Student muralists sign off on summer history mural
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
A group of 25 student muralists gathered to officially sign the 2024 Kate Humphrey Historical Mural Project, located on the side of the Mariani Nut Company’s warehouse between Edwards and Abbey Streets on the evening of Sept. 22.
The event celebrated the culmination of months of hard work and creativity, marking the eighth mural organized by the Winters Participation Gallery. Led by professional
artists Jaime Montiel and Celestino Galabasa Jr., the mural project saw collaboration between Winters High School students, guided by their art teacher Holly Smith, and the Mariani Nut Company, this year’s project client. The mural captures the deep roots of the Mariani family within the Winters growers community, celebrating the company’s 52-year legacy while paying tribute to the employees, the community, and the family’s favorite pastime — baseball.
After visiting the Historical Society of Winters, the student design team members worked together to design the mural. With input from the Mariani family, they crafted a
vibrant concept that highlights not only the company’s history but also its community involvement. Humble in nature, the Mariani family emphasized their desire for the mural to spotlight their employees and growers rather than themselves. However, the student artists found a way to honor the family by subtly weaving them into the design.
A key feature of the mural includes two gears, one representing the employees and the industrial side of the Mariani Nut Company, and the other showcasing community interests such as the Future Farmers of America (FFA), the robotics team, and local sports teams. The
mural is framed by boxes symbolizing the community’s growers, while at its heart, the Mariani Nut Company’s factory is depicted with a conveyor of nuts ready for packaging. Baseball, a nod to the family’s love for the sport, is also featured prominently in the mural.
WPG Chair Liz Coman reflected on the Mariani family’s focus on the community and their employees.
“What struck me so much was that they wanted their employees, the growers who helped them grow their business, and their community philanthropy to be on the wall. It’s mostly about honoring their employees and growers,” said Coman.
Yolo County District 2 Supervisor Lucas Frerichs expressed
Community can ask questions at Measure S forum
An upcoming Q&A event offers Winters residents a chance to ask questions and gain insight into the potential impact of Measure S. On Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m., community members will have the opportunity to learn more about Measure S, the city of Winters’ Sales Tax Measure appearing on the Nov. 5 ballot. Hosted by the
Winters Express and Democracy Winters, the event will be held in person at the Winters City Hall large conference room at 318 First St. (Abbey Street entrance). Measure S was developed to maintain and improve essential city services, including 911 emergency response, public safety, parks, youth programs, and the local business
See FORUM, Page 5
Principals detail staff professional learning goals
By Logan Chrisp
Express staff writer
Winters principals presented detailed updates on their site’s Professional Learning Communities for the 2024–25 school year at the Sept 19 Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting. Each principal outlined their school’s initiatives aimed at aligning essential standards with the district’s graduate profile and improving student outcomes through collabo-
ration, assessment development and instructional strategies.
PLCs are a strategy employed by the school district to create an involved effort among faculty to integrate “essential standards” and the graduate profile across the grade span, from Transitional Kindergarten to 12th grade. Across the school district, PLCs are made up of Winters JUSD faculty and teachers worked together to
Future subscriber Elianah Lynn Gonzalez
Morgan Jane and Justin Mathew Gonzalez of Winters announce the birth of their daughter, Elianah Lynn Gonzalez. Baby Elianah arrived at 2:45 p.m. on Sept. 15, 2024, at the Sutter Davis Hospital in Davis, California. She weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces, and measured 21 inches at birth. Elianah’s maternal grandparents are Ralph and Tammy Anderson. Her paternal grandparents are Charles and Linda Gonzalez.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Professional and student muralists gathered to sign off on the 2024 Kate Humphrey Historical Mural Project, located on the side of the Mariani Nut Company’s warehouse between Edwards and Abbey Streets on Sept. 22.
Community invited to Public Safety Festival on Oct. 12
Mark your calendars and join local law enforcement officers and first responders for a day of education, fun and community building.
The Winters Fire Department and Winters Police Department invite the community to the upcoming Winters Public Safety Festival, set to take place on Oct. 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Winters Fire Department Apparatus Bay, 700 Main St. in Winters.
The event is free to attend and open to all ages.
This family-friendly event is designed to strengthen the relationship between local public safety agencies and the community while offering opportunities for residents to engage with the essential services that
MURAL
his admiration for the project and the Winters Participation Gallery’s work, which has brought murals to life across the city.
“I was so inspired by the students’ dedication. The murals popping up around Winters are a sight to behold,” said Frerichs.
He emphasized the importance of supporting young artists
keep Winters and Yolo County safe.
The festival, to be held at the Winters Fire Department Apparatus Bay, will feature a variety of interactive demonstrations and displays from both local and county agencies. Attendees will have the chance to meet and greet their local first responders, learn about various public safety roles, and explore potential volunteer and job opportunities.
“This event is meant to connect Yolo County service agencies with citizens, exposing them to all the different types of aid, introducing them to their local and county public safety staff, and possibly to volunteer or job opportunities,” said Andrea Gonzalez, Community Services Officer for the Winters PD.
and their contributions to the community, adding, “Let’s hear it for the students — amazing work.”
Winters Superintendent Rody Boonchouy echoed the sentiment, celebrating the power of art to unite the community.
“These murals are not just beautiful; they remind us to listen to, follow, and respect the power of our young people,” Boonchouy said. He praised the students for their
In addition to the local fire and police departments, a wide range of outside agencies will be participating, including the Woodland Police Department, Yolo Sheriff’s Office, Yolo County Health and Human Services, RISE Inc., and REACH Air Medical. A special highlight of the day will be a REACH helicopter landing demonstration and live fire safety demonstrations led by the Winters Fire.
The event will also feature vendor booths, offering services and information to help families stay safe, healthy, and prepared in the face of emergencies.
For event updates or to get community-related updated, visit the Winters Fire and Winters PD social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
leadership, expressing pride in their efforts to preserve local history through creative expression. Several student artists shared their reflections on the project. Cheyenne Williams, a design artist, noted her favorite part was seeing how much joy the portraits brought to people. Eden Miller enjoyed the early design phase, filled with possibilities after touring the Mariani building.
Winters Kiwanis hosts fundraiser dinners, community storytime
Special to the Express
The Kiwanis Club of Winters is excited to announce a monthlong fundraising initiative in October in collaboration with Putah Creek Cafe. Every Thursday throughout the month, community members are invited to order the “Kiwanis Club Family Meal” of the week from Putah Creek Cafe, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to the Kiwanis Club to support vital community youth programs.
The funds raised will benefit the Winters Kiwanis high school scholarship fund, support the upcoming school district reading challenge, and enhance the club’s two youth leadership programs at Shirley Rominger Intermediate School and Winters Middle School, along with various other community service projects.
To order the weekly meal, visit Order your Family Meal at: www. putahcreekcafe.com. Select Thursday at 4:30 p.m. for your pick
Winters High School Class of 2024 graduate Hannah Arias-Dunlop appreciated her final opportunity to mentor younger students in the mural-making process. Many other students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to explore and learn new painting techniques.
up, and select “Thursday Family Meal” from the drop-down dinner menu option. Family meals will change weekly and be labeled as “Kiwanis Club Family Meal.” Each family meal costs $65 and feeds 4 or more people.
The family meal menu lineup includes:
• Oct. 3: Enchilada
Bake
• Oct. 10: Tri-Tip Sliders
• Oct. 17: Chili Con Carne
• Oct. 24: Teriyaki
Chicken
• Oct. 31: Veggie Lasagna
Need Help ordering? Send an email to hbutler@putahcreekcafe.com.
Community storytime
Come join the fun and help spark a lifelong love of reading in our community’s youngest learners.
Families and book lovers of all ages are invited to the second annual Kiwanis Reading Jamboree, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Winters and the Yolo County Library on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The event will take place at the El Rio Villas Community Room, located on 62 Shams Way in Winters, and promises to be a funfilled day dedicated to fostering a love of reading and literacy.
The Kiwanis Reading Jamboree will feature a special community storytime with readings by a lineup of local educators and literary advocates reading aloud in both Spanish and English. This year’s event is themed “Wild About Reading”, encouraging young readers to let their imaginations run wild as they explore new stories and adventures.
In addition to the storytime, local organizations that are committed to promoting literacy and learning will be on-site with resources, information and fun literacy activities for children and families.
This free, family-friendly event provides an opportunity to come together in support of early education and a lifelong love of reading.
The evening also featured the presentation of two memorial scholarships by WPG board member Valerie Whitworth. Miller received the second annual Kate Humphrey Memorial Scholarship, named after the beloved WHS art teacher who was instrumental in starting the mural projects. Williams was awarded the fifth annual Tim Duncan Memorial Scholarship, honoring the late WPG board member and supporter of the local arts community.
With the completion of this mural, the legacy of Kate Humphrey and Tim Duncan continues to inspire the next generation of young artists in Winters. As the mural stands proudly on the outside wall of Mariani Nut Company’s warehouse, it serves as a lasting testament to the community’s shared history, creativity, and dedication to honoring the people who make it thrive.
Coman asked Mariani employees who were present to come up to take a photo with the mural. The names of 46 employees who have worked at Mariani’s for 25 years or more are included in the mural — the employee with the longest tenure is 46 years of employment.
This year’s student muralists included Kosta Glaros, Ricardo Ovalle, Ruben Perez, Gabriel Shelton, Jack Dennis, August
Driscol, Jack Jordling, Diana Diaz, August Nelson, Natalie Saunders, Raquel Galabasa, Max Hernandez, Holly Selleck, Hannah Arias-Dunlop, Alijah Gresham, Alejandro Ramos, Melissa Barrera, Lola Garibay, Kourtnei Hampton, Eden Miller, Meghan McDowell, Sabrina Rivas, Hawk Selleck, Cheyenne Williams and Julian Coleman WPG operates with the help of donations and local support. This year’s mural process was documented and an array of videos and photos show the muralists’ progress on the WPG website and social media accounts. For more information on WPG or to donate, visit www. wintersparticipationgallery.org.
Saturday, October 12th
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Student Design Team members speak about their experience working on the mural.
Eventos hispanos
El Condado Yolo lanza nuevo sistema de notificación de emergencias
El pasado Lunes, la Oficina de Servicios de Emergencia del Condado Yolo (Yolo County Office of Emergency Services) anunció el lanzamiento de “Alert Yolo,” un sistema de notificación de emergencias para todo el condado. El Departamento de Bomberos de Winters (Winters Fire) está exhortando a todos los residentes a crear una nueva cuenta para optar por el nuevo sistema de alerta. Lucas Frerichs, presidente de la Junta de Supervisores del Condado Yolo, enfatizó el valor de este nuevo sistema. “Estamos encantados de presentar “Alert Yolo,” un paso transformador en nuestro compromiso con la seguridad de la comunidad,” dijo Frerichs. “Este sistema de notificación de última generación garantiza que todos los residentes del Condado Yolo tengan acceso directo a información vital durante las emergencias. Al registrarse, usted y sus seres queridos se empoderan para mantenerse informados y preparados.”
El jefe de bomberos de Winters, Jack S. Snyder III, dijo que el nuevo sistema es una fusión conjunta con otras comunidades, ya que servirá a todos los residentes de Winters, Davis, West Sacramento, Woodland y la Nación Yocha Dehe Wintun, así como las áreas no incorporadas del Condado Yolo. El nuevo sistema también ofrece a los residentes la posibilidad de incluir detalles importantes sobre los miembros del hogar y tiene como objetivo garantizar que los residentes reciban información oportuna y precisa durante las emergencias. Sin embargo, los residentes deben tener en cuenta que los problemas técnicos, los problemas de conectividad de la red o las circunstancias imprevistas pueden afectar la entrega de alertas. El nuevo “Alert Yolo” se integrará con los sistemas de notificación de emergencia existentes utilizados por Davis, West Sacramento, Winters, Woodland y la Nación Yocha Dehe Wintun. Snyder dijo que, aunque Yolo OES realizó una renovación
anual para recibir “Yolo Alerts” el pasado 16 de Septiembre, todos los residentes deben crear una cuenta para la nueva plataforma para recibir alertas relacionadas con emergencias específicas de su ciudad o tribu. Aunque su información se trans-
da enormemente. En caso de un corte de energía o una emergencia, nos ayudaría a identificar a quienes necesitan asistencia adicional,” dijo Snyder. “Estaremos un paso adelante en lugar de detrás de la curva y tendremos más información disponible
“Este sistema de notificación de última generación garantiza que todos los residentes del Condado Yolo tengan acceso directo a información vital durante las emergencias. Al registrarse, usted y susseres queridos se empoderan para mantenerse informadosy preparados.”
Lucas Frerichs, presidente de la Junta de Supervisores del Condado Yolo
ferirá al nuevo sistema, los nombres de usuario y contraseñas antiguos ya no funcionarán. Los usuarios deberán crear una nueva cuenta y contraseña en “Alert Yolo” para actualizar o cambiar su información. “Recomiendo registrarse en línea porque esto nos ayu-
antes de dirigirnos al lugar de los hechos.” Para registrarse, los residentes deben visitar www.AlertYolo.org o descargar la aplicación “Public Safety by Everbridge” para registrarse. Durante el proceso de registro, los residentes pueden indicar cualquier necesidad específica
Por qué votar Sí a la Medida S
Por Albert Vallecillo
Especial para el Express
Este noviembre hay una Medida S que esmuy importante para la Ciudad de Winters en su boleta electoral. Winters ha operado con un déficit de alrededor de $300,000 al año durante los últimos dos presupuestos. La inflación causada por la pandemia ha aumentado los gastos de la ciudad más rápido de lo que han crecido los ingresos de la ciudad y hemos tenido que usar las reservas de la ciudad para llenar el vacío. Debido a esto, el Concejo Municipal votó para colocar la Medida S en la boleta electoral. Esta medida aumentará el impuesto sobre las ventas en Winters de 7.25 por ciento a 8.25 por ciento y generará $1.2 millones adicionales para la ciudad cada año. Winters tiene actualmente la tasa de impuesto sobre las ventas más baja de todas las ciudades que nos rodean. Davis, Woodland y West Sacramento enfrentan presiones financieras similares y han colocado medidas electorales sim-
ilares en sus boletas electorales locales para aumentar su impuesto local sobre las ventas en un centavo. DOS PUNTOS IMPORTANTES....
Primero: Winters actualmente recibe menos del 1 por ciento del 7.25 por ciento recaudado. El 6.25 por ciento restante se divide entre el condado y el estado. Este aumento adicional del 1 por ciento o 1 centavo generado por la Medida S va en un 100 por ciento a la Ciudad de Winters y se estima en $1.2 millones anuales. Segundo : una gran parte del impuesto sobre las ventas recaudado es pagado por las personas que visitan nuestra ciudad. Las personas que no viven en Winters nos ayudarán a generar los fondos necesarios para administrar la ciudad. Actualmente, el distrito de autopistas y los distritos del corredor de Grant Avenue representan más del 60 por ciento del impuesto sobre las ventas recaudado. Los fondos adicionales de la Medida S se utilizarán para mantener y mejorar
los servicios centrales de la ciudad proporcionados por nuestro Departamento de Policía, el Departamento de Bomberos y nuestro Departamento de Obras Públicas. Además, los ingresos adicionales proporcionarán fondos para aumentar y mantener los niveles de personal de la ciudad. Actualmente estamos perdiendo personal valioso en favor de otras ciudades capaces de ofrecer una compensación más alta. También tenemos puestos vacantes que necesitan ser dotados de personal para el bienestar a largo plazo de la ciudad. Además, podremos reponer las reservas financieras de las ciudades que se han utilizado en los últimos años. Además, la Medida S aumentará los fondos para el mantenimiento y reparación de insta-
laciones envejecidas como el Ayuntamiento y el Centro Comunitario, y ayudará con la construcción del Centro para Personas Mayores. Somos el comité YES ON S y necesitamos su apoyo para que esta importante medida se apruebe en noviembre. Cada miembro del Concejo Municipal, junto con varios miembros del comité, han hecho promesas significativas para hacer que esta campaña sea un éxito. Los fondos del gobierno de la ciudad no se pueden utilizar para promover esta medida. Depende de nosotros, los residentes, asegurarnos de que esta medida se apruebe para que Winters tenga un futuro financiero estable y sostenible. Si desea contribuir a esta importante campaña, envíe una donación a
que ellos o alguien de su hogar puedan tener, como discapacidades visuales o auditivas, problemas de movilidad o requisitos de transporte. Los residentes tienen la opción de recibir alertas de emergencia por texto (SMS) sin la necesidad de proporcionar información personal. Para registrarse, envíe un mensaje de texto con la palabra “YOLO” al 888-777 y siga las instrucciones para proporcionar un código postal. Los residentes pueden darse de baja en cualquier momento respondiendo “STOP”. Es posible que se apliquen tarifas estándar de mensajes y datos. Sin embargo, registrarse a través de mensajes de texto actualmente no le permite personalizar un perfil de hogar.
“Registrarse en “Alert Yolo” es un paso crucial para mejorar la seguridad y la preparación de nuestra comunidad”, dice Kristin Weivoda, jefa de servicios de emergencia del Condado Yolo. “Este sistema cierra brechas críticas en la comunicación de emergencia al enviar alertas directamente a su telé-
nombre de YES on S y por correo a YES on S, P.O. Box 399, Winters, CA 95694. ¡Usted puede apoyar la Medida S de otras maneras! Organice un café, exhiba un letrero en el césped, recorra su vecindario, hable con amigos y ve-
fono. Al inscribirse, se mantiene informado y desempeña un papel activo en la protección de usted mismo y de su comunidad. Es una herramienta sencilla pero poderosa que garantiza el acceso inmediato a información esencial y actualizaciones durante las emergencias.” Se están llevando a cabo planes para ampliar el sistema para incluir una aplicación, que proporcionará un canal adicional para recibir mensajes de emergencia y mantenerse actualizado sobre los últimos acontecimientos en el Condado Yolo. Asegurarse de que todos los miembros de la comunidad puedan registrarse para recibir mensajes de emergencia sin compartir información personal ha sido una prioridad máxima durante todo este proceso. Además, el sistema recopilará información sobre las necesidades de la comunidad. Una variedad de opciones para registrarse y recibir mensajes de emergencia permitirá el desarrollo de un sistema adaptado para satisfacer los requisitos de los residentes del Condado Yolo.
cinos y, finalmente, vote SÍ a la Medida S en noviembre. Si tiene alguna pregunta, puede ponerse en contacto con nosotros en sustainable. strong.winters@gmail. com. Preparado por Yes on S Committee. ID No. 1471679
Obituary
Felicia
(Googie) Norfolk
Felicia Elizabeth Diaz Norfolk (Googie), age 89, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2024. She was born on April 12, 1935.
She was known as “Googie” by her family and friends. Not quite sure where that nickname came from but it stuck with her throughout her lifetime.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Felicia Diaz; her husband, Ralph Norfolk; her son Randall Norfolk; sister Rebecca Diaz, and brother-in-law Robert Johnson.
She is survived by her son and wife Timothy and Paige Norfolk of Dixon; sister Joan Johnson of Springfield, Illinois; and sister and brother-in-
law Kathy and Douglas Taggart of Omaha, Nebraska.
Googie was so proud of her many grandchildren. She is survived by her 10 grandchildren Carrie Norfolk of Fairfield, California; Nathan Norfolk of Fairfield, California; Jennifer Nelson of Manitou, Kentucky; Joseph Norfolk of Winters, California; Kirby
Public Safety Report
City of Winters Fire
Sept. 11: 2:35 p.m., Morgan Street, Dispatched and canceled en route
Sept. 12: 9:07 a.m., First Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~9:45 a.m., Dutton Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~10:32 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~6:32 p.m., Hemen-
way Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~9:33 p.m., Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Sept. 13: 12:56 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~3:01 p.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~4 p.m., Hemenway Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 14: 10:07 a.m.,
Norfolk of Vacaville, California; Benjamin Norfolk of Dixon, California; Brian Norfolk of Dixon, California; Stormi Norfolk of Winters, California; Dakota Norfolk of Dixon, California; and Dallas Norfolk of Dixon, California.
Googie had 25 great-grandchildren and one great-greatgrandson.
Googie is also survived by her many nephews, nieces and cousins as well as her many Norfolk relatives who reside in Maryland.
Googie and Ralph were longtime residents on Baker Street in Winters, California. For the last five years, she was a resident of the Solano Life House in Dixon, California.
Dutton Street, Dispatched and cancelled en route
~4:41 p.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~5:43 p.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Sept. 15: 4:12 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~8:13 a.m., Caselli Court, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~12:41 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~3:05 p.m., Highway 128, Motor vehicle accident with no injuries.
~6:48 p.m., Roosevelt Avenue, EMS call – ex-
Googie worked at the First National Bank of Dixon in the Winters branch and the Winters Florist shop. She finished off her career working at the University of California at Davis in the College of Agriculture. Googie had a love of cooking. She was also very talented in making beautiful floral arrangements. Her other hobbies included painting beautiful oil landscapes, crocheting blankets, and making picture scrapbooks.
A grave site gathering will be held for her on October 10, at 2 p.m. at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. Googie had a good life and will be missed by many!
cluding vehicle accident with injury
Sept. 16: 9:23 a.m., E. Baker Street, False alarm or false call –other
~10:30 a.m., Hiramatsu Lane, Service call – other
Sept. 17: 2:14 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~10:38 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~3:36 p.m., Highway 128, False alarm or false call – other
~4:06 p.m., Highway 128, Outside rubbish fire – other
~9:22 p.m., Colby Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Police Arrest Log
YESTERYEAR
Lake Berryessa water levels down
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa dropped by 0.34 of a foot during the past week, with a decrease in the storage of 6,091 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh, Solano Project Technician with the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 1, he reported the lake elevation was 429.74 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,363,094 acre-feet of water. The SID is releasing 335 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 24 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 177 acre-feet of water per day.
Yolo County residents can get a WE print and digital subscription combo for $30.
Sept. 19: Solorio, Aurelio Jr. (Age 44), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear
~Alcala, Salvador Granados (Age 55); Charges: DUI, DUI with BAC over .08 percent, DUI while on DUI probation, Refusal to take a chemical test, Driving while license is suspended for DUI, No proof of insurance; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~Palmerin, Raul Guzman (Age 41), Charges: Disorderly Conduct – Alcohol, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail
Sept. 20: Duron, Robert Miguel (Age 57); Charges: Possession of controlled substances, Yolo SO Warrant; Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear Report Log
Sept. 18: 5:33 p.m., 20000th block of County Road 90, Audible
Alarm
Sept. 19: 7:54 a.m., 1000th block of Adams Lane, Traffic Collision ~11:55 a.m., 100th block of E. Grant Avenue, Extortion ~7:37 p.m., 10th block of Abbey Street, Traffic Collision
Sept. 20: 8:26 a.m., 500th block of Abbey Street, Domestic Verbal Dispute ~6:23 p.m.100th block Grant Avenue, Trespassing
Sept. 23: 11:29 a.m., 700th block of Aster Street, CPS Investigation
~1:54 p.m., 1000th block of Kennedy Drive, CPS Investigation
Sept. 24: 4:35 p.m., Shams Way/Russell Boulevard, Vehicle Tow
~7:33 p.m., Northbound I-505/Russell Boulevard, Vehicle Tow
For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.
Picked by Charley Wallace
Mike Franco/Courtesy photo
The 1993 girls All-Star team received a trophy at the Little League ceremony on Aug. 16. From left are Steve Armstrong, Ruben Martinez, Angie Espinosa, Roxanne Sadler, Kristy Cassidy, Meagan Mariani, Laura Wallace, Jessica Garcia, Corrine Armstrong, Alana Golden, Manager Jack Mariani and Amy Havens.
Courtesy photo
FORUM
Continued from Page 1 “The Express and Democracy Winters teams aim to create a neutral platform where residents can learn about Measure S and ask questions.”
environment. If passed, the measure would establish a 1-cent sales tax, projected to generate approximately $1,200,000 annually for the city of Winters. These funds would be locally controlled and subject to audits and public spending
GOALS
Continued from Page 1
answer the four critical questions that the distinct believes will help enhance the quality of instruction in all classrooms.
Those four questions are:
• What do we want students to know and be able to do?
• How will we know if they learn it?
• How will we respond when some students do not learn?
• How will we extend the learning for students who are already proficient?
Waggoner Elementary
Waggoner Elementary School Principal
Chris Marcoux presented the PLC’s work over the last year, which included the development of vertically aligned essential standards in Language Arts and Math for grades K-2 and the implementation of a standards-based report card by the end of the school year.
“Waggoner is diving into the work of identifying essential standards that we expect students to master, and by the end of the school year, we’ll have
disclosures to ensure transparency and accountability. There has been no formal opposition submitted
a standards-based report card that communicates students’ progress to families and the community,” said Marcoux.
Marcoux also highlighted the school’s focus on supporting its Dual Immersion program through the Sobrato Early Academic Language (SEAL) instructional model. This approach is aimed at strengthening teaching practices and refining rigorous units to ensure all students in both English and Spanish programs succeed.
“I’ve done a tremendous amount of work with the SEAL program here, and it’s an intensive program for our teacher teams here, so providing that time for them to plan rigorous units, to refine their strategies and practices here to it, and so we’re leveraging that PLC time to support that,” said Principal Marcoux.
Rominger Intermediate
Shirley Rominger Intermediate School is building upon its previously established essential standards for grades 3 to 5 in English Language Arts and Math, accord-
Crystal
Apilado, editor
against Measure S at this time.
“The Express and Democracy Winters teams aim to create
ing to Principal Monica Moreno. The focus this year is on reviewing and refining those standards while also creating and aligning formative and summative assessments to ensure consistency and rigor across grade levels.
“We’re pushing our work to the next level by aligning our assessments and making sure we’re all on the same page across the school,” Moreno said. “This is about refining our dual language standards and ensuring our report cards truly reflect the depth of learning in both English and Spanish.”
Moreno also described how teachers are using data from the i-Ready diagnostic assessments to group students based on need and collaborate during PLC time on instructional strategies that address specific learning gaps.
“Students are level according to the iReady based on their reading and so also our reading intervention teacher is involved, all the teachers take groups based on the areas that they need more support, whether it’s phonics,
a neutral platform where residents can learn about Measure S and ask questions,” said Crystal Apilado,
whether it’s grammar, whether it’s vocabulary comprehension. They’ve been looking at that data during PLC, our first grade has been busy working on creating together formative and summative assessments,” said Moreno.
Middle school
At Winters Middle School, PLCs are focused on finalizing essential standards for core subjects, including English, Math, Science, and History, by the end of the semester, according to Principal Jose Bermudez.
“We’ve done some foundational work on essential standards, but we’re about 50% there,” Bermudez said. “Our goal is to collaboratively create curriculum maps that include these standards and align with common formative assessments.”
Bermudez emphasized the importance of collaboration among teachers in different grade levels to ensure vertical alignment of standards, which will allow students to progress smoothly from grade to grade.
According to Bermudez, the goal is to
Editor-in-Chief of the Winters Express. “With ballots arriving soon, we want to offer the community a chance to engage in civic dialogue and get informed before voting this November.”
Winters residents interested in attending are encouraged to bring questions or email them ahead of time to news@
have everyone agree on and collaborate on what the essential standards are by the end of September or December of this year.
In addition, the middle school hopes to have 100 percent of teachers using AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) strategies by 2025–26. Instructors are actively working on it this year, but ultimately is a goal that is hoped to be closer to accomplished by the end of this school year.
“With new curriculum, with updated standards, with our evolving world that we have, it’s important that we do refine and update our essential standards so all of our content area professional learning communities and departments are doing that important work that began on our first PLC in August, and the goal is to have them refined and updated for each content area by subject, by December of 2024,” said Bermudez.
High schools
wintersexpress.com by Monday, Oct. 7. This is a non-partisan event, and all community members are welcome to participate and ask questions about the measure or city topics.
The event organizers are working to record the event for community members who are unable to attend to view later.
“We’ve made it a priority to refine our essential standards first before moving into the next phase of instructional support,”
Young said.
“Our work will be aimed at integrating WICOR strategies into lessons to engage students and assess their learning in meaningful ways.” Young said that, like the rest of the schools in Winters JUSD, WHS and Wolfskill CRA will be addressing the essential questions.
“By 2025–26, our focus will shift to the essential or critical questions that professional learning communities look at, what will we do if our students have not learned this? And also, what will we do to extend student learning?” said Young.
Winters High School and Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy are also focusing on refining their essential standards, with a goal of finalizing updates by December 2024. Principal Justin Young explained that the high school’s PLC work will shift in the second semester to aligning instructional strategies with AVID principles, particularly around writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization and reading (WICOR) techniques.
Winters Festival de la Comunidad, aka Carnitas Festival, is made possible by the generous hearts of these donors who are committed to our beloved community! Thank you to our outstanding Gold Level Top Sponsor: Mariani Nut
Thank you to our committed friends and Silver Level Sponsors: Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar Curry, PGE, Perfect Union, Club 420, Waste Management, Congressman Mike Thompson, Becca and Co., County Supervisor Lucas Frerichs, Winters Healthcare and Ample Electric Big thanks to our Bronze Level Sponsors: Martinez Orchards, Sandy Vickrey, First Northern Bank and Lisa Baker Consulting The delicious carnitas were brought to you with care and talent by: El Pueblo, Buckhorn Restaurant, Putah Creek Café, Carbonis, Chuy’s Taqueria and Preserve Restaurant. They are fantastic! Our delicious beer and sangria are brought to you by: Berryessa Brewing and Turkovich Family Wines
This labor of love is brought to you by the many volunteers of our community and Yolo County who share a deep love for culture, dance, food, and fun!
Wednesdays
Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution, Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue
Thursday, October 3
Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://wintersjusd.diligent.community
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690
Sunday, October 6
Winters Farmers Market
9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, October 9
Measure S Forum, 7 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance)
Friday, October 11
Winters JUSD Kermes Festival, 5:30-7:30 p.m., WHS - Dr. Seller's Field,
Saturday, October 12
Winters Public Safety Festival, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 700 Main Street
Saturday, October 13
Kiwanis Reading Jamboree, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., El Rio Villas Community Room (62 Shams Way)
Monday, October 14
Winters Climate Action Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/182/Climate-Action-Commission
Tuesday, October 15
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.
Make a difference with Thriving Pink
By Luzangely Martin Special to the Express
After Mary Yin Liu and her husband Harris realized that there weren’t any organizations that supported those affected by breast cancer in Yolo County, they decided to take that responsibility into their own hands.
Thriving Pink is a nonprofit organization with its office based in Davis, was founded by Liu and the help of her husband, whose purpose is to serve those impacted by breast cancer throughout Yolo County. This group is made up of strong and courageous women who’ve been impacted by the disease or have a connection
with someone going through treatment, and who’d like to give back through Thriving Pink’s volunteer programs.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Thriving Pink has multiple events coming up for the community to get involved with. But before Thriving Pink became as successful as it is today, it started as a financial grant program.
“Those who were diagnosed were sharing with us that they had limited insurance or it did not cover their healthcare needs. It was a big need for funding, funding where the women could use those funds at their discretion,” said Liu. She reminds us that
not only do patients struggle with payments, but also provide for their families and the counseling that comes with handling this sickness.
Programs
Anyone can help Thriving Pink by participating in their Granting Pink, Partnering Pink, and Mentoring Pink Programs. Granting Pink donates funds they receive from the community and partnering businesses to women who’ve applied for grants and need them for treatment. Partnering Pink is an outreach and educational awareness program to the community that allows any local businesses, organizations, or individuals to make a direct donation or form a fundraiser event for Thriving
Pink. This can be donating time, your work skills as a specialist, or money donations.
“Mentoring Pink, which is a mentoring program with women who are further along with their journey to help those who are newly diagnosed, has proved to be invaluable,” Liu said. She said she is forever grateful to build such a warming environment where people aren’t afraid to share their stories and remind patients they are surrounded by loving people who can relate to what they are experiencing, and who want to help.
Another way to learn about others’ stories and build connections is through Thriving Pink’s annual walks on the third
See PINK, Page 6
Celebrating honoree Darlene Barnett
By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council
Darlene Barnett, 91, was born on Aug. 9, 1933, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Darlene said her maternal grandparents came to the US from Poland, and her paternal grandparents came from Germany. She grew up with a younger sister who recently passed away. She shared about her life with us for the Winters Elder Day event.
Growing up
Darlene said one of her first members was from when she was around 5 years old and she was sitting in the rumble seat of her family’s car.
Growing up, she attended a Catholic grade school until the eighth grade. Afterward, she attended public school.
Darlene remembers some parts of World War II but can very much remember the day Pearl Harbor was attacked.
She said her mother’s parents were very musical and would perform music on the bottom of the kitchen pots and pans.
While in high school, Darlene’s first job was working in the office at Yorger Paper Company in St. Paul where they made boxes for General Mills.
Darlene’s mother taught her how to drive. She would take Darlene to the local fairgrounds where there was plenty of room to learn. Her first car was a Buick and both her and her mother were
the owners.
Notable thoughts
Darlene played the Trumpet and she said she was very good at it. She is also proficient at reading music.
Lake Berryessa was formed in 1957 by the completion of the Monticello Dam. Like many others, Darlene and her family settled into the area to live. But in the early 2000s, the family recreational areas at Lake Berryessa were demolished — forcing every resident to immediately leave the area. Darlene and her family had their home there for over 35 years and moved to Winters due to the action.
Darlene said she remembers lying on the floor in front of her family’s big radio console and listening to various programs like Roy Rogers, etc.
Darlene’s first big
purchase was when she and her husband purchased a house in Southern California.
Life reflections
Darlene lived in St. Paul, Minnesota until 1954 when, as a newlywed, she and her husband moved to Southern California.
Darlene has 13 children, with the first seven being girls.
Darlene has over 30 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
All the girls professionally played different musical instruments, including one daughter who played the drums. Darlene and her husband traveled with them all over the country including Canada and were also on TV. The girls also played at fairs and in Las Vegas. They were heavily involved in Hollywood
Show Business and worked with a large number of celebrities such as Pat Boon, Phyliss Diller, Sonny and Cher, and many more at that time.
The name of their group was the Pearce Sisters. During one of the Pearce Sisters’ visits to the Phyllis Diller comedy/variety show, the young Pearce Sisters band played a song featuring an impressive drum solo.
Screen Gems, who produced and released films traditionally developed and distributed by Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Classics, placed the Pearce Sisters under contract. Screen Gems wanted to write a script starring the Pearce Sisters that would later become the Partridge Family. However because the producers wanted to break up the group and add some male actors, the family declined the offer.
Darlene said her proudest time was when her daughters were in show business.
If a young person were to ask Darlene for advice, she would tell them to “stay in school.”
Darlene would like to be remembered as a great person.
She said the most influential person in her life was her grandmother, and the best thing in Darlene’s life today is her husband Roy Barnett.
The Winters Express featured all eight 2024 Elder Day honorees. See all honorees at https://bit.ly/ 3XYdVeM.
Courtesy photo
Volunteers of all ages can work with Thriving Pink to create jewelry like bracelets and earrings.
Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo
Darlene Barnett was one of the 2024 Winters Elder Day honorees celebrated at the June event.
Courtesy photo
Thriving Pink hosts craft days and volunteer days to provide people an opportunity to give back.
National Association of Realtors releases new ‘Consumer Guide’ series
Last month, the National Association of Realtors announced a new series of consumer resources designed to help agents who are Realtors empower home buyers and sellers following recent practice changes.
“At the heart of what we do as Realtors — who abide by a strict code of ethics
— is protect and promote the interests of our clients,” said Kevin Sears, NAR President. “We are committed to making the process of buying or selling a home as transparent and seamless as possible for clients, and this new series of guides provides an exceptionally clear roadmap for the process of working with an agent who is a Realtor.”
The following guides are currently
available — in English and Spanish — on NAR’s website:
• Why am I being asked to sign a written buyer agreement?: covers recent practice changes when it comes to working with a real estate professional as a home buyer.
• Open houses and written agreements: covers what buyers need to know about touring homes, attending open houses and when a written buyer agreement is needed.
•Realtors’ duty to put client interests above their own: covers NAR’s strict Code of Ethics that all agents who are Realtors must follow and their ethical duties to act in their client’s best interests.
•What veterans need
to know about buying a home: covers what NAR is doing to promote access to financing for veterans and highlights the options available to veteran buyers in their homebuying process.
• Offers of compensation: covers the process and options available for offering compensation to a buyer’s agent and the reasons why this may be a compelling option for sellers to consider when marketing their property.
• Negotiating written buyer agreements: covers what home buyers should expect when negotiating a written buyer agreement with an agent who is a Realtor.
For more information and the latest consumer resources, visit www.nar.realtor/ the-facts.
Renting vs buying: Know the pros and cons
Metro Special to the Express
Typically there are two options when looking for a place to live: rent or buy. There are pros and cons to each option. Although buying a home is often presented as a fulfillment of the “American Dream,” home ownership is not the right fit for everyone. A careful consideration of owning vs renting can help people decide which option is best for them.
Homeownership
comes with an inherent, though not ironclad, lack of flexibility, as a person cannot simply move to a new geographic location on a whim. There’s also responsibility involved in home ownership. Homeowners are required to pay for all maintenance and handle any additional issues that arise.
Renting
Purchasing a home is a large undertaking that requires a significant financial investment. People often buy a home because they want stability and an asset that maintains value and even appreciates in the long run. There’s also more freedom over the living situation when a person buys, as he or she is not beholden to the rules of the landlord. This affords more freedom to decorate and fewer restrictions regarding noise. Homeowners also may not be privy to rules regarding pets. Furthermore, setting down roots can help a person feel like part of a community. Homeownership has some disadvantages. It’s a large financial investment that requires a potentially sizable down payment upfront. Owning
Renting can be a more affordable short-term option. Renting enables a person to get a residence at a lower monthly expense. Those who rent have more flexibility if they want to change homes frequently. There’s much less responsibility required to rent, as landlords will handle repairs and other concerns. Expenses may be less because there’s no need to pay property taxes, and some utilities may be covered by the property owner. There is a sentiment that renters are throwing away money each month because they are not getting any equity with each monthly rental payment. Rental costs also may not be fixed, as a landlord can increase rent with each lease renewal. Renters also must abide by the rules and regulations of the landlord while renting. This may mean restrictions on parties, noise after a certain time, pets, and more.
Express Yourself
Time does fly when you aren’t paying attention
There was a strange invitation in my inbox a couple of weeks ago. It was an invitation to the 20th anniversary of Berryessa Gap Vineyards. Didn’t they just open a few years ago? I do remember saving a bottle, unopened for some reason, of their 2004 Zinfandel. I checked and I still have it. My office isn’t exactly wine cellar temperature, so I’m sure it won’t be opened any time soon. There are several unopened wine bottles in my office, stored on their sides, some I noticed are leaking. Many were bottled and bought during the birth years of my two children. I had the great idea of buying wine from their birth years to be served at their weddings. Did I mention that I don’t have a controlled wine cellar, so by the time the weddings came around the wine was pretty bad. When Laura got married, I opened
“I had the great idea of buying wine from their birth years to be served at their weddings.”
a nice 1978 Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon that tasted like a real tangy Zinfandel. I drank it during the reception and managed to finish about half a glass. I think my body just shuddered as I write about the experience.
Idusted off a few bottles to write this column and now have a 1981 Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon staring at me. Robert had a dry wedding, but I did open up a bottle from my 1981 collection when I got home to celebrate his big day. One sip was enough and the rest of the case is still on
See QUICK, Page 4
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20),
Even though you told yourself you’ll just suck it up and get through the week, you’re having a change of heart, Aries. Some modifications are necessary to navigate the waters.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21),
Taurus, all bets are off this week, especially if you’ve been smoothing over your emotions to get along with someone close by. All true feelings are bound to come to the surface.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21),
This week you may not be feeling like yourself, Gemini. Low energy have you feeling out of sorts. Spend some time with a close friend to get things back on track.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22), Cancer, your friends always have your back, but this week there is a disruption in your crew. Someone isn’t playing nice, but a few words from you will smooth things over quickly.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23),
You are anxious to get started on an exciting project, Leo. Others on your team may need a dose of inspiration. It could be up to you to motivate the troops.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22), Virgo, you made a commitment to keep things toned down. Enjoy the slower pace and take note of how the lack of hustle and bustle suits you.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23),
Normally you’re satisfied to let someone else take the lead and make all of the decisions, Libra. This week you might need to be the one taking a leadership role.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22),
A surprising bit of information may be brought to your attention, Scorpio. You might be up for a promotion or an exciting change could be coming in your personal life.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21), Don’t stop now when you are so close to the finish line, Sagittarius. It may be a busy week ahead, but you will reap the rewards of your labors. Remain patient.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20), Take inventory of your romantic relationship, Capricorn. You might need to put in a little extra effort if things haven’t been as smooth as you would like. Don’t give up on this.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18),
Aquarius, you are working at keeping everyone on the same page. Continue to emphasize the importance of teamwork. Others notice and appreciate your efforts.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20), It is not possible to make it all the way through your to-do list this week, so plan on some carryover to the next, Pisces. Space out your work so you don’t get too overwhelmed.
Re-elect Jesse Loren for City Council
I don’t know about anyone else, but I am so tired of our country’s election cycle. The constant drumbeat of elections, citizens can feel, at times, as they have no voice. Yet one place where you can see your voice and vote count is in the Winters city council elections.
You do not need to attend a rally. During our city council elections, candidates are front and center. Articles in the Winters Express, local meet and greets, and neighbors with candidate signs in their yards, will help to inform you. And, in Winters, all you need to do is “ask around,” so to speak, to find out more about those who want to help to govern our city through public service. And after someone is elected, you can watch them in action at a city council meeting, or write an email about your concerns, and if a city council member is responsive to the citizens of Winters, you will receive an answer. Jesse Loren, a candidate for reelection to Winters City Council, is one of those responsive council members. She works collaboratively, listens to Winters residents, volunteers for several local organizations, and does her best to keep everyone informed about our local city government. She is a true, “public servant.”
Express Yourself Letters
Jesse has served two terms on the City Council, and I believe she deserves a third. I hope you will join me in voting for Jesse. Her priorities and decision-making have always promoted an inclusive Winters and fiscally responsible city. In addition to promoting opportunities for youth and senior services, Jesse supports increasing access to affordable housing and promotes mixed-use and the utilization of housing infill design. Jesse supports future planning that respects our agricultural land and natural resources. She envisions a future Winters with improved infrastructure and transportation opportunities for all community members. I could go on and on about the county and regional commissions which she has served on, and her accomplishments, but the fact that she is an accessible and involved Winters resident who cares about Winters and our collective future, she has earned my vote. I hope you will join me in voting Jesse Loren for City Council.
DENISE COTTRELL Winters
Vote Yes on Measure S Over the next few days, ballots will be mailed to all registered voters. When marking your ballot, I urge all voters to take a complete look at your ballot and vote
Yes on Measure S. Measure S, supported by all of the Winters City council members, will increase Winters sales tax by 1 percent. Why vote for Measure S? Our city has been challenged since the pandemic with escalating costs for dayto-day services that the city provides. The City’s revenue has not kept up with escalating costs and this effects the city’s ability to maintain parks, streets, and water and sewer services, in addition to fire and police services.
Currently we have a 7.25 percent sales tax rate which is the lowest of any our neighboring cities. With the 7.25 percent collected on purchases, Winters only receives 1 percent. The remainder goes to the state and county. This proposed 1 percent increase is different. Winters will be able to keep this entire amount in town. It is estimated that our sales tax revenue will increase by $ 1.2 million a year. A large percentage of our sales tax is generated from the businesses near Hwy 505 and Grant Avenue, thus visitors who spend money in Winters will be contributing towards this sales tax increase as well and helping to increase our revenue. Did you know, when you shop out of town, you are paying 8.25 to 8.75 percent and benefiting those cities? And although our neighboring cities have a higher sales tax rate, many of these cit-
ies also have tax measures on the November ballot to increase their sales tax to 9 percent or more.
Measure S will go a long way towards keeping our town strong and sustainable. We will no longer be running a deficit budget or have the need to dip into our reserve funds. As a councilmember I am confident that the City staff does a good job of spending our funds wisely. Winters staff are one of our most valuable assets and we work hard at paying them competitive wages to help ensure that Winters remains a good place to work and live. The City’s budget is an open document, so anyone can see for themselves how the City spends its money. We do the best we can with what we have, but we cannot continue to run our city on a deficit or our bare bones budget. The Measure S sales tax increase will give us a more stable revenue stream to help the City maintain and improve current services.
We have a wonderful town, please show your support and help to ensure that Winters can continue being the gem of Yolo County. Measure S is endorsed by the following: Winters Volunteer Firefighters Association, Police Officers Association, our current mayor and two past mayors.
I urge you to vote YES ON S. Want to learn more about Measure S? Attend a voters’ informa-
tion forum hosted by the Winters Express and Democracy Winters on Oct. 9, 7 p.m. at City Hall Conference room located on Abbey Street at First Street. Everyone is invited to attend and learn more about this important ballot measure.
CAROL SCIANNA Winters City CounCil member
Agree to disagree, protect all students
Disagreement is not hate. There is no one person in the world I agree with on anything 100 percent. I have five siblings, we always disagree, and we still love each other. I disagree with Don Stone, who wrote in the newspaper last week, “the reality is this: gender identity is not a debate.” This letter is my debate against the inclusion of gender identity into academics and Winters public schools. According to Google AI, the term “gender identity” was popularized by psychologist John Money in the 1960s. John Money performed disgusting experiments on twin boys who both ended up committing suicide as adults, yet his supposed successful experiments led to the use of the term gender identity in academia. Please research John Money and read about the experiments yourself to form your own opinion.
My desire to keep certain topics out of schools is not about hate, it is about protecting the students.
There are some topics and ideas that children don’t need to learn, especially by adults they trust in an academic setting. I can’t say it any better than the father of Corrie Ten Boom, holocaust survivor, as she wrote in The Hiding Place:
And so seated next to my father in the train compartment, I suddenly asked, “Father, what is sexism?” He turned to look at me, as he always did when answering a question, but to my surprise he said nothing. At last, he stood up, lifted his traveling case off the floor and set it on the floor.
“Will you carry it off the train, Corrie?” he said.
I stood up and tugged at it. It was crammed with the watches and spare parts he had purchased that morning.
“It’s too heavy,” I said.
“Yes,” he said, “and it would be a pretty poor father who would ask his little girl to carry such a load. It’s the same way, Corrie, with knowledge. Some knowledge is too heavy for children. When you are older and stronger, you can bear it. For now, you must trust me to carry it for you.
It’s time for the adults of Winters to carry the burden for our children. We need to disagree with love and do what’s best for the children of our city, so they live carefree lives as they should.
JENNY CALLISON Winters
Letters Policy
The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. Letters contribute to community discussion. Express Letters to the Editor guidelines: Letters should not exceed 350 words. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. We accept “thank you” letters naming local individuals and businesses only. Non-local names will be edited out. “Thank you” notices containing non-local individuals or businesses must be published as paid advertising to: ads@wintersexpress.com. Letters must be legibly signed by the writer. Submit online at https://tinyurl.com/ syzevywd or visit wintersexpress.com.
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certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal Jesse Salinas County Clerk/Recorder State of California County of Yolo Published SEPTEMBER 4 18 25 OCTOBER 2 9 2024 #75168 a shelf, somewhere in the building. One bottle of 1978 Charles Krug doesn’t look like it has been opened, but it is only half full and the top is sticky. I should throw it out, but I’ll stand it up straight and put it back on the shelf. I remember giving Laura and Rance a bottle to save from their wedding but told them not to drink it. The bottle is pretty and I think I had them sign it. There is also a 1999 Winters Winery Syrah on the shelf that wasn’t drinkable when it was
bottled. There is a rumor that when Dan Martinez bought the Winters Winery and started making Berryessa Gap, he had to get permission from the Alcohol Beverage Control Board to pour out all of the Winters Winery inventory and not pay taxes on the wine. Even if it isn’t true, it makes for a good story. Congratulations to Dan, Corinne, Santiago and the rest of the family and staff who created a successful winery and for making it 20 years. Enjoy a bottle of Berryessa Gap and have a good week.
Sports
Big plays give Warriors win over Durham
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Friday, Sept. 27, the Winters varsity football team won its game against Durham High School by a score of 34–9.
The win against Durham was its first league victory and while the team finished off its preseason 4–0 what it does going forward is what counts.
“Feels great to be 1–0 in league. We have really struggled in the past at the Durham field and have lost some games that have haunted us so it was great to get that monkey off of our backs,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward.
With their mistakes, penalties and a more evenly matched Durham defense, it took the Warriors a little longer than normal to get things going.
“I thought Gio (Jimenez) ran the ball hard. Jesse (Madsen) did his thing but it was Sebastian Rodriguez who stole the show,”said Ward.
This comment from Ward is backed up by the stats. Jimenez did run the ball hard with 69 rushing yards and 12 receiving yards with a total of 89 yards in the game. Madsen has been unstoppable this year in terms of receiving yards.
Between his speed and good hands, Madsen most cer tainly “did his thing” and earned the Warriors 52 receiving yards, 19 kick off return yards, 34 yards on punt returns and a Warrior touchdown.
bastian scored on the 86-yard punt return really changed the game,” said Ward.
of our kids and how we are able to handle adversity and still be successful,” said Ward.
Upcoming games
“The touchdown Sebastian scored on the 86-yard punt return really changed the game.”
Daniel Ward, head coach
Defensively the Warriors did a great job once again limiting their opponents from gaining yardage in the game.
Winters will host Colusa High School at home on Friday, Oct. 4, at 5:30 p.m. (junior varsity kick-off) and 7:30 p.m. (varsity kick-off).
The Warriors have a Bye week for Friday, Oct. 11.
The remaining games on the Warriors’ lineup include: Friday, Oct. 18, vs. East Nicolaus*, 5:30 p.m./7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 25, at Willows, 5:30 p.m./7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 1, at Paradise, 5:30 p.m./7 p.m.
Cardinals fall, winter sports schedules
Friday, Nov. 8, vs. Pierce, 5:30 p.m./7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 15, NSCIF Playoffs- Rd. 1, TBA, 7 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 22, NSCIF Playoffs- Rd. 2, TBA, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27, NSCIF Championships, TBA, 7 p.m.
View all WHS sports schedules on the WHS Athletics page at whs. wintersjusd.org/enUS/athletics-d8f556f5.
Attend games
While Jimenez and Madsen put in the work for their team, Sebastian Rodriguez took it one step further and racked up 236 all-purpose yards and four touchdowns, one of which was a key punt return “The touchdown Se-
“Our defense was amazing. They were able to limit the Trojans to 12 rushing yards on nine carries and did a great job putting pressure on Durham’s quarterback,” said Ward. Anthony Matamoros had a great game with two sacks and five tackles, two of which resulted in a loss of yardage. Danny Sanchez, Julian Herrera and Ricky Garcia also stood out on the defensive line. Sanchez had five tackles with two for a loss of yardage, Garcia had seven tackles with one for a loss of yardage and Hererra led the Warriors with eight tackles with two of them resulting in a loss of yardage.
“Now is when the going gets tough and these are the games that truly matter. We did not play our best game last week but it shows the toughness
WHS utilizes the digital ticketing platform GoFan for entrance to sporting events. Attendees can choose from the all-sports season pass for the school year, a season pass by sport or an individual ticket by game. They can download the app or visit the WHS GoFan page to purchase tickets. Spanish instructions are included.
QR codes will also be displayed along the fence line for attendees who want to purchase tickets on-site at Dr. Sellers Field. For more information, visit the WHS GoFan page at https:// gofan.co/app/school/ CA8082.
The Winters Middle School Cardinal’s fall sports season is winding down. Don’t miss out on the last few competitions.
Cross country
Wednesday, Oct. 2, at 4 p.m. in Esparto. Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 4 p.m. in Northwest Park, Dixon. (YCAL Finals)
Sixth-grade volleyball
Friday, Oct. 10, at 4 p.m. at home vs Dixon Montessori Friday, Oct. 11, at 4 p.m. at home vs Esparto
Seventh/Eighthgrade volleyball
Thursday, Oct. 3, at home vs John Knight at 4 p.m., (Seventh-grade), 5 p.m. (Eighth-grade)
Tuesday, Oct. 8 at home vs Esparto at 4 p.m. (Seventh-grade), 5 p.m. (Eighth-grade)
Thursday, Oct. 10 at Emerson at 4 p.m. (Seventh-grade), 5 p.m. (Eighth-grade) The eight-grade YCAL Tournament will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12. The time and location will be announced. The Cardinals’s winter sports
schedules are posted on the WMS Athletics page. Tryouts for the seventh-grade boys and girls basketball teams are scheduled to begin on Oct. 14. Tryouts for the eighth-grade boys and girls basketball teams are scheduled to begin on Monday, Dec. 2.
Seventh-grade girls/ boys basketball
The girls team plays first, from Oct. 29 to Nov. 12. The boys team plays first from Nov. 14 to Dec. 5. Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 4 p.m. away at John Knight Wednesday, Oct. 30, at 4 p.m. away at Esparto
Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 4 p.m. at home vs Emerson Thursday, Nov. 7, at 4 p.m. away at Harper Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 4 p.m. at home vs Holmes Thursday, Nov. 14, at 4 p.m. away at Douglass
Tuesday, Nov. 19, at 4 p.m. at home vs Lee Thursday, Nov. 21, at 4 p.m. at home vs John Knight
Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 4 p.m. at home vs Esparto
Thursday, Dec. 5, at 4 p.m. away at Emerson
Eight-grade girls/ boys basketball
The girls team plays first from Jan. 14 to Jan. 28, 2025. The boys team will play first from Jan. 30 to Feb. 13, 2025. Tuesday, Jan. 14, at 4 p.m. away at John Knight
Thursday, Jan. 16, at 4 p.m. away at Esparto
Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 4 p.m. at home vs Emerson
Thursday, Jan. 23, at 4 p.m. away at Harper
Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 4 p.m. at home vs Holmes
Thursday, Jan. 30, at 4 p.m. away at Douglass
Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 4 p.m. at home vs Lee
Thursday, Feb. 6, at 4 p.m. at home vs John Knight
Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 4 p.m. at home vs Esparto
Thursday, Feb. 13, at 4 p.m. away at Emerson
The YCAL Finals will be held on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. The location will be announced.
View all sports schedules on the WMS Athletics page at wms.wintersjusd.org/athletics-2e62c37f.
Sebastian Rodriguez, a Winters High School senior, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Varsity head coach Daniel Ward called Rodriguez “one of the best athletes in the Northern Section.” “Sebastian never comes off of the field. He starts on offense, defense and on all special teams and his versatility is a huge asset to the Warriors’ success,” Ward said. “As good of a player as he is, he is an even better person off of the field. He is a team captain, a 4.0 student and a great role model.”
Express staff
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The Winters Middle School cross country team’s next meet is on Oct. 2, in Esparto.
Arts & Entertainment
WTC presents ‘Robin Hood The Musical’
Special to the Express Winters Theatre Company is excited to present Robin Hood the Musical!
Directed by WTC board member Linda Glick, Robin Hood plans on being a funfilled evening into the tale of the charming thief who robs from the rich to give to the poor from Sherwood forest. Joining the titular Robin Hood is his band of merry men and noble ladies and romantic love in the sweet and kind Maid Marian. Together they must go against the crooked Sheriff of Nottingham and the sinister Prince John.
The production of Robin Hood the Musical has roots at WTC,
according to Glick. “In May 2019, we were scheduled to perform this production of Robin Hood at the Opera House. We had to cancel due to the pandemic. Instead, we decided to adapt the production and bring it to Zoom. It was a wonderful project that brought us together during a difficult time,” Glick said. “We were able to reach out to talented people throughout the county to help with the technology, the writing, and the music. The show is inspired by a production that was produced at the old Palms Playhouse in Davis, by the Bad Actors. We were given the opportunity to adapt their script, use
some of their songs and create our own. It’s exciting for us now to bring the show to life. Deb Bowen is our musical director and Sylvia Halk is our choreographer. With the two of them by my side and with an amazing talented cast, we are certain to bring a spectacular show for all to enjoy.”
Tickets for this WTC show can be purchased now at winterstheatre.org.
Winters Theatre Company is located at the Winters Opera House on 13 Main St. in Winters. Contact WTC by mail at PO BOX 728, Winters, CA 95694; email winterstheatre@gmail.com or call at 530-795-4014.
Floating pumpkin patch returns this Saturday in Solano County
Special to the Express
Film festival features classic Hollywood heists
Special to the Express Classic Hollywood cinema returns to the Davis Odd Fellows Hall for a threeweek run starting Sunday, Oct. 6. The genre for this series of films is “classic 1960s heists.” Everyone is welcome to enjoy these films.
The Davis Odd Fellows Hall is located
at 415 Second St. in downtown Davis. This fall’s lineup includes:
• “The Italian Job,” the 1969 film staring Michael Caine, on Oct. 6;
• “The Thomas Crown Affair,” the 1968 classic featuring Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway, on Oct. 13; and
• “How to Steal a
Million,” the 1966 film starring Audrey Hepburn and Peter O’Toole, on Oct. 20. Doors open at 6:29 p.m. and the films are shown around 7:01 p.m. The festival is free of charge. Popcorn is provided free of charge. Beer, wine or soft drinks will be available to purchase.
Saturday of every month. Participants meet at 501 2nd St. in Davis, at 9 a.m. at the Thriving Pink office. People can learn more about the strong warriors who have dealt with breast cancer and can join in the significance behind the walks.
treatment, and helping Thriving Pink’s office with organization and social media marketing opportunities.
Volunteering
will help support the Thriving Pink mission.
During Thriving Pink’s Volunteer Day, many high school and college students showed up to volunteer.
Those securing their pumpkins from the pool can go to the barbecue area to paint the gourd. The jump happens at 3 p.m.
The Floating Pumpkin Patch returns to the Walter Graham Aquatic Center from 2 to 5 p.m. this Saturday. The recreation pool, two water slides and toddler water playground will be open during the event.
The entry fee, $16, includes entry for one child, one adult and one pumpkin. Additional spectators can pre-register or pay at the door for $5. The cost is $18 per person on the day of the event. The venue is at 1100 Alamo Dr. in Vacaville.
“It’s the vision that no one should go through this journey and experience alone — no one should have to fight breast cancer alone,” Liu said.
Community members and high school Students can also volunteer with hands-on crafts, assembling comfort bags for patients going through
Two Winters High School seniors are partnering with Thriving Pink on Oct. 18 for the annual Pink Out Game. The event has been a Senior Capstone Project and consists of an opportunity to purchase a t-shirt for donations, the Pink Heals Solano’s pink fire truck where people who’ve lost someone due to cancer can write their name on the vehicle and raise awareness for breast cancer among youth and game attendees. All funds from purchases and donations
“Volunteering can teach essential skills to teens such as how to be helpful, kind and respectful of others. Many of the teens who support our programs and events are given jobs that also develop their leadership skills,” mentions Leslie Hunter, Executive Director of Thriving Pink and proud supporter since 2016. Hunter said volunteers are also needed to sit at tables and provide information about breast cancer awareness at community events. Thriving Pink provides training to all volunteers, and if they’d like to join walks or crafting sessions, everyone is welcome to rsvp to attend.
Visit thrivingpink. org for more information and details regarding resources and calendar events Thriving Pink offers during October. Email info@thrivingpink.org for more information about specific volunteer opportunities that you’d like to get involved with during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Follow their Instagram account @thrivingpink for the fun events they will be hosting, and join in at the WHS Pink Out game on Oct. 18 at the Dr. Sellers Football Field.
—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.
PINK Continued from Page 1
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Last weekend, Thriving Pink hosted its annual Renewal Retreat for Thrivers to take time for reflection, healing and positivity through activities. These collage creations were just one of the ways attendees could reflect and heal through creativity.
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Cast members of Winters Theatre Company’s production of Robin Hood rehearse at the Historic Winters Opera House. Tickets are available now at winterstheatre.org.