City, County share heatwave resources
Express staff
With triple-digit temperatures forecast, the U.S. National Weather Service in Sacramento issued an excessive heat warning for Yolo County from Tuesday morning July 2, through Sunday evening, July 7. The City of Winters and Yolo County officials are encouraging residents to exercise caution and take steps to remain safe and cool during this heat wave with potential impacts to people, pets, and livestock due to heat-related illnesses.
Local cooling centers
Yolo County has various places to cool down across the region. For immediate assistance in locating nearby cooling centers, residents can dial 2-1-1.
“As we gear up for this extended heatwave, our priority is ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all residents throughout Yolo County, so please be sure to check on vulnerable neighbors- including seniors, children
Donate blood July 8 to break the Battle of the Badges challenge tie
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Winters Police Department and Winters Fire Department teamed up to help Vitalant get blood donations on June 25 for The Battle of the Badges Blood Drive Challenge. Community members are encouraged to donate blood on Monday to help break the tie.
The Winters Fortnightly Club and Vitalant are hosting the Winters community blood drive on Monday, July 8 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. at the Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.).
Winters PD Community Services Officer Andrea Gonzalez confirmed the June 25, Battle of the Badges Blood Drive Challenge ended in an 8–8 tie in blood
donations. To break the tie, community members who donate blood on July 8 can note if it is on behalf of the police or fire department.
“We do all kinds of community events and service, but a blood drive is not just a regular event, we know that what we raise in this event will save somebody’s loved one,” Gonzalez said. “The donation of one person can help multiple patients.”
Although walk-ins are welcome, blood donors are encouraged to make an appointment and will be given priority at the blood drive. To make an appointment, visit donors. vitalant.org and search by “Blood Drive Code.” To register for the Winters blood drive, use blood drive code SMFM164 or call Vitalant at 877-258-4825 or 530-243-0160, and mention the blood drive code.
Community honors eight local elders
Students experience college life through summer program
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
A group of incoming freshmen at Winters High School had the opportunity to experience what college life would be like last month through the My Journey to College program.
MyJTC is a partnership between the California Academic Partnership Program (CAPP) and the UCLA EASE Project which provides ninth graders with 40 hours of instruction about the transition from middle school to high school and introduces them to information about college eligibility requirements.
Students spent two weeks at WHS studying “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. Their work included the discovery of new terms, creating artwork that reflected what they read in the book, group research experience and more.
“They used their imagination to take the readings from the book and change
it into things that weren’t really in the book. Every time that students sat down to read they were engaged,” said teacher Holly Smith.
After completing the two-week session, students traveled to UCLA for four days to experience college life by attending lectures and participating in a series of workshops related to the college preparation process.
“I hope that each and every one of our students made lifelong connections, not only with other people but with themselves and a commitment to find success after high school by taking each and every opportunity that is given to them to allow that success to happen,” Smith said.
Ninth-grader Raegan Hurst said she had the chance to experience what residence halls and navigating around campus, walking and on scooters, was like. Hurst said she gained valuable advice from profes-
sors that can apply to her high school experience.
Notables include sitting in front, asking questions, not wearing earbuds in class and keeping track of due dates because the professors won’t remind you.
“It made me realize that people with a similar background as me can to to a UC,”
nez said.
Summer Program Principal Delia
noza said that 49 of
students
Ninth-grader Camila Martinez said the experience opened her eyes to what college would be like and that college is a possible goal.
hometown paper of Mark Rowan
Marti-
Espi-
the 52
enrolled
Courtesy photo
Winters High School freshmen engaged in a series of workshops over a four-day program at the UCLA campus.
Courtesy photo
Students made connections with others on the trip through activities and experiences in UCLA classrooms.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
The Winters Elder Day event recognized the lives and achievements of eight local elders on Saturday, June 29.
The 2024 honorees are (front) Marg Graf, Lola Morgan, Engracia Perez, Charlene Tanski, (back) Darlene Barnett, Barbara Cody and Dick Holdstock. Honoree Daniel Lares is not pictured. Read more about the event on Page B1
Local News Briefs
Library July 4 hours
All library branches are closed on Thursday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. However, due to the heatwave, the Esparto, Winters and Yolo library community rooms will be open from Noon to 6 p.m. For more information, visit yolocountylibrary.org.
WSF news
The Winters Senior Foundation is canceling yoga on July 3 and July 17 and the Social Gathering activitiies July 18.
Music changes
Winters Friends of the Library is moving the Thursday, July 4, summer gazebo concert indoors
to the Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.) from 7 to 8 p.m.
The Downtown Business Association is canceling the Music on Main performance scheduled for Friday, July 5. Project Playground Join the Playground Work Party on July 13. Sign up at https://forms. gle/STypLhJjvyzrHWsc7.
Family-fun programs at the library
The Winters Fortnightly Club is aiming to reach 25 donated pints of blood.
Eligible donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urged to give to ensure the blood supply is sufficient before the unexpected occurs.
“It’s not too late, now’s your chance to be a hero and give back. Go donate blood and help save a life,” said Aide Aguilera, Winters Fire Recruitment and Retention Coordinator.
Eligibility
Whole blood donors must be at least
16 years old (with a signed Vitalant parental consent form available online at Vitalant.org; at the bottom of the page, find Resources/Donor Forms), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in general good health and bring a photo I.D. Other donation types have specific eligibility criteria. For donor eligibility requirements, visit www.vitalant.org/eligibility. Things to know:
• Donors should arrive well-nourished and hydrated.
• The donation process is one hour long (add an additional 20 minutes for a double red cell donation).
Power Red Cell Do-
nation – Power up your donation with an automated power red cell donation.
Donors can complete the Fast Track health questionnaire online prior to arriving to the drive. The questionnaire must be completed the same day as the donation and barcode needs to be presented at the drive or can be completed at the drive. Fill out the Fast Track questionnaire at https://www. vitalant.org/donate/ health-history-questionnaire/fast-track. For general questions about this blood drive or to make an appointment, call Vitalant at 877-258-4825.
Special to the Express Yolo County Library branches have events and programs planned in July. All library branches are closed on Thursday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. However, due to the heatwave, the Esparto, Winters and Yolo library community rooms will be open from Noon to 6 p.m. Visit the Winters Community Library for the following events.
Lego Block Party (All ages)
July 3 at 3:30 p.m.: Unleash your creativity with Legos at the Winters Community Library! Stop by the library between 3:30 and 4:30 to make your own Lego creation. Crea tions will be displayed in the library for a month.
Later that evening, visit the library to join the Winters Friends of the Library for its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. in the Margaret Parson’s Room.
Saturday Matinee (All ages)
July 6 at 2 p.m.: Stop by the library to catch a Saturday matinee. Enjoy delicious freshly popped popcorn while watching Wonka. The movie starts promptly at 2 p.m.
Teen Tuesday: Perler Beads (Ages 12 to 18)
July 9 at 2 p.m.: Join in for a perler bead craft session. Make plastic pixel art of your favorite characters.
All You Need is Love:
A Romance Book Club (Adults)
July 13 at 4 p.m.,
Hooby’s Brewing: All you need is love! Romance fans are invited to join our romance book club each month. Each month is a new read. The club is hosted at Hooby’s Brewing at 9 E. Main St. Suite J in Winters.
Teen Game Space
July 16 at 3:30 p.m.: Come challenge your friends, meet new gaming buddies, and level up your gaming experience at the library! Every month, teens are invited to join our game space. The library has a variety of video game consoles available for use and board games will also be available! Meet up on the third Tuesday of every month at 3:30 p.m.
Nailed It! Cookie decorating
July 17 at 1:30 p.m.: Can you decorate cookies like a pro? Will you Nail It or Fail It? Compete for the coveted rolling pin trophy and title of Best of the Worst.
Pollinator Party: Every Thursday
Noon: Learn about a new Putah Creek pollinator each week through fun hands-on activities and make and take crafts! Pollinators include bats (July 11), moths (July 18), and beetles (July 25)! This drop-in program is free for youth 4 years and up and their families.
Swap It Like It’s Hot July 20 at 2 p.m.: Revamp and refresh your
wardrobe without spending a dime! Join in for a Clothing Swap event at the library. Bring your gently used clothes (pre-sorted by size) that deserve a second life and discover hidden gems from others. Please bring clothing donations to the front desk between Monday, July 15 and Friday, July 19. Any leftover items will be donated. Don’t miss out on this ecoand budget-friendly community event.
Teen Anime Club (Ages 12 to 18)
July 25 at 3:30 p.m.:
Welcome to the vibrant world of out anime club, where passionate fans come together to celebrate the art and storytelling of Japanese animation. Join in for anime discussions, recommendations and Japanese snacks.
History of Vinyl July 25 at 6 p.m.: Join County Curator Sarah Bartlett as they discuss the invention of sound recording technology and the artists who changed the way albums and vinyl were created. This presentation is in collaboration with the Evolution of Sound Exhibition at the Gibson House.
Among Us Escape Room
July 26 at 2 p.m.: Join in for an afternoon of fun Among Us themed crafts, puzzles, photo booth and a scavenger hunt. Will you be able to find out who’s sus?
Craft Your Heart Out
July 27 at 2 p.m.: The Winters Community Library is hosting this open craft event every month. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting, this welcomes all skill levels. Stop by the library to use crafting tools, materials, or to complete your personal projects. Meet fellow craft enthusiasts, share ideas, and make new friends who share your passion for creativity.
New Citizens Celebration
July 30 at 6 p.m.: Join the library for a special event celebrating new U.S. citizens. This heartwarming occasion will honor those who have recently achieved citizenship, featuring guest speakers, refreshments, and the sharing of inspiring stories. Come celebrate this milestone and welcome our newest community members.
Clay Workshop July 31 at 1:30 p.m.:
Explore the art of clay in our hands-on workshop at the library. For more information, contact library staff in Winters at 530-795-4955, visit the Yolo County Library at yolocountylibrary. org Filter the Events calendar for “Winters Community Library” or connect with the Yolo County Library on Facebook at www. facebook.com/yolocountylibrary.org.
Courtesy photo
Officer Brandon Kenney and Winters Police Chief John P. Miller at the June 26 Battle of the Badges blood drive. Eight donations were made for the Winters Police tally.
Trustees OK work place violence-prevention plan, summer program
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
The Winters Jointed Unified School District Board of Trustees was presented with a workplace prevention plan at the June 20 schoolboard meeting.
Presented by human-resources director Lisa Dennis, the workplace violence prevention plan, or WVPP, outlines the objectives of Winters JUSD to maintain a safe workplace. Trustees passed the WVPP unanimously.
In 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill Number 553, requiring every California employer to create a workplace violence prevention plan with requirements specific to that workplace.
The requirements for each workplace are the WVPP is to be updated annually, all employees are to receive comprehensive training in hazard identification, as well as defining what workplace violence is and the steps to prevent it. The plan also lays out the responsible persons for implementing and maintaining the plan.
The Winters JUSD WVPP’s designated individuals include Dennis, Director of Technology Raena Lavelle, Principles Justin Young, Jose Bermudez, Monica Moreno and Chris Marcoux. Department heads of Transportation, facilities, and nutritional service leads are all responsible parties as well. These parties are to provide dayto-day training and support for the plan
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“The selected student would learn workplace skills, engage in career exploration, and complete some hands-on projects.”
Phoebe Girimonte, assistant superintendent in My JTC traveled to the UCLA campus. Additionally, 12 WHS students who experienced the program last summer accompanied them as mentors.
All of the students who participated, ninth graders and mentors, earned five elective credits for their WHS career. Mentors added the five credits on top of the five credits they earned last year.
WHS Principal Justin Young said the three-year grant cycle that funds the My JTC program expired with this last cohort of ninth graders.
to employees in their respective departments.
“The plan in the board packet is our first draft we worked with our associates in the district safety team in early August through 2024–25 to seek early feedback and input,” said Dennis.
Pre-apprenticeship program
Earlier in the meeting, Assistant Superintendent Phoebe Girimonte presented on a Summer Pre-Apprenticeship program that would fund $4,000 for one student from Winters JUSD to collaborate on workbased learning projects for seven weeks with industry professionals. The board passed the program unanimously.
“The selected student would learn workplace skills, engage in career exploration, and complete some hands-on projects. They will also submit a final portfolio of their work… a benefit is that it supports a student working in our expanded learning program and getting job-based experience,” said Girimonte.
Other business
In addition to her presentation on the WVPP, Dennis pre-
sented a few more items that were all passed unanimously.
First, a compensation agreement for supervisory-confidential employees to receive a 2.5 percent increase in salary effective July 1.
In addition to the salary increase employees will receive a $25 increase in monthly health and welfare benefit contributions, a $100 per month cell phone reimbursement for supervisory positions, and one additional floating holiday for year-round supervisory or confidential employees for the 2024–25 year only.
The final item approved was a resolution that declares all management, confidential and other unrepresented employees’ salaries be declared indefinite for the upcoming fiscal year. This allows salaries to be acted upon during the next year because the California Constitution states that retroactive pay isn’t legal unless employees are represented by a bargaining unit and are in the middle of negotiations.
The next Boarde of Trustees meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 2, at 6 p.m. in the Winters JUSD board room.
“Despite the grant ending, we’re excited to build on this program as we set our students up for success and continue to build the skills and knowledge for our college-going culture at Winters High School,” Young said.
“And students know that the commitment that we have for you to be successful here not only at Winters High School but beyond in college and your career is going to last your entire time here.”
Aprueban ordenanza sobre cannabis y aumento al impuesto sobre ventas en boleta electoral Eventos hispanos
Por Amelia Biscardi Traducido por Carol Alfonso
Con una fría ráfaga del aire acondicionado, el Ayuntamiento de Winters se reunió el pasado 18 de Junio con una larga agenda y un debate importante. El consejo aprobó una resolución que permite el cultivo personal de cannabis, inició el proceso de posible aumento del impuesto sobre las ventas, declaró que algunos lotes eran una molestia por la maleza y escuchó una actualización del Centro de Personas Mayores de Winters.
Ordenanza sobre cannabis
El miembro del consejo Jesse Loren dijo que se sentía demasiado preparado para la discusión sobre el cultivo de cannabis al aire libre para uso personal. Loren incluso señaló que realizó una investigación visitando un dispensario en Humboldt con su hijo, armado con preguntas para los empleados y trajo copias de sus hallazgos. El consejo aprobó la resolución con una votación de 4 a 1, siendo el alcalde Bill Biasi el voto singular por el “no.” La resolución se planteó debido a las preocupaciones planteadas por Paul Meyers ya que, según Meyers, el olor del cannabis personal de un vecino le impedía disfrutar de su propiedad. Loren trajo vocabulario específico para que el consejo lo adaptara, explicando que en la planta de cannabis el terpeno es lo que produce el olor. Debido a esto, se añadió a la resolución la redacción de bajo terpeno. Hay un límite de seis plantas cultivadas por individuo, esto puede ser de interior o exterior. Una preocupación planteada por Biasi fue el crecimiento cerca de las escuelas. Sin embargo, el jefe de policía John P. Miller dijo que no se han reportado problemas con el robo de cannabis de los patios.
Aumento del impuesto sobre las ventas
En la continuación de la discusión sobre el presupuesto de la ciudad, el administrador de la ciudad, Jeremy Craig, presentó algunas opciones ante el consejo, que votó 4 a 1 para incluir en la boleta un aumento en el impuesto sobre las ventas. El concejal Richard Casavecchia
“En algún momento vamos a empezar a recortar cosas — esperar hasta el 2026 es demasiado lejos.” Albert Vallecillo, el alcalde interino
fue el único que votó por el “No.”
Entre las opciones, las dos abordadas fueron aumentar el impuesto sobre las ventas en un 1 por ciento, lo que llevaría el 7.25 por ciento al 8.25 por ciento y aumentar la tasación del distrito de $82.50 a $147 dólares. El consejo discutió ambas opciones, pero decidió que hacer ambas sería demasiado para los contribuyentes. Loren dijo que en los últimos años, especialmente con la rotación de personal y las dificultades de contratación, el consejo ha dejado a un lado la elaboración de presupuestos y la exploración de fuentes de ingresos. Todos los miembros del consejo expresaron su frustración por considerar aumentar los impuestos, pero también coincidieron en que, especialmente con la inflación, hay que hacer algo. Casavecchia expresó su preocupación acerca de que el cronograma propuesto sea demasiado rápido. “En algún momento vamos a empezar a recortar cosas,” dijo el alcalde interino Albert Vallecillo. “Esperar hasta el 2026 es demasiado lejos.”
Una opción alternativa sería celebrar una elección especial para aumentar el impuesto sobre las ventas, lo que permitiría una elección después de este ciclo electoral y antes del 2026. Sin embargo, eso le costaría a la ciudad alrededor de $250,000, lo que el consejo acordó que no era factible. Kate Laddish, residente de Winters, también expresó su preocupación por la situación en su conjunto. “Creo que tenemos mucho más que perder, el 2026 está demasiado lejos y una elección especial no es viable,” dijo Laddish.
Preocupaciones por incendios
El jefe de bomberos Jack S. Snyder III mencionó el proceso
anual de eliminación de malezas y explicó la necesidad de gestionar las propiedades descuidadas con malezas, basura y otros materiales inflamables, de lo contrario, existen altos riesgos de incendio. El consejo aprobó una lista de propiedades identificadas y por unanimidad declaró que la maleza era una molestia. La aprobación permite a la ciudad entrar para limpiar las propiedades y cobrar a los propietarios. Parte de la discusión pública incluyó a dos vecinos que expresaron sus preocupaciones sobre el lote vacío cerca de Olive Grove. Estos vecinos están especialmente preocupados por los riesgos de incendio, así como por las dificultades a largo plazo para que los propietarios arreglen las cosas.
El director de Obras Públicas, Eric Lucero, dijo que su equipo podría ir al lote y terminarlo unos días después de la reunión. El fiscal municipal adjunto Martín de los Ángeles y los miembros del concejo expresaron su deseo de encontrar un plan para resolver el problema lo antes posible en los próximos años. “Pongamos fin a esto. Eso es simplemente un desastre a punto de ocurrir,” dijo Vallecillo.
Actualización del centro para personas mayores
El Winters Senior Center continúa tomando medidas hacia la dirección de palas en el suelo. Recientemente, se seleccionó un estudio de arquitectura y el consejo lo aprobó por unanimidad.
Lucero dijo que la firma NJA Architecture ya había estado haciendo preguntas y se encontraba en una de las ofertas más bajas presentadas por $338,750. Durante el proceso de elección de firma, Lucero tuvo
Vea CIUDAD, Página 5
Courtesy photo
Of the 52 ninth graders who enrolled in the My Journey to College summer program at Winters High School, 49 traveled to UCLA to experience what life on a college
Lake Berryessa water levels down
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa dropped by 0.57 of a foot during the past week, with a decrease in storage of 10,556 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, July 2, he reported the lake elevation was 436.33 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,482,686 acre-feet of water. The SID is releasing 580 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 58 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 318 acre-feet of water per day.
Public Safety Report
sition: Released on Notice To Appear Report Log
The Winters Fire Log will return soon. Check for updates at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.
Police Arrest Log
June 20: Ricketts, Leah Ann (Age 40); Charges: One Winters PD Warrant, One San Mateo SO Warrant, Two Solano County SO Warrants; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail
June 21: Trudeau, Tonya Kay (Age 54), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~Navarro Landeros, Oscar (Age 35), Charges: Driving while license is suspended for DUI, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~Wilson Guerra,Anysia Felice (Age 32), Charges: Newark PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear
June 23: Perez, Tyler Dale (Age 22), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~Neal, Robert Paul, Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear
June 25: Boswell, Christopher Ray, (Age 30), Charges: Battery on Spouse/ Ex-Spouse/Date/ Etc, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail
June 26: Speaks, Decarann (Age 34), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Dispo-
June 19: 5:26 a.m., First block of E. Main Street, Audible Alarm
~12:49 p.m., 900th block of Carbahal Street, Grand Theft
~4:14 p.m., 800th block of W. Main Street, Towed Vehicle
~7:40 p.m., 20th block of Main Street, Audible Alarm
June 20: 3:26 a.m., First block of E. Main Street, Audible Alarm
~7:30 a.m., 200th block of Rosa Avenue, Outisde Agency Assist
~10:30 a.m., 900th block of W. Grant Avenue, Embezzlement
~11:51 a.m., 300th block of Edwards Street, Welfare Check
~12:06 p.m., 700th block of Main Street, Internet Crimes Against Children Report
June 21: 12:56 a.m., 900th block of Railroad Avenue, Drug Offenses
~10:36 p.m., Southbound I-505/Russell Boulevard, Outside Agency Assist
June 22: 4:45 p.m., 100th Main Street, Audible Alarm
June 23: 10:31 p.m., 100th block of E. Grant Avenue, Audible Alarm
June 26: 2:13 a.m., 20000th block of Couty Road 89, Outside Agency Assist
~8:25 a.m., 200th block of Railroad Avenue, Verbal Domestic Dispute
~2:33 p.m., 700th block of Dutton Street, Vehicle Tow
PO Box 520, Winters, CA 95694 530-795-4551
habla español.
Robert Cameron Holmes passed away at his home in Winters, California with his family by his side on May 18, 2024, at the age of 77. “Bob” was born on July 22, 1946, in Los Angeles, California to Louis Isaac Holmes and Harriett Mabel Jane Walsh. He is survived by his wife Diane, of 52 years, his son Adam Holmes, daughter Anna Holmes, grandson Brian Dela Cruz, and brother Lonny Holmes.
Bob grew up in Hermosa Beach, California, attended Arizona State University and went on to receive his MS in plant science at UC Riverside. He
Obituaries
gained experience working within UC Riverside’s plant science department until 1980 when he took a job as Management Agronomist at Travis Air Force Base, California. He resided in Vacaville, CA with his family for over 30 years and relocated to Winters, California in 2021.
Bob gave over 32 years of military service, which included the United States Marine Corps, the Army National Guard, and the Army Reserve where he retired as Colonel. During his service in the USMC, he served in the Vietnam War and was awarded a Purple
Heart. Bob was extremely humble and kind. He was patient and offered a strong silent presence. He loved nature and the natural beauty of the world. Among his many hobbies were cycling, working on his HO trains, and photography. He enjoyed traveling, camping, kayaking, playing
Donna Scully
cards, and always enjoyed a mug of his own home-brewed beer. He square danced for over 40 years, most recently with the Vaca Valley Ramblers Square Dance Club. If you knew him, you’d know that if he wasn’t actively doing something, he always had his nose in a book! He was lovingly teased as a walking encyclopedia because he had a textbook answer for any question. Bob’s gentle soul and profound wisdom will be greatly missed. His family and close friends will be holding a celebration of life on his birthday, July 22, 2024.
Donna Warren Scully passed away on June 26, 2024, surrounded by her family after a 12-year battle with cancer. Donna had a great love for life, family, and friends. She never ran out of positive energy, she was happy and courageous until the end. Donna was born in Woodland, California on April 21, 1955, to Don and Gerry Warren. She grew up in Esparto, California, and graduated from Esparto High School in 1973.
Donna worked for Grand Circle Tours as a tour guide traveling
Donna loved to travel and enjoyed family trips to Santa Cruz, Lake Tahoe, and Hawaii. A devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend, Donna was deeply loved and will be dearly missed.
to Alaska, Hawaii, Japan, China and many other destinations. She had a love of meeting people and there wasn’t a room she couldn’t light up. She bartended at various Sacramento watering holes including the Pepper Mill, Bull Market, Limelight, and Jamie’s while attending Sacramento State University where she earned her BA in Communications and completed her teaching credential. As a Senior Mary Kay Sales Director, she had 80 consultants, earning her pink Cadillac proudly driven by her husband Mike.
Donna is survived by her husband of 34
years, Mike Scully; son Timothy Scully (Emmy Anzalone), brother Mike Warren (Annette), sister Patricia Warren (Laurie); stepchildren Brandi Scully Fisher (Val) and Michael Pereira, the Scully family, aunts, cousins, and many nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation or Metastatic Breast Cancer Foundation.
The family would like to thank Kaiser Hospice for their compassionate and excellent end-of-life care.
City of Winters
Robert Holmes
130 Years Ago
July 7, 1894
No overland trains are moving anywhere. Everything is quiet at Sacramento and Oakland, but the strikers are in full possession and decline to allow trains to move. A number of the fruit growers hereabouts who had hauled their fruit and loaded it into refrigerator cars at the beginning of the present strike are now hauling it back to the orchards and drying it.
Fenley & Baker are hauling their groceries, etc., from Rio Vista, on the Sacramento River.
Mrs. Ida Lamme of this place has been appointed District Deputy Grand President, N.D.G.W., for the district comprising Winters, Dixon and Vacaville.
J. B. McArthur and wife came up from San Francisco on Sunday morning last to attend the funeral of Mrs. McArthur’s father, P. B. Bryce. They took the boat to Vallejo and drove from there in a private conveyance.
B. Bertholet has rented his buildings on Main Street to Messrs. Laborde & Co., from San Francisco, who propose to open a French restaurant, saloon and lodging house in the stone building, and a laundry in the frame building opposite this office.
Mrs. Van Winkle of San Francisco was the guest of her sister, Mrs. J. R. Wolfskill, the first of this week.
Col. A. M. Stevenson died at his home in Vacaville at 8:30 o’clock last night.
S. H. Hoy’s fine filly, “Edna H.” is sick with pleurisy, and he is afraid that he will lose her.
and pets. We also urge everyone to stay hydrated, follow local advisories and seek out cooling centers, as needed,” said Supervisor Lucas Frerichs.
City Manager Jeremy Craig listed the Winters Community Library as a safe place to cool down.
The Winters Community Library is located at 708 Railroad Ave. It is open on Monday/Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday/Thursday from Noon to 8 p.m. and on Friday/Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.
The Bobbie Greenwood Community Swim Center is also listed as a cooling center in Winters. The city pool is located next to the library and shares the parking area.
The pool’s open swim hours are listed on the city website at www.cityofwinters. org/208/Open-Swim
The Esparto Region-
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muchas ofertas y firmas interesadas durante todo el proceso.
“Lo que es realmente sorprendente es la cantidad de gente que sabe dónde está Winters,” dijo Lucero.
Loren señaló que recientemente tuvo reuniones con vari-
Years Ago
Dispatches from the Express archives.
95 Years Ago
July 5, 1929
An S. P. crew of twelve men have been busy the past few weeks putting in a new turn table. The old table was 50 feet long, the new one 70 feet.
Fenley Briggs, son of Mr. and Mrs. James R. Briggs, graduated from the of Polytechnic School Engineering at Oakland recently and is now engaged as a mechanic at the Oakland airport. He made his solo flight a few days ago.
A practical way of supplying hot water for dairy and household purposes by means of the sun is shown as the result of a survey just published a pamphlet form by the University of California, College of Agriculture. The study was made by A. W. Farrall, assistant professor of agricultural engineering.
Mr. and Mrs. Everett Fenley and son, Douglas motored to Cobb Mountain Sunday. Mr. Fenley returned home the following day, but his wife and son will spend two weeks there.
Mrs. Walter Owen and Mrs. C. C. Stone who came up from Colton to attend the funeral services for their mother, the late Mrs. H. C. Culton, returned to
al Branch Library is listed as a cooling center in the Capay Valley area. The Esparto Library is located at 17065 Yolo Ave. in Esparto. Is it open on Monday from 2 to 7 p.m., Tuesday from Noon to 7 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. An interactive map of all Yolo County cooling centers is available online at https://bit.ly/3XHCTii and on the State Office of Emergency Services website at https://news.caloes. ca.gov/coolingcenters. Stay updated on the latest weather conditions and warnings by visiting the Yolo County Office of Emergency Services website at yolocounty.org/OES.
Power shutoffs
A fire-threat map issued by the California Public Utilities Commission shows western Yolo County as having an elevated risk of wildfires. This could mean pow-
os residentes para discutir el proyecto. “Esta comunidad realmente tiene hambre de un centro para personas mayores,” dijo Loren. Karen May, residente de Winters y miembro de la Fundación “Winters Senior Center Foundation,” agregó su entusiasmo por este proyecto y le exhortó a la ciudad a “que lo hagan realidad.”
their homes in the southern city Monday. Stephen Ish, wife and child of San Jose spent a few days the first of the week visiting relatives in Winters.
Miss Bettylin Waggoner who is spending the vacation period in Sacramento visited at the J. S. Waggoner home Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. James W. Pleasants left this morning for a sojourn at Bodega Bay. They returned the first of the week after spending a week at Samuels Springs. Mrs. Frank Martin visited her folks in San Francisco the end of last week.
80 Years Ago
July 7, 1944
The War Food Administration has set the maximum rate for cutting apricots at 75 cents an hour or $15 per ton. The fire department was called out at noon time Sunday, to a grass fire in the creek bank east of the bridge. Quite a space was burned over. The top of the tall eucalyptus tree in front of the old Horai store was badly burned and its beauty marred. Sebastian Lopez, high school graduate of ‘39, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rafael Lopez writes home from India. He is a radio techni-
er shutoffs in greater Winters, Guinda, Rumsey and elsewhere in the Cache Creek area. Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Company alerted residents that temporary public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) may be scheduled.
On Tuesday morning, PG&E reported about 230 Yolo County customers experienced a shutoff as of 6:30 a.m. Tuesday as gusty winds exacerbated the dangerous conditions.
Ideally, customers will receive notification of a planned power shutoff two days in advance.
“We will always do our best to alert you before a PSPS via email, phone call and/ or text,” the PG&E news release said.
But because rather forecasts can change, “this could shift the shutoff timing or the number of affected customers,” officials said. “Because of this, in some cases we may not send the first alert until the same day
cian in a combat plane. Glenda Kidder was hostess Friday afternoon at a birthday party given at her home on her sixth birthday. Guests were: Claire Adams, Colleen Clayton, Dale Hansen, Patricia Baxter, Lynn Johnson, Barbara Raper and Mary Lou Kidder. Charles “Boots” Erb spent a few days this week with his grandmother, Mrs. H. R. Bowman in Wolfskill district. He planned to leave Friday morning for Los Angeles where he will be inducted into U.S. Navy service.
Mr. and Mrs. Cuberos and family of San Francisco arrived last week at the Frank Martin home and are assisting in the fruit harvest. They will spend two weeks here. Mrs. Cuberos and Mrs. Martin are sisters.
Harry Sattazahn reports that he has no trace of his car that was stolen Sunday, June 30. The car was taken from the parking place in front of his Baker street home.
50 Years Ago
July 4, 1974
Jennifer, ten year old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Basinger was selected from a field of ten girls at the Universal Area Beauty and Talent Pageant on June 30, to represent her home city at the California State Finals of the Our Little Miss Pageants. She will fly to Palm Springs on July 8 and start competing on the 9th until the 13th of the month.
Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Ireland accompanied their daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Naekel, Heidi and Laurie, of Wood-
your power is shut off.”
To update contact information, however, visit pge.com/myalerts.
Prepare for the heat
With the heat comes a critical need to recognize the signs of heat illness. Please take measures to protect yourself, your pets and your neighbors.
• Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool.
• If you plan to go camping or be at outdoor events, try to find shade and pack extra water.
• Stay cool indoors in air-conditioned facilities, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Pace yourself and avoid heavy exertion in the heat.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen.
• Cover windows that receive morning or
land, to visit Mr. Naekel’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Naekel of Valley City, North Dakota, from June 17 to June 26. Mrs. Herb Young and Mrs. Van Phillips will host a neighborhood pot luck supper party on the Fourth of July, asking as their guests the Wayne Sawyers, the Russ Scheelines, the John Youngs, the Clarence Bourlands, the John Carbahals, the Robert Youngs and the Newton Wallaces.
George L. Roberts entered Davis Community Hospital on June 19 after a motorcycle accident which occured while he was dirt riding in the field behind Major Vista. He will remain in the hospital for a period of two weeks or so. Dottie McCoey left last Friday evening for Honolulu, Hawaii where she will meet former teacher in the Winters schools, Pat Jellitich, for a week’s visit on the island of Oahu, Dale Brewer recently returned from a visit with his mother, Mrs. Ruby Brewer, of Indianola, Oklahoma. While he was there more than 40 relatives and close friends, from several counties and some from out of state, gathered to help him celebrate his birthday. Before saying goodby to Nese Tayyipoglu, who left on Friday from San Francisco to begin her return trip to Turkey, the Bill Cody family spent from June 22 to June 26 with Mrs. James Barker at her summer home on the Russian River. Along with Nese were Annette, Bill, Theresa and Eddie Cody and their parents.
Nese has spent the past school year in the United States under the auspices of the American Field Service.
afternoon sun with drapes, shades or awnings.
• Avoid hot and salty foods and limit alcoholic beverages.
• Never leave a person or animal in a parked car. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach dangerous levels quickly.
• Don’t forget about pets and livestock; they also need extra water and shade.
• Check on family members, seniors, friends and neighbors who may need assistance.
Heat-related illnesses
Learn the signs of heat-related illnesses and what to do if you or someone you know shows signs. Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms caused by heavy exertion. Symptoms are abdominal and leg muscle pain. If symptoms occur, stop physical activity and move to a cool place and drink water. Apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or perform gentle massages to relieve cramping.
Heat exhaustion usually occurs when people exercise too heavily or work in warm, humid places where body fluids are lost. Symptoms include cold, pale and clammy skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or exhaustion. If symptoms occur, move to a cool place, drink water and loosen clothes. Heat stroke is also known as sunstroke, which can be life threatening. Symptoms include a high body temperature (103 degrees F or higher), hot, red, dry or damp skin, a fast, strong pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or losing consciousness. Death may result if not cooled quickly. If symptoms occur, move the person to a cooler place immediately and lower temperature with cool cloths or a bath. Seek medical attention if necessary.
Home prices still increasing HOMES, Page 2
Wednesday, July 3
City of Winters Fireworks Show, Dr. Sellers Football Field
5 p.m.: Gates open to public 9:15 p.m.: Fireworks start
Wednesdays
Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690
Saturday, July 6
Library Event: Saturday Matinee, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/
Sunday, July 7
Winters Farmers Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market
Monday, July 8
Winters Community Blood Drive, 2 –5:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Register at Vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 with code 'SMFM164' Winters Climate Action Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/182/Climate-Action-Commission
Have something to say?
Send in a Letter to the Editor at https://bit.ly/3NvbkTz
Charley sounds off on Prop 218 OPINION, Page 3
5
Community honors
eight local elders
By Crystal Apilado
Editor-in-Chief
The Winters Elder Day Council hosted the eighth annual Elder Day Celebration on Saturday, June 29, at St. Anthony’s Parish Hall. This year, eight local elders over the age of 90 or who are turning 90 in 2024 were honored at the event.
Organizer Wally Pearce and event emcee Woody Fridae shared enthusiasm over the ability to celebrate Winters elders again. Pearce said this year a combined 725 years of experience were being honored between the eight recipients. Since the first Winters Elder
of experience have been recognized between all of the honorees.
“Not everyone ages the same,” Pearce said saying that. “Elder Day is a portal to the past.”
“Communities like the City of Winters that embrace senior citizens are stronger and become a better place to live and raise a family. We value our older members of our society for their vast knowledge and contribution from the leaves of the trees of their history,” Pearce continued. “We believe that our elders have more than just a thing or two to teach us about change
See ELDERS, Page 5
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
City of Winters and Yolo County officials posed with past and current Elder Day honorees at the eighth annual Winters Elder Day celebration event.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express Honoree Engracia Perez shares comments via her grandson Homero Vasquez who translated for her. Woody Fridae (back) shared Perez’s stories from her interview.
Limited housing availability driving price increase
As we reach the midpoint of 2024, I am often asked whether the market will see a crash or a major correction. The answer is probably not.
Our local real estate market reflects national trends, with home prices continuing to rise despite high mortgage rates. Nationally, the median home price reached $420,600 in May, a record high. Locally, Winters has seen similar patterns due to a significant imbalance between supply and demand, with our median home price reaching $670,000, a 4 percent increase through the first half of the year.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that a lack of housing supply is the main driver
behind these price increases. Even though Winters experienced its two highest months of new homes hitting the market in the past three years (April and May), June data shows a 4.5-month supply of homes, meaning the market remains unbalanced. This level of supply, coupled with strong demand, has kept prices elevated. Despite mortgage rates hovering around 7 percent, the limited inventory has prevented a significant market correction.
This market contin-
ues to pose challenges for buyers, especially first-time homeowners. The increased costs of financing, driven by higher mortgage rates, have made affordability a growing concern. According to Realtor.com, the monthly cost of financing a typical home has risen by 7.1 percent from last year, adding about $158 more to monthly payments.
Experts agree that a housing market crash is unlikely. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, notes that strict lending standards and solid borrower credit profiles have fortified the mar-
ket against any major downturn. Unlike the 2008 crisis, today’s homeowners generally have significant equity and are less likely to face foreclo-
sure. Although it may not feel like it here in town, home builders in general have been cautious, preventing an oversupply of new homes.
One last thing to consider is election years.
icies proposed by candidates can influence market sentiment, particularly regarding mortgage rates and housing affordability.
Typically, we see a slowdown in real estate activity as consumers delay major financial decisions. Pol-
But as we move into the second half of the year, I believe the Winters real estate market will remain steady, driven by persistent demand
See HOMES, Page 4
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Construction crews are actively building new homes in Winters neighborhoods.
Express Yourself
Fire-protection and emergency-response services assessment
If you are a property owner in the City of Winters you should have received a ballot in the mail about a new tax to support our fire department. You should also have received an information guide to help you make your decision.
The Winters Fire District, land outside of the Winters city limits, was working on their own assessment but their board voted to postpone the vote until they can come up with a consensus about the take rate on farmland.
The ballot we received at home said we would pay an annual fee of $183 if the measure passes. That isn’t a lot of money to my family, but it might be a hardship on others. According to the voter guide “the typical base annual assessment for single-family homes is proposed to be $184.45” with no more than a three percent annual cost of living increase. For those of us that have lived in our homes a long time, our assessment is lower than most, but I would be interested to know
“That isn’t a lot of money to my family, but it might be a hardship on others.”
what a new home in Winters would be assessed under this new fire department tax.
Property owners get to vote and there will be a public hearing on Aug. 6 during the city council meeting. All ballots must be received, either by mail on that date or handed in at that meeting.
The more your property is valued the more your vote will count. For the measure to pass it will need 50 percent plus one vote of the total valuation of Winters. When I first heard about this assessment the suggested price was a lot higher, so they have lowered their dollar figure in hopes that more people would
See QUICK, Page 4
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20),
After some time, a difficult situation begins to settle down, Aries. Enjoy this wellearned peace and consider how a new perspective can help going forward.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21),
Taurus, a new plan can be just what you need to make notable progress. Finding a mentor or someone who has forged a path already can be a useful step.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21),
Gemini, you have a lot going on in your life right now to keep you busy. With so much going on, try not to worry about what is going on with others. Stay in your lane.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22),
It is a fine week to really think about your future, Cancer. If you have goals to start a business, start hashing out plans and give thought to seeking a partner.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23), Leo, this week you start out with a lot of energy but likely will burn through it early on. If you want to reach your goal, you are going to have to learn how to pace yourself.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22),
A lot of emotions are running through your mind, Virgo. They may be very confusing. It is alright to feel out of sorts. Perhaps talking to someone can offer you perspective.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23),
Libra, you may be feeling introspective and philosophical, so much so that people may catch you staring into space and lost in thought. Now is not the time to make heavy decisions.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22), Scorpio, this might not be the week for parties or large social events. You are experiencing some introverted feelings right now and are best in situations that have only a few people.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21), Life isn’t always fair, Sagittarius. Recognize that sometimes things won’t go your way. Your resolve could be tested this week so be aware.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20), Capricorn, it may be tempting to let someone else take over when the going gets tough. That likely will not be best for you, so continue to make decisions and let things play out.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18), Aquarius, you are due for a big break after going through a lot of emotional ups and downs. Your positive attitude has paved the way for some brighter skies ahead.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20), No one else is going to do a tough job for you, Pisces. You have to dig in your heels and make a plan. You are ready for this kind of assignment and the pressure that comes with it.
Express Yourself
Supporting older adults through volunteerism
By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council
Volunteering to help older adults is a gift some people freely donate. It brings meaning and purpose to one’s life, while increasing their self-esteem and wellbeing to see how their efforts help those in need.
Volunteers are key in helping local service providers reach as many people as possible in the most cost-effective way.
Annually in California, about 10 million people largely depend upon the efforts of dedicated volunteers in the community.
Volunteers help in many ways, including as:
• Caregivers
• Delivering meals to the home-bound elderly
• Escorting and transporting frail older persons to health care services
• Doing essential
shopping errands and to other needed services
• Visiting homebound elderly to help ensure their wellbeing through regular social contacts
• Counseling older persons in a variety of areas including health promotion, nutrition, legal and financial concerns
• Serving as a longterm care ombudsman representative to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents in long-term care facilities.
Volunteering for senior citizens is important. Many seniors are at risk for many areas of life such as social isolation, healthcare, transportation and aging-related stresses. Research suggests that decreased social activity and loss of social networks could contribute to isolation and dependency.
Giving to help older adults allows the volunteer to contribute
their skills, knowledge and experience to make a difference. It provides a meaningful role and objective in life, giving a reason to get up every day and engage with those in need.
self-esteem to pathological levels of personality disorder. They pretend to volunteer. They’re like addicts that’ll do anything to obtain their next fix. Their addiction for constant atten-
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.”
Elizabeth Andrew
Sadly, there are volunteers who admire themselves more than others and constantly gorge on their bankrupt egos. Some who volunteer for tribute may be medically described as narcissistic that fosters an inflated sense of their own importance. They actively crave constant attention and praise yet lack empathy for others.
Narcissism may range from healthy
tion is born from their flawed need for admiration which is forever busy and needs feeding. They’ve no clue what volunteering is and simply don’t care.
They’ll always seek the maximum credit accessible. They spend their entire life praising their inactions. They gleefully display their civic deception like a badge of achievement, and all the while, tricking the public to believe their fabrication is real. Whenever the work is assigned, they’re elsewhere. They’re always first in line to accept praise. These biological pests threaten the integrity of those who
HOMES
Continued from Page 2
and tighter supply. Buyers and sellers alike should prepare for a competitive market, with prices likely to stay elevated.
do the work. They’re moral and social parasites. Researchers find that a key intention for volunteering is often found in one’s own family legacy where family members have been active volunteers. They judge their volunteering as a duty and privilege — a principle to be appreciated. Those that honestly volunteer don’t enter their journey as a sport, for self-promotion, accolades, or any form of recognition. They often engage in this work in memory of a loved one.
One volunteer spoke of their grandmother as a very special person who spent the last years of her life fighting a losing battle from a pathological disease — Alzheimer’s. A concealed enemy that without a sound entered her body to ravage her presence. She was 95 years young when her journey ended, and if in some way they could make a difference, it would be on her behalf.
Her attendance in their life continued to stimulate their conduct and wanted to think somehow —
their grandmother knew and would approve. Their grandmother was one of those rare treasures in life that freely gave of herself, absent of any projected credit.
In the final analysis, volunteering is an essential aspect of our lives, offering personal, social and community benefits. By giving our time, energy, and skills to assist others, people can positively impact the lives of those around us and enrich all our life’s.
Some inspirational thoughts on volunteering: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” said Martin Luther King, Jr.
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart,” said Elizabeth Andrew.
“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men,” said Herman Melville. Join the Winters Elder Day Council, an all-volunteer organization whose members reside in the City of Winters, as we acknowledge the value of volunteers in our community.
the hearing Written comments may be mailed or delivered to: City Clerk City of Winters 318 First Street, Winters, CA, 95694 or sent by e-mail to cityclerk@cityofwinters org Sterling Thomas Deputy City Clerk One-Time Publication Dates: 7/3/24 & 7/10/24 #73557
For buyers: The Winters market will likely remain challenging due to high prices and tighter inventory. Buyers should be prepared for competitive
bidding and consider the long-term value of their purchase. There also may be a bit more negotiation power with homes that have sat a bit longer. For sellers: Current market conditions are still favorable. With persistent demand and accurate pricing, sellers can expect to receive strong offers and potentially sell their homes quickly. This is an opportune time to
QUICK
Continued from Page 3
vote yes.
There are now nine people in our immediate family and when we got together last month, the diner bill was $275 including the tip. That is more than I expect to pay with this new annual assessment. Some property owners can’t afford to go out to eat
list properties, taking advantage of the high prices and competitive market.
Wishing everyone a happy and safe 4th of July!
— 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 @joedy michael_realestate.
and those are the ones I’m worried about. House rich, but cash poor you might say. All property owners get a vote, so it will be interesting to see if we are willing to tax ourselves to improve our fire department. Remember, if you don’t vote you can’t complain later. Rainfall contest results coming soon. Have a good week.
Juniors little league team wins championship
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
A Winters Juniors Little League team went undefeated to win the District 64 T.O.C. Championship.
The Mariani Nuts won 15 games and tied only once giving them an undefeated record against Vacaville, Dixon, Davis and Rio Vista. Coached by Marc Rodriguez, the Mariani Nuts couldn’t be stopped no matter the team they faced. How do they do it?
“It’s easy when you’ve got kids who can play ball, you know?” said Rodriguez.
Rodriguez says the athleticism and welltimed hits were the key to the team’s success this season. The team was predominantly seventh and eighth graders, but what may have given the Mariani Nuts the greatest edge was that a few sixth graders joined the team to play with their friends.
“We had a couple of kids who were in sixth grade on the team that wanted to play up with their buddies or more challenging sort of level,” said Rodriguez
ELDERS
and challenges.”
The 2024 honorees included Lola Morgan (90), Dick Holdstock (90), Daniel Lares (90), Barbara Cody (90), Darlene Barnett (91), Engracia Perez (90), Marg Graf (90) and Charlene Tanski (93).
Fridae shared stories and memories with each of the honorees and engaged them with questions about some of the answers they had shared in an interview with Pearce. Each of the honorees enhanced upon Fridae’s commentary by sharing memories, advice and gratitude for being recognized and for the Winters community.
Daniel Lares was unable to attend due to illness, but his daughter Maria Lares was present to represent him.
Holdstock took hold of the microphone to sing a song and encouraged the event attendees to join in for the last chorus.
Morgan surprised
It wasn’t all easy though. A team of so many athletic youths across multiple grade levels made a consistent practice schedule difficult for the team. Most of the players on the team aren’t just playing baseball.
“It was hard to have productive practices because the kids were all playing so many sports. We had guys playing flag football, travel basketball, school soccer, school track — you know? It was tough to get everybody out there once but I think that’s part of what made them good. These are kids that play a lot of sports and work hard in school and so that was a benefit for me.” said Rodriguez.
When asked which players had stand-out performances, Rodriguez couldn’t stop at any one player. In particular the duel catchers of Anders Jepsen and Edgar Velarde, who in over 100-degree heat, helped the Mariani Nuts win as many games as they did because of how steady Jepsen and Velarde were behind the dish.
past honoree Jim Bernardy by noting she had worked for him when he was the superintendent and poked lightly at the fact that during his tenure as superintendent, he had “two sets of books” they kept of “board meetings, disputes, you name it we had it.”
“Those two guys did a phenomenal job, catching and working hard behind the plate. Those guys just came through in clutch moments. Just in general catching when it is a hundred, basically misery.” said Rodriguez
The other side of the battery also made major contributions. Ro-
I have left, but at any rate, the first 93 have been good all together.”
Supervisor Lucas Frerichs and Winters Mayor Bill Biasi shared their gratitude for the event and shared a welcome to the honorees, their families and the community.
“So far with the way things have turned out, I don’t know how many years I have left, but at any rate, the first 93 have been good all together.”
Charlene Tanski, honoree
“I feel very honored to be here today with all of these wonderful people here in Winters. I’ve enjoyed my life here in Winters very much. I feel it was just a fortunate occurrence that I ended up here in my senior years,” Tanski said. Tanski finished the round of interviews by saying “So far with the way things have turned out, I don’t know how many years
Fridae also celebrated all of the honorees saying “They still have a lot of youth, talent and information” to share with the world.
Pearce paid tribute to past honorees Mary Hemingway, Roy Belhorn and others who have died with a moment of silence. He thanked the honorees for allowing him to learn more about their lives and sharing
driguez said pitchers Josiah Chavez, Derek Green and Kellen Foged threw phenomenally all season. Aside from immaculate defense, clutch hitting made massive contributions to this season’s success. Small ball in particular had a massive impact on securing big ones all season.
their experiences.
“There was a gentleman here last year who passed not too long after and then his wife passed the week after he did. So what we have here is a treasure,” Pearce said.
Each honoree received a photo print taken by Fridae, and a certificate from the Winters Elder Day Council, the City of Winters, Supervisor Frerichs, Rep. Mike Thompson, and Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry.
Wally Pearce said the Winters Elder Day Council is continuing to collect nominations for local residents who are 90 years of age or older, who will be turning 90 by the end of 2025 and who have not yet been recognized at a previous Winters Elder Day celebration.
Nominate elders
According to Pearce, he already received the name of a new elder to honor at the 2025 Elder Day event.
Jacob Valadez laid down two bunts when it mattered, and one that tied an important game. Noah Thatch, who had struggled at the plate all season unable to connect the bat to the ball, had two massive hits in key moments in the final stretch of the season.
Last but not least, Rodriguez said Luis
Silva had a “fiery attitude and a lot of energy” and “was hot all season.”
“It’s just a good group of kids, man. They’re energetic and happy-go-lucky and they enjoy each other’s company and competition. And they are super athletic.” said Rodriguez.
Winters Elder Day was first celebrated in 2017 as a way for the community to gather and honor local elders, acknowledge their contributions to their families and community, and hear stories about their life experiences.
To recommend a community elder in the specified age group, contact Pearce at 707-249-7975 or email denropro@ gmail.com. Members of the Spanish-speaking community should contact Ramon Altamirano at 916-6006707 or email ramon. altamirano@aol.com.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express Honoree Dick Holdstock leads a signalong at the event
Courtesy photo
The Mariani Nut Winters Little League baseball team won the California Junior League District 64 T.O.C Championship
Arts & Entertainment
Musical happenings on downtown Main Street
Special to the Express
The Winters Downtown Business Association has lined up bands to play on downtown Main Street on Friday evenings and during the Sunday Farmers Market.
The musical lineup for July is: Fridays, downtown Main Street, 7 to 9:30 p.m.
The Friday, July 5 performance has
been canceled due to the heatwave.
Friday, July 12: Roots Man Project (Reggae)
Friday, July 19: Lucy’s Bones (All-original rock, blues and funk)
Friday, July 26: 5-Star Alcatraz Band (Folk/country rock to jazz and reggae)
Sundays, downtown Main Street, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Sunday, July 7: So-
fia Burns
Sunday, July 14:
Thick as Thieves (Electronic pop and hip-hop)
Sunday, July 21: Chicken & Dumplings (Acoustic blues)
Sunday, July 28: Zach Olmos (Reggae/ rock) For updates and other community events, check www. discoverwinters. com/events.
Yolo County Fair opening events kick off in August
This year’s theme is “Over the Moon” and event organizers are truly over the Moon to be back celebrating the Yolo County Fair Opening Night Gala and showcasing the Bounty of Yolo County.
Since its conception in 2006, the Gala has made a name for itself as the place to be on the opening night of the fair. The Gala is scheduled on the first evening of the Fair, Wednesday, Aug. 14 from 6:30 to 9 p.m., an extra halfhour has been added to this year’s event to give guests more time to kick back and mingle with local community leaders, growers, and friends.
Whether it is wine, beer, margaritas, olive oil, flavored vinegar, local honey, organic produce, fresh baked goods, or tastes of local restaurant fare, attendees can enjoy sampling while being entertained by the live acoustic music stylings of local
band Little Wing, and mingling with others.
In utilizing a larger space at the fairgrounds this year, event organizers and are seeking additional local businesses in hopes of making this year’s event the biggest yet. To participate, send an email to event coordinator, Monique Garcia, at yolocountyfairgala@ gmail.com.
Inaugural Beer and Wine Showcase
The first Yolo County Fair Beer and Wine Showcase will feature locally brewed beers, wines and hand-crafted spirits.
The Yolo County Fair Beer and Wine Showcase will be held in the Olive Plaza, on Thursday, Aug. 15, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Attendees will experience an unforgettable evening amongst the prized Ag & Floral Cut Flower entries while enjoying the sounds of local musicians and indulging in local beers, wines and spirits of Yolo Coun-
ty. Guests will vote for their favorites in every category. Tickets will be limited for this inaugural event. Tickets for the Opening Night Gala and the Beer and Wine Showcase are $35 each and go on sale, along with all of the fair’s featured events, on July 8, online at www.yolocountyfair.net/p/tickets and available at the Fairgrounds office.
Fair information
The Yolo County Fair is the largest and oldest free-gate fair in California. For more information, email yolocountyfairgala@ gmail.com or call the Fair Office at 530402-2222. A full list of arena events, fair-related activities and the scheduled entertainment lineup are available on the Fair’s website at yolocountyfair.net or on its social media page at www.facebook. com/YoloCountyFairgrounds.
Los Tres de Winters perform at the Rotary Gazebo July 11
By Diane Cary Special to the Express
The Winters Friends of the Library 2024 Summer Concerts at the Gazebo continue with local favorites Los Tres de Winters playing Norteño-style music on Thursday, July 11, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Rotary Park, Main Street at Railroad Avenue in downtown Winters.
This lively music, with accordion, bajo sexto, and bass, is a
hybrid of Mexican and Spanish vocal traditions with waltzes and polkas brought to Mexico by Czech and German immigrants in the mid-nineteenth century. It evolved in the north of Mexico and is now a favorite style throughout Mexico and the U.S. Check them out on YouTube.
Invite your friends and neighbors, bring a blanket or lawn chairs or sit on the grass, sip a cool drink, and enjoy some fine live music
on a summer evening. The concerts are free, but donations will be gratefully accepted.
Winters Friends of the Library will have delicious refreshments and quality used books for sale, and all proceeds will support the Winters Community Library. For more information, visit wfol.org. This year’s concert series is sponsored by Waste Management and Oates Country Store.
Buffalo Soldiers reenact history at Peña Adobe on Saturday
Special to the Express
The Peña Adobe Historical Society welcomes the Buffalo Soldiers and the Solano County Sheriff’s Posse, Saturday, July 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Company G of the 10th Cavalry, better known to history as the Buffalo Soldiers, will be riding out of western history and into Peña Adobe Park again this year. The Buffalo Soldiers are a living history group that was established in the Sacramento area almost 30 years ago. The group recreates the black cavalry units that served in the Old West from 1866 to 1891.
Company G’s goal is to tell the story of the Buffalo Soldiers’ history visiting schools,
community organizations, churches and public events. They will have two tables with artifacts of the buffalo soldiers’ history on display and members, dressed in the uniform depicting 1874, will be on hand to talk with park visitors.
In addition to the Buffalo Soldiers, the Solano County Sheriffs’ Posse will be at Peña Adobe. The Sheriffs’ Posse has been part of the Solano County Sheriffs’ Office for more than 70 years and is composed of volunteers who use their horses and equipment to help the department with search-andrescue efforts, emergency services and as public ambassadors.
Come to the Peña Adobe Park, bring a picnic lunch and meet the members of the Sheriffs’ Posse and see their amazing horses! Learn the important role horses played when the Peña and Vaca families were raising cattle back in the mid 1800’s on their ranch which later became the city of Vacaville. Joining the fun will be the Vacaville Acoustic Jam. Members of the Jam will provide music during the event. Under the direction of Terry and Leslie Cloper, the Jam offers musicians of all styles and abilities to play acoustic instruments and sing together, or just sit and listen. Open jam sessions are held at Vacaville’s McBride Senior Center on the first and third Wednesday every month. The Jam has been providing free live music to nonprofits since 2013. Park docents will be available to lead tours of the Peña Adobe, California Historical Landmark No. 534 built by the Peña family in 1842 and Mowers-Goheen Museum. This event is free to attend.
Keith Cary/Courtesy photo
Los Tres de Winters performs its Norteño-style sound on Thursday, July 11.
Peña Adobe Historical Society/Courtesy photo
Trooper Willliam Terrell of the Buffalo Soldiers reenactment group speaks with visitors during the Peña Adobe Park open house 2022 event. Special to the Express