Farmstead development review process underway
By Sonora Slater Express staff writer
The proposed Farmstead development’s draft environmental impact report (EIR) is currently in the public review phase. This is one of the first steps in preparing the project to go before the city council for a decision, and in line with this milestone, the contract planner for the project David Storer gave a presentation at the Oct. 1 city council meeting outlining the process and what the development, if approved, would entail.
The 61.9-acre project, which would be built on an undeveloped parcel of land at the southeast cor-
ner of E. Main Street and Grant Avenue, has been in the works for years. After various iterations, developers are currently proposing to build 188 units of subdivided single-family residences, 57 townhomes, and an 84-unit multi-family residential complex, as well as dedicating 6.9 acres to park space, 3.3 acres to commercial lots, adding a new drainage channel on the eastern side of the parcel, and promising utility, landscaping and roadway improvements including sidewalks and bikeways.
The California Environmental Quality Act, or CEQA, requires state and
See FARMSTEAD, Page 6
Elections office mails out ballots for Nov. 5 general election
Express staff
The Yolo County Elections Office announced the successful completion of the logic and accuracy testing of its voting equipment on Thursday, Sept. 26, to be utilized in the upcoming General Election on Nov. 5.
Starting Monday, Oct 7, all active registered voters in Yolo County will receive a Vote-by-Mail ballot. These ballots are ex-
pected to arrive in mailboxes by Monday, Oct. 14.
Voters who do not receive their ballots by Tuesday, Oct. 15, should contact the Yolo County Elections Office for assistance.
Voters can track the status of their vote-bymail ballots through the “Where’s My Ballot?” service at WheresMyBallot. sos.ca.gov. This service offers real-time updates through automated notifications via email, text, or voice calls. Voters can also verify their voter registration status online at voterstatus.sos.ca.gov or by reaching out to the Elections Office directly.
Police Chief Miller resigns after 8 years of service
By Crystal Apilado
Editor-in-Chief
Winters Police Chief
John P. Miller officially announced his resignation, bringing to a close an eight-year tenure marked by significant changes and improvements to the police department. He told the Express he is departing for a role at the Antioch Police Department. His last day at Winters PD concludes on Sunday.
Miller said choosing to leave was difficult, and the swaying factor was that Antioch offered a compensation package that was too good to pass up – especially as he is facing financial setbacks and needs to consider his family’s needs.
With Measure S on the ballot, too many things to consider are left up in the
air and with low pay as his tipping point, Miller decided to take the path that would guarantee financial support for his family.
“This is an exceptionally hard decision. This is home, it feels like home. Eight years later, I still look forward to coming to work. It feels good,” Miller said. Calling his time at Winters PD the “highlight” of his career, Miller had nothing but gratitude for residents and colleagues.
“Thank you for the support of my council members, my city managers who trusted me to run the organization, and the community members for their support,” Miller said. “This is the highlight of my 30-plusyear career. I’m leaving it better than I found it.
See MILLER, Page 3
Six Winters JUSD staff honored with Excellence in Education Awards
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
The annual Yolo County Excellence in Education Awards was held on Tuesday, Oct. 1, where six Winters Joint Unified School District staff members were recognized for demonstrating exceptional dedication to students and achievement of school district goals.
Trustee Everado Zaragoza presented the awards for Winters JUSD recipients at the awards ceremony, while Lisa Dennis, Director of Human Resources, recognized the honorees at the Oct. 3 Board of Trustees so the community could celebrate their teachers closer to home.
Raena Lavella, Director of Technolo-
gy, was the first to be recognized, receiving the Individual Excellence Award.
“She has an impressive work ethic, always maintains a positive attitude, and brings out the best in the people she works with. We’re fortunate to have a leader like Raena in our district,” said Zaragoza.
See AWARDS, Page 5
Courtesy photo
Justin Young (Winters High School Principal), Jessica Williams (AVID), Mike or Michael Williams (teacher),
Raena Lavelle (Director of Technology Services), Kimberly Ramirez (school psychologist), Kimberly Spalding, Diane Halsey (Robotics Club) and Rody Boonchouy (Superintendent) at the awards ceremony.
Courtesy photo
Winters Police Chief John P. Miller is leaving the city of Winters for a role with the Antioch Police Department.
Council discusses Daylighting law, smoke-free outdoors policy
By Sonora Slater Express staff writer
City council members heard informational presentations on the parking-related Daylighting Law and local smoke-free outdoors policy, as well as a brief discussion of Prop 36 at the Oct. 1 council meeting.
Police Chief John P. Miller gave an informational presentation on California’s “Daylighting Law” or AB 413. The law, which prohibits parking within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of a crosswalk, technically went into effect on Jan. 1, but up until now, it’s only been enforced with a warning. Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, failure to comply can result in a citation.
Miller explained that the law is intended to improve intersection visibility given the high pedestrian fatality rate in California, which is almost 25 percent higher than the national average. However, he’s aware that many Winters
Police Chief John P. Miller gave a presentation on the state’s
residents don’t know about the law, and doesn’t want people to be caught unaware at the start of the new year.
“What we really need to do is educate the community,” Miller said.
Several council members noted that expecting drivers to be able to accurately identify what a distance of 20 feet looks like might not be fair, even if they are aware of the law. Miller acknowledged this and
Local News Briefs
Citizens workshop
A community flu vaccine clinic is being hosted at the Winters High School Student Union building from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 10. The clinic is open to people ages 6 months and older.
The clinic is a partnership between Winters Joint Unified School District and Yolo County Public Health.
The community clinic is open to all community members and the flu vaccines are free of charge to recieve.
The Hispanic Advisory Committee, Winters Community Corazón, City of Winters with California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation and Legal Services of Northern California are presenting a Citizenship Forum beginning with an information evening at the Winters Community Center on Monday, Oct. 21, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Follow-up meetings will be scheduled on either Oct. 26 or Nov. 16. For updates, visit winterscorazon.org/upcomingevents.
said that one effective solution, while not required of the city, is to paint the curb of the newly illegal parking zones red. Council member Richard Casavecchia said he was in support of this idea, and other council members agreed. A rough estimate of the cost for labor and supplies of painting the curbs of the approximately 275 intersections and crosswalks in Winters came in at around $3,500.
Mayor Bill Biasi sug-
Kermes festival
Winters JUSD is hosting its second annual Kermés Celebration this Friday, Oct. 11 starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Winters High School Dr. Sellers football field. The cultural celebration features fun, food, activities and community resources. Winters band and choir students will perform at the event. Public safety festival
The Winters Police and Winters Fire Departments are hosting their annual Public Safety Festival on Oct. 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Winters Fire Department Bay (700 Main St.). The event features Kona Ice shaved ice and Baby O’s doughnuts. Attendees can meet Yolo County Law Enforcement and Social Services Agencies, engage with local first responders, and see live demonstrations. The event is free to attend.
gested that the city may be able to apply for some grant funding to paint the intersections and crosswalks that are near local schools.
Smoke-free outdoors
Steven Jensen, the health program manager for Yolo County, gave a presentation on smoke-free outdoor policy options. Tobacco use is still the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States and worldwide, and Jensen noted that even prolonged or frequent exposure to secondhand smoke can cause adverse health effects.
“It’s only in the past 30 years or so that science has really proven that exposure to secondhand smoke can be very dangerous and can lead to many of the same issues that affect smokers,” Jensen said.
He suggested increasing the range of designated smokefree outdoor areas in Winters, including
Reading Jamboree
The Kiwanis Club of Winters is hosting a family meal fundraiser in partnership with Putah Creek Cafe every Thursday in October. Visit www.putahcreekcafe.com and toggle the menu to pick up on Thursday starting at 4 p.m. to access the Kiwanis Club Family Meal special. The fundraiser benefits the Winters Kiwanis youth leadership service clubs, literary events and high school scholarship funds.
Additionally, the Winters Kiwanians are hosting the second Reading Jamboree in partnership with the Yolo County Library at the El Rios Community Room (62 Shams Way) on Sunday, Oct. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Seven community members and educators will read bilingual stories, while attendees can take part in craft activities. All community members are invited to attend.
enforcing smoke-free outdoor dining, outdoor events, and even downtown sidewalks and parking lots. He noted that these are just suggestions, and the council is free to adopt all, none or some of these ideas into future policy decisions. He also sent over sample language for what new policies could be implemented, and the council agreed to bring the topic back for future discussion along with the draft policy language.
Jensen also shared information from the Winters High School Friday Night Live club, whose members have been advocating for a smoke-free outdoor community.
Prop 36 discussion
The meeting ended with a brief discussion of Prop 36, The Homelessness, Drug Addiction and Theft Reduction Act, which the council was considering passing a resolution in support of. The proposition seeks
to increase criminal penalties for repeat offenders of crimes involving retail theft and fentanyl possession.
Council member Carol Scianna said that she has reservations about setting a precedent for the city council to support ballot measures. She also referenced concern that this would reverse some of the impact of Prop 47 in keeping people from going to jail for minor crimes. Council member Jesse Loren expressed similar concerns. Biasi said he thinks it’s important to protect businesses from retail theft, and both he and Miller referenced the rehabilitation programs within jails as a sometimes effective means of providing health support to repeat drug offenders.
The resolution passed with a 3–0–2 vote in support of Prop 36, with council members Loren and Scianna abstaining.
Special to the Express Esparto Unified School District announced that it had been selected as a recipient of the prestigious California Farm to School Incubator Grant. The California Department of Food and Agriculture has awarded EUSD a grant of $200,000 for its project titled, “Farming Knowledge, Feeding Minds: Expanding Farm-to-Table Learning.” The California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program received an overwhelming number of applications this year — 499 in total — with more than $129 million in project proposals. EUSD is honored to be one of 195 recipients, joining an elite cohort of farm-to-school projects across California for the 2024–25 program year.
The “Farming Knowledge, Feeding Minds” project aims to enrich students’ education by expanding farm-to-table learning opportunities. This initiative will deepen student engagement with local agriculture, enhance access to healthy, locally grown
foods, and foster a strong connection between the classroom and the local farming community.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this grant, which allows us to further expand our farm-to-fork initiatives.” said Kate Diezel, College and Career Readiness Coordinator of Esparto Unified School District. “Agriculture is not just a cornerstone of our local economy; it’s a way of life for many of our students and their families. Providing holistic, hands-on learning opportunities that highlight the significance of agriculture is a top priority for our district. Through this project, our students will gain a deeper understanding of how agriculture impacts their lives and our community, equipping them with valuable knowledge and skills for the future.”
The grant will support the integration of agricultural education into the classroom, school gardens, and partnerships with local farms to provide fresh produce for school meals. It will also offer students valuable opportunities to learn about food systems, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices while connecting with the agricultural roots of the Esparto community.
By accepting the grant, EUSD reinforces its dedication to creating a dynamic learning environment that not only educates but also nourishes the minds and bodies of its students. The district will work closely with local farmers, educators, and community members to bring this innovative program to life.
For more information on the California Farm to School Incubator Grant Program, visit www.cdfa.ca.gov/ caf2sgrant, or contact Esparto Unified School District.
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“Daylighting Law” (AB 413) to city council members.
Express staff
Flu vaccine clinic
Upcoming events, programs at the Winters Library this month
Express staff
Visit the Winters Community Library during April to participate and enjoy regular monthly programs and special free events.
Weekly programs
Tech Tuesday/Tech
Thursday
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2 to 7 p.m.
Visit the library or call 530-666-8005 to schedule a 30-minute appointment for free one-on-one technology help!
Mother Goose on the Loose (Ages 2 to 3)
Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.
Award-winning early literacy program for toddlers and their grown-ups combines music, movement, rhymes, and books.
Storytime at the Library! (Ages 0 to 5)
Wednesdays at 10:30
a.m./Thursdays at 6
p.m.
Join us for a fun bilingual storytime for all ages!
Once-a-month programs
All You Need is Love:
A Romance Book Club (for adults)
Saturday, Oct. 12, 4
p.m. at Hooby’s Brewing, 9 E. Main St. Suite
J Romance fans are invited to join our romance book club each month. Each month is a new read. To see what we are currently reading, please click here.
Teen Game Space
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 3:30
p.m.
Come challenge your friends, meet
Hopefully, I’ve got it set up on a path to continue to thrive.”
City Manager Jeremy Craig told the Express that Miller will be missed.
“Chief Miller has been a key member of the city team and has served the community for over eight years. During his tenure, we worked to continually improve public safety by investing in the police department and establishing an organizational structure for continued excellence in his absence,” Craig said. “He will be greatly missed by the city of Winters, but we wish him well in his new adventure.”
Miller, who was hired on July 25, 2016, reflected on his time at Winters PD and the city of Winters with pride, citing key accomplishments that transformed the agency into what it is today. He said the agency he is leaving behind is not the same agency he walked into when he was hired.
Under Miller’s leadership, the department saw a ma-
new gaming buddies, and level up your gaming experience! The library has a variety of video game consoles available for use and board games will also be available.
Craft Your Heart Out (Ages 16 and older)
Saturday, Oct. 26, 2
p.m.
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting, stop by the library to use crafting tools and materials, or to complete your personal projects. Meet fellow craft enthusiasts, share ideas, and make new friends who share your passion for creativity!
Special programs
Pan Dulce Clay Crafts (Ages 6 to 12)
Thursday, Oct. 10, 3:30 p.m.
Celebrate Latinx Heritage Month with a fun and creative hands-on workshop where participants will learn to make their own clay version of pan dulce, the colorful and delicious Mexican sweet bread!
We’ll provide all the materials and stepby-step guidance to shape and decorate your own unique pieces of clay pan dulce, which you can take home as a keepsake.
Teddy Bear Backpacks (Ages 13 and older)
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 1:30 p.m. Make your own teddy bear backpack!
We’ll provide all the supplies you need to turn a stuffed animal of your choosing into a weird, functional
accessory. Embroidery thread, fake piercings, beads, fabric markers, and more will be available for you to add a touch of personality to your haunted familiar just in time for Halloween. Bring your own plushie, or use one of ours! Murder Mystery Party (Ages 16 and older) Friday, Oct. 25, 5 p.m. Join us for an evening of intrigue, suspense, and mystery! Step into the role of a cunning detective as we transform the library into a thrilling crime scene. Work in teams as you unravel clues, review evidence, and solve the mystery before time runs out. Can you crack the case and uncover the killer?
Public hours
When school is in session, the Winters Community Library is open to the public on:
• Monday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Tuesday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Thursday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday: 1 to 5 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed For more information, contact library staff at 530-795-4955, visit the Yolo County Library at yolocountylibrary.org (see Events calendar for Winters Community Library) or connect with the Yolo County Library on Facebook at facebook.com/yolocountylibrary.org.
“It’s been an honor to sit at those tables and share the work we’ve done here.”
John P. Miller, police chief
jor overhaul in its technology and operations. The introduction of body cameras, car cameras, and an ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) trailer were key advancements that boosted the department’s accountability and efficiency.
“We know we need to enhance that,” Miller said, highlighting the need for continuous progress.
One of the major achievements during his tenure was the implementation of a new records management software system, streamlining data and case management for the department. Additionally, the fleet of vehicles was significantly improved, including the introduction of a dedicated DUI enforcement vehicle, motorcycles, bikes and more for patrolling.
Miller also took pride in instituting a
Meet with local leaders at Express Coffeehouse Chat
Express staff
The Express Coffeehouse Chats are an opportunity for the community to meet with the city manager, superintendent and other local leaders.
Coffeehouse Chats are on the third Friday of each month at 8 a.m. at Steady Eddy’s Coffee Shop. The next community event is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 18.
City Manager Jeremy Craig and Superintendent Rody Boonchouy are regular attendees. Winters Fire Department staff have also been present to
help answer questions about weed abatement, prescribed burns and more. Join the monthly event to ask questions about specific issues and topics or learn more about them and their hobbies and experiences.
“My goal is to connect community members and our local leaders in a casual space – over a cup of coffee or tea – so they can build relationships and ask or answer questions,” said Crystal Apilado Express Editor-in-Chief.
“Our local leaders
tell people that they have open door policies if they’d like to come in to ask questions about something going on in the city or school district. But, it can be intimidating to make that visit when you’re not familiar with the person or their values and goals. These events are a great opportunity to meet them in an informal environment.”
Some of the recent topics discussed at last month’s chat included Measure S, how to revamp and revitalize the tennis courts, traffic concerns and more.
Yolo County CAO Pinedo resigns
By Rebecca Wasik McNaughton Media
The Yolo County Board of Supervisors meeting last Tuesday was chief administrative officer Gerardo Pinedo’s last.
A resolution in the board’s agenda honored Pinedo and his contributions to the county over his two years in the position.
“Gerardo is highly regarded both internally and externally by stakeholders as a highly collaborative, innovative, responsive, and mission-driven leader who will be greatly missed by the County of Yolo,” reads the resolution.
According to a Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors memo, Pinedo has been appointed to the position of assistant sheriff, administration, and will serve as Sheriff Robert G. Luna’s chief financial officer.
Prior to coming to
During the board’s
lunch, the supervisors accepted Pinedo’s resignation. He service to the county concluded on Oct. 4. Former Davis city manager Dirk Brazil will take over as interim CAO after Pinedo’s departure, pending board approval at its meeting on Oct. 8. Brazil’s anticipated start date is Oct. 14. Deputy chief administrative officer Mark Bryan will serve as acting CAO for any gap period between Pinedo and Brazil’s tenures.
new uniform policy that contributed to a more professional and cohesive appearance among officers.
“Uniforms matter,” Miller noted. “Having a uniformed team reinforces professionalism and unity.”
Another of his contributions was the cultural shift he spearheaded within the department.
“We updated our vision, mission, and principles early on to reflect the department we wanted to be,” Miller said.
He emphasized fostering a culture of accountability, with a focus on caring for officers and addressing attrition.
“It’s about creating a supportive environment while correcting
or improving behaviors where needed,” he said.
Miller also brought his expertise to broader forums, often representing Winters PD and small-town communities on various panels, even as a smaller department.
“It’s been an honor to sit at those tables and share the work
we’ve done here,” he said.
As he steps down from his role, Miller will be remembered for his resourcefulness, innovation, and the strong foundation he leaves behind for future leadership.
“I didn’t do this by myself,” Miller said.
“I had key personnel with me every step of the way to help bring about these changes.”
The search for Miller’s successor has not yet begun, but Craig said the city is working to finalize the details of the recruitment process. Miller said Joe Kreins, who served as Interim Chief when he took over in 2016, will resume the role during the city’s police chief recruitment process.
Express file photo
Police Chief John P. Miller served the Winters community for over eight years.
Yolo County, Pinedo had been employed in Los Angeles County since 1998.
closed session over
Courtesy photo Gerardo Pinedo
Public Safety Report
City of Winters
Fire
Sept. 25: 11:03 a.m., Roosevelt Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~11:22 p.m., Chapman Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Sept. 26: 6:36 a.m., Russell Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~7:19 a.m., Niemann Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~10:45 a.m., Hemenway Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Get
~5:18 p.m., County Road 89, EMS call –excluding vehicle accident with injury
~7:59 p.m., I-505 Highway, Authorized controlled burning
~9:28 p.m., I-505 Highway, Authorized controlled burning Sept. 27: 8:44 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~10:01 a.m., E. Grant Avenue, Dispatched and canceled en route
~3:48 p.m., Highway 128, Dispatched and canceled en route
~11:02 p.m., East Street, Smoke scare –odor of smoke
Sept. 28: 11:49 a.m., Edwards Street,
Lake Berryessa water levels down
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa dropped by 0.35 of a foot during the past week, with a decrease in the storage of 6,262 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh, Solano Project Technician with the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 8, he reported the lake elevation was 429.39 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,356,832 acre-feet of water. The SID is releasing 307 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 150 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 217 acre-feet of water per day.
Smoke or odor removal
~5:59 p.m., Highway 128, Grass fire
~8:32 p.m., E. Baker Street, Person in distress – other Sept. 29: 8:47 a.m., Tubbs Road, Unauthorized burning Sept. 30: 8:18 a.m., Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~1:01 p.m., Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~4:29 p.m., Young Drive, False alarm or false call – other
~6:06 p.m., Roosevelt Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~8:47 p.m., Fourth Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
130 Years Ago
October 13, 1894
Eugene Willis was down from his mountain ranch last Monday: He informed the Express that he had a lively time this fall fighting mountain fires. One time the fire came within a short distance of his barn, and but for his backfiring in time, he would have been burnt out.
C. C. Councilman, Alonzo Clark, wife and daughter and “Uncle Dick” Grigsby were visitors in Winters, from Berryessa Valley, on Saturday last.
A. B. Ish and wife and Rev. H.C. Culton went to Selma Fresno county on Tuesday last, to attend a meeting of the Synod of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Sarah Catherine Harriman, wife of our fellow townsman, T. B. Harriman, died at the residence of her father, J. A. Wilgus in Sacramento last Tuesday morn-
~8:53 p.m., Toyon Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Oct. 1: 11:41 a.m., Fourth Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~1:20 p.m., Abbey Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~2:46 p.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~10:27 p.m., Graf Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Oct. 2: 5:04 a.m., Jackson Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Police Arrest Log
Sept. 26: Johnson,
ing.
Mrs. D. Hemenway and Mrs. Udell went to Sacramento Tuesday to attend the State W. C. T. U. convention.
George W. Hill went to San Francisco on Tuesday morning’s train, to attend the meeting of the Masonic Grand Lodge.
L. S. Allen loaded and shipped three cars of wheat, six hundred bags, to Port Costa, this week.
95 Years Ago
October 11, 1929
Misses Jessie and Clara Robinson have sold their handsome residence and ranch property of 100 acres in the north edge of town to George Block.
YESTERYEAR
Ella Mae (Age 60), Charges: Sacramento SO misdemeanor bench warrant, Disposition: Released on notice to appear
Sept. 27: Gerardo Cortes (Age 55), Charges: Winters PD misdemeanor bench warrant, Disposition: Released on notice to appear Sept. 28: Purtill, Frank Martin (Age 57), Charges: Vandalism, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Sept. 30: Juvenile (Age 15), Charges: Possession of a controlled substance, Disposition: Released on notice to appear Report Log
Sept. 25: 11:54 a.m., 1000 block of Kennedy Drive, Fraud
Sept. 27: 4:27 p.m., 400 block of Cottage Circle, Vehicle Tampering
Sept. 29: 3:08 p.m., Grant Avenue/Fourth Street, Vehicle tow ~7:46 p.m., Baker Street/Railroad Avenue, Vehicle tow Sept. 30: 6:35 a.m., 1000 block of Railroad Avenue, Vehicle theft Oct. 1: 9:04 a.m., 1000 Village Circle, Theft ~1:50 p.m., 900 block of Degener Street, Fraud ~10:04 p.m., 500 block of East Street, Traffic Collision Oct. 2: 9:29 a.m., 20 block of E. Edwards Street, Vehicle tow For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.
the feasibility of the organization of a Junior High School at Winters.
Rice Bros. handled the deal. Samuel P. Russell, pioneer resident of old Cottonwood passed away at the home of his son near Cadanasso Tuesday, aged 90 years. Russell was a Kentuckyan who at the age of 12 accompanied his father via the Mississippi River, the Isthmus of Panama and the Pacific to 1 California, arriving to the then small town of San Francisco in 1852.
Winters High School trustees have extended an invitation to the several boards of trustees of the grammar school districts comprised in the high school district to sit with them at their November meeting and discuss
Mrs. J. B. Wolfskill has returned from a few weeks’ visit with her son, George of Placerville and is now at the home of her daughter, Mrs. R. W. Thurber in Pleasants Valley. Born Saturday, October 5, 1929, to Mr. and Mrs. William G. Brinck of Billings Montana, a son. Born in Bakersfield, September 29th to Mr. and Mrs. Ray Dafoe of Lebec, a daughter, Barbara Anne.
Mrs. Annie Vasey, Miss Evelyn Vasey, Mr. and e Mrs. Lloyd A. Islip, Mr. and Mrs. John F. Vasey and family, Mr. and Mrs. G. M. Vasey motored to Pope Valley where a family reunion was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Dolores Walters last Sunday. Hart H. North, prominent business man of San Francisco and Berkeley was looking after property interests in Winters on Monday.
Picked by Charley Wallace
File photo
Eventos hispanos
(arriba) Los miembros del equipo de diseño estudiantil hablan sobre su experiencia trabajando en el mural. (izquierda) Muralistas profesionales y estudiantes se reunieron para firmar el Proyecto del Mural Histórico Kate Humphrey 2024, ubicado en el costado del almacén de Mariani Nut Company entre las calles Edwards y Abbey el 22 de Septiembre.
Estudiantes muralistas firman el mural histórico del verano
Por Crystal Apilado
Traducido por Carol Alfosno
Un grupo de 25 estudiantes muralistas se reunieron para firmar oficialmente el Proyecto Mural Histórico Kate Humphrey 2024, ubicado al costado del almacén de Mariani Nut Company entre las calles Edwards y Abbey en la noche del 22 de Septiembre pasado. El evento celebró la culminación de meses de arduo trabajo y creatividad, marcando el octavo mural organizado por la Winters Participation Gallery (WPG). Dirigido por los artistas profesionales Jaime Montiel y Celestino Galabasa Jr., el proyecto del mural contó con la colaboración de los estudiantes de la escuela secundaria Winters High School, guiados por su maestra de arte Holly Smith, y Mariani Nut Company, el cliente del proyecto de este año. El mural captura las profundas raíces de la familia Mariani dentro de la comunidad de productores de Winters, celebrando el legado de 52 años de la empresa y rindiendo homenaje a los empleados, la comu-
Lavelle has served as the district’s “Chief Problem Solver,” taking on a variety of leadership roles in a small district where administrators often wear many hats. From overhauling district-wide radio communications to stepping in as assistant principal at Winters High School during a mid-year vacancy, Lavelle’s efforts have been invaluable.
“She has an impressive work ethic, always maintains a positive attitude, and brings up the best in the people she works with. We are so fortunate to have a leader like Lavelle in the district. She’s the person to call when you need something done,” said Dennis.
Dianne Halsey, head of the Winters Robotics Program and a WHS teacher, received the Program Excellence Award.
“Ms. Halsey provides our students with guidance and
nidad y el pasatiempo favorito de la Familia — el béisbol. Después de visitar la Historical Society of Winters (Sociedad Histórica de Winters), los miembros del equipo de diseño de estudiantes trabajaron juntos para diseñar el mural. Con el aporte de la familia Mariani, crearon un concepto vibrante que resalta no solo la historia de la empresa, sino también su participación en la comunidad. De naturaleza humilde, la familia Mariani enfatizó su deseo de que el mural destacara a sus empleados y productores en lugar de a ellos mismos. Sin embargo, los estudiantes artistas encontraron una manera de honrar a la familia al incorporarlos sutilmente al diseño. Una característica clave del mural incluye dos engranajes, uno que representa a los empleados y el lado industrial de Mariani Nut Company, y el otro que muestra los intereses de la comunidad, como Future Farmers of America (FFA), el equipo de robótica y los equipos deportivos locales. El mural está enmarcado por
support to set them up for success in engineering and robotics, the program she has built and the student empowerment she champions is an inspiration to us all,” said Dennis.
Under Halsey’s leadership, WHS’s AP Computer Science program received the College Board’s Female Diversity Award for expanding young women’s access to computer science courses. The program also saw a robotics team finish in the top 10 at the 2024 VEX Robotics World Championship.
Jessica Williams, leader of the AVID program, was celebrated for fostering a college-going culture throughout the school district. Jessica Williams received the Excellence Award for her AVID Program.
“As a former AVID Student, this one is exciting for me, and a reason I think I’m here,” said Zaragoza. Thanks to her leadership, Winters JUSD has built a thriving
cajas que simbolizan a los productores de la comunidad, mientras que en el centro, la fábrica de Mariani Nut Company está representada con una cinta transportadora de nueces listas para envasarse. El béisbol, un guiño al amor de la familia por el deporte, también se destaca en el mural.
La presidenta del WPG, Liz Coman, reflexionó sobre el enfoque de la familia Mariani en la comunidad y sus empleados.
“Lo que más me impactó fue que querían que sus empleados, los productores que los ayudaron a hacer crecer su negocio y su filantropía comunitaria estuvieran en la pared. Se trata principalmente de honrar a sus empleados y productores,” dijo Coman.
El supervisor del Distrito 2 del Condado Yolo, Lucas Frerichs, expresó su admiración por el proyecto y el trabajo de la Galería de Participación de Winters (WPG), que ha dado vida a los murales en toda la ciudad.
“Me sentí muy inspirado por la dedicación de los estudiantes. Los murales que apa-
AVID cohort focused on rigorous instruction and college preparation. she also expanded AVID to Winters Middle School, meeting growing student demand for the program. Under her direction, the Winters JUSD has implemented AVID strategies schoolwide and developed a professional learning plan that trains all teachers in AVID’s college-readiness approach.
Thanks to her efforts the district saw its first cohort of AVID graduates in many decades.
Mike Williams, the elementary music teacher, received the Grades K-6 Teacher Excellence Award.
“Mr. Williams understands that children learn through doing, and his classroom and teaching style exemplify this,” said Zaragoza.
recen en Winters son un espectáculo para contemplar,” dijo Frerichs. Enfatizó la importancia de apoyar a los artistas jóvenes y sus contribuciones a la comunidad, y agregó.
El superintendente de Winters, Rody Boonchouy, se hizo eco del sentimiento y celebró el poder del arte para unir a la Comunidad. “Estos murales no solo son hermosos; nos recuerdan que debemos escuchar, seguir y respetar el poder de nuestros jóvenes,” dijo Boonchouy. Elogió a los estudiantes por su liderazgo y expresó su orgullo por sus esfuerzos por preservar la historia local a través de la expresión creative.
Varios estudiantes artistas compartieron sus reflexiones sobre el proyecto. Cheyenne Williams, una artista de diseño, señaló que su parte favorita fue ver cuánta alegría trajeron los retratos a la gente. Eden Miller disfrutó de la fase inicial de diseño, llena de posibilidades después de recorrer el edificio Mariani. Hannah Arias-Dunlop, graduada de la clase del 2024 de Winters High
Mike Willaims’ work can be found across the school district, from organizing school assemblies, and holiday performances, to volunteering to improve the district’s visual and performing arts programs. Mike Williams — who also teaches music at WHS — consistently goes above and beyond to enrich his students’ learning.
Kimberly Spalding, an education specialist at WHS, received the Secondary Educator Excellence Award, Spalding was recognized for her innovative programs and dedication to students with the highest needs. Spalding created student-run enterprises, organized life skills basketball games, and implemented community-based instruction to improve students’ college and career readiness.
“Kim’s falling
School (WHS), agradeció su última oportunidad de ser mentora de estudiantes más jóvenes en el proceso de creación de murales. Muchos otros estudiantes expresaron su gratitud por la oportunidad de explorar y aprender nuevas técnicas de pintura. La velada también contó con la presentación de dos becas conmemorativas por parte de Valerie Whitworth, miembro de la junta directiva de WPG. Miller recibió la segunda beca anual Kate Humphrey Memorial Scholarship, que lleva el nombre de la querida maestra de arte de WHS que fue fundamental para iniciar los proyectos de murales. Williams recibió la quinta beca anual Tim Duncan Memorial Scholarship, en honor al difunto miembro de la junta de WPG y partidario de la comunidad artística local. Con la finalización de este mural, el legado de Kate Humphrey y Tim Duncan continúa inspirando a la próxima generación de jóvenes artistas en Winters. El mural, que se yergue con orgullo en la pared exterior del almacén
through professionalism, innovation, and dedication make her an exemplary educator who positively impacts students, families, and staff,” said Dennis.
Last but not least, Kimberly Ramirez, one of the Winters JUSD’s school psychologists, received the Student Services Personnel Excellence Award.
“Kimberly’s dedication, expertise, and student-centered ap-
de Mariani Nut Company, sirve como un testimonio duradero de la historia compartida de la comunidad, la creatividad y la dedicación para honrar a las personas que la hacen prosperar. Coman pidió a los empleados de Mariani que estaban presentes que se acercaran para tomarse una foto con el mural. Los nombres de 46 empleados que han trabajado en Mariani’s durante 25 años o más están incluidos en el mural; el empleado con la mayor permanencia en el puesto tiene 46 años de empleo. Este año, los muralistas estudiantiles incluyeron a Kosta Glaros, Ricardo Ovalle, Rubén Pérez, Gabriel Shelton, Jack Dennis, August Driscol, Jack Jordling, Diana Díaz, August Nelson, Natalie Saunders, Raquel Galabasa, Max Hernández, 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 y Julian Coleman.
proach make her an outstanding example of excellence in education,” said Dennis. Ramirez plays a vital role in supporting students through sensitive cases, improving their access to resources, and helping them achieve their academic potential.
“Her role as a leader among her colleagues fosters a collaborative environment that enhances overall educational outcomes,” said Zaragoza.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Apples over pumpkins – a slice of fall perfection
As the air should be crisp and the leaves should be turning, fall has arrived – even if the weather hasn’t fully caught on yet. While the world may be enamored with pumpkin spice, I’ve always been an apple kind of gal and consider it the superior fall flavor.
I said what I said.
My love for apple pie goes back to high school when I babysat for a neighbor who happened to be a professional baker. She taught me the art of pie making, from crafting the perfect crust to getting that filling just right. Before I knew it, I was gifting apple pies for the winter holidays. Moving to Kalamazoo, Michigan for college slowed my pie production down.
Fast forward to today: apple pie is still a household favorite, but my husband has developed a particular affection for an apple-blackberry pie we discovered in one of our cookbooks. He’ll sometimes sneak apples and blackberries into the grocery cart in the hopes I’ll whip
local government agencies to prepare an EIR for any project that may have adverse environmental effects — which essentially encompasses any major development.
The lengthy document is meant to detail all possible avoidable and unavoidable effects of the project and offer solutions or ways to mitigate the damage. The draft EIR for the Farmstead de-
one up. Between work, volunteering, and my kids’ activities, we often just end up snacking on the fruit, but occasionally I carve out the time for that sweet, tangy treat.
Lately, though, my cravings have leaned more towards baked apples. My go-to fall dessert this year? A cozy apple and blackberry crumble that marries the flavors of fall with just the right amount of spice and sweetness. Inspired by a recipe I found on the Lady Pear Tree cooking blog, I’ve made a few tweaks to suit my taste, including swapping some of the apples for Asian pears and using monk fruit brown sugar to lighten up the sweetness. The combination of juicy apples, crisp pears, and tart blackberries creates the perfect fall bite. The buttery crumble
velopment comes in at 1,105 pages and is split into several sections including aesthetics, agricultural resources, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and energy, biological resources, cultural and tribal resources, land use and planning/population and housing, noise, public services and utilities and transportation. Pages 28 through 64 of the document lay out the impacts in each of these categories, grade them according to a range
topping adds a soft crunch, balancing the tender fruit filling. It’s sweet, but not too sweet – just the way I like it. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top never hurts.
So, if you’re an apple fan like me, consider this your official invitation to embrace the season with a warm crumble fresh from the oven. Pumpkin spice can wait. Fall is apple season, after all.
Apple, pear and blackberry crumble
Adapted from ladypeartree.com
Ingredients
Filling
3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
2 medium Asian pears, peeled, cored, and diced 1 cup fresh blackberries
of significance, from “Less than Significant” to “Significant and Unavoidable,” and detail mitigation ideas for each line item. The Significant and Unavoidable impacts of the project listed include a loss of prime agricultural land and greenhouse gas emissions. The draft EIR was released to the public on Sept. 13, and will be open to comments for a total of 45 days, closing on Oct. 28 at 5 p.m.
At that time, the development team will
(I cut mine into smaller pieces)
lemon juice
Crumble topping
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup monk fruit brown sugar substitute (or regular brown sugar. Use 1 cup if you prefer it sweeter)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup butter
1/4 tsp salt
Putting it together
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
begin formulating responses to each comment, adding their answers to the questions or comments that are submitted by the public into the final draft of the EIR. In order to view the document in its entirety, the public can do any of the following:
• Obtain a printed copy of the document at Winters City Hall in the Department of Community Development.
• Obtain an electronic copy of the document by bringing a thumb drive to the Department of Community Development
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced apples and pears. Toss with cinnamon and a sprinkling of lemon juice.
3. Melt the butter in the microwave or a saucepan on the stovetop.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, sweetener, and salt. Pour in the melted butter using a fork and dry mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place the blackberries on top.
6. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
to copy the document onto. View the document online by going to cityofwinters.org and searching for “Farmstead Development draft environmental impact report.”
Members of the public can submit comments in writing to contract planner Dave Dowswell at dave. dowswell@cityofwinters.org.
Council members said that they plan on adding a page to their website with more information about the background and future of the project, but for now, those in-
7. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, uncovered, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Perfect Pairings
This month, Berryessa Gap Vineyards answered my request for what adult beverages to pair with it.
Corinne Martinez, President and COO of Berryessa Gap Vineyards, shared an apéritif-based after-dinner drink recipe featuring L’Apéro les Trois’ Homestead Quince apéritif.
“This semi-sweet, low-alcohol, dessert drink will nicely complement the select dessert since quince is a fruit that picks up the flavors of other elements it is paired with,” Martinez said.
“So the hard apple cider will pair well with the apple and blackberries in the crumble.”
Make it at home using:
3 parts L’Apero les Trois Homestead Quince 1 part hard apple cider (McGowan’s or other)
terested can learn about the project via the publicly available draft EIR or by attending or watching the recordings of future city council meetings.
Mayor Bill Biasi said that the current focus is the environmental impact report, not the project at large. City council and planning commission meetings will allow for a broader discussion of the project, although the details haven’t been set in place as of yet.
Next steps
According to the developers, after the final EIR is prepared — which could happen as early as November or December of this year — it will go to the planning commission for review, alongside the entitlements. For this project, the entitlements that will be reviewed alongside the EIR include a General Plan Amendment, a rezone, the planned development, a tentative subdivision map, an affordable housing plan and a development agreement.
City council members including Jesse Loren expressed a desire to push the meeting to after the holidays in order to make sure members of the public have the time to invest in providing their thoughts on the project. This certification decision is not equivalent to the city approving or not approving the project. It’s simply a certification of the document being complete and adequate. If the EIR is certified, the council can then move forward to take action on approving or not approving the Farmstead development itself. If not, the EIR can either be returned for revision or the project can be rejected entirely.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Pass on the pumpkin spice latte. This home baked pastry features a combination of juicy apples, crisp pears and tart blackberries that creates the perfect bite of fall flavors.
Wednesday, October 9
Measure S Forum, 7 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance)
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 10
Community Flu Vaccine Clinic, 5–7 p.m., Winters High School Student Union
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690
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
Sunday, October 13
Winters Farmers Market
9 a.m.–1 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market
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.
A new era in playground fun
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
On the sunny morning of Sept. 13, Shirley Rominger Intermediate School students and staff of Winters Joint Unified School District gathered to celebrate a milestone that will be remembered for years — the unveiling of the newest addition to the school’s playground — a highly anticipated wall ball structure. The joyous event was marked with speeches, cheers, and wall ball challenges.
“Today is a momentous day in the history of Shirley Rominger Intermediate School,” said Superintendent Rody Boonchouy, addressing the eager crowd of students. “We formally unveil what will surely be the most talked-about, leanedon, and bounced-off addition to our playground—the new wall ball.”
Wall ball is more than just a game — it’s an opportunity to learn valuable life lessons. Boonchouy, drawing on his own personal connection to the sport, emphasized this in his speech.
“As a former wall ball champion, let me tell you, this wall is more than just a wall. This wall represents one of the parts of school where many of life’s important skills are learned,” Boonchouy said. In a playful yet poi-
gnant tone, the Superintendent outlined the educational value of the game.
“Timing and reflexes as students become attuned to their environment. Real-life geometry, because angles really do matter. Resilience, as students learn that no matter how hard they throw a ball at the wall, the wall will always win,” Boonchouy said.
His lighthearted list of lessons also included “school diplomacy, compromise, conflict
resolutions, and anger management,” as students navigate the complexities of playground competition.
A year in the making
The wall ball project, which had faced a number of delays, was finally completed on Aug. 14. The process took 21 months to bring to life, a timeframe that became a symbol of perseverance for the school community.
With the ongoing fallout from COVID-19 impacting the construction industry and rising material costs, Boonchouy explained how the design process had to be restarted after certificate designs expired midway through the project. However, despite these challenges, the vision for the wall ball came to fruition.
“The Eiffel Tower also took
See WALL, Page 6
Celebrating Dick Holdstock, Elder Day honoree
By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council
Dick Holdstock, 90, was born on Wednesday, May 30, 1934, in New Forest — a local district in Hampshire, England. New Forest was built by a King in 1066.
Dick grew up in Sittingbourne, Kent, England, an industrial town in the Swale district, 17 miles from Canterbury and 45 miles from London, beside the Roman Watling Street, an ancient British trackway used by the Romans and the Anglo-Saxons.
Growing up
Dick and his family evacuated to Merthyr in Wales during the early days of WWII but returned in time for the Blitz. The Blitz was a lethal bombing campaign by Nazi Germany against the United Kingdom during World War II. He said he remembers World Ware II and the thundering sounds of bomb blasts close to his home. During the war, Dick accumulated an amazing collection of shrapnel which are small slicing metal fragments that become airborne when a bomb explodes. After the war, Dick and his family emigrated to Southern California. Dick has
two brothers but one brother has passed.
Dick and his family emigrated from England to the US when he was age 14. They settled in Southern California. Dick became a US citizen while he was serving in the military’s Army branch.
Notable thoughts
Dick’s first vivid memory was when at around 3 years old, being pushed in a baby carriage across an open field and a bull charging at them.
Dick worked as an optician and an Ophthalmic laboratory technician where he helped in the making of optical goods, including prescription eyeglasses.
He also worked as a health and safety administrator for the 1960 Winter Olympics held in Placer County where he worked as a health officer.
Dick and his family moved from Placer County to work at UC Davis to start a Radiation Department, where he also obtained the very first Radiation permit from the State of California, ever held by UC Davis. Dick is licensed in: California Environmental Affairs, Environmental Assessor, California Board of Professional Engineers, Safety Engineer, California Department of Health Services, and a Registered Environmental
Health Specialist. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health.
Dick is also certified professionally and has held positions, in numerous accredited areas of Environmental Health and Safety disciplines. Life reflections
Over 50 years ago, in March 1965, along with many other Davis, California residents and civil rights advocates, Dick took a three-day cross-country bus trip to join Martin Luther King’s March on Selma to Montgomery Alabama.
In 1968, Dick also marched and attended the Southern Christian Leadership’s Poor Peoples Campaign in Washington DC.
Dick said he was a close friend of Ceasar Chavez and spent considerable time with him.
As the Emeritus University’s Safety Officer, Dick experienced a memorable career at the University of California at Davis, that shaped his interests and accomplishments as a member of the University and the local community. Dick was a very proactive council
See HOLDSTOCK, Page 6
In unique fashion, a student ditches the scissors and throws a ball at the official Shirley Rominger Intermediate School ball wall ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 13.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Superintendent Rody Boonchoy smiles on as students loudly cheer in anticipation of the new ball wall.
Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo
Dick Holdstock was one of the 2024 honorees celebrated at the 2024 Winters Elder Day event in June.
Winters JUSD unveils long-awaited wall ball addition at Rominger
Pending home sales edged up in August
National Association of Realtors
Special to the Express
Pending home sales in August rose 0.6 percent, according to the National Association of Realtors. The Midwest, South and West posted monthly gains in transactions, while the Northeast recorded a loss. Year-overyear, the West registered growth, but the Northeast, Midwest and South declined.
The Pending Home Sales Index — a forward-looking indicator of home sales based on contract signings — increased to 70.6 in August. Year over year, pending transactions were down 3.0 percent. An index of 100 is equal to the level of contract activity in 2001.
“A slight upward turn reflects a modest improvement in housing affordabili-
ty, primarily because mortgage rates descended to 6.5 percent in August,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “However, contract signings remain near cyclical lows even as home prices keep marching to new record highs.”
Regional breakdown
The Northeast PHSI diminished 4.6 percent from last month to 61.6, a drop of 2.2 percent from August 2023. The Midwest index intensified 3.2 percent to 70.0 in August, down 3.6 percent from one year ago.
The South PHSI grew 0.1 percent to 83.6 in August, receding 5.3 percent from the prior year. The West index increased 3.2 percent in August to 58.0, up 2.7 percent from August 2023. “In terms of home
sales and prices, the New England region has performed relatively better than other regions in recent months,” Yun said. “Contract signings rose in both the most affordable and most expensive regions — the Midwest and West, respectively — because mortgage rates have fallen nationally. Housing affordability will continue to see notable improvements.”
How to determine how much house you need
Metro Special to the Express
buyers can identify how much house they need.
Potential home buyers typically have lists of requirements they would like to find in a new home. Although there are many features that are universally appreciated, certain elements may appeal to particular buyers more than others. For example, a swimming pool may be coveted by active families, but may not be as desirable to retirees looking for less upkeep.
The first consideration in home size is the number of residents. Rocket Mortgage says a good rule of thumb is to give each person 600 square feet of space. So that means a family of four would ideally live in a home that is 2,400 square feet, while a couple may be fine in a 1,200 square foot home.
Number of rooms
recent years. Many people have chosen to live with less and downsize to diminutive homes. Most “tiny” homes are less than 400 square feet and are not much bigger than some owner’s suites in larger homes. There are merits to small homes, and that includes a small environmental impact, less clutter, financial advantages, and other perks like spending more time outdoors.
Housing budget
“The Federal Reserve does not directly control mortgage rates, but the anticipation of more short-term interest rate cuts has pushed long-term mortgage rates down to near 6 percent in late September,” added Yun. “On a typical $300,000 mortgage, that translates to approximately $300 per month in mortgage payment savings compared to a few months ago.”
Size is a consideration that merits significant attention. The mantra “bigger is better” is well known, but homes with significant square footage may not be ideal for all buyers. “How much home do I really need?” is an important question for buyers to ask themselves before they embark on their home-buying journeys. Here’s how
Generally speaking, the more rooms in a home, the larger the house. Potential buyers should identify rooms they feel are essential. While formal dining rooms once were de rigueur, they largely fell out of favor in recent years in place of open floor plans. The more rooms you need, the larger a home should be.
Tiny house movement
The trend to live in very small houses has gained popularity in
Sometimes how much house a person needs comes down to how much he or she can afford. Small homes tend to be less expensive than large ones. However, even small homes in urban areas or those close to the water or other attractive amenities could still cost quite a bit.
Housing size is a personal preference that potential buyers must consider when they are shopping around.
One penny can go a long way to help Winters prosper Express Yourself
Living in a small city isn’t cheap, and neither is trying to supply services that people living in a big city take for granted. Over the years we have taxed ourselves to keep our standard of living at an acceptable level.
We have a municipal services tax that helped give us 24-hour police protection and we tax ourselves on our power and telephone bills to keep our city employees on the payroll. There is a tax on hotel rooms and bed and breakfast inns. We have passed bond measurers for the schools, a recent property rate increase for the fire department and now we are being asked to raise our sales tax by 1 cent. It is called Measure S and will be on the ballot in November. This might be the easiest tax increase to swallow, even if you don’t like any tax increase, ever. Why?
Because we won’t be paying for most of the tax increase, because most of us don’t shop
“We are already paying the extra sales tax when we drive out of town for our major purchases.”
in town. We are already paying the extra sales tax when we drive out of town for our major purchases. Our biggest tax collectors are the gas stations and most of that gas is paid for by those just passing through town.
We currently collect 7.25 cents for every dollar spent on taxable items in Winters. Groceries aren’t taxed and there are a few other items that are also on the no tax list, like your subscription to the Winters Express. That is the lowest tax rate allowed by the State of California. Most cities charge at
See QUICK, Page 5
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)
Aries, you might have been thinking about making changes for a very long time. One of the biggest changes could be moving home base. Look at real estate.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)
Taurus, even if you’re not sure what to do this week, you may have to make a decision quickly. Take an innovative approach when mulling your options if need be.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)
Nothing but pleasant energy will surround you this week, Gemini. Use it to your advantage to get a lot of things done at your own pace. Then you can enjoy a night or two out this week.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)
Don’t let a cranky beginning to the week ruin the rest of it. There are plenty of days to recover and have a good time with friends and family.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)
Leo, typically you enjoy being the center of attention and being gregarious with others. This week you might want to step back and enjoy some quiet time at home.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)
Just when you thought you wouldn’t hear back from someone you thought was out of your life, he or she turns up again, Virgo. You are not sure how to feel about this.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)
This week could prove to be all about the unexpected, Libra. Some things may not go according to plan, but it can be fun to be on a little bit of an adventure.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)
Scorpio, you are in a home-driven mood, with plans for renovation on your mind. While you are full of inspiration, the only thing holding you back is the budget.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)
Sagittarius, if someone had predicted last year where you’d be right now, you might not have believed it. But just look at how far you have come in such a short amount of time.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)
You might be walking on shaky ground, Capricorn. Certain variables are shifting, and you need to plan for a way to navigate the new situation. Trust your gut.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)
You are always there for other people when they need you no matter how inconvenient that can be for you, Aquarius. This week someone else steps up and take the weight off you.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)
Pisces, you are in a dreamy mood and everything seems like you are looking through rose-colored glasses. Have fun while it lasts, but don’t venture too far away from reality.
Jesse advocates for Winters
I am honored to enthusiastically endorse Jesse Loren for the Winters City Council. When endorsing any candidate, I look at their views on the issues that matter to our community and how and what the candidate has advocated for Winters. Equally important is the candidate’s breadth of knowledge and involvement in the organizations and agencies that impact Winters. Since 2016, Jesse’s leadership on Winters’s City Council has been solidly based on her advocacy for equity and inclusion, her support
T.S. No.: 2024-00406-CA
for improved infrastructure, support for seniors and a Senior Center in Winters, affordable housing, and improved transportation.
Attend any City Council meeting; Jesse’s work is self-evident. At every Council meeting, Jesse delivers the most comprehensive report. Her work as a board member of both the Sacramento Area Council of Governments and the Yolo Transportation District is central to providing improved transportation for Winters. This has resulted in the Multi-Mobile Transportation Authority that brought the “Bee-
Line” service to Winters, a much-appreciated on-demand bus service to all cities in Yolo County. Jesse served as vice chair of the Yolo Water Resource Agency for six years. This role resulted in the creation of the Yolo Subbasin Groundwater Agency (YSGA), a significant achievement mandated by the State of California’s Sustainable Groundwater Management Act. This collaborative subbasin planning serves the region’s sustainable groundwater needs and will continue for generations.
MARLENE BELL Winters
A sustainable, strong Winters
Did you know that when you make a pur-
A.P.N.: 027-690-045-000
Property Address: 1626 FARNHAM AVENUE, WOODLAND, CA 95776
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE
PURSUANT TO CIVIL CODE § 2923.3(a) and (d), THE SUMMARY OF INFORMATION
REFERRED TO BELOW IS NOT ATTACHED TO THE RECORDED COPY OF THIS DOCUMENT BUT ONLY TO THE COPIES PROVIDED TO THE TRUSTOR.
NOTE: THERE IS A SUMMARY OF THE INFORMATION IN THIS DOCUMENT ATTACHED 注：本文件包含一个信息摘要 참고사항: 본 첨부 문서에 정보 요약서가 있습니다
NOTA: SE ADJUNTA UN RESUMEN DE LA INFORMACIÓN DE ESTE DOCUMENTO
TALA: MAYROONG BUOD NG IMPORMASYON SA DOKUMENTONG ITO NA NAKALAKIP
LƯU Ý: KÈM THEO Đ Y LÀ BẢN TRÌNH BÀY TÓM LƯỢC VỀ THÔNG TIN TRONG TÀI LIỆU NÀY
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER:
YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 01/07/2005. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT
A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER.
Trustor: RAMON DURAN AYALA, a married man as his sole and separate property
Duly Appointed Trustee: Western Progressive, LLC
Deed of Trust Recorded 01/25/2005 as Instrument No. 2005-0003892 in book ---, page--and of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Yolo County, California, Date of Sale: 11/21/2024 at 12:45 PM
Place of Sale: AT THE REAR (NORTH) ENTRANCE TO THE CITY HALL BUILDING 1110 WEST CAPITOL AVENUE, WEST SACRAMENTO, CA 95691
Estimated amount of unpaid balance, reasonably estimated costs and other charges: $ 415,070.72
THE TRUSTEE WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, A SAVINGS ASSOCIATION OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE:
All right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described as: More fully described in said Deed of Trust.
Street Address or other common designation of real property: 1626 FARNHAM AVENUE, WOODLAND, CA 95776
A.P.N.: 027-690-045-000
The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above.
The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $ 415,070.72.
Note: Because the Beneficiary reserves the right to bid less than the total debt owed, it is possible that at the time of the sale the opening bid may be less than the total debt. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse.
The beneficiary of the Deed of Trust has executed and delivered to the undersigned a written request to commence foreclosure, and the undersigned caused a Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located.
NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on this property.
NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (866)-960-8299 or visit this Internet Web site https://www.altisource.com/loginpage.aspx using the file number assigned to this case 2024-00406-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.
NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction, if conducted after January 1, 2021, pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866)-960-8299, or visit this internet website https://www.altisource.com/loginpage.aspx, using the file number assigned to this case 2024-00406-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid, by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code, so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase.
chase in Winters not even one cent of the 7.25 cents you pay in sales tax is returned to Winters? The current 7.25 cents sales tax is split between the city of Winters, Yolo County and the state. Of that 7.25 cents charged, Winters nets just less than a penny! The remaining 6.25 cents is split by the county and State of California. On our ballot, for the Nov. 5 election, is Measure S which asks Winters residents to approve an increase of the sales tax in Winters from 7.25 cents per dollar to 8.25 cents per dollar. With the passage of Measure S, all of the 1 cent increase will come to the city of Winters and have a positive, local impact! The one cent increase will add an estimated $1.2 million dollars annually to city revenues. During past budget cycles there have been and continue to be deficits. We cannot continue to run our city in deficit or on our bare bones budget. The passage of Measure S will replenish budget
reserves used to cover deficits, provide for filling positions in City staff, bolster public safety services and provide funds for aging facilities maintenance and renovation. It will provide a sustainable revenue source. Vote Yes on S for a sustainable, strong Winters!
ALBERT VALLECILLO
Winters City CounCil
Jesse is a doer
I am honored to write this letter on behalf of Jesse Loren, who is running for Winters City Council. I first met Jesse several years ago when I hosted the open mics at Berryessa Gap and Steady Eddy’s. Jesse and Brian would often come to support local musicians and Brian would join in at various times. When we first met, we immediately connected as with were both life-long educators. We spoke of the state of education, music and other topics. It became clear very quickly how much she loves our beautiful
community of Winters and is so dedicated to making Winters a better place to live, as well as our county and our country. Her extordinary involvement in community programs and committees is unmatched. As you know, if one comes from the educational field, they have communication skills, integrity, the ability to bring people together, to listen and to carry out plans. In the case of educators, it is planning and implementing every day!! Jesse has proven she is a “doer,” a listener, caring, intelligent and has the utmost integrity. I wanted this letter to shine on her character as a person and a civic leader. Jesse Loren checks all of the boxes. You will never find anyone who can represent us and be our advocate on the local and state level more effectively than Jesse Loren. I enthusiastically endorse Jesse Loren for Winters City Council.
NANCY NORTHRUP J.D. Winters
may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed project If you are unable to attend the public hearing you may direct written comments to the City of Winters Com-
dave dowswell@cityofwinters org or call (530) 794-6718 In addition, the staff report will be available on the City s website 72 hours prior to the meeting
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in these hearings please contact Deputy City Clerk at (530)
the public hearing For more information regarding this project please contact David Dowswell Contract Planner or at dave dowswell@cityofwinters org 10/9/24 #76189
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P M on October 22, 2024, or as soon
New in Winters — Fine Eye Gallery and Blue Oak Antiques Express Yourself
Two wonderful new places to shop have recently opened in downtown Winters.
Fine Eye Gallery, at 14 Main St., is located in the place which was previously the Anona Gallery. And, Blue Oak Antiques is now occupying a space across the street, at 11 Main St., which was last used by Kona Ice/The Scoop.
Fine Eye Gallery offers a variety of quality handcrafted products. Original art works, high quality art prints, home accents, glass, lamps,
jewelry, garden art, ceramics, wonderful books, a bit of clothing, and numerous fun items that are both useable and lovely. It is a colorful and exciting array of nifty art!
Dora Martin, the owner of Fine Eye Gallery, has been selling art and other artistic pieces for 30 years. Her most re-
cent art store was in Sutter Creek. Dora looked for a spot in Winters for nearly two years and is very excited to have found just the right place. She says that when people enter her store, she wants kids to be amazed, women to be wowed and men to say, “Oh cool,” as they see the awesome items available. And
she is very happy to display and sell the work of many local artists who are trying to make a living doing what they love.
Blue Oak Antiques is a new store owned and operated by longtime Winters resident Susan Hamilton. Susan also owns Hamilton Antiques and Estates, which she has managed for several decades.
Blue Oak Antiques offers new and antique artworks, fine china, large and small furniture, textiles and carpets. They have a large selection of antique (often
Introducing Steph Myers, Master Gardener
The very first time I drove through Winters, California I fell in love with its old-town charm. The streets and parks are clean, and neatly trimmed, and neighbor can meet neighbor anywhere in town without worry. This is the safest environment you will ever know thanks to the people who live and work here.
If you enjoy beautiful gardens, there are plenty of them in town, several of which were designed and constructed by one of my favorite neighbors, Stephanie Myers (Yolo County Master Gardener). Her Winters projects include the roundabout (2018) and the Winters Library Teaching Garden (begun in 2019 and still expanding). I think her best work is the beautiful Japanese Memorial Gar-
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least 8.25 percent with some even higher than 10 percent. Winters collects the lowest per capita sales tax in the area. We don’t have big box stores or large clothing stores, we don’t have car dealers or tractor companies that collect sales tax. What we have are restaurants, wineries and tourist attractions. Small potatoes compared to our neighbors. What happens to the extra penny if we pass Measure S? We get to keep the whole penny. Right now we get to keep about 14 percent of the sales tax collected in Winters. The rest goes to the county and other government agencies. So, 100 percent of a penny increase in the sales tax is estimated to generate about 1.2 million dollars for our general fund. Right now we spend about $300,000 more than we take in because of COVID expenses. Those expenses should be decreasing, but, as you know, costs don’t seem to be coming down anytime soon. Our public works department is working with a slimmed down crew and we are having a hard time replacing our police officers when they retire or move on to better paying jobs.
If you want to keep
den (2024) at Main and Railroad. In her youth, she received a degree in science and began working as a Wildlife Biologist until retiring after 32 years. For years her work took her all over California and the western states surveying for wildlife and assessing impacts from a variety of projects.
She met her husband Garry Douglas while conducting a deer migration study in the Stanislaus National Forest. The first time I met her she was tagging turtles on Putah Creek. I built her a floating turtle trap that wouldn’t
Winters a nice place to live and raise a family, or just to keep it a financially stable city, vote yes on Measure S.
float. I thought it was the neighborly thing to do.
Besides the Master Gardener program, she is involved with the Friends of the Library who also support the Library Teaching Garden. Stephanie is a wonderful neighbor and if you are interest-
ed in becoming a master gardener or volunteering for any of the garden projects, look her up at the Winters Friends of the Library website (wfol.org) or contact her through Facebook.
When I asked her who, of anybody in the world she would like to have dinner with she chose Charles Darwin. I think he is the guy who discovered gravity (or maybe the theory of evolution).
Be a good neighbor, say hello when you see her around town.
NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT
the City of Winters will submit a request to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) for the release of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds under Title 24/Section 5301 (42 USC 5301 et seq) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 as amended to undertake a project known as the Winters Senior Center for the purpose of the construction of a 7,000-square foot senior center located at 143 East Baker Street in the City of Winters California
FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
The City of Winters has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment Therefore an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required Additional project information is contained in the Envir-
95694 and may be exam ined or copied weekdays 8 A M to 4 P M It also may be viewed on the City of Winters’ website at the following web address: https://www cityofwinters org/DocumentCenter/View/1293/City-of-Winters-Senior-Center-Part-58-EA
ancient) beads that were collected by Susan’s mother during her many world travels. (Susan’s mother had a store for many years, the Winters Antique Company, where Turkovich Wines now resides.)
Susan also has a large collection of Mexican masks and Native American jewelry, much of it made by local artists. And soon Susan will be offering sewing lessons, and likely some craft classes, too. I hope you will visit Fine Eye Gallery and
Blue Oak Antiques as soon as you can. New businesses need new customers to survive and grow. Talk to Dora at Fine Eye Gallery and Susan at Blue Oak Antiques; learn about the items they offer, and tell them what you are looking for. These two new stores are delightful places to find just that “thing” you need — or didn’t even know you needed — for your home or for a gift.
—Read more from Richard Kleeberg at JustThePoint.com or email him at Starbase27@gmail.com.
Sports
Warriors remain unbeaten with victory over RedHawks
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Friday, Oct. 4, the Winters High School varsity football team won its home game against Colusa High School by a score of 48–0, keeping their perfect season alive.
The Warriors pushed their record up to 6–0 with this victory and played one of the most aggressive games they have all season. After losing to Colusa twice last year, It was apparent to anyone watching the game that the Warriors came to win.
“The Colusa game was a huge win for us. They are not only the defending league and Div. IV champs, but also the 2023 state champs, so until someone takes it from them it is still theirs to defend,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward.
Looking at the offensive stats, Lane Brown had a great offensive
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exactly 21 months to build,” Boonchouy said.“This is the Eiffel Tower of Winters, California.”
Boonchouy’s comparison of the structure to one of the world’s most iconic landmarks added a touch of grandeur to the unveiling, but it was the students’ involvement that truly made this project special.
“The best part is that students advocated — made an argument — for this wall,” Boonchouy said, giving a nod to JD Dodick and Evan Zaragoza, two students who played a key role in pushing for the new playground feature.
“They saw firsthand the result of what can happen when you are persistent in advocating for something.
You can accomplish great things.”
A celebration of fun, resilience
In true playground fashion, the ribbon-cutting ceremo-
game with 61 rushing yards and two touchdowns. As starting quarterback, Brown also threw 165 yards and a touchdown and was able to successfully complete 80 percent of his passes. Gio Jimenez also had a great game against Colusa with 108 rushing yards and one touchdown for the Warriors. Sebastian Rodriguez and Jake Woods also contributed to the score with a combined 69 yards and one touchdown each.
“It has been a struggle for us to run the ball inside, but Friday they dominated the line of scrimmage and opened up some huge holes for Gio and Lane. So I definitely want to shout out Robert Maggenti, Nate Figuerroa, Sean Wojan, Avhin Willim, Davin Perez and Dylan Neal,” said Ward.
Looking at the receivers, Sebastian Valadez played his first
game back after recovering from an injury and led his team with three catches and 64 receiving yards. Jesse Madsen was another leading receiver for the Warriors, despite all three of his touchdowns being called back due to penalties. Miles Mariani also deserves a shoutout for his 40 receiving yards and a touchdown for the Warriors.
The Warriors’ defense is also worthy of kudos for laying it all out on the field.
“Defensively, this may have been one of the most dominating performances that we have had since I have been here. We did not give up a single first down and only gave up 5 total yards,” said Ward.
The Warriors’ defense played a ruthless game with five recorded sacks on the night by Nathan Apodaca, Jimenez, Danny Sanchez and Anthony Mayes Mat-
amoros, who had two out of those five. The Warriors also had three turnovers including a 50 pick-six by Macguire Plitt. Julian Hererra led the defensive team with nine recorded tackles, followed closely by Jayden Blackburn and Apodaca.
“We may not be very big, but we are very fast and aggressive and play very smart football. I thought overall, this was the best game that we played all year, but we definitely have to clean up the penalties,” said Ward. “We ended up with over 100 yards in penalties and if we are going to accomplish our goals this year, then we can’t keep shooting ourselves in the foot like we did on Friday.”
The Warriors will get to rest up this week but will play at home again on Friday, Oct. 18, against the Live Oak Lions.
ny was anything but ordinary. Rather than scissors, a student officially inaugurated the wall ball with a few swift blows from a ball, breaking through a banner and setting the stage for the celebration. As the ribbon fluttered to the ground, cheers erupted from the crowd. The festivities continued with snacks and, of course, wall ball action. Students were eager to break in the new wall. One particularly bold
student even sought out Boonchouy, challenging him to a game to test his earlier claim of being a former wall ball champion. The friendly competition encapsulated the spirit of the day — fun, community and a sense of accomplishment. The addition of the wall ball to the Rominger playground symbolizes more than just a new game. It represents the power of advocacy, resilience in the face of obstacles, and the
joy of teamwork—a legacy the school community will carry forward for years to come.
This wall may not be able to talk, but the stories and lessons it will help create are just beginning for Rominger students. Details about all Winters JUSD facilities updates and projects are available on the Facilities Department page at wintersjusd.org.
HOLDSTOCK
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member of the Davis City Council.
Dick authored “Again with One Voice” published May 2021 by Loomis House Press. A major part of Dick’s life has been in music and singing. In the mid-1970s, Dick along with Allen MacLeod, formed a duet and began performing traditional Scottish and English folk music. Known as Holdstock and MacLeod, they performed on the east and west coasts including parts of the US and Canada.
Dick enjoys playing the mandolin, bouzouki, and tenor banjo. He
also plays in the Quite Carried Away, an English country dance band.
In honor of California’s Sesquicentennial of the Gold Rush, Dick recorded his collection of Sea Songs of the Gold Rush with his wife Carol and Tom Murphey. Since the early 1980s, Carol and Dick have performed together as the Holdstocks of California. He has seven great-grandchildren. Dick would like to be remembered as someone that was nice and that made a positive difference.
The Winters Express featured all eight 2024 Elder Day honorees. See all honorees at https:// bit.ly/3XYdVeM.
a Winters High School sophomore, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Cruz has been an essential part of the junior varsity football team’s offense and defense playing receiver, running back and linebacker. “His attitude and effort are amazing. I am pretty confident he is leading our junior varsity team in touchdowns so far this season,” said assistant coach Rudy Baylor.
KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo Macguire Plitt made a 50-yard pick-six off the RedHawks quarterback at Dr. Sellers Field on Friday, Oct. 4.
WALL
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
A Shirley Rominger Intermediate School student challenged Superintendent Rody Boonchouy to a game of wall ball after the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Dick Holdstock (left) chuckles as Woody Fridae reads parts of his biography intervew at the Elder Day event..