach out to him at Joedy.michael@exprealty.com or connect with him on Instagram @joedymichael_realestate.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Despite a reduction of new builds, Winters homes on the market are still sought after.
Express Yourself
President Jimmy Carter, one of the good ones
Some people say that President James Earl Carter, Jr. will go down in history as one of the worst United States presidents. I don’t agree with those people. I think history will treat President Carter better than today’s pundits.
I met ex-President Carter a couple of times after he left office. Once sitting next to him at one of his book-signing breakfast meetings in San Francisco. It was a small group, maybe 20 newspaper publishers, along with ex-President Carter and his wife, Rosalynn.
I remember being served biscuits and gravy while the ex-president was served fruit and hot oatmeal. When I made a comment about the food, his reply was, “That stuff isn’t good for you.” He made it to be 100, so maybe he was right.
The first time I saw “Jimmy Who?” was when he was campaigning for president in the mid 1970s and I
“He made it to be 100, so maybe he was right.”
was working in downtown Los Angeles. They had blocked off the streets around our print shop, so I walked over to where he was about to speak.
I had never seen a crowd so large, maybe to this day. The streets were packed and you couldn’t get close enough to hear much of his talk. I did vote for him, maybe twice.
When the 53 hostages were taken from the embassy in Iran, it was the beginning of the end of his political career. When the rescue mission failed, badly, with the loss of eight servicemen, his re-election chances crashed, too. I always blamed the military leaders for letting him down, but he never blamed anyone but himself for not sending more helicopters
See QUICK, Page 6
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20),
Focus on collaboration this week, Aries. Teamwork leads to unexpected rewards if you are open to others’ ideas, so remain receptive to the input of teammates.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21), Taurus, when a project presents itself to you, stay grounded and run through all the components carefully. Employ the same strategy when going over financial opportunities.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21),
Gemini, clear up any misunderstandings and express your thoughts openly with others this week. Communication is certainly key at this juncture in time.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22),
It is important that you take time for some self-care this week, Cancer. Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical fitness. Reflect on some personal goals in this area.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23),
Leo, you often excel in group settings, and social gatherings this week are a place where you can shine. Use all opportunities to network and connect with others.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22),
It is important to focus on your work-life balance right now, Virgo. Prioritize important tasks, but also make time for relaxation. Small changes to your routine can be ideal.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23),
Embrace your artistic side this week, Libra. Consider a new hobby that will keep your mind busy. Social activities that involve creative pursuits also can bring inspiration and joy.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22),
Allow home and family to take center stage, Scorpio. Spend as much time as possible with loved ones and try to get to the root of any persistent, unresolved issues.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21), Sagittarius, this week focus on activities that afford a chance to learn and explore. You might want to take a class or try a new hobby. Curiosity can be exciting.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20), Financial matters may require some attention right now, Capricorn. Examine your budget and figure out if the new year requires some changes to how you’re managing money.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18), Aquarius, new ideas may lead to some personal projects that inspire you. You might find that you’ll be quite busy on these self-imposed tasks for the next couple of weeks.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20), This is a good time to focus attention inward, Pisces. Make time for reflection and even some meditation if that is something that interests you. The rewards will be worth it.
Gratitude for support
Thank you, Yolo County for your support (funding, fabric and yarn) to Yolo County children and Blanketeers. The Yolo County Chapter Project Linus made or collected 1,860 handmade blankets to distribute to ill or traumatized children (18 and younger). These blankets bring a sense of warmth, security and comfort. Blankets were distributed through: CommuniCare Health, Davis Community Meals, Empower Yolo, Esparto Unified School District, Home Nurse Visiting Pro-
Letters Express Yourself
gram, Project Ranch Treatment Services , Short Term Emergency Aid Committee (STEAC), Yolo Cares for Kids, Yolo County Children’s Alliance, Yolo County Head Start, Yolo Crisis Nursery, United Way and Woodland Bible Church. We are especially grateful for staff from these organizations who arrive to collect blankets monthly.
Thank you to the Davis Senior Center for hosting our monthly gatherings to collect blankets and attach the Project Linus label.
On behalf of the children of Yolo County,
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE
Jesse Salinas Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20240987 12/2/2024 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business:
Project Linus Blanketeers thank the community for its support. Our chapter is grateful to the community for over 60 generous donations of fabric, yarn, miscellaneous sewing supplies and monetary donations in 2024.
Further, we have many individual donations to cover costs for blanket making supplies and storage.
Ginormous thank you to Project Linus Blanketeers and other community members for making blankets. Thank you, Woodland Joann Fabrics for hosting a blanket drop off location. Thank
you to the Flying Needles Quilters’ Guild, the National Charity League of Davis, the Bayer Crop Science company, Merryhill School, and Lutheran Church of Incarnation Quilt Group for blanket contributions. For more information to make a blanket for Project Linus, become a blanketeer, receive our monthly newsletter, or make a charitable donation of fabric, yarn or money, please contact yolocountyprojectlinus@ gmail.com.
DEANNE MEYER Chapter Coordinator, Yolo CountY projeCt linus
Letters Policy
The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. Letters contribute to community discussion. Express Letters to the Editor guidelines: Letters should not exceed 350 words. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. We accept “thank you” letters naming local individuals and businesses only. Non-local names will be edited out. “Thank you” notices containing non-local individuals or businesses must be published as paid advertising to: ads@wintersexpress.com. We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity or clarity, or to reject any letter. Letters must be legibly signed by the writer. We reserve the right to determine legitimacy. Submit online at https://tinyurl.com/ syzevywd or visit wintersexpress.com.
that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal Jesse Salinas County Clerk/Recorder State of California County of Yolo Published JANUARY 1, 8, 15, 22, 2025 #78035
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK S OFFICE Jesse Salinas Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20240954 11/14/2024
Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: DAVIS
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK S OFFICE Jesse Salinas Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20240990 12/3/2024
Business is located in YOLO County
Fictitious Business: HANK'S PORTABLE WELDING P h y
Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: HANK JOHN LEONARDO 25775 GRAFTON ST, ESPARTO CA 95627
Business Classification: INDIVIDUAL
Starting Date of Business: 12/2/2024 /s/ HANK LEONARDO Title of Officer Signing : OWNER I hereby
25 2024 JANUARY 1 8 15 2025 #77854
GU INDA CA 95637 Business Classification: TRUST Starting Date of Business: 8/1/2024 /s/ JOHN ROBERT FEALY
with a
is
Jesse Salinas County Clerk/Recorder State of California County of Yolo Published DECEMBER 18 25 2024 JANUARY 1 8 2025 #77711
Express Yourself
Get to know Kate Laddish
To carry on with my efforts to introduce everybody in town I give you Kate Laddish. Kate is a wonderful woman that, for the last 20 years or so has gone out of her way to help improve so many things in this town. She is active in so many organizations that I don’t have enough words to list them all in this column. Just to name a few things on her activist list, there is the Winters Natural Resources Commission, liaison for Winters pool, Yolo County InHome Support Services Advisory Committee, Yolo County Voting Accessibility Advisory Committee,
Yolo County Fire Safe Council, California’s Alert & Warning Specialist Committee, co-founder of Democracy Winters, board member at the Putah Creek Council, and many more. I honestly don’t know how she finds time for all of her activities that would exhaust any normal person. You will know just how tough a person she really is if you consider the fact that she does it all while using a wheelchair or
walker.
She refuses to let her disabilities define the entirety of who she is. She has turned it into part of her inner strength. She is very intelligent. She received her degree from Whitman College. From there she returned to the city of her birth to attend Graduate School at UC Berkeley and on to UC Davis. She has taught college level students as a professor of Geology.
I believe it is not what you say that defines who you are but it is what you do. Most of her work today is on a volunteer basis so all can clearly see that her heart is as big as Texas. She has a musical side and plays in several local bands including the Winters Ramblers and the Putah Creek Crawdads. Her favorite films are The Blues Brothers and Monty Python and the Holy Grail. If she could have dinner with anyone who ever lived it would be her maternal grandparents, because they died before she was born and she always wished she could have gotten to know them.
What Kate loves most about Winters is the strong sense of community that comes from people coming together in civic or volunteer organizations, and the friend-
An unexpected but joyful brotherly reunion in Germany
This is one of a series of letters sent home by my uncle Russell Fox Taylor from the battlefields in France, Belgium and Germany, to his wife Lilla. His unit, the 38th Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron, landed on Omaha Beach, France, on June 12, 1944. It is noteworthy that the men in his squadron were among the first to be seen by the Parisians during the liberation of their city.
The 38th earned the Distinguished Unit Citation for their heroic stand in the area of Monschau, Germany, where they withstood numerous enemy attacks and faced enemy artillery that was three to four times the “amount available to the Americans and was the largest faced by the Americans to that point in the war.” (Battle of the Bulge
Project website.)
In early February 1945, the squadron began to move east, farther into Germany. Uncle Russ mentions in this letter that he is lodging in a captured German pillbox. He had given up the cozy foxhole chateau described in several past letters. After action reports entries note, “During this period it was possible for all members of the squadron to observe for themselves exactly what had been the German’s defensive positions, and exactly where the pillboxes were located. Without exception, all were amazed at the
sight of those cleverly concealed and superbly constructed fortifications. So, too, were the ruins of what had been the towns of Imgenbroich, Konzen, Eicherscheid, a satisfaction to each trooper.”
“A Short History of the 38th Reconnaissance Squadron” written by Maj. Charles E. Rousek states: “It was necessary for Corps to hold up its attack for three weeks while the water drained from the Roer Lakes after the Germans blew the main dam. The time was well spent by the 38th Company “F” trained in driving, maintenance and
gunnery of its new M 24 tanks of which nine had been substituted for armored cars. Platoon exercises were held in mounted tactics and extensive gunnery practice was held for all weapons. The result was that the Squadron was trained and keyed to a fine edge when it came time to fight again.”
—Respectfully submitted by Gerald Taylor and Shelley Frost, Russell’s granddaughter.
Germany
February 17, 1945
Day before yesterday, just after writing to you and the folks, in walked Jess. (Russ’ brother who is also fighting in Europe.) You can imagine my surprise. I had just written Mother that I hadn’t heard from him for a long time. The ink was hardly dry and the subject of my thoughts materialized in the flesh
as if out of thin air. Really, I didn’t know what to make of it for a few moments. It was too much like one of those crazy dreams.
He found me in the depths of a captured pill-box in which we have been living for a few days. It had taken him so long to find me that it cut our visit down to just an hour or so. He had to get back to his unit that night.
We just had a lot of good brotherly conversation and had to say goodbye again. Even though brief as it was, his visit did a lot to build up the old morale. I wish we could have had a couple of days together, but then, there’s a war going on over here and both of us seem to be in it. I do hope we can get together when the war ends and have a good celebration.
Jess is well and in good spirits. He has been quite fortunate to visit
many of the large cities in Belgium. I gave him the pair of fleece-lined shoes you sent about Christmas time and they pleased him very much. I did this on the strength of your telling me there was another pair on the way for me. The Christmas cards I sent from here are bringing good response. Some of them, I sent to certain old business contacts in the hopes of keeping alive something to tie up to for a little influence when I get home. I received a very friendly letter from Robert L. Judd in which he enclosed a clipping from the Jan. 15th Deseret News describing Jesse’s visit with me last October. The item also says that I hadn’t had a bath since D-Day — sounds like dirty publicity to me. The article is captioned “Swap — a Venison Steak for a Shower Bath.” —Russell
A snapshot in time: 2024 Election Results
By Richard Casavecchia Special to the Express
Well, “the most important election of our lifetime” is over, and it has shown the precincts in Davis that we share a Supervisor District with are oppressively out of touch with Winters and the state as a whole.
We have a new president. Half the country hates him. We have a new California senator. Half of California hates him as well, but not the half that hates the president. Winters results are fairly close to the national results. But let’s check in on Davis.
I pulled down vote counts for all the precincts in Davis for president and every ballot proposition this cycle. I was shocked how out of touch Davis is compared to the current mainstream of the county, state and nation. For president, Davis went 83.6 percent for Harris-Walz and 12.7 percent for Trump-Vance. The national split was 48 percent to 50 percent respectively. Winters was 55 percent to 42 percent. That Davis split is mind-boggling to me but not unexpected. It also explains a lot about the behaviors and attitudes of Davis residents who, by these numbers, almost never encounter an opinion that is far from their own. Twenty-six thousand people voted for Harris in
Express Yourself
Davis compared to 4,000 for Trump.
I will preface the rest of this column by saying I don’t say “left” or “right” to make this political or make this a conservative-vs.-liberal thing. I am phrasing it that way to give a point of reference that many people can immediately use to understand the data based on voting patterns, not necessarily adherence to political ideologies. This data is a snapshot of a moment in time.
Proposition 36 was another huge departure from the outcome for Davis. The state approved Prop 36 by nearly 70 percent. Davis was 55 percent against, a 23.25 point difference compared to the entire state. As a reminder, Prop 36 was undoing Prop 47, which reduced the consequences of drug and theft crimes. Prop 47 is what most law enforcement blames for the increase in retail robberies. And the voters in California agree.
Davis was also for increasing the minimum wage (Proposition 32) to $18 by 2026 (don’t even get me started on the disastrous economic implications of trying to mandate the minimum cost of labor completely disconnected from the value of the output) with 63.5 percent yes vs the state at 49 percent.
On Proposition 5, the attempt to lower the thresh-
old to approve local bond measures from a two-thirds vote to 55 percent majority, Davis voted 66 percent in favor, compared to the State’s 55 percent opposed. Prop 5 was another attempt from the Legislature (specifically, our local Assembly member and former Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, who has been trying to get a version of this proposition on the ballot since 2017 according to one ballot summary I read) to chip away at Proposition 13.
Since 1978, Prop 13 caps our property taxes and requires a two-thirds vote to increase state taxes and certain special local taxes. I’m puzzled why state legislators keep trying to overturn this every election when the voters across the state always reject these efforts. Interestingly, these results were not uniform throughout the city of Davis. The westernmost precincts (12025, 12024, 12054, 1220, 12022), which encompass the part of Davis that we share a supervisor district with, was even more skewed from the final results on many of the contests. That is, they are far more “left” than the state results, Winters results, and even slightly further left than Davis as a whole. Those precincts voted as follows on the below-listed contests: President: 85 percent for Harris compared to 58 percent statewide and 54 per-
cent for Harris in Winters.
Proposition 5 (removing Prop 13 protections): 69 percent yes compared to 45 percent yes across the state and 40 percent yes in Winters
Proposition 32 (increase minimum wage): 66 percent yes compared to 49 percent yes across the state and 42 percent yes in Winters
Proposition 33 (allow rent control): 51 percent yes compared to 40 percent yes across the state and 34 percent yes in Winters.
Proposition 36 (reimpose criminal penalties done away with by Prop 47): 42 percent yes compared to 68 percent yes across the state and 69 percent yes in Winters.
While Winters voted more “right” than the state in the above propositions, Winters is actually pretty middle-of-the-road. Anecdotal observations of the historical voting data here in town tells me that, as a group, all corners of the political spectrum in Winters vote more common-sense and practical than ideological wishful thinking.
Taking a broad view, I would say that Winters voters tend to vote for what is best for an average person on local issues. The Davis precincts seem to be voting based on an ideological utopia that is disconnected from the reality we see day to day.
I think this snapshot of data really speaks to how
flawed the recent county redistricting by a previous Board of Supervisors was, if the goal was to best represent all areas of the county (unfortunately the discussion and threats made by certain citizen groups in those meetings felt like the goal was to gerrymander specific seats).
I sat in those meetings and listened to the supervisors at the time all proudly speak about how each of them had a rural area they represented and how it should be kept that way. If we had a “West of 505” supervisor district that encompassed Winters and Capay Valley, the ability of economically connected rural communities in Yolo to make their voices heard would likely be very different.
Unfortunately, in practice, the preferences of those rural areas often get run over by their associated suburban precincts. It takes an attentive supervisor to overcome that, as Supervisor Frerichs has indicated he is willing to do with working on getting a Scenic Highway designation for 128 which would benefit Winters.
Taking a macro view of the votes in Winters compared to Davis, the county and state, we certainly seem rather average. But I think the real takeaway is, as a whole, our town considers most issues with a very common-sense approach. And the election results seem to bear this out.
ships that grow from that.
She also loves how easy it is to get to Putah Creek and visits the Winters Putah Creek Nature Park almost every day.
Courtesy photo
Kate Laddish is often found at city and county meetings advocating for people with disabilities, encouraging change in town and sharing gratitude for the work being done.
Berry-licious lemony cream-cheese splendor
A citrusy, creamy dessert smothered in a berry explosion
January is a circus of celebrations in our household. With three birthdays packed into one month (one of them being mine), the dessert carousel spins often. But the grand performance? My husband’s birthday, which lands the day before mine, features a homebaked dessert.
In our family of eight, the birthday rule is simple: You call the shots for the dinner and dessert menu. I usually order dessert for my birthday or spend the month going out with different friends. But for my husband’s special day, I try to make sure to do something special for his dessert.
This year, my husband’s request was both straightforward and maddeningly vague — “Something with fruit.” With that assignment in mind, I pitched a fruit tart with a lemon cream cheese layer. He countered with a baked berry pie topping. Not one to back down, I accepted the challenge and got to work.
I Frankensteined together three different dessert recipes, and behold: a creamy, citrusy, berry-smothered creation that was part cheesecake, part tart and absolutely delicious.
The dessert blueprint
2. The cream cheese dream: Enter the lemon cream cheese layer. Whip softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice and zest until fluffy and slightly tangy. Spread this luscious layer over the cooled crust and pop it in the fridge to chill while you prep the berry topping.
3. Berry decadence: Blend a mix of blackberries, raspberries and blueberries into a puree. Strain out the seeds and then simmer the puree with a sugar-cornstarch mix until it thickens to a thin pudding-like consistency. Add lemon juice, vanilla extract. Let it cool and then add whole berries to the mix and stir to coat them. Cool the mixture completely before spreading it atop the cream cheese layer.
4. Let it chill: Pour the berry topping over the chilled lemon cream cheese. Smooth it out with a spatula or wooden spoon. Refrigerate for at least three hours — or as long as you can stand to wait. The final verdict… My first attempt was — ambitious. I overdid the cream cheese layer (oops) and didn’t
1. Build the base: Start with a buttery, flaky crust. Homemade or store-bought, I won’t judge. I used a trusty recipe from a dessert cookbook my neighbor gifted me. I had a portion in my freezer so that part was easy-peasy. Roll it, bake it cool it and resist the urge to fill it with pudding or custard.
account for how much the berry topping would spread. It looked like dessert lava delicately dripping from an inverted cream-cheese volcano. But the taste was on point. The cream cheese was creamy and citrusy, the berries rich and tangy — a harmonious combination of flavors. My husband declared it his new favorite dessert.
Now I have to finetune from the experience and try to make it again. Plus, it needs a name. This dessert needs a moniker worthy of its grandeur. Here are a few contenders that I’m not sure completely capture the essence of the creamy lemony cheesecake topped with baked berry pie filling splendor:
• Lemonberry bliss tart
• Creamy citrus berry symphony
• Velvety lemon berry delight
Do you think you can come up with a better name? Email it to me — the winner gets bragging rights and possibly a slice when I make it again.
Perfect Pairings
This month, Berryessa Gap Vineyards and Turkovich Family Wines answered my request for what wines to pair with this birthday dessert.
Berryessa Gap Vineyards’ Corinne Martinez suggested the L’Apero les Trois’ Meyer Lemon apéritif. “Straight up or
served as the ‘White Wedding’ cocktail which is 3 parts lemon apéritif and 1 part Berryessa Gap Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc,” Martinez said.
The “White Wedding” cocktail recipe is on the L’Apero website on the “recipes” page. Turkovich winemaker Luciana Moreno Turkovich suggested their Rose’ or Sparkling Rose. If you are a red wine fan, she would suggest the Tannat because “the dark balance on the wine will pair perfectly.”
Make it at home
Kevin’s Birthday Dessert
Ingredients
Cream cheese layer
1 8-ounce block of cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons lemon juice)
Fruit puree layer
7 cups mixed fresh blackberries, blueberries and raspberries, rinsed and gently dried
½ cup sugar
3 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 crust (tart or shallow pie crust, home or premade)
Putting it together
If you’re making your crust, bake that first. You need it cooled before you can layer in your cheese layer.
Cream Cheese layer
Using a hand mixer, combine the sugar and softened cream cheese in a medium bowl. You can also substitute powdered sugar if you prefer. Once the mixture is smooth and pillowy, add in the lemon juice, zest and vanilla extract. Gently fold it until it is all combined.
Layer the mixture onto the cooled crust and put it in the refrigerator to set.
Berry filling
Place two cups of the berry mixture aside in a bowl. Put the rest of the berries in a blender or food processor and blend until it is smooth
and broken down. Put the puree through a fine-mesh strainer. You may need to use a spoon to scrape and press the liquid through past the seed and pulp. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, sugar and salt. Whisk the mixture into the berry puree. Add honey or more sugar if you want it sweeter. Put the berry puree in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the puree to a simmer, but don’t allow it to come to a full boil
Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon or spatula to consistently stir and scrape the bottom of the pan. Cook the mixture until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 15 to 20 minutes). Remove the pan from the heat source and whisk in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Allow the puree to slightly cool. Add in the remaining berries and lightly coat them with the puree. Once cooled more, add the berry puree mixture on top of your cream cheese layer. Cover the dessert loosely with a wrap or cheesecloth. Allow the dessert to chill in the refrigerator for about three hours minimum before serving. Slice and serve. Feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream on top.
He wasn’t worried about what people thought of him, he did what he thought was right. On his first day in office he pardoned all Vietnam War draft evaders, making lifelong enemies. He gave the Panama Canal back to Panama, which is still a hot topic to this day. He got Egypt and Israel to shake hands and agree to a peace treaty that is still in effect. So, yes, I think history will treat him well. He was more than just a peanut farmer. May God Speed.
QUICK
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
This birthday dessert is a creamy, citrusy, berry-smothered creation that is part cheesecake, part berry pie and absolutely delicious. Do you think you can come up with the perfect name for editor Crystal Apilado’s dessert creation?