Winters Express: Wednesday, September 4, 2024 by mcnaughtonmedia

Planning Commission begins retail cannabis regulations plans,

By Adilia Watson Express staff writer

Plans for the future of retail cannabis in Winters began at last week’s Planning Commission meeting, but the city’s staff were left with little input from the public on selling the legalized substance locally.

With city staff, a couple of residents and Winters Police Department Chief John P. Miller in attendance, commissioners started working on a proposed ordinance for local cannabis retailers on Aug. 27. After a presentation by policy consultant

Mark Lovelace of HdL Companies and contracted city planner David Storer, commissioners pondered city regulations for these retailers such as how large of a “buffer zone” between storefronts and schools should be, security measures against theft, operating hours and where cannabis can be sold. They went on to discuss the items after a 2-minute public comment period.

“I’m disappointed with the lack of public comment and turnout for today because this is a very big decision that we are starting to make for our very

small town,” Commissioner Judith Arce said. “I’d like to hear what everybody else thinks and wants because I would hate to put this somewhere where 90 percent of town hates.”

Discussing the placement of dispensaries in city limits took a significant portion of the meeting.

Changes to the city’s zoning requirements now make room for dispensaries in the city; however, the decision to bring them into the city won’t be made until the city council receives a

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Every two minutes, a family is told that their child has cancer. This Friday night, the Winters Warriors will go head-to-head with Rio Vista out on the football field, however, one foot-

ball athlete hopes to spread awareness about childhood cancer and raise funds to support research as part of his senior capstone project.

Winters High School senior Robert Maggenti Jr. is hosting a Gold Out football game on Friday, Sept. 6, where he will spread awareness about childhood cancer and the work that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital does. His work doesn’t end when the

lights go down; for the entire month of September, Maggenti is continuing his work to unite regional teams to wear gold in support of Childhood Cancer Awareness month and to raise funds for St. Jude.

“I chose this project and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital because my own family has been affected by childhood cancer and without St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Weather

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

The newest Winters police officer, Trinidad Batad, was sworn in and received his officers’ badge during a ceremonial badge pinning at the Aug. 6, Winters City Council meeting.

Batad’s placement filled a position in the Winters police roster that had been vacated last summer. Batad was born in Sacramento, grew up in Olivehurst and graduated from Lyndhurst High School before beginning his police career.

Batad experience lists multiple roles including service as an EMT, two years as a federal police officer with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Police Department, two years as a tribal police officer for the Shingle Springs Tribal Police Department, and is currently a reserve technical sergeant with the United States

Air Force Reserve. He has previously been deployed on active duty overseas as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Batad had completed his field training program in the beginning of August and will be assigned to the dayshift for his first shift rotation.

“We are truly ex-

cited to have Officer Batad join our department and join our community. He has been an excellent addition to our department, and expect very, very good things from him in the future,” said Police Chief John P. Miller during the ceremony.

Courtesy photo

This month, Winters High School senior Robert Maggenti Jr. is spreading awareness about childhood cancer and raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for his Senior Capstone project. Festivities kick off at the Sept. 6, football game.

Courtesy photo

City Manager Jeremy Craig (right) swears in Officer Trinidad Batad (left) at the Aug. 6, city council meeting. Police Chief John P. Miller (center) watches from the podium.

Courtesy photo

Alvin Bonifacio Fishing Derby returns to Lake Solano

Special to the Express Sunrise Rotary of Vacaville is hosting its 29th Annual Alvin Bonifacio Fishing Derby at Lake Solano Park on Saturday, Sept. 28. This event is held in memory of Alvin Bonifacio, a longtime charter member of the Sunrise Rotary Club of Vacaville who was a key player in making the annual derby a success, as well as spearheading the building of the fishing pond at Lake So-

lano Park, located at 8685 Pleasants Valley Road., near Winters. The event is free to attend, but there is a parking entrance fee charged by Lake Solano Park. No advance registration is required. The first 500 children (age 14 and under) will be provided with a rod/reel, tackle and bait. A hot dog lunch, chips, water and drinks are also provided.

Fishing commences at 8 a.m. for children aged 7 and

under. All children can fish from 9 a.m. to noon. Trophies are awarded to various age categories based on the largest fish caught in each category, along with the trophy for the Largest Fish. For more information, view the event video at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=EhpSyPIOkXw or email Doug Spletter at dcspletter@yahoo.com or Lara Penny at lpenny@switzerenterprises.com.

Outreach program connects with 1,500 boaters at Lake Berryessa

Yolo County residents can get a Winters Express print and digital subscription combo for $30.

Over 1,500 boaters were contacted as part of the clean water outreach season at Lake Berryessa. It brought the total of contacts over the 19 years to more than 75,000, the Solano Resource Conservation District reported.

“Just one gallon of motor oil leaked from a boat’s engine will contaminate 1 million gallons of drinking water for 500,000 Solano County residents,” Robyn Slater, a district assistant manager, said in a statement. “Our program meets boaters at the lake and shares the information and tools they need to help keep Solano County’s drinking water clean and safe.”

District interns, since May, spent each weekend at the lake and “shared clean water protection strategies with 1,500 boaters and provided 700 California Boater kits, that includes three oil absorbents, coupons and other tools to help manage the engine ef-

fluent from small vessels.”

The boaters also are asked to take a brief survey to learn more about water protection and resources available to them.

“Interns encourage visitors piloting inboard motor boats to take a minute to install an oil absorbent into the bilge of the boats, and provide information about disposing of used absorbents and acquiring a replacement each year. These oil absorbents absorb oil and repel water. They can be returned for oil recycling curbside in

some cities, at a local Household Hazardous Waste facility, or at an oil absorbent exchange station located at Lake Berryessa or Sandy Beach Park in Rio Vista,” the statement said. The state Division of Boating and Waterways reports that about 4 million motorized and non-motorized boats take part in boating activities on state lakes and rivers. Find year-round information about clean boating, including videos and more information on used oil recycling at solanorcd. org/boaters.

Express staff

Aaron Rosenblatt/McNaughton Media

Over the weekend, Solano Resource Conservation District interns engaged with 1,500 boaters to share clean water protection strategies and California Boater kits.

Courtesy photo

Sharon and Wally Pearce, Winters Elder Day board members, presented 2024 Elder Day honoree Lola Morgan with a proclamation from Solano County Supervisor John Vasques on Saturday, Aug. 31. Morgan lives on the Solano County side of Putah Creek and the proclamation was not available to present during the Winters Elder Day celebration in June. Wally and Sharon Pearce presented the proclamation on Vasques’ behalf.

Courtesy photo

The Boater Kit included an oil absorbent bilge pad, coupons, and information about using, replacing and recycling oil absorbents.

Eventos hispanos

Los estudiantes migrantes experimentan la universidada través del programa de residencia

Por Logan Chrisp Traducido por Carol Alfonso

Cuatro estudiantes del Distrito Escolar de Winters Joint Unified School District (Winters JUSD) tuvieron la oportunidad de experimentar la vida universitaria de primera mano a través de un programa residencial de dos semanas en la Universidad Fresno State University, financiado con fondos de becas para migrantes. El programa de residencia de dos semanas tenía como objetivo sumergir a los estudiantes en un entorno universitario, brindándoles una visión de la vida universitaria y al mismo tiempo fomentando su desarrollo académico y personal.

El programa se hizo realidad después de que el Distrito Escolar de Winters JUSD volviera a solicitar fondos de becas para migrantes y colaborara con la Oficina de Educación del Condado Butte, que supervisa la educación de los migrantes en la región. El distrito trabajó en estrecha colaboración con el Comité Asesor de Padres Migrantes (Migrant Parent Advisory Committee) para identificar las necesidades de los estudiantes migrantes, lo que llevó a la reactivación del programa de residencia de Fresno State. “Pasamos algún tiempo en la primavera trabajando muy de cerca con nuestro Comité Asesor de Padres Migrantes para identificar cuáles eran las necesidades,” dijo la superintendente auxiliar Phoebe Girimonte. “Uno de los desafíos en esta era ha sido el que tengamos flujos entrantes de fondos para brindar enriquecimiento, como el Programa de Oportunidades de Aprendizaje Expandidas (Expanded Learning Opportunities Program - ELOP), sin embargo, la intención de los dólares de los migrantes es realmente ir más allá y brindar los apoyos necesarios para los estudiantes que experimentan

transitoriedad como resultado de estar en familias migrantes. Y entonces nuestros padres nos dijeron alto y claro que realmente querían que sus estudiantes tuvieran la oportunidad de experimentar lo que era estar en un entorno universitario.”

Delia García Espinoza, una organizadora clave del programa, jugó un papel fundamental en la coordinación de la logística y en asegurar la participación de los estudiantes. Incluso transportó a los estudiantes hacia y desde el programa, pero también tranquilizó a los padres que estaban preocupados por que sus hijos estuvieran fuera durante las dos semanas que duró el programa. García Espinoza compartió sobre algunas de las oportunidades que los estudiantes pudieron experimentar durante el programa: “Hubo tantas actividades, incluidas oportunidades de enriquecimiento. “Se puede ver en un lado a uno de los estudiantes armando una computadora y, al final, el estudiante tuvo la oportunidad de llevar la computadora a casa y reacondicionarla,” dijo García Espinoza. “Imagínense, ya saben, ingeniería. Algunos de los estudiantes tuvieron la oportunidad de trabajar con robótica y otro estudiante de Winters tuvo la oportunidad de participar en lecciones de guitarra. Al final, el estudiante trajo la guitarra a casa.” Otras actividades incluyeron artes visuales, donde los estudiantes crearon collages y pinturas, y baile de salsa. “Fue un programa increíble durante dos semanas,” dijo García Espinoza. “Al principio, los padres estaban un poco indecisos, preguntándose si sus hijos iban a poder quedarse o no durante la duración del programa. Imagínense dos semanas, y aguantaron el programa y estaban felices.” García Espinoza notó la emoción de los

estudiantes al regresar a casa, diciendo: “Uno de los momentos más destacados fue cuando me vieron allí para recogerlos. Vinieron corriendo. Supongo que, al ver una cara familiar, me abrazaron y estaban felices.” Los objetivos del programa incluían fomentar el desarrollo académico y personal para prepararse para la universidad y el éxito futuro. También tenía como objetivo ayudar a los estudiantes a explorar la vida universitaria, fortalecer sus habilidades académicas, desarrollar habilidades sociales y prepararse para su futuro.

“El programa de residencia de Fresno State fue una oportunidad increíble para nuestros estudiantes y estoy muy feliz de haber tenido la oportunidad de participar,” dijo García Espinoza. “Winters estaba allí y el logotipo del distrito escolar de Winters JUSD estaba allí, así que nos estamos volviendo, ya sabes, no solo locales, sino reconocidos a nivel estatal.” El programa de Fresno State fue una de las dos oportunidades que enviaron a los estudiantes de la escuela secundaria Winters High School a las universidades en este

verano. El programa MyJTC envió a los estudiantes de noveno grado a pasar cuatro días en la Universi-

dad de California en Los Angeles (UCLA) para aprender y experimentar la vida en la universidad.

Foto de cortesía

Cuatro estudiantes de los Winters tuvieron la oportunidad de experimentar de primera mano la vida universitaria a través de un programa residencial de dos semanas en la Universidad

Estatal de Fresno. Foto de cortesía

Mary Jo Rodolfa/Courtesy photo

Public Safety Report

City of Winters Fire

Aug. 21: 2 p.m., Mermod Place, CO detector activation due to malfunction

~2:45 p.m., Fourth Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 22: 2:22 a.m., Rosa Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~10:46 a.m., E. Grant Avenue, Malicious/ mischievous false call – other

~2:17 p.m., Wyatt Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~6:26 p.m., Myrtle Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~7:04 p.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 23: 10:10 a.m., Highway 128, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~12:15 p.m., Niemann Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~5:16 p.m., Grant Avenue, False alarm or false call – other

~8:11 p.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~9:07 p.m., E. Grant Avenue, EMS call –excluding vehicle accident with injury

~11:17 p.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 24: 11:48 a.m., Grant Avenue, EMS

call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 25: 3:13 a.m., Morgan Street, False alarm or false call –other

~6:49 p.m., Dutton Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~7:58 p.m., Caselli Court, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~7:59 p.m., Creekside Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 26: 11:51 a.m., County Road 31, Natural vegetation fire –other

~4:14 p.m., County Road 31, False alarm or false call – other

~8:15 p.m., Valley Oak Drive, Outside rubbish fire – other

~10:12 p.m., Abbey Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 27: 9:55 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~10:56 a.m., Highway 128, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~1:50 p.m., Gurmit Court, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~8:09 p.m., E. Baker Street, Outside rubbish fire – other Police Arrest Log

Aug. 21: Martinez, Luis Angel (Age 35), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear

Aug. 22: Banuelos, Luis Alberto (Age 36); Charges: Tamper with Fire Equipment, Violation of Probation, Possession of Controlled Substance; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~Aguirre, Robert (Age 41); Charges: DUI while on probation for prior DUI, Violation of probation, Driving while license is suspended for DUI, Expired Registration; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

Aug. 23: Flores, Juan Carlos (Age 36), Charges: Driving while license suspended for DUI, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear Report Log

Aug. 21: 1:55 p.m., 200th block of White Oak Lane, Vehicle Tow

Aug. 22: 9:09 a.m., 200th block of Anderson Avenue, Vehicle Tow

~9:38 a.m., 100th block of E. Main Street, APS referral

Aug. 23: 6:07 p.m., 20th block of Main Street, Audible Alarm

Aug. 24: 10:25 p.m., I-505/Russell Boulevard, Evade Police

Aug. 26: 12:01 a.m., I-505/Allendale Road, Outside Agency Assist

~8:43 a.m., 700th block of Main Street, Possession Obscene Matter of Minor

~8:44 a.m., 700th block of Main Street, Possession Obscene Matter of Minor

~11:05 a.m., 100th block of E. Baker Street, Domestic Verbal Dispute

~8:30 p.m., 700th block of Dutton Street, Audible Alarm

For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.

YESTERYEAR

Picked by Charley Wallace

95 Years Ago

September 6, 1929

Mr. and Mrs. Leo B. Kohfield of Wasco were guests last week at the R. M. Pleasants home. Mrs. Kohfield has accepted a position for the coming year as principal of the Semi-tropi school near Wasco. Cottonwood Grammar School will open on Tuesday the 10th, with Mrs. S. W. Jopes as teacher.

The Winters High School Freshmen held their first meeting under the supervision of Miss Veall, Tuesday, and elected the following officers; President, Herbert Crouch; Vice President, Charlie Pearse; Secretary, Thissell Barrett; Treasurer, Clifton Perkins; Social Manager, Jean Caldwell; Sergeant at Arms, Bud Hollar; C. Rep., Wayne Ireland.

Mr. and Mrs. Dewey Neel and children, Virginia and Edwin, spent part of this week in Sacramento where they visited relatives and attended the Fair.

Mr. and Mrs. John Ish of Oakland spent the weekend with his brother, Buell Ish and family.

Miss Lorene Waggoner motored to Jackson where she met her father, J. S. Waggoner who spent the a weekend with his family here. He is employed by t the P. G. & E. at Pitt river.

80 Years Ago

September 8, 1944

Rice Brothers report the sale of the De Groat property at the corner of Abbay and Fourth Street to Emilio Ramos of Olive District; the Mrs. Mary Church ranch in the Taylor subdivision to Clarence Campos and wife. According to local manager C. H.

Lake water levels continue to drop

The water level of Lake Berryessa dropped by 0.40 of a foot during the past week, with a decrease in the storage of 7,214 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh, Solano Project Technician with the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 3, he reported the lake elevation was 431.34 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,391,834 acre-feet of water. The SID is releasing 375 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 48 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 248 acre-feet of water per day. For more information about services from the Solano Irrigation District or to view the latest updates, visit https://www.sidwater.org.

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

Sackett, the California Fruit Exchange has purchased three acres of land north of their present quarters, on the Japanese school area. The company has tentative plans to erect a new building after the war.

Misses Jennie Reasoner and Adelaide Lawrence were joint hostesses Tuesday evening in the Reasoner home, complimenting Miss Clara Salaverria in a pre-nuptial shower.

W. I. Baker has received word that his son, Shirley Baker has received his commission as Lieut. Commander in the Navy, and will be detached from Alameda Air Base to Pearl Harbor Sept. 15th.

Apricot School will open Monday, Sept. 11th, according to Mrs. W. W. Stark, teacher.

D. B. Walters, night watch, is having a three a weeks’ vacation. J. M. S Robinson is guarding the slumbering city.

45 Years Ago

September 6, 1979

A partnership of 23 years ended last Friday when Chuck and Juanita Skaggs sold their interest in the California Market to Al and Lynda Lorenzo. Mr. and Mrs. Skaggs announced no immediate plans, other than to take it plans, other than to take it easy. The California Market was founded in 1939 by the late John Lorenzo, father of Al Lorenzo and Juanita Skaggs; Jose Codina, and Frank Lorenzo. John Lorenzo later bought out his partners.

New policemen Robert Carlson, 32, from Martinez and Robert Wion, 31, from Winters were sworn in last week on the steps of city hall by City Clerk Gale Bruhn.

They began work for the local police force on September 1. Edith I. Hayhurst, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Morton, Winters, Calif., recently was promoted to Army sergeant first class while serving as an assistant housing officer with the U.S. Army Military Community Activity in Worms, Germany. Debbie Watkins left for Spain on August 21 where she will study for a year at the University of Madrid under the auspices of the University of California at Santa Barbara’s overseas education program. She is majoring in Spanish.

Gaylene Anderson has accepted a position as a second-grade teacher in the Dixon school system, beginning on September 4. She and her husband Harold live in Winters with Gaylene formerly commuting to her job in the Santa Cruz area. Nearly 300 acres of wildland near Lake Berryessa has been purchased by the University of California as part of its Natural Land and Water Reserves System (NLWRS). The Cold Canyon property, 277 acres three miles west of Winters, will be available for teaching and field research by biological sciences departments at UC Davis and other institutions of higher education, according to Peter B. Moyle, associate professor of wildlife and fisheries biology and chairperson of UCD’s NLWRS committee.

The Circle D Horseman’s Association will hold the annual Peanut Trail Ride on Saturday, September 15, 1979, at the John Brown Ranch near Winters. This is a competitive trail ride for youngsters who have not reached their 15th birthday by the date of the ride.

Members of the Winters Youth Council spent several hours in June of 1994 cleaning up around the Winters Community Center. The council members raised funds to go to the Blue Lagoon Water Slide Park. Pictured from left are, (front) Joie Rodolfa, Christina Jara, Natasha Lopez, K.C. Malicoat and Tiffany Williams; (back) Cory Lopez, Shayna Ledgewood-Taylor, Ashley Mills, Candi Ochoa, Matt Lopez, Tanya Kato and Lucinda Mendoza.

my brother would not be playing football or be in high school,” Maggenti said. “I have asked all of the high schools in Yolo County and my division to join Winters High School to wear gold shirts and socks, all the month of September and to raise funds.”

This year serves as a milestone for Maggenti’s younger brother Damien who will be 10 years cancer-free from his diagnosis.

According to Maggenti, Gridley High School’s football team has confirmed they will sport gold at the upcoming away game against the Warriors on Sept. 13. Other sports teams, including the Winters Jr. Warriors, have also committed to helping spread the word about Maggenti efforts to acknowledge the work St. Jude does for cancer patients as well as their research.

He hopes that community members, students and athletes across Yolo County and Division 4 will wear gold on Fridays to bring awareness to childhood cancer.

Last month, Maggenti pre-sold shirts and sweatshirts to raise funds for St. JudeThe Gold Out football game. He hopes to have more available at the Sept. 6 game. However, there are still opportunities to support his capstone project.

At the Gold Out game, Maggenti and his team will sell yellow ribbons for $5. People can write the name of a child – or anyone – to honor on the ribbon and hang it on the Honor Wall. Maggenti is hosting a Walk of Knowledge and an ABCs of Cancer. He worked with St. Jude patients to bring their perspective to game attendees through the ABCs of

OFFICER

Continued from Page 1

City Manager Jeremy Craig administered the Oath of Office for Batad.

Before administering the pinning of the badge, Miller gave context to what it means to wear an officer’s badge.

“The badge pinning ceremony batch committee is a long-standing tradition in law enforcement. Many historians credit the first police badges coming from London, England, with the metropolitan police force in 1845, and they were soon adopted by the fledgling police departments in the United States,” Miller said.

“Officer Batad, an officer’s badge should always provide comfort to people in times of need, and you as the bear should always recognize and endeavor to uphold the significance of the badge. Your badge is

“My brother had cancer and went to St. Jude, and I thought that I should look to see what I could do to give back.”

Robert Maggenti Jr., student

Cancer illustrations will be on display for home and visitor game-goers. Each letter of the alphabet was assigned to a St. Jude patient who shared what that letter meant to them from a cancer patient’s point of view.

St. Jude will also have representatives at the game to help answer questions about what they do and how to learn more about how donations give them the support they need to offer treatments at no cost to its patients.

Maggenti organized a virtual fundraiser where people can gift donations toward St. Jude’s efforts in cancer research and treating patients. His goal is to raise $1,000 for St. Jude. To donate, visit https://bit. ly/3Mv9KQr.

Maggenti said that outside of raising funds and sharing information about childhood cancer, he also wants to raise awareness that St. Jude exists and is an option for families who have a child diagnosed with cancer.

“My brother had cancer and went to St. Jude, and I thought that I should look to see what I could do to give back,” Maggenti said.

The community can support Maggenti’s capstone project by donating online throughout the month of September and sharing the link or social media posts with their friends, family and neighbors.

more than a sign of a job or a position, it is a symbol of the public’s trust in you and of honor, duty, and selfless sacrifice,” Miller continued.

Once sworn in, Miller invited Batad’s wife Kayla to pin his badge. Afterward, Batad shared his excitment to continue his law enforcement journey in Winters.

“I am excited to be here in this beautiful city and to serve the community that’s been supportive, and I love that everyone in the community is very involved in the decisions that are being made here. I’m very grateful to Chief Miller for bringing me on such a great team, everybody there’s been extremely supportive and welcoming,” Batad said.

Mayor Bill Biasi welcomed Batad to Winters on behalf of councilmembers.

“We look forward to having you on our forces for a long time,” Biasi said.

CreekSpeak challenges you to rethink climate change

Special Contributor

Putah Creek Council will host its last CreekSpeak of the year until January 2025 at the Winters Community Library on Thursday, Sept. 12 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Speaker Garth Lindley will share his story about his evolution of thinking about climate change using his hometown as an ex-

CANNABIS

Continued from Page 1

proposal from the commission.

One resident asked the planning commission to decide where the cannabis retailers would be allowed to sell.

There was some discrepancy with placing the businesses downtown because of the proximity to schools, limited space availability and preserving its existing character. They also considered other parts of town that may be more residential or near proposed housing developments with a buffer zone. All that could be concluded was the commission didn’t support marijuana dispensaries south of Grant Avenue.

Though he didn’t attend last week’s meeting, Winters District Chamber of Commerce President Chris Calvert told the Winters Express that the endeavor “is going to make the city money” and shared his thoughts on where the businesses should be located.

“I’d be interested with it being in the industrial area or somewhere along (state) Highway 128,” Calvert said.

While Miller didn’t comment during the meeting, he later told the Winters Express that his department could become involved in the recommendations for security measures, but

ample of how life is and how it could be better.

Lindley will talk about how we can get to a better place by addressing the underlying issues, changing our mindset and productively talking with others, finding peace in our own lives, and envisioning a better future so we can build it.

Lindley is passionate about the envi-

will not be involved in the regulation.

Planning Commission Chair Gregory Contreras offered to hold a public presentation on the matter.

“I’m happy to work with staff on a presentation on an issue-by-issue discussion that would allow the community to have a better sense of the entire program because the way the presentation is laid out, it’s a lot of general information, but it doesn’t really address the specifics,” Contreras said.

The meeting included another step to move forward before submitting the draft ordinance to the city

ronment and has self-educated himself about climate change and how it is a culmination of all the ways in which we are not living in the boundaries of Earth. In his 20s, Lindleygot involved with watershed organizations by showing up to one too many trash clean-ups and was invited to the board. Since then he has learned more about nature and

lace’s presentation were city and state regulations to deter theft, prevent youth access, uphold public health standards and maintain public safety. He also explained that Winters’ ordinance can expand on operating conditions mandated by the state.

“The city can also enhance business accountability for things like security and product safety through additional requirements or through compliance inspections, audits or other mechanisms that the city may want to explore,” he said.

Upcoming Events

Monday, September 16

Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/187/Natural-Resources-Commission

Tuesday, September 17

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 Open to Public (School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 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. Winters Open Mic, third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Paseo Park, Main Street.

Metaphysical Book Club, Fridays at 5:30 p.m., 212 Grant Ave., Sign up at dixiesbookclub@gmail.com or call 530-212-5026

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.

Foster a love of reading, support

By Luzangely Martin Special to the Express

The Winters Friends of the Library has been around since the 1970s, and now they need your help.

Winters Friends of the Library is a nonprofit organization that started with a group of women during the mid-70s who feared that the library (that at the time existed in the building that now houses the Winters Museum) would shut down. Carol Scianna, the WFoL volunteer coordinator, described it at the time as “really tiny, really old, and when it rained the roof leaked, so you had to cover the books from the water.”

The group of women slowly started growing, and when she recently moved in Scianna heard what they were advocating for, she joined as soon as she could. While also trying to figure out a new design for a future library and the bonds that came with it, the group was in a dilemma regarding the location of the building. Until an idea about joining the library with Winters High School arose, which would help funds become a lot cheaper and benefit both the staff and the students.

“If we combined with the High School, we could share and it would make it more affordable,” says Scianna.

Scianna said a single woman named

Margaret Parson left a great amount of money in her name before passing away to WFoL in order to help build the library. That is how the Winters Community Library was built and in her honor, we have the Margaret Parson’s Room which can be reserved for community usage.

Scianna has served as co-president of WFoL before but she said that her favorite part of being the volunteer coordinator is meeting new people and encouraging them to get involved with their community.

“I have a pretty good list of people and I’m not shy about asking and jumping in for help,” Scianna said. Despite this, she said that one of the biggest challenges for WFol is getting the younger generation to

See WFOL, Page 4

Programs work to preserve regional wildlife habitats

In this multi-part series, the Express explores the Yolo County Resource Conservation District’s efforts to support healthy land stewardship.

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

After detailing Yolo County Resource Conservation District’s main programs, including Farm and Ranch Technical Assistance and Community Wildfire Resilience, the series ends with the Open Space Land Management Program sitting down with Project Manager Amy Williams detailing the importance of wildlife habitat.

According to Williams, open spaces include existing or restored wildlands like grasslands, wetlands, riparian corridors, floodplains, and farm edges.

While open space represents a very small portion of the total land in our county, Williams said that open space lands are a habitat haven that “perform environmental functions and can provide a place for people to enjoy and interact with nature.”

The project manager explained a major-

ity of open space lands and historical ecosystems regionally and statewide are threatened by housing, agriculture, roadways, and industry.

“And the acres remaining may be subject to fragmentation, pollutants, non-native species invasion, and a changing climate that further degrades their value,” Williams said.

also provide access to nature which can provide physical and mental health benefits to the people who visit and experience them.

“Working to improve open spaces and habitats in our area helps maximize the benefits these areas can provide,” Williams said.

“Simply put, there isn’t a lot of ‘open space’ area, and our

“Working to improve open spaces and habitats in our area helps maximize the benefits these areas can provide.”

Amy Williams, project manager

Along with providing food, protection, and nesting value for wildlife, Williams says open spaces that are managed responsibly can also have the potential to reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and groundwater recharge, mitigate flooding, increase biodiversity, protect threatened plants, animals and cultural resources, improve soil health and carbon sequestration, and reduce wildfire risk. Public open spaces

goal is to help those areas pack the biggest punch regarding resource conservation and habitat value.”

When doing habitat restoration on an open space site, often the first step is to reduce or eliminate invasive weeds. Then, depending on the ecosystem, replace weedy areas with carefully selected native plants that historically existed there and that better support native populations of pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.

“The RCD works with multiple partners all over Yolo County and beyond to improve open spaces in the ecosystems that exist here,” Williams said of the upland grasslands, wetlands, floodplains, and riparian forest accessible to the public.” The RCD and Yolo County Parks projects include enhancing habitat at the Putah Creek Fishing Access Sites, Cache Creek Nature Park and Grasslands Regional Park.

Parks built around stormwater retention ponds in Woodland help restore and provide wildlife habitat and groundwater recharge as well as recreational bird watching. The RCD helps the City of Davis manage the roughly 250 acres of open space as part of the City’s Open Space Program. The RCD is also active in the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, Winters Putah Creek Nature Park, and beyond into the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

“We also work with many private landowners, farmers, and ranchers to add native plants to farm edges, creek banks, and grasslands to support

Courtesy photo

Winters Friends of the Library hosts its annual Holiday Festival. The event features crafts, music and holiday shopping with WFoL’s mobile book cart.

Courtesy photo

In 2022, volunteers Brinly Bronson (right) and Revalee Hemken, Winters Friends of the Library volunteer, worked to stock shelves in the Ida B. Wallace Book Sale Room at the Winters Community Library.

Renovations that add value to a home’s worth

I’ve had some insightful questions lately regarding adding value to a home through renovations. The answers seemed to surprise people a little. This month, I’d like to dive deeper into examples of which renovations can truly enhance your home’s worth, which may not, and how these decisions impact appraisals. Although each home and any added value has variables, I’ve partnered with local expert Matt Archibeque of MJA Appraisal Services, Inc. to break down the details to understand the Return on Investment (ROI) on renovations.

Renovations that deliver high ROI

Not all renovations are created equal

when it comes to increasing your home’s market value. Knowing which upgrades yield the highest return can help you make informed decisions, whether you’re prepping for a sale or simply investing in your home’s future. Certain home improvements consistently boost value and attract buyers. For example, a thoughtfully executed kitchen remodel can recoup 60 percent to 80 percent of its cost, potentially adding $20,000 to $25,000 to your home’s market price. Updates

like new countertops, cabinets, and appliances strike a great balance between cost and return.

Similarly, a minor bathroom remodel can yield a 70 percent to 75 percent return, adding an estimated $10,000 to $15,000 in value. Creating outdoor living spaces, such as a deck or patio, can provide a 65 percent to 75 percent return, increasing your home’s value by $8,000 to $12,000.

Energy-efficient improvements are also smart investments (unless its leased solar, but that’s for another time). Replacing windows or adding in-

sulation not only appeals to eco-conscious buyers but also offers a 60 percent to 70 percent return on cost, while lowering utility bills — a win-win for everyone.

Renovations that might not boost

While some upgrades enhance your living experience,

they might not significantly increase your home’s resale value.

and while pools may make a home more desirable, it may not always add high value.

Room conversions, like transforming a garage into a living space, can sometimes detract from your home’s value — especially if it reduces essential amenities like parking or storage.

High-end luxury features, such as custom wine cellars or elaborate home theaters, may only recoup about 50 percent of their cost. These specialized renovations often appeal to a narrower audience and might not be worth the investment if you’re looking for maximum ROI. Pools can also be a hit-or-miss in terms of value added. Type, age, style all factor in,

These changes might make the home less appealing to potential buyers, depending on their needs and the

INVEST, Page 6

Express Yourself

If you like meat, head for Esparto

With good weather and a reason to hit the road, Saturday turned out to be a great day. John Pickerel, of Buckhorn fame, has opened up a meat market just before you enter Esparto. It is where Fred Manas had his meatand-sandwich shop.

The Buckhorn Meat Co. is just what it implies, along with a few ingredients to season your purchase. Vegetarians may not want to enter unless they are looking for an excuse to convert to being a carnivore.

There were samples to taste outside the store, next to the barbecue, with specials on Steak Bites and other Buckhorn staples inside. There were plenty of people lined up to see what the new meat market had to offer. There were people from far and wide like Winters, Yuba City and beyond. When I asked for directions on cooking steak bites, I was told to just fry them up in a cast iron skillet. I’m not the best

cook, but with a little oil and heat, dinner was ready in no time. I think I saw a smile on Sherri’s face when she realized that I had found something easy to prepare that wasn’t on the barbecue. I did think about using the outside grill, but the stovetop was easier.

Something else that we bought was a fully cooked tri-tip. Usually, Buckhorn tri-tip comes almost cooked and you need to put it in the oven for an hour or so, but not anymore. Just slice it, heat it up, and there is more meat on your plate. I have found that salad tastes a lot better when you put tri-tip on top.

If you get a chance take a nice drive to Esparto, back roads are the best, and you will smile all the way home. They open at 11 a.m. most days, and are closed on Tuesdays.

Just a reminder that next Friday is a Friday the 13th, when I will meet you at the museum. Have a good week.

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)

It’s easy to lose perspective when it comes to the important friends and family in your life, Aries. Start rethinking where to devote your attention and energy.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)

Taurus, if you feel adventure is calling you, you can always take a break and get out there and answer that call. Take a road trip this week or even explore a new neighborhood nearby.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)

Gemini, be sure to get off to an early start regarding plans this week. Let others involved know that you’ll probably be picking them up bright and early.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)

Cancer, if you are not up for a night out on the town or much socializing the next few days, it’s perfectly fine to stay close to home. Everyone needs a break from time to time.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)

Leo, when you are in a good mood, it’s hard for people around you to keep up with your level of energy. Don’t be surprised if some people in your posse tire out before you.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)

Virgo, you’ve never been good about asking for help. This week you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how quickly a family member jumps in to give you the boost you need.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)

Typically you are very easy to get along with, Libra. But this week others may describe you as uncompromising and uncooperative. Think about what is prompting this change of tune.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)

Scorpio, you aren’t about to settle without getting what you want. When road blocks come up this week, you may be frustrated when things don’t go your way. Stay the course.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)

Try to fill your days with the arts and music this week, Sagittarius. They are what you need right now to put you in a positive mood and turn things around.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)

Things have been busy in your life, Capricorn. That mile-long list doesn’t seem to be getting any shorter. You might need to call in some help to get through all of the tasks.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)

Aquarius, someone has been keeping tabs on what you have been doing from afar. You don’t know whether to be flattered or concerned about this attention. You’ll learn soon enough.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)

Pisces, it is time for loved ones to get together and have a serious conversation about something that involves the whole family. You just don’t know if you’re ready to deal with it.

Express Yourself

Downtown Vision — still no vision

More than two years ago the City of Winters hired a San Francisco consulting firm — for $75,000 — to research and write a Downtown Vision report for Winters. Unfortunately, it provided us with very few usable ideas. Perhaps if those consultants had not chosen San Francisco, San Diego and Healdsburg as cities comparable to Winters, their recommendations might have made more sense for our small town.

A few months later I wrote a column reviewing the consultant’s Downtown Vision report. I pointed out problems with the expensive consultant report, and offered my own recommen-

dations, including removing some of the Pergolas (those covered street seating structures), adding some parking; and fixing the out-of-date Wayfarer Direction Signs. But nearly two years have gone by, and nothing has happened.

Nothing. It is not that hard to list some improvements that might invigorate our downtown. Here are four ideas that the City Council, the Planning Commission, and the

N/A /s/ ALLISON REYNOSO Title of Officer Signing : I hereby certify 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

Downtown Business Association could consider. (And if you remember my prior column on this topic, these ideas will seem quite familiar.)

First, the city could eliminate about half the pergolas (the covered seating structures).

Second, add some smaller, more comfortable, and better-looking seating.

Third, consider bringing back a few parking spaces on the first block of Main Street.

And fourth, update the Wayfarer Direction signs to include new businesses and remove signs for stores that are long gone.

The first would be to remodel or remove some of the pergolas. We could begin with the two which are in front of Berryessa Gap and Blue Oak, (our new antique store). These two pergolas don’t get much use. The City could eliminate at least one, or cut the

WILDLIFE

Continued from Page 1

pollinator insects, songbirds, and other wildlife,” Williams said.

To further protect habitats, farmland, and open spaces, the RCD partners with Yolo County, landowners, and other stakeholders to deploy an Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) program to find and eradicate new infestations of noxious invasive weeds that compete with valuable native habitats.

“In the Putah-Cache Riparian Restoration Program, RCD works with partner organizations and private

Continued from Page 1

length of both in half. There is another large pergola close by those two — in front of Bella Boutique and Yolo Pharmacy. It is rarely used. Outdoor seating isn’t needed there. Tear it down. Across the street, there is a large pergola in front of the Buckhorn’s DeVilbiss Room. It is almost always empty. Take it away, or at least cut the length in half. And finally, take

for an hour or two on a picnic table bench?

Third, add the names of our new businesses to the Wayfarer (guide) signs downtown. And remove the business names for those now gone — some closed years ago! One way to assist our local businesses is to offer visitors accurate signage so they can find where our current stores are located. Some of these

“Finally, as I’ve said before, a local Citizen/Business Committee could be appointed to look at these issues and propose solutions.”

down the pergola in front of Pizza Factory. It never gets used. Never.

After removing roughly half of the pergolas, the second thing the city could do is to update the old school yard furniture underneath them. Instead of just an endless stream of picnic tables, it is time to purchase some attractive small tables, along with some chairs that are actually comfortable. Who wants to sit

Buckhorn – maybe adding two new spaces on each side of the street would be a good idea. Every pergola we remove gives us the opportunity to add four or five parking places. While we certainly don’t want to bring back all the Main Street parking, restoring just four spaces on the first block sounds sensible. (And yes, I’d certainly love to see Winters eliminate automobiles entirely on the first two blocks of Main Street. But there does not seem to be any groundswell of support to do that.)

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF ANNA ALEXANDROVNA FLORES CASE NO PR2024-0206

To all heirs beneficiaries creditors contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate or both, of: ANNA ALEXANDROVNA FLORES

A Petition for Probate has been filed by: ANGELINA PATRI-

CIA BAR RY in the Sup er io r Co urt of Cal iforni a C ounty of: Yolo The Petition for Probate requests that: ANGELINA PATRICIA BARRY be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal r epresentative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action ) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: OCTOBER 4 2024 Time: 9:00 A M Dept : TBD Room: Located at 1000 Main Street, Woodland CA 95695

If you object to the granting of the petition you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney

If you are a credit or or a cont inge

participate in community activities and attracting new board members. She acknowledges that it’s a bigger commitment when it comes to these, but she also encourages us to learn more about them.

“If anyone is interested in getting more involved or thinking about being on the board, coming to a meeting and seeing how we run things is the best way,” Scianna said.

WFoL has monthly meetings every first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. in the library. If a holiday lands that day, then it’s moved to the Wednesday of that same week. New Board members are elected in November.

Scianna talks about the Holiday Festival as their biggest event in which they need a lot of volunteers to run crafts for children, sell food and help children who sing during the holiday concert stay organized. This

signs should have been updated years ago. It costs nothing to take down the expired signs, and well under $100 to make new ones.

And fourth, the City could consider restoring some parking spaces on the first block of Main Street, where only two parking spaces that exist are both for the handicapped. With two popular restaurants on that block – Putah Creek Cafe and the

“These nonprofits are where the community can help with many types of stewardship activities like planting and caring for native habitat, removing weeds, and cleaning up waterways while getting to know the local open spaces.”

Amy Williams, program manager

landowners to remove invasive giant reed, Arundo donax, throughout the watershed and to replace it with valuable riparian habitat,” Williams said.

usually takes place in December in the Winters Community Center and it’s one of the many community programs WFoL provides.

“It’s a good way to learn how to interact

Any Winters resident can get involved by volunteering with a local environmental group like Putah Creek Council, Tree Davis, and Tuleyome. Yolo County RCD also

pursue in life that you didn’t think about.

“Being involved in your community and giving back is really important, and all of our stuff is about giving back and mak-

“It’s a good way to learn how to interact with a lot of different types of people, which you’re going to need when you get out into the world.”

Carol Scianna, volunteer coordinator

with a lot of different types of people, which you’re going to need when you get out into the world,” Scianna said.

She emphasizes that potential volunteers need these people skills to feel comfortable talking to young and old people, as well as feel more confident in those interactions.

Volunteering can also spark something of interest that you didn’t you’d be interested in, plus find new avenues that you’d like to

ing Winters a better place,”

Volunteering is also a great way to meet people, especially if you are new to town and are seeking to strengthen your relationship with Winters. Scianna reveals that many people living here are gone, for work or other responsibilities, and aren’t as involved with their community.

“It’s a great way to become more part of town, know what’s going on, and know that

Finally, as I’ve said before, a local Citizen/ Business Committee could be appointed to look at these issues and propose solutions. They could add some new ones, delete any that are not workable, and provide the City Council with some relevant and reasonable recommendations. All the Council needs to do is appoint ten people, and buy them some pizzas for a few meetings. A useful report would likely be completed rather quickly. —Read more from Richard Kleeberg at JustThePoint.com or email him at Starbase27@gmail.com.

hosts volunteer workdays with Putah Creek Council in winter and spring to install native plants at restoration sites throughout the county.

To learn more about the program, contact Amy Williams, RCD Project Manager, at williams@yolorcd. org or visit the RCD website at yolorcd. org.

our town thrives on a lot of people who take time out of their day to volunteer.”

Winters Friends of the Library hopes to encourage the community to use the library and be more inclusive with their neighbors.

As well as learning more about WFoL on its website https:// wfol.org/. People can also send an email to volunteer@wfol.org for more information about upcoming volunteer opportunities.

Contact Carol Scianna at 530-681-2881 to learn more about the Holiday Festival and other approaching events to participate in.

—Luzangely Martin is a senior at Winters High School. For her Senior Capstone Project, Martin is working to interview with and write a series of articles featuring local nonprofit organizations and share about their current volunteer needs.

She is also working to bolster community service at WHS by creating a high school volunteer resource guide as part of her project.

WFOL

Warriors defeat Dixon in opening game

By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer

On Friday, Aug. 30, the Winters High School varsity football team won its opening game of the season against its biggest rival Dixon High School by a score of 31–21. The Warriors maintained their bragging rights as the top team as the boys also won the last time they went up against the Dixon Rams when they played each other in August 2023.

“We did not play perfectly, but I thought we played with great effort and I can live with that. I thought we controlled the game in the first half and probably should have been up by more than we were, so it was tough when we went down 21–19 early in the third,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward.

Despite the slight setback in the third quarter, in the end, multiple Winters football athletes turned in solid performances to lead the Warriors to victory.

Gio Jimenez was one of those players. Jimenez was a huge asset to his team rushing for 109 yards and a touchdown on only 14

carries. He also picked up 71 receiving yards and a touchdown. Sebastian Rodriguez was also an offensive standout with 104 rushing yards, 39 receiving yards and one touchdown.

Anthony Mayes picked up 40 receiving yards and a touchdown on a pass from quarterback Lane Brown, while Jesse Madsen earned 46 receiving yards. Brown was another key player in the Warriors victory throwing for 196 yards and rushing 46 yards resulting in a total of three Warrior touchdowns.

“We asked a lot of Lane and although he didn’t play perfectly, I thought it was a great start for him in taking the reins as the starting quarterback and showing how special he can be. As the season progresses, he will be one of the best players in the area,” said Ward.

Jimenez deserves kudos for his performance on the defensive side of the ball, forcing a fumble, making 12 tackles and defending a pass attempt made by the Dixon Rams. Julian Herrera also turned in a stellar performance on the

defensive side of the ball, leading the Warriors with 17 tackles and two forced fumbles which were huge for the Warriors.

“We knew that Gio and Julian were special, and we caught a glimpse of how good the two of them can be. We may have the best linebacker core in the whole section and that showed on Friday,” said Ward.

Other leaders on the defensive side of the ball were Davin Perez and Jayden Blackburn making five tackles each, two of which resulted in a Dixon loss in yardage. Blackburn also made the only sack for the Warriors. Nate Apodaca, who usually plays as a linebacker, was moved to the defensive line due to injuries and excelled. Apodaca ended the night with seven tackles, coming in third with most tackles behind Herrera and Jimenez.

“I was very proud of Nate. He may have been the smallest player on the field but had the biggest heart,” said Ward. The Warriors were excited to finally be back to playing the game and were thrilled to have set the tone for the season with a huge victory over their rivals.

The WHS football team will play its first home game of the season at Dr.

“We need to clean up the penalties and the turnovers and get more physical up front, but we are excited to play a very talented Rio Vista team who scored 84 points in a win over Delta last week.”

Daniel Ward, coach

Sellers Field this Friday, Sept. 7. The junior varsity team will kick off at 5:30 p.m. and play against Shasta. The varsity team will kick off at 7:30 p.m. and play against Rio Vista who they defeated last year with a final score of 49–16.

“We can’t wait to play in front of our home crowd,” said Ward.

“We need to clean up the penalties and the turnovers and get more physical up front, but we are excited to play a very talented Rio Vista team who scored 84 points in a win over Delta last week,” said Ward.

Digital ticketing

The WHS Athletic Department shared a reminder on its Facebook page that tickets to games are only avaiable through its online digital ticketing platform, the GoFan app. QR codes will be displayed along the fence line for attendees who need to purchase tickets on-site. However, tickets or an all season access pass are available for purchase online at anytime this season. For more information, visit the WHS GoFan page at https://gofan.co/app/ school/CA8082.

Gold Out game

In September, fans are encouraged to wear gold every Friday in support of Warrior Robert Maggenti Jr.’s Senior Capstone Project and Childhood Cancer Awareness month.

Maggenti is working to bring awareness to childhood cancer and the work of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The Sept. 6 game and the Sept. 13 away game against Gridley High School both support Maggenti’s project. See page A1 for details about how to support Maggenti’s project and help him raise $1,000 for St. Jude.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Warrior Anthony Mayes runs the ball off a pass from quarterback Lane Brown toward the Dixon Rams’s endzone for a touchdown.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Warriors Julian Herrera and Nate Apodaca square up against the Rams line.

Arts & Entertainment

Free music on downtown Main Street

Special to the Express The Winters Downtown Business Association hosts Music on Main concert series on Friday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Musicians play during the Winters Farmers Market on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. through October.

This month’s lineup includes:

• Friday, Sept. 6: Crescent Moon

• Sunday, Sept. 8: Chicken & Dumplings

• Friday, Sept. 13: Muddy Waders

• Sunday, Sept. 15: Vogel & Cain

• Friday, Sept. 20: The Friday concert

is not yet filled. Interested bands should reach out to the Winters DBA at wintersdowntown@ gmail.com.

• Sunday, Sept. 22:

Lucy’s Bones

• Friday, Sept. 27: According to Bazooka

• Sunday, Sept. 29: Zach Olmos

What’s happening at the Winters Opera House this September

The Winters Opera House is thrilled to announce two exciting performances this September. Gear up for an evening of bluegrass mastery and lively accordion tunes.

Broken Compass Bluegrass returns First up, on Saturday, Septe. 7 at 7 p.m., Broken Compass Bluegrass makes its triumphant return to the Opera House stage. If you caught their captivating performance last April,

you know you’re in for a treat. This young, talented band will impress with their tight musicianship, compelling arrangements, and heartfelt original songs. BCB’s infectious energy, beautiful harmonies, and thoughtful lyrics will captivate you from the very first note.

Don’t miss Those Darn Accordions

Following on Sunday, Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m., Those Darn Accordions bring their lively accordion mu-

sic back to the Winters Opera House. It’s been a while since they graced our stage, and both the band and the locals are excited for their return. Get ready for an evening of toe-tapping tunes and dancing that will last all night long! Ticket information Tickets for both shows are available for presale at $20 and $25 at the door. Purchase your tickets online at www.winterstheatre.org.

DMTC hosts open auditions for ‘My Fair Lady’

Special to the Express

Davis Musical Theatre Company’s main stage production hosts open auditions for the beloved musical classic, My Fair Lady in September. Auditions are open for all roles on Sunday, Sept. 8, and Monday, Sept. 9, at 7:30 p.m. Callbacks are scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at Jean Henderson Performing Arts Center,

607 Pena Drive, No. 10, Davis.

A list of all the characters’ roles and descriptions is available at dmtc.org/auditions#mainstage.

Rehearsals begin on Sunday, Sept. 15. The production opens on Friday, Nov. 8. My Fair Lady is a beautiful musical about transformation, patronage, gender politics and class, based on George Ber-

nard Shaw’s play, Pygmalion. Directed by Brian McCann, with musical direction by Kaitlyn McEowen, and choreographed by Lisa Dillon, DMTC’s production of My Fair Lady is sure to entertain and remind audiences why this timeless classic is beloved for being both one of the cleverest and most romantic plays of all time. For additional information or questions, contact Ken Nason at 530-400-0979 or email kencnason@ gmail.com.

local market trends. How appraisers evaluate renovations Appraisers assess renovations based on what the market demands and how well the updates align with neighborhood standards. Kitchens and bathrooms generally add more value because they enhance overall appeal and are considered essential updates. However, luxury or highly personalized renovations may not add much value if they don’t match local market expectations. The quality of workmanship is key — poorly executed renovations can reduce your home’s value, even if they were expensive. Focus on high-quality, functional updates that appeal to a wide audience and fit the market’s standards. By making strategic choices about renovations, you can enhance both your home’s livability and its market value.

Lastly, Archibeque emphasizes understanding how a home’s condition is rated during an appraisal. Knowing these ratings can provide insight into your home’s market position and potential value. To reach Archibeque directly with questions, email him at archibequepacres@gmail. com. — 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.