Winters Express: Wednesday, December 13, 2023

$1

Youth basketball accepting sixth-grade athletes News, Page 2

including tax

Tips to prevent fires this season Features, Page 1

Volume 140, Number 46 — Locally-owned since 1884

Winters, Yolo County, California, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

The hometown paper of Timothy Bolla

PG&E donates 300 water barriers to city of Winters

By Amelia Biscardi Express staff writer Pacific Gas and Electric Company donated 300 water barriers, valued at around $90,000, to the city of Winters before the annual Holiday Tractor Parade.

In the proclamation the city council made at the Dec. 5 meeting, Mayor Bill Biasi explained the impact these water barriers will make.

“We hereby extend our deepest gratitude to Pacific Gas and Electric Company for their generous donation,” Biasi said.

“Their contribution significantly aids in our ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and enrich the quality of life for all residents and visitors of Win-

ters.”

Biasi also thanked the PG&E representative for the volunteers they provided for the event as well. He noted the jobs volunteers do at the event, such as assisting with crowd control, are not easy tasks.

Clay Merrill, PG&E local government relations representative, explained that the bond between PG&E and the city is unique due to the Gas Safety Academy being right off Grant Avenue in Winters.

“We have a special relationship with this city, having the gas safety here is great,” Merrill said. “You guys are a home away from home for the gas service representatives who come to get their training each

and every week. So thank you for being a great place for them to be.”

With 300 new water barriers now owned by the city, the city’s Public Works department doesn’t have to deal with the hassle of renting them from Sacramento. Public Works Operations Manager Eric Lucero explains that with the rentals, some were damaged.

Now with brand new water barriers that are leak-free, the Public Works department has one less thing on its plate.

City Manager Jeremy Craig, who attended his first Winters Holiday Tractor Parade, explains that these water barriers

See DONATION, Page 6

Council approves water tender approved for fire department

By Amelia Biscardi

Express staff writer

EXPRESS

Standing before the Winters City Council on Tuesday, Dec. 5, Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III explained that during the Mariani Nut Fires on Thanksgiving, Vacaville’s water tender was “perfect” to keep the fire at bay.

Council members unanimously approved the purchase of a 2014 fire tender from Oregon — for $199,500 — that should be available in Winters in two to three months.

With only 35,000 miles on the vehicle, a much larger capacity, a 1,000-gallon-a-minute pump as well as multiple turrets, Snyder and his team are ready to work with this

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Leticia Quirarte and Kate Laddish ask questions about the Build Alternative No. 2 design option. Mayor Pro Tempore Albert Vallecillo and Steven Robinson of Wood Rodgers listen in at a community meeting hosted on Thursday, Dec. 7.

Community meeting presents I-505 improvement designs

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief The city of Winters, Caltrans and Yolo County are working together to make it safer for pedestrians and bicyclists to cross over I-505 into Winters. The community gathered to learn more about the project and to give feedback to the agency tasked to execute the project at a meeting on Thursday, Dec. 7, at the Winters City Hall large conference room.

Representatives from the Wood Rodgers engineering firm were present to share details about the status of the project and its goals at the community meeting. Wood Rodgers is coordinating the preliminary design.

Yolo County staff, Winters City Manager Jeremy Craig and all five council members were included in the audience of about 20 community members.

Paul Gervacio, Pso-

mas project manager representing the city on the project, said the community had a chance to talk and ask about the project.

“The intent is for us to gather input from you so we can take it back to the drawing board,” Gervacio said. “We still have a ways to go.”

Tim Chamberlain, Wood Rodgers environmental lead, presented the local area being focused on in the project is from Morgan Street within Winters city limits down to Fredericks Drive in unincorporated Yolo County just past the El Rio Villa housing communities.

“The main goal is to get a better situation for crossing over the existing interstate,” Chamberlain said.

“I’m sure that everyone knows the current situation and really that it is inadequate right now. And also to provide a benefit to connecting the (El Rio Villas) to all of

the services and businesses that are in the city and generally improving pedestrian and bicycle accessibility.”

Chamberlain presented two main build alternatives for improvements to the I-505 overcrossing bridge.

Build Alternative No. 1 is to widen the overcrossing bridge currently in place.

There are three alternative options to the first build alternative (1A, 1B and 1C) that present different overcrossing improvements to the area where traffic and pedestrians/bicycles would engage on the east side of I-505.

Each of these alternatives would widen the overcrossing bridge with a Class Two bicycle lane and sidewalk.

Option 1A adds a right-turn pocket on the northbound loop ramp

See PROJECT, Page 3

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Fire Chief Jack Snyder presents to council members a proposal for a new, used water tender vehicle. vehicle.

“A new truck that would provide service for both the city and the district,” Synder said. “It gives us plenty of time to train on and prepare for the next (wildfire) season

before we have to actually start to use it.”

The water tender it is replacing is 27 years old and has been out of service since Synder came on in

Index

We at he r

Features ........................ B-1

Future subscribers: Taliah Nicole and Sephora Araceli Swift

See TRUCK, Page 3

Rain

High

Low

Dec. 06 TRACE

65˚

41˚

Dec. 07

.12”

65˚

41˚

Dec. 08

.09”

60˚

34˚

Dec. 09

.01”

59˚

39˚

Eventos hispanos ....... A-2

Dec. 10

.00

60˚

31˚

Dec. 11

.00

59˚

32˚

Christina Ana Photography/Courtesy photo

Opinion ......................... B-3

Dec. 12

.00

63˚

33˚

Real Estate ................... B-2

Rain for week: 0.22 in.

Season’s total: 2.16 in.

Last sn. to date: 6.49 in.

Mayte and Jeremy Swift of Winters announce the birth of their daughters, Taliah Nicole and Sephora Araceli Swift. The girls are identical twins and were born on Nov. 5, 2023, at the Kaiser Vacaville Medical Center. Taliah Nicole arrived at 5:18 a.m. She weighed 5 pounds, 8 ounces, and measured 19 and three-fourth inches at birth.

Sephora Araceli arrived at 5:22 a.m. She weighed 5 pounds, 2 ounces, and measured 18 inches at birth. Their parents are pastors at Genesis Community Church in Winters.

Classifieds ................... B-4 Community .................. A-2

Sports ........................... B-5

Date

Winters rainfall season began 7/1/23.

Weather readings are taken at 9 a.m. daily by local weatherman Joe Bristow.

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A2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Youth basketball program now accepting sixth-grade registration Express staff Winters Youth Basketball Program coordinator Zach Davis announced the program is accepting sixth-grade athletes who will be assigned to teams of the fourth and fifth-graders.

The older athletes will have an 80-minute split-session on Saturdays. The first half will focus on skill and technique development and the second half will be of five-on-five game against the other grade-level teams.

The program is open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade and there are limited spots avail-

able across the three age-group sections.

All athletes will be placed on co-ed teams based on the three age sections. Games are expected to begin at 8 a.m. for the youngest age group on Saturdays between Jan. 6 to Feb. 24, 2024. The season is scheduled to avoid overlapping with the beginning of the youth baseball season.

Registration fees are $50 for Kindergarten through first grade and $100 for second through fifth grade.

The last day to register for the Winters Youth Basketball Program is Monday, Dec. 18.

The registration link

is available on the city of Winters website at https://tinyurl. com/3db6vyre and on the youth basketball Facebook page facebook.com/WintersYouthBasketball.

The program is accepting monetary donations to provide equipment, reversible jerseys, and firstaid kits and to begin to build the program’s funding account from scratch. The program will also be covering background checks and live scans for volunteers, as well as high school coaches.

Questions can be emailed to WintersYB@gmail.com.

Little league registration open Special to the Express Registration to participate in the Winters Little League 2024 tee ball, softball and baseball programs is now open. Youths ages 4 through 14 are eligible to participate in the 2024 season.

The registration timeframe runs from now through Dec. 31 for $135 a player. Families and guardians must register online at leagues.bluesombrero.com/ wintersllca.

Player evaluations are mandatory for athletes ages 7 and above. Baseball and softball evaluations are scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. Times for age-specific evaluations will be posted by Jan. 15.

Little League Opening Day is scheduled for Saturday, March 16. WLL will share more details as they are confirmed online and on it’s Facebook page.

Questions can be emailed to winterslittleleague@gmail.com.

Lake Berryessa water levels up Express staff The water level of Lake Berryessa went up during the past week by 0.02 feet, with an increase in the storage of 341 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Dec. 12, the lake

level was 421.49 feet above sea level, with storage computed at 1,218,562 acre-feet of water.

Evaporation on the lake averaged 28 acre-feet of water per day. The SID is diverting 30 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 36 cubic feet per second flowing at the Diversion Dam.

December programs at Library Special to the Express The Winters Community Library and Yolo County Library will bring new programs to the regular lineup for December.

Plus, Winters Library hours will flex as students go on winter break mid-month.

Special programs • Gingerbread House Extravaganza!

• Thursday, Dec. 14 at 5 p.m.

Build a gingerbread house. Sweet treats, supplies, and a good time are provided.

• Hallmark Holiday Movie Marathon • Saturday, Dec. 16, starting at 10:30 a.m.

Escape into a world of heartwarming tales and festive cheer!

Bring your favorite blanket, sip on hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in the festive glow.

“Reindeer Games Homecoming” (PG),

Joe Trotter

Financial Advisor #7 East Main Street, Suite E Winters, CA 95694 530-795-3929

e d wa rd jo ne s.co m

“Steppin’ Into the Holiday” (PG-13), “Same Time Next Christmas “(PG), and “12 Dates of Christmas” (PG).

• Finals Week Study Break (Ages 12 to 18) • Monday, Dec. 18, 1 to 2 p.m.

Students can take a step back from their end-of-year stress with calming activities, a delicious ice cream station and soothing sensory toys.

• Craft Your Heart Out! (Age 16 and older) • Saturday, Dec. 23, 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Stop by the library to use crafting tools and materials or just

See LIBRARY, Page 6

Eventos hispanos

Aprobado los servicios de consultoría para comenzar esfuerzos de Proposición 218 Por Amelia Biscardi Traducido por Carol Alfonso La aprobación de los votantes proporcionaría fondos para el personal y el equipo de Bomberos de Winters Fire.

El Ayuntamiento de Winters aprobó una resolución el pasado 21 de Noviembre para contratar los servicios de SCI Consulting para servicios de votación y consultoría profesional.

La Propuesta 218 requiere la aprobación de los propietarios de la región antes de poder ser promulgada. Para garantizar que los propietarios comprendan por lo que están votando y enviar una encuesta que garantice el apoyo, se ha contratado a SCI Consulting.

El costo del acuerdo es de $79,216 que serán financiados con la Ley del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (American Rescue Plan Act).

Si los propietarios lo aprueban, el Departamento de Bomberos tendría que volver al Ayuntamiento cada año para seguir justificando su necesidad.

La concejal Carol Scianna señaló que el proyecto de servicio de votación garantiza que los residentes sepan por qué están votando.

“Me complació un poco ver el tipo de esfuerzo sólido para realizar actividades de divulgación y encuestar a los residentes para lograr su aceptación y asegurarnos de que estén de acuerdo,” dijo Scianna. “Y es algo gradual, de modo que si desafortunadamente no parecen apoyarnos, no gastaremos todo el dinero.”

La encuesta sobre la Proposición 218 se enviará tanto en el Distrito de Protección contra Incendios de Winters como en la ciudad de Winters, ambos administrados por el Departamento de Bomberos de Winters (Winters Fire Department).

Para el jefe de bomberos Jack S.

Gifts That Sparkle!

Snyder III, cualquiera de estas propuestas aprobadas ayudará con la dotación de personal, que el departamento tiene una gran necesidad.

“Si bien tenemos un programa de voluntariado excelente y sólido, ellos acuden cuando se necesitan llamadas y es difícil hacer las cosas del día a día con ellos,” dijo Snyder. “Todos tienen trabajo, trabajan para ganar dinero para sus familias, algo totalmente comprensible.”

Snyder afirma que algunos de los distritos locales pudieron aprobar esta propuesta y realmente ayudaron con la dotación de personal. Para Snyder, la dotación de personal es la primera prioridad si se aprueba, ya que reduciría las horas extra y ayudaría a prevenir la fatiga.

Cuando ocurre una situación de emergencia, Snyder dijo que un bombero debe permanecer junto a la locomotora por seguridad.

El otro bombero no puede ingresar a un edificio hasta que llegue refuerzo debido a los requisitos de la Administración de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional (Occupational Safety and Health Administration - OSHA).

Cuando las boletas de la encuesta se envíen por correo a los propietarios, tendrán el sello oficial de la Ciudad de Winters. Estarán disponibles en Español, también iniciados por sugerencia del concejal Jesse Loren. Las boletas se especifican para el área rural del Distrito de Bomberos de Winters o para propiedades dentro de los límites de la ciudad. La residente Corinne Martínez preguntó si los residentes que tienen propiedades en ambas áreas recibirán dos boletas, a lo que Snyder dijo que sí.

Los inquilinos no tendrán voz en la votación de esta propuesta, porque es un impuesto especial

que sólo afectaría a los propietarios, explicó Jeanette Hynson, consultora principal de SCI. Snyder y Hynson todavía quieren asegurarse de que el público esté informado sobre la necesidad de que se apruebe esta propuesta, incluso si alquilan y no pagan impuestos a la propiedad.

“Planeamos salir y tratar de transmitir nuestro mensaje, explicar nuestros problemas de personal,” dijo Snyder. “De esa manera podremos tener respuestas a esas preguntas antes de que se vote, si llega a ese punto. De esa manera sabrán exactamente por qué están votando y saldrán de este proceso.”

Uno de los elementos en los que Snyder quiere centrarse es en explicar al público lo caros que son los equipos contra incendios.

“A modo de ejemplo, tenemos radios que están llegando al final de su vida útil,” dijo Snyder.

“Nos aferramos a la vida con ellos para asegurarnos de que funcionen. Cada radio cuesta $10,000 dólares, por lo que es un gasto enorme. Así que esto ayudará a compensar, especialmente al fondo general de la ciudad.”

Hynson compartió el cronograma del proceso.

Planean enviar las encuestas a finales de Enero o principios de Febrero, esperan obtener resultados en Marzo y deberían presentarlas al consejo alrededor de Abril.

Snyder cree que es importante aprobar esto, ya que realmente ayudará al personal existente.

“Esto afecta la vida familiar,” dijo Snyder. “Pero nuestros miembros, como les he dicho una y otra vez, están súper comprometidos con esta comunidad, súper comprometidos con este departamento, van más allá, más de lo que la mayoría jamás hará y estamos muy agradecidos de tenerlos en nuestro personal.”

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Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023 — A3

City seeks stakeholder input for downtown on recent food waste laws, alleyway aesthetic

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent Winters City Manager Jeremy Craig refers to downtown as the city’s living room.

That makes finding feng shui all the more important in the downtown makeover.

For over a year, city officials have considered redecorating the city living room, mulling over changes with those who helped make it feel like home in the first place.

“There is so much rich history in our city and a large group of residents who have spent their time and treasure to make Winters what it is today,” Craig said. “It is important we work with the entire Winters community to ensure the final downtown plan fits as much of what residents value as possible.”

Getting the right fit and aesthetics downtown includes consid-

ering the future of alleyways, signage and waste management.

“Alleyways were discussed in past downtown discussions, and the rehab of the two main alleyways in town led to the natural question of whether more should be allowed to occur in the alleyways,” Craig said.

While the community survey shows residents favor alleyways used for functional deliveries and trash purposes, Craig said the business and property owner survey and workshop identified the majority felt the alleys were best for vehicles, access, parking and deliveries.

“It appears that the community sees the value in functioning alleys for business uses (delivery/waste management) than they see them as activation opportunities for uses,” Craig said.

Speaking of waste

“The important part of the rules and regulations is to offer a plan that provides a level of consistency around what makes Winters a special place but also allows some artistic freedoms in the final signage to offer uniqueness.”

Jeremy Craig, city manager management, Craig said that is an issue for any downtown due to recent laws requiring separate food waste. That’s why he is leaving it up to waste management experts and downtown stakeholders to make the final recommendation on what that will look like.

“You can see in the report there is support for exploring an offsite solution to unify waste management, however, the cost and complexity of such a solution make this more of a long-term discussion and the

report suggests exploring bin-sharing as a current step to assist,” Craig said. “This will be an ongoing discussion as we look to improve the sustainability of our waste services.”

Lastly, what hangs on the walls in any living room is crucial to feng shui.

“Imagine walking into someone’s house, and they have different paint colors every few feet and have wood, steel, neon, plastic and poster signs everywhere,” Craig said. “It’s similar in a downtown

— a cohesive and consistent signage plan helps the user identify signage and assist the community in its overall aesthetic look.”

But along the way, specific guidelines remain regarding a downtown makeover, much different than that of an actual living room, according to the city manager.

“The important part of the rules and regulations is to offer a plan that provides a level of consistency around what makes Winters a special place but also allows some artistic free-

PROJECT

TRUCK

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1

Option 1B adds a right-turn pocket with a realigned northbound loop ramp Option 1C adds a left-turn pocket to close the northbound loop ramp Build Alternative No. 2 is to build a new multi-use path and new pedestrian bridge along the south side of the current I-505 overpass bridge.

The new multi-use trails would be built as an additional connection outside of the El Rio Housing along Grant Avenue and Russell Boulevard, with the long-term plan of creating a regional bicycle trail connecting Winters to Davis and an even larger goal of creating a region-wide connection trail.

The project is currently in the preliminary design phase and alternative sections and environmental documentation are being conducted with funding from a federal Active Transporation Program grant. The city of Winters, Yolo County and Caltrans representatives are working to find additional funding options to pay for the final design and construction.

Public questions Public members questioned if the grade of the current overpass bridge would change in the Build Alternative No. 1 options and if more

Courtesy graphic

This image of the Build Alternative No. 2 shows a seperate multi-use pathway build across I-505, next the to current overpass bridge leading into the city. sidewalks and crosswalks would be included further down Grant Avenue into Winters.

Chamberlain confirmed the current grade of the slope would not change in Build Alternative No. 1 and that they are leaving further sidewalks and crosswalks to be considered in future build developments. Craig said the Farmstead project would be one of those projects to consider adding those in.

He also said there are more construction costs associated with all of the widening alternatives compared to building a new separate bridge due to the age of the current structure.

“The three widening (alternatives) is putting additional money into an existing structure that is already 60 years old.

There could be a lot of throwaway costs as it

nears its end of life,” Chamberlain said.

Another consideration that will need to be decided on is who will be assigned as the responsible party for ongoing maintenance of whichever option is decided on.

Chamberlain said the project is currently in what “Caltrans calls the approval and document phase” and anticipates having a complete draft of the environmental document available for public review by Summer 2024 and a selection of a preferred alternative by Fall 2024.

The complete project report and environmental document are expected to be done by the end of 2024 with the beginning of the final design starting at the beginning of

2025. Construction of the finalized project design is forecasted to break ground in 2027.

The project goals presented are to: • Provide a dedicated pedestrian facility across I-505 • Connect residences east of the freeway with schools and businesses in the city of Winters • Improve bicycle and pedestrian safety • Provide improved ADA accessibility within the project area (Morgan Street to Fredericks Drive) • Provide part of a regional bicycle train connecting Winters and Davis Questions about the project can be directed to the city clerk at cityclerk@cityofwinters.org or call 530794-6702.

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February. As well, its original purpose as a vehicle was to be a water truck.

With new water tenders being around $400,000 and taking two years to be completed, according to Snyder, this is a better fit.

Mayor Bill Biasi asked Synder if he thought there could be some use in selling the retired vehicle or using it elsewhere.

Synder was hesitant about another agency using it due to function issues on rural terrain but was open to finding use for it elsewhere such as its original use as a water truck.

“It makes me not warm-and-fuzzy selling it out,” Snyder said.

Another benefit of this new vehicle is that it has an automatic transmission, which allows for a much larger driver pool as some of the younger crew members are unable to drive a manual transmission.

“This is really spectacular that you can get this amount of truck for this

doms in the final signage to offer uniqueness,” Craig said.

As with any living room makeover, after contemplating the aesthetics of alleyways, waste management and signage, the homeowner has the final say on feng shui.

“In the end, the council is the final representation of those values and will decide, but having the community involved and feeling heard in the process will allow continued participation and will build upon the legacy of Winters,” Craig said.

More information regarding the Downtown Visioning plan will be shared with stakeholders and the community as the next steps ar finalized. The plan was last presented at a Winters Planning Commission meeting. The next step is to present it to the City Council.

amount of money and have everybody be able to drive it,” said Council member Jesse Loren.

“It’ll also be safer because some of the areas we go to (are) rough roads,” Synder said. “And having them try to do stick shift and go through the terrain is challenging even for the most experienced operators.”

Winters Fire Department will pay for the vehicle with a $152,000 donation as well as $70,000 authorized from the Winters Fire Protection District.

Police laptops approved

Within the Consent Calendar $37,122.45 already allocated in the Winters Police Department’s budget, the council approved the purchase of nine specialized Dell laptops.

Police Chief John P. Miller said that with the laptops sitting in hot cars and being exposed to the elements, they need regular replacement. As well, the replacement plan follows alongside the laptop’s five-year warranty.

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A4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

YESTERYEAR Picked by Charley Wallace

Photo by Charley Wallace

Getting in the Christmas spirit in 1994 by putting up Christmas wreaths on the light polls were firefighters Jim Dean and Chris Calvert. Winters firefighters and city staff have been putting up the lights for years and seem to enjoy themselves while bringing a little holiday cheer to downtown.

Public Safety Report tion: Released on a Notice to Appear

City of Winters

Fire The Winters Fire Log will return soon.

Check for updates at https://tinyurl. com/2usvczda.

Police Arrest Log Dec. 2: Boswell, Christopher Ray (Age 29), Charges: Battery on spouse/ ex-spouse/date/ etc., Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Dec. 3: Boswell, Christopher Ray (Age 29), Charges: Battery on spouse/ ex-spouse/date/ etc., Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Dec. 5: Mack, Amber Nicole (Age 44), Charges: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disposi-

Report Log Nov. 29: 4:18 p.m., 700th block of Taylor Street, Fraud Nov. 30: 12:34 a.m., 10th block of Abbey Street, Theft Dec. 2: 3:25 p.m., E. Main Street/Elliot Street, Vehicle Tow Dec. 3: 10:24 a.m., 400th block of Main Street, Found Property Dec. 4: 1:39 p.m., 100th block of E. Grant Avenue, Domestic Verbal Dispute Dec. 5: 11:09 a.m., 200th block of Russell Street, Miscellaneous Incident Report For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.

The Winters Senior Center is seeking funding for equipment and programming. Mail checks payable to Winter Senior Center Fund to: Yolo Community Foundation, P.O. Box 1264, Woodland, CA 95776

145 Years Ago

December 14, 1878 (From the files of The Winters Advocate) Last Monday evening, the trio of blind musicians who performed in Sackett’s Hall last Saturday evening, repeated their entertainment.

At the Occidental Hotel, last Sunday evening, as Mr. George Woods, the clerk, was handling a candle, and, so he says, giving it one “grand-flourishe,” it evidently came in contact with the lace curtains at the window, and, said he, “it went like lightning,” burning the curtain, scorching the cornice over the window, blackening the walls and burning two shawls, before the blaze was extinguished.

The founder of Wells Fargo & Co.’s Express, Henry Wells, died at Glasgow, Scotland, on Tuesday last, at the advanced age of seventy-two.

The exhibition of the Winters school will come off next Friday, December 20th.

The high winds make the sides of our office “give and take” like a heavy horse, when overdriven.

We are authoritatively informed that the trains on the V.V.R.R. will not be delayed an hour in consequence of the bridge across Putah, as it will be laid in sections so that the track can be connected at any hour the train is due.

130 Years Ago

December 16, 1893 On Monday of last week the mercury ran up to 90 degrees in the shade. The months of November and December being the warmest within the memory of the oldest settler.

W.J. Pleasants went to Vacaville last week

Years Ago Dispatches from the Express archives.

It is desired that all the singers of the community assemble at the Christian church next Tuesday evening at 8 o’clock to form a chorus for the Community 80 Years Ago December 17, 1943 Christmas Tree which is to A fire which started some time after midbe held in the High School night Thursday of last week destroyed the Gymnasium on Friday fruit shed on the R.B. Bigelow place.

Ship’s Clerk, T.A. evening, the 21st.

McCaskill, who is being publicized as one December 14, 1928 of the few survivors of as a witness against the two highwaymen who held up the two Japanese on his ranch two weeks ago. The young chaps pleaded guilty and were sent to jail for 10 days.

F.M. Wyatt has purchased two lots from the Episcopal Mite Society and has begun the erection of a dwelling thereon.

The lots are on Main Street, between Second and Third streets.

Last night Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Hill celebrated the fifth anniversary of their marriage and a number of friends gathered to celebrate with them.

“Father” Harriman caught a pike while fishing in Putah creek, below town, on Wednesday last, which was two feet, three inches in length and weighed eight pounds.

E.E. Warren has leased one of the store rooms on Main street belonging to J.C. Cradwick, and will open a drug store therein.

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December 14, 1928 The Service Club Jinx last night was just a big party of grown up kids, President Charles Graf presided.

It is desired that all the singers of the community assemble at the Christian church next Tuesday evening at 8 o’clock to form a chorus for the Community Christmas Tree which is to be held in the High School Gymnasium on Friday evening, the 21st.

President Charles Graf of the Exchange Club and committee F.M. Wyatt, J.W Ely, E.J. Graf and W.L. Ely attended the session at Madison Farm Center Tuesday evening. The purpose of the delegation was to discuss the Dunnigan Vacaville highway cut-off with the Madison people.

Philip Mark Swink Mark was born on Jan. 25, 1954 in Woodland to Mae and Delbert Swink of Winters.

Mark joined an already large family of five brothers and two sisters. He grew up in Winters and attended school there, graduating from Winters High School in 1972. Mark worked as a cook throughout his life and could prepare de-

licious meals. In 2011, Mark began caring for his brother Henry Dale who was courageously fighting cancer.

Mark is survived by his brothers Lynn (Josie) of Fairfield; Dewayne (Carla) of Woodland and sister Bonita Gay (Glen) of Bel Aire, Kansas; sister-in-law Barbara Swink of Winters as well as

numerous nieces and nephews, and friends Ron Streepy, Martha Vasquez and Michele Simpson. Mark was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Laverell, Randall, Henry Dale and sister Alma Lee Jones.

Graveside services will be held at the Winters Cemetery on Monday, Dec. 18 at 1 p.m.

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95 Years Ago

the escort aircraft carrier “Liscombe Bay” is a resident of Olive district. He purchased the Spencer Bagge hillside ranch some months ago, because of the house shortage in Vallejo, where Mrs. McCaskill is employed in defense work, and is commuting daily.

The carrier is reported to be the only U.S. warship lost in the recent Gilbert Islands invasion.

Aviation Cadet Fulton Stephens, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ben Stephens of Madison, was a recent visitor with his father.

Lt. Bill Duncan entrained Tuesday at Sacramento for Randolph Field, Texas, where he will take a flight commander’s instruction course. He had a ten day leave.

W.I. Baker has received a message from Capt. H.G. Potter, “somewhere in India.” The captain said that he is in good health and would be glad to get back to Winters.

Obituary

PO Box 520, Winters, CA 95694

530-795-4551

Auctioneer Roy Griffin was in town this week arranging for the sale of hogs on the H.L. Fredericks place next Wednesday afternoon at 1 o’clock.

The Winters Farm Home Department, Mrs. Allen Martin, president, will meet next Monday afternoon at 2 o’clock in the Domestic Science room at the high school. The subject of the hour will be desserts and cookies.

J.M. Goodyear attended the Bee Keepers Convention in Modesto last week.

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Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023 — A5

Veggie omelet with a side of sausage gravy

B

reakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day. However, I’ve tended to partake in a cup of coffee as my morning indulgence with something in the brunch hour around 11 a.m. as my first meal of the day. On occasion — whether going out with friends or family or because I’ve gotten my act together early enough — I do enjoy a hearty breakfast.

I caught a gnarly head cold following the Holiday Tractor Parade. My voice is still raspy and I’m still feeling a bit drained, but the cold symptoms have cleared up.

On Monday, I decided that I was famished following a weekend of sipping soup and tea for the most part.

There are quite a few breakfast options in town, and for that I am thankful. Although small, Winters has a booming breakfast and brunch selection available for locals and our visitors. I found myself craving biscuits and gravy, and no one makes it quite as satisfying as

Putah Creek Cafe.

The biggest challenge is that I often get distracted by other menu options.

I continue to try to branch out and try new things, and some of those new things look delicious. Their seasonal gingerbread pancake special called out to me, as did the Chicken n Waffle.

I found myself sidetracked by having to decide between having an omelet featuring applewood bacon and avocado (California Omelet) or artichoke hearts and sundried tomatoes (Vegetarian Omelet).

Although I’m an avid avocado fan, artichoke hearts and sundried tomatoes will almost always win my heart.

My jowls were still craving Putah Creek Cafe’s sausage gravy, and I added in a side order of biscuits and

gravy. Local tip: You can get the biscuit and gravy meal featuring two eggs and house-made sausage patties. But, if you want your cake and to eat it, too — get a side of it instead in addition to a menu option of your choice.

M

y tastebuds were not disappointed.

My vegetarian omelet was a fluffy blanket of eggs wrapped around a filling of spinach, mushrooms, artichoke hearts and those amazing sundried tomatoes. A melted layer of jack cheese drizzled on top.

From the mild jack cheese to the savory vegetables and tartbut-sweet sun-dried tomatoes, the flavors and textures melded well together with the egg. The home fries were diced chunky and had bite-sized

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Putah Creek Cafe’s Vegetarian Omelet — From the mild jack cheese to the savory vegetables and tart-but-sweet sun-dried tomatoes, the flavors and textures melded well together with the egg. bell peppers and grilled onions sauteed in. They brought a crisp crunch and creamy potato taste with a slight dusting of salt and seasoning.

The icing on the cake was the creamy sausage gravy.

I dabbed a few bites through it and it was heavenly.

Biscuits and gravy are a hearty meal on its own, and Putah Creek Cafe doesn’t shy away from bringing in bold flavor and fluffy biscuits to soak it in.

The buttermilk biscuits are crafted by hand and are large, soft and taste just like you think they should.

There are no hard bread pucks or grainy

biscuits being served here. The sausage gravy is thick and velvety. Chunks of sausage float in the gravy, which has a slight hint of black pepper.

If you must, order it to go and you’ll be delighted to know that your gravy will come

in a separate container so you don’t have to worry about having a soggy biscuit until you’re ready to layer the gravy on top at home.

I encourage you to add on a side order of biscuits and gravy today.

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Biscuits and gravy are a hearty meal on its own, and Putah Creek Cafe doesn’t shy away from bringing in bold flavor and fluffy biscuits to soak it in.

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A6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Supervisors select Frerichs as chair

By Rebecca Wasik McNaughton Media Last Tuesday, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors chose a new Chair and Vice Chair for 2024.

Supervisor Lucas Frerichs will take over for Oscar Villegas as Chair and Mary Vixie Sandy will be Vice Chair. These changes will take effect during the board’s first meeting in January.

In other news, the board received an update on the county’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP).

In September 2020, a countywide goal was set to have a carbon-negative footprint by 2030. In January of this year, the county launched CAAP development.

The county has received over 1,000 survey responses from the community through public outreach including 25 community tabling events, 19 public meetings, three summer workshops and seven fall workshops.

There are over 225 potential actions needed to meet emission reduction and adaptation goals. The

strategy framework for CAAP includes decarbonizing transportation, reducing vehicle miles traveled, decarbonizing energy and buildings, increasing energy efficiency, optimizing water use, minimizing waste, reducing off-road equipment emissions, encouraging sustainable agriculture, sequestering and storing carbon in natural and working lands, reducing the carbon footprint of consumption and production as well as building resilient infrastructure and healthy communities.

Cost implications are estimated to be $1.6 to 2 million annually internally and $1.5 to 2 million annually externally.

In the spring of 2024, the draft CAAP and a third round of workshops, plus budgeting discussions will begin. Final CAAP adoption and implementation will start in the summer of 2024.

The board voted unanimously to direct staff to prioritize programs and projects that support CAAP implementation in the 2024-25 budget principles.

LIBRARY Continued from Page 2 to have a space to complete your craft projects. Meet fellow craft enthusiasts, share ideas, and make new friends who share your passion for creativity. All skill levels are welcome.

Winter break hours The Winters Community Library will pivot to its School Not in Session schedule from Dec.

Adoption of the 2023-24 Master Fee Resolution and changes to the Yolo County Master Fee Schedule for the Assessor/Clerk Recorder/Elections, Community Services, Financial Services, Library and Sheriff’s departments were also approved.

The Master Fee Schedule was last updated on June 27. This schedule allows for a systematic review of county fees and allows for necessary adjustments to reflect changing service delivery costs.

There are 27 new fees, four fee deletions and 353 fee increases for 2023-24.

Staff says these fees are determined by state law and calculations from fee consultants.

Supervisors also received an update on the American Rescue Plan and approved additional funding of $250,000 for the completion of Roadmap to the Future needs assessments. The remaining $2.25 million from the Child, Youth and Family funding allocation was set aside as per staff recommendation.

21 to Jan. 5. Public hours will be: Monday/Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday/Thursday from 12 to 8 p.m., Friday/Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays.

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: www.facebook.com/ yolocountylibrary.org.

DONATION Continued from Page 1 allow for ease of transportation when empty.

Before the donation, the city was looking at an estimate of around $16,000 to rent water barriers.

“I think it’s (going to) provide a lot of flexibility and help a lot of our events being closer to breaking even,” Craig said.

“And bringing it (to) other people’s events to help them because our guys are gonna be a lot cheaper.”

From a public safety standpoint, Police Chief John P. Miller said these water barriers are much safer than the previously used wooden sawhorses for events.

Previously one of the all too real risks was that drivers would accidentally

Courtesy photo

Pacific Gas & Electric Company donated 300 water barriers (valued at $90,000) to the city of Winters. or sometimes intentionally maneuver around different barriers and into pedestrians. Now with the water barriers that makes it more difficult.

Miller said they started using water barriers in 2021. Winters Police Department noticed the help they were to public safety and mandated them for most events.

Additionally, both

Miller and Craig noted that while more than 200 water barriers were used during the parade, there was a plan in place for emergency vehicles to gain access.

“We’re trying to make the event safer,” Miller said. “We learn from every single one of them ...

We’ll try something different and either that works or that doesn’t work.”

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FEATURES

Living in an HOA neighborhood

Charley hopes to reunite family pics

HOMES, Page 2

OPINION, Page 3

Wednesday, December 13 Winters Planning Commission Special Meeting, 6:30 p.m.,City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/planning-commission/ 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, December 14 Gingerbread House Extravaganz, 5 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/

Thursdays Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690 Saturday, December 16 Hallmark Holiday Movie Marathon, 10:30 a.m. start time, Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Monday, December 18 Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting, 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check www.cityofwinters. org/natural-resources-commission/ Tuesday, December 19 Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/

Upcoming

December 21 to Janury 5 Winters Library Hours (School Not in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 12–8 p.m., Fri/Sat: 1–5 p.m., yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ December 22 to Janury 1 Winters City Hall Closed, Visit www.cityofwinters.org/calendar

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

SPORTS, Page 5

Courtesy photo

Fire crews engaged in situations of natural gas leaks, fire, patient care and isolating leaks. The agencies were able to practice working together in these mock situations to prepare them for real-life incidents.

Think ‘safety first’ to prevent fires this holiday season

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., City Hall Council Chambers (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check https://wintersjusd.diligent.community

WHS varsity hoops score wins

Safety first is not always in the forefront for many who are more concerned with Christmas and holiday décor, candles and cooking.

However, heightened death, injury and destruction during the holidays is a fact, and the National Fire Protection Association confirms it. They report an annual average of four deaths, dozens of injuries and $14 million in property damage during the holidays.

Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way. Winters Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III laid out all the fire safety tips needed to have a happy holiday, starting with stoves.

“Please ensure that if you have kids, there are gates preventing them from getting close to the flames and heat,” Snyder said.

Before throwing on another log, ensure your chimney has been cleaned and serviced.

Snyder said uncleaned chimneys cause fires.

“The proper disposal of any ashes is extremely important,” Snyder said. “Make sure they are disposed of in a fireproof container and are stored away from the home and any other combustibles.”

According to the chief, holiday candles, specifically on a Menorah, can be hazardous when left unattended.

“Ensure they have an adequate clearance from anything, they are out of reach of children, and they are stable and can’t be knocked over, and extinguish them before leaving,” Snyder said.

The next step in holiday fire safety is having fully charged fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Snyder said there should be, at a minimum, a smoke detector in every bedroom and level of the home. He said batteries in alarms and smoke detectors should be changed every six months.

“A good rule to do this (change batteries) is during the time change,” Snyder said.

Snyder said keeping carbon monoxide detectors fully charged is critical, noting, “It’s a colorless and odorless gas that has devastating outcomes if it is not detected early.”

Most importantly, have a fire extinguisher, especially in the kitchen, where more holiday cooking raises fire risk, according to the chief. However, it’s not just inside fires Winters residents should be wary about, according to the chief, who said wildfires remain a risk.

Along with maintaining proper clearances around homes, the chief says to be responsible when off-roading and pulling trailers in the countryside.

“We can still have grass fires this time of year like we did the morning after Thanksgiving,” Snyder said.

Of all fire safety holiday advice, the chief said every family should practice and have a safety plan that includes an escape route and a meeting place outside. However, Snyder added that a plan is only good with practice.

“They also help the fire department when they arrive to

know if everyone is out and safe or if we need to perform a rescue, which is our number one priority to ensure life safety,” Snyder said.

For the safety of all Winters families, it is essential to heed the chief’s advice this holiday.

Whether it means adding one less strand of light to the tree so the outlet doesn’t blow or getting the chimney cleaned before guests arrive, take these tips to heart to avoid harm.

“If there is an incident at your home, get out, go to your meeting point and call 9-1-1,” Snyder said. “Do not go back in after pets, stuffed animals — most items are replaceable, but a life is not.”

Winters Fire Department crews work year-round to practice different exercises in a multitude of incidents they may face. They also do exercises with different fire departments and emergency agencies to become familiar with each agencies procedures. In November, Winters Fire worked with firefighters from West Plainfield and Willow Oak Firefighters for a joint training on vehicle fire operations. In October, they worked with multiple agencies including CALFire and fire crews from Dixon Fire and Davis Fire Departments to practice incidents involving multiple types of gas emergencies.

For regular updates and safety tips, follow Winters Fire Department on social media at facebook.com/WintersFire or visit wintersfire. org.

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, 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 p.m.), Winters Opera House, 13 Main St. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m., Hooby's Brewing Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org 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.

Courtesy photo

In mid-October, Winters Fire Department worked with CALFire, Davis Fire Department, Dixon Fire Department and Pacific Gas and Electric Co. to conduct a full-scale exercise at the PG&E Training Facility.

Out and About: Santa visits baristas

Special to the Express

Have you been naughty or nice? Santa Claus was spotted visiting the baristas as Steady Eddy’s Coffee Shop this week! Only a few more weeks until Christmas. Shop local for all your gift giving needs this year.

B2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Living in an HOA neighborhood Special to the Express Living in a community governed by a homeowners’ association (HOA) offers a unique residential experience that comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

For those considering HOA-managed properties, it’s essential to understand both sides of the coin before deciding to purchase or lease.

HOA living can have a huge effect on property values and daily life.

Pros of HOAs HOAs typically enforce rules regarding property upkeep, ensuring the neighborhood remains visually appealing. They maintain a standard of aesthetics as well-maintained common areas, landscaping and consistent architectural

style can enhance the overall curb appeal.

Many HOA communities offer residents access to amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, playgrounds and even security services. These features can add value to your daily life without the responsibility of maintenance.

HOAs often organize social events, fostering a sense of community among residents.

Neighborhood gatherings, book clubs or sports activities can provide opportunities to connect with neighbors and build friendships.

By enforcing property maintenance standards and overseeing common areas, HOAs can help maintain and potentially increase property values over time. This stability can be reassuring for homeowners.

HOAs

provide a structured framework for resolving disputes among neighbors, which can reduce conflicts and maintain a harmonious living environment.

Cons of HOAs Living in an HOA community typically involves monthly or annual fees. These fees cover the costs of common area maintenance, amenities and HOA management.

HOAs often have rules governing everything from exterior paint colors to lawn maintenance. While these rules can maintain aesthetics, they may limit your creative freedom and require adherence even if you disagree.

Residents may have limited say in the HOA’s decisions, including budget allocation and rule changes.

Your preferences may

Adobe/Stock photo

HOA living can provide a sense of security and shared amenities that enhance your lifestyle. However, it can also mean sacrificing some personal freedoms and potentially dealing with conflicts over rule enforcement. not align with those of the HOA board. HOAs have authority to enforce rules through fines, which can be a source of frustration if you receive penalties for minor infractions or have disputes with the association.

In some cases, HOAs may mismanage funds or make decisions that negatively affect the

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Property value and daily life Property values can be both positively and negatively affected

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property values over time. However, the strict rules and fees associated with HOAs may deter some buyers, potentially limiting your pool of potential future buyers.

Regarding daily life, HOA living can provide a sense of security and shared amenities that enhance your lifestyle. However, it can also mean sacrificing some personal freedoms and potentially dealing with conflicts over rule enforcement.

Prospective residents should carefully

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• New Construction • Residential/Commercial

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Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023 — B3

Express Yourself

Thanks for entering the rainfall contest

N

ot that I was starting to worry that no one was reading the Express, but thank you to all who have mailed, or dropped into the mail slot entries for the Express Rainfall Contest. The deadline is Dec. 15, so if you haven’t turned in your guess, there is still time. (The entry form is on page B4.)

I’m having a hard time deciding which old photo to use each week in the Express.

I opened up the file for 1993 and found almost 3,500 photos.

Before we went digital there were maybe 500 to 1,000 photos a year. I not sure when we stopped using our darkroom, but there was some overlap when we used both digital and film. We kept using film for sports until digital cameras got better.

With film, we developed two or three rolls per week, all in black and white. One roll for news and one roll for sports, and one extra roll if something important happened in town. With a digital camera, everything came out in color and we converted them to black and white for the newspaper.

When we merged with McNaughton Newspapers in 1994, we started printing color

photos in the paper.

The big difference is the number of pictures we took each week. With a film camera, you took one or two, hoping that you could use one of them.

Each roll had either 24 or 36 pictures and you didn’t want to waste a shot. With digital, there were almost an unlimited number of pictures on each computer card.

With the help of Tom Crisp, we have digital copies of most of our old 35 mm film, filed away by year. Several hundred photos each year and thousands of digital files. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of pictures of basketball player’s armpits. I tried to get Tom to delete them, but he thinks they might be important someday.

T

he museum is expanding into another room to display the town of Monticello and the Lost Japanese of Winters. I’ve been recycling old file folders, mostly tax information, old checks, insurance policies and just junk. Stuff my father and I thought were important, but no one wants to be left cleaning out the office, especially my children.

I have found a few

See QUICK, Page 4

Horoscopes ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) Take it easy this week, Aries. You may need to coast for a little bit rather than racing that car around every turn. Enjoy all the simple things you can do and cherish the memories.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) Taurus, if you cannot be yourself with your friends, then with whom? Let down your defenses and do what you want this week, especially if you are celebrating at a social event. No one will be judging.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) Gemini, devote some time to planning your vision of the future, rather than just focusing on the work in front of you. It is wise to be planning months ahead to set yourself up for success.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22) Others may tell you to get your head out of the clouds, Cancer, but you can leave it right there. It pays to dream a little because you never know when great ideas will come to you.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) Put your emotions first, Leo. Rather than thinking with your head, you need to think with your heart. You have to trust your gut and make decisions based on intuition right now.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) Virgo, empathy will come very easily to you this week, when you can easily put yourself in someone else’s shoes and know just what they are feeling. Continue to support your friends.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) Motivations may be running low right now regarding improving your health, Libra. You can start thinking of strategies to put into effect for New Year’s resolutions.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) Try to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground this week, Scorpio. Various distractions are trying to knock you off course, but you don’t have time for that now.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) You need to put family first right now, Sagittarius. Every other thing that is in your orbit should take a back seat to familial obligations and the needs of loved ones.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) Capricorn, a conversation with a neighbor or colleague can begin on a casual note and then grow into something much more profound. Always keep your eyes open to possibilities.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) There are more ways to increase your income without having to resort to backbreaking work, Aquarius. Look around to explore the possibilities that might be out there.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) Pisces, rather than trying to fit in this week, march to the beat of your own drummer. You’ll soon find a squad who thinks similarly to you. Then you can enjoy long-lasting friendship.

B4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Express Yourself Another version of Downtown Vision

O

nce again, the City tells us that they need to do more studies to determine the proper “vision” for downtown Winters. We’ve had this discussion before, and I thought that city management was ready to offer us their version of a Winters Vision Plan. But apparently the city still needs advice.

Well, I’m here to help!

You may remember that the city paid a San Francisco consultant $75,000 a couple of years ago to create a Downtown Vision Plan. That consultant report suggested that we discuss how often to close Main Street, how many Pergolas (covered structures) we want, and pointed out that some Main Street businesses want more parking available for their customers. Yes, the city spent $75,000 to find out what we already knew!

(I wrote a column about that expensive consultant report for the Express, “City Downtown Vision Project Offers Few Surprises,” nine months ago. Drop me an email — Starbase27@gmail.com — and I’ll send you a copy.)

Our city leaders are making this Vision Statement Project

far more challenging than it needs to be.

Most of us know that there are obvious things we can do in the downtown area. It just isn’t that complex a problem. Here are three ideas to begin with.

L

et’s start with the numerous pergolas on Main Street. (The pergolas are the open-sided covered structures that provide people with protection from the sun and rain.) Just a short walk down Main Street on most afternoons or evenings makes it fairly simple to see which pergolas should stay, which could be cut in half, and which need to go.

The pergola in front of the Pizza Factory is an obvious one to remove. It has been there three years and I still have never once seen anyone sitting under it! And we don’t need three pergolas in a row in front of Berryessa Gap, Bella Boutique and a hair salon. Take one away.

And maybe take down

half of another one there, too.

There is a large pergola in front of L’Apero. It rarely gets used, so why not cut it in half? And another large pergola sits in front of the Buckhorn’s DeVilbiss Bar & Lounge. It, too, is rarely occupied, making it another good candidate to be downsized by half.

Removing two pergolas and reducing two more by half will allow eight to 10 parking places to reappear on Main Street. That will make many business owners quite happy.

Next, we need to redo the wayfarer signs — those colorful signs designed to help visitors and tourists know what stores and shops are in town, and where to find them. I was a member of the Chamber of Commerce Executive Board when the Chamber sponsored those signs 10 years ago. They were a great idea, but they certainly need to be updated!

Take down the Clay-

ground wayfarer sign — the store closed a long time ago. And Eagle Drug also closed years ago — take down their sign. Wiscombe Funeral Home died a few years ago, but their sign survives.

Bury it! The Spin-AYarn store unravelled long ago — time to untie their sign!

Add new Wayfarer signs for recently opened stores. L’Apero doesn’t have a sign.

Anona Gallery and First Street Studio Art Gallery don’t have signs. And Kona Ice, Farmers Closet, Elevate Barbershop and the Winters Collective need signs, too. It is embarrassing for Winters to have so many store changes on Main Street, while no effort has been made to redo the Wayfarer signs for downtown visitors! nd finally, let’s do something about the expanding number of sandwich board signs on Main Street. Can we just agree to decrease the number of sandwich board signs that are all over the sidewalks? Somedays its really difficult to walk in a straight line on the sidewalk on either side of Main Street. Do we really need 15 or 20 sandwich board signs

A

See VISION, Page 5

Letters End Polio Now speaker The public is invited to hear Rotary's speakers this week, Mike Crosby and Marsha Brown are members of the Rotary Club of Brentwood, California, District 5160. Mike is the Zone 27 End Polio Now Leader for part of the US and Canada. In 2022, Mike was selected by Rotary International as one of 40 regional members worldwide who are going above and beyond to help end polio.

QUICK Continued from Page 3 treasures, but for every box of good stuff there are two large trash cans for the recycling bin. I’ve now discovered expanding file folders, each containing a year of old photos. These are photos that people dropped off, or promo-

HOA Continued from Page 2 consider their preferences, budget and lifestyle before deciding whether living in an HOA community aligns with their goals and values. Whether the benefits of community cohesion and property value stability outweigh the restrictions imposed by HOA rules is a personal decision that requires thoughtful consideration.

Seller’s tip Offensive odors will make it hard to sell your home and covering them up isn’t going to do the trick.

Take time to find the source of bad odors and get rid of them.

Wash your garbage bins, clear drains, get rid of old furniture, wash your bed sheets and open windows to air out the house — especially kitchens.

If you are a smoker, place bowls of vinegar around the house for three days then open the windows and air the house out.

Mike and Marsha will talk to our club about how close we are to ending Polio from the world and about some of their adventures in their efforts to help eradicate Polio.

They will speak at the Buckhorn on Thursday, Dec. 24 at noon in the banquet room in the rear of the building.

The program will be held after our lunch and short business meeting, starting at noon. The cost of lunch is $20. You may also hear the presentation without buying

lunch. The program starts at 1 p.m. This presentation will be a good way for people to hear about the kinds of things Rotary is doing locally and around the world to make a positive difference.

Please RSVP to Woody Fridae at 530-204-8563 if you would like to come so that we can inform the Buckhorn of the increased attendance for this special event.

tional photos for area events.

I’ve been dumping them into box lids and putting them out for people to go through when they visit the museum.

There are wedding photos that we put into a binder so people can identify the bride and groom. There are post-it notes with a lot of question marks.

There are family photos, some

I’m trying to reunite with their owners, but most of the photos are just piling up waiting for someone else to throw them away. There are more coming as I empty more filing cabinets.

If you would like to waste a day or two, stop by and help yourself to as many photos as you can carry.

Have a good week.

WOODY FRIDAE, Rotary Club of Winters

Winters Express RAINFALL CONTEST Guess the total rainfall for the 2023-2024 season and the Express will give you $100 plus $25 bonus if you are a subscriber to the Express. There might be other prizes. Submit your entries by Dec. 15, 2023: Charley Wallace 13 Russell Street Winters, CA 95694 or put through the office door Only one guess per person. Rainfall total will be from measurements at the National Weather Service Station in Winters.

Annual rainfall ends on June 30. Watch the Express for weekly and yearly totals.

Name ________________________________ Address ______________________________ Rainfall guess (in inches) ________________

Remember the deadline is Dec. 15, 2023

Legal Advertising FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20230977 11/17/2023 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business Name: MGB HAIR BRAIDING Physical Address: 331 D STREET SUITE B, DAVIS CALIFORNIA 95616 Mailing Address: 614 ADAMS ST APT 3, DAVIS CALIFORNIA 95616 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: JEANINE MUKOMA MANGABU 614 ADAMS ST APT 3, DAVIS CA 95616 Business Classification: INDIVIDUAL Date of Business: N/A /s/ JEANINE MANGABU Title of Officer Signing: OWNER I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal.

Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo Published December 13, 20, 27 2023, January 3, 2024 #469 FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20230957 11/13/2023 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business Name: SOLO Physical Address: 102 MAIN STREET, WINTERS, CA 95694 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: MCCLAIN CONSULTANT LLC, 102 MAIN STREET, WINTERS, CA 95694 Business Classification: Limited Liability Company Date of Business: 11/01/2023 /s/ Michelle McClain Title of Officer Signing: PRESIDENT, MCCLAIN CONSULTANT LLC I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal.

Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo Published November 22, 29, December 6, 13, 2023 #461

FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20230938 11/03/2023 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business Name: INVICTUS HAIR STUDIO Physical Address: 903 3RD ST, DAVIS, CA 95616 Mailing Address: 102 LAUREN CT, WINTERS, CA 95694 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: JULIO IVAN JARAMILLO, 102 LAUREN CT, WINTERS, CA 95694 Business Classification: Individual Date of Business: N/A /s/ Julio Jaramillo Title of Officer Signing: I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal.

Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo Published November 22, 29, December 6, 13, 2023 #463

FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20230976 11/17/2023 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business Name: MONARCH CRAFTSMANSHIP Physical Address: 1296 E. GIBSON ROAD SUITE A #258, WOODLAND, CALIFORNIA 95776 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: BRAINSTORM CONCEPTS LLC, 1401 21ST STREET SUITE R, SACRAMENTO, CALIFOR 95811 Business Classification: Limited Liability Company Date of Business: 10/01/2023 /s/ John Canchola Title of Officer Signing: MANAGING MEMBER, BRAINSTORM CONCEPTS LLC I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal.

Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo Published November 29, December 6, 13, 20, 2023 #466 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case Number: CV2023-2289 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: Ruth Dorothy ONeil Hemenway filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name a. RUTH DOROTHY ONEIL HEMENWAY to Proposed name a. RUTH DOROTHY ONEIL THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 12/20/2023 Time: 9:00 a.m. Dept.: 11 Room: The address of the court is Yolo Superior Court 1000 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695 A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Winters Express Date: 11/6/23 Timothy L. Fall Judge of the Superior Court Published November 22, 29, December 6, 13, 2023 #464

The Winters Senior Center is seeking funding for

Office Manager/Firm Administrator – Nitzkowski Tax A full-service CPA firm in Davis has immediate opening for Office Manager. Duties to include all administrative functions including customer contact and support, accounts receivable and payable, and various other duties. Work is normal office hours 5 days a week with off tax season flexibility. Generous salary commensurate with experience and benefits package include medical, vacation, paid holidays and 401k. Successful applicant will be self-motivated, dependable and responsible individual who desires to be an important piece of a small family-oriented firm. Will train right applicant. Please email cover letter and resume to Justin@richnitzcpa.com. Position needs to be filled by early January.

Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023 — B5

Basketball round-up

By Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

JV girls The junior varsity girls basketball team laced up for competition and took on St. Helena High School on Tuesday, Nov. 28. Although not the highest-scoring game, the Warriors took home an 18–16 victory. The Warriors then took on Pioneer High School on Friday, Dec. 1, but took a loss to the Patriots 28–12.

“We have only a few players that have basketball experience, so the goal is to continue to learn and improve our skills and knowledge,” said junior varsity head coach Tom Crisp.

“The win against St. Helena in our first game was the first girls junior varsity victory in four years. The last two years were without a victory, and the two years before that, there was not a junior varsity team due to the pandemic.”

Varsity girls The varsity girls basketball team had a challenging week of competition but played well and added some wins to its record.

On Tuesday, Dec. 5, the Warriors squared off with Rio Vista High School and obliterated the Rams 50–18. Then on Thursday, Dec. 7, the Warriors took on River Valley High School. This high-scoring matchup with the Falcons ended with a 49–45 win for the Warriors.

The Warriors took on Woodland Christian High School on Friday, Dec. 8. Unfortunately, the shots just weren’t falling for the Warriors and they took a loss of 59–18 to the Cardinals.

“We played a very well-balanced game against Rio Vista.

The girls were executing on offense, our shots were falling and we played really well on defense,” said head coach, Ivan Dodic. “River Valley was a very physical game. They were scrappy and their strength made it tough for us, but fortunately, we found a way to pull it out. This was the first game of the Woodland Christian Tournament and

VISION Continued from Page 4 cluttering just one block? At the very least, let’s move those signs that interfere with pedestrians and flat out block anyone in a wheelchair.

Getting started on a new vision

the first game of five in six days.

Against Woodland Christian, to say this ‘wasn’t our game’ couldn’t be more of an understatement.”

JV boys The boys junior varsity squad took on Pioneer on Thursday, Dec. 7. It was a tough game for the Warriors as the Patriots scored a big 64–23 win.

“We played a bigger, stronger, more talented team. The mission for my junior varsity boys is to continue getting better every practice and every game. I have 14 boys who are all very skilled, fast and hardworking. I was extremely proud of how hard Aiden Baylor played. He did not start but proved his defensive intensity and fearless wrath to go find the ball off the rebounds are exactly the kind of player and intensity our program needs,” said head coach, Marcus Chavez. “The most positive thing to come out of the game was the second half of the game — Less turnovers and gave ourselves better opportunities to score. These young men are only going to get better each game and each week.”

Varsity boys The boys varsity squad hosted Rio Vista on Tuesday, Dec. 5, and snagged its first win of the season by beating the Rams 59–50. The squad then traveled to Pioneer on Thursday, Dec. 7 to take on the Patriots. It was a close game, but Pioneer ended up beating the Warriors 46–42.

“On Tuesday we got our first home game against Rio Vista who has a lot of size and a couple of very talented players.

Sophomore duo of Lane Brown and Luke Felsen led the way in scoring and the team showed a lot of grit on defense holding Rio Vista scoreless for almost the entire third quarter to take the lead and then extend it to nine points,” said head coach Brendon McShea. “On Thursday, we went to play Pioneer and really showed that we can compete with anyone by taking the lead early on great ball movement against their zone and team defense against their size advantage inside. Colton Brown knocked down shots at the rim and from three early and we held a close lead all the way into the second half.”

for downtown Winters shouldn’t take years of discussion. Eliminate some of the pergolas. Restore a few parking places. Update the wayfarer store signs.

Remove some of the sandwich boards on the sidewalk. Getting these things done would be a great way to start a new vision for Downtown Winters.

Soccer wins against St. Helena, Fairfield

By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer The Winters High School varsity soccer teams were busy with three games last week, one against St. Helena, one against Fairfield and one against their biggest rival, the Dixon rams.

On Monday, Dec. 4, the varsity girls soccer team won its game against St. Helena High School by a score of 4–0. Ava Muir-Vickrey dominated the game, scoring three goals for the Warriors.

Zyanya Melendez evened things out with one goal for the Warriors.

Muir-Vickery and Melendez were assisted by Idaly Lopez Sanchez, Alondra Molina and Izmene Taylor. Violet Tuel was once again consistent in goal with the shutout.

The Winters varsity boys soccer team won its game against St. Helena High School by a score of 5–0. Danny Brambila and Chase Gibson led the Warriors in goals, both getting two shots past St. Helena's goalkeeper.

Andres Bermudez also scored one goal for the Warriors. For assists in the game against St. Helena the Warriors had Sebastian Rodriguez with two,

followed by Salvador Torres, Luis Lara and Gustavo Herrera with one each. There was a combined effort in goal with Nickalus Avin, Daniel Fuller and Bryan Angel all making saves resulting in a shutout.

On Wednesday, Dec. 6, the varsity girls team won its second game against Fairfield High School by a score of 3–1, despite the torrential downpour throughout the entire game.

Melendez used her speed to her advantage scoring two goals for the Warriors with assists from Ruby Campos and Taylor. Alani Lopez also scored one goal for the Warriors off an error by Fairfield's goalkeeper.

The varsity boys team shut out Fairfield by a score of 3–0. Gibson led the team once again with goals, scoring two points for the Warriors and Brambila also landed one of his shots at goal with another point. Rodriguez, Herrera, Miguel Del Torro and Juna Bermudez all contributed significantly to the score, stealing the ball away from their opponents every

chance they got. Bryan Angel was once again consistent in goal with four impressive saves and resulting in another shutout on the week.

The teams wrapped up the intense week on Friday, Dec. 8, when they faced off against their biggest rivals, the Dixon High School Rams.

While the score may not have been what the girls had hoped for Aylin Molina never gave up and scored off a booming punt from Tuel in goal in the second half of the game. Alondra Molina led her team in midfield and worked hard to continually push the ball forward but was stopped by an aggressive Dixon defense.

Kylie Baker was a rockstar on defense with several impressive plays and Tuel once again put forth a tremendous amount of effort at goal.

Ultimately, their best efforts weren’t enough and the varsity girls lost their game against Dixon by a score of 1–4. The varsity boys also faced defeat against Dixon, by a close score of 0–1.

PISANI’S ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Cam Higgins Cam Higgins, a Winters High School senior, is Pisanii’s Athlete of the Week. Higgins is a three-year starter and varsity football team captain. He is one of the best offensive linemen in the Sacramento Valley League and voted to the NSCIF all-Div. IV team as the left tackle. “He was one of the main reasons we had so much success on offense this year,” said head coach Daniel Ward. “Not only is he strong and physical, but he is one of the smartest football players that I have coached and is definitely the leader of our line. In the playoffs, he really stepped up as we asked to play both ways and did a great job for us.”

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B6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, December 13, 2023

Mid-Winter Cabaret fills the heart with Christmas cheer

By Holly Haviland Entertainment correspondent It’s no secret that listening to music improves one’s mood and by the end of the third annual Mid-Winter Cabaret, I found myself in a very joyous and uplifted state.

Opening myself up as a listener to the messages found in that evening’s performance rekindled a childlike wonder in me and a positive attitude. I was grateful for a wonderful introduction from the moment we entered the Grand Prince Odeum building.

There was a cannedfood drive there to support the Yolo Food Bank and it was a great opportunity to help the local community. From the main room, soft piano music set the ambience for the beginning of the event. Billy Larkin sat on the stage as the evening’s pianist accompanying many of the artists that volunteered for the event.

Each artist had two chosen songs and one themed song, but all connected to the spirit of the season. The program was carefully selected, and I felt my heart moved by

the relatability of the songs chosen. We all carry heavy burdens at times, losing and missing family and friends. It was nice to feel a myriad of emotions throughout the performances.

The Rev. David Clark started us with a prayer of oneness, providing a spiritual connection for those seeking it. Doug Van Woerkom gave us thought-provoking rhythmic poetry, making us that much more aware of our connectedness. Billy Larkin captivated with his classically Christmas Charlie Brown Medley and there was a nice build up in the intensity of performances.

As Erica Cefalo was center stage, I was reminded of how special Christmas can feel in California. I, too, had moved from out of state to Davis and it was beautiful enjoying that reflection.

Marcia Jacamoo took us by surprise with waves of a beautiful melody, “Lugar Comum.” Her rendition of “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” had audience members gently singing along.

Gary Weinberg had us laughing with his

Traycee Jurado/Courtesy photo

The Center for Spiritual Living Yolo hosted its third annual Mid-Winter Cabaret at the Grand Prince Odeum and encouraged attendees to bring pantry staples for the Yolo Food Bank. fun songs like “It’s Christmas, I’m a Jew.” And there were unforgettable performances by Matt Dunn, Heather Clark, and Carrie Hennessey.

When Carrie sang “Defying Gravity,” I was in a state of awe! It was not only her voice that wowed me, but because Billy Larkin’s mastery piano skills were accompanying such a powerful ballad! He never missed a key.

Darrick Lawson was there to remind us of where the love light gleams with “I’ll be

Home for Christmas.”

And the sing-a-long of “Santa Claus is Com-

in to Town” had the audience joining in with glee. It wrapped

up the performances nicely with the sound team effortlessly working on providing the perfect ambience.

The artists shared something very powerful that evening, a message of love with the spirit of giving that encapsulates the very heart of the season.

This event proved to me that the Center for Spiritual Living knows how to bring the Yolo community together no matter what religious background you may have.

If you get the chance in the future, I recommend going to the annual Mid-Winter Cabaret. You’ll leave with a smile on your face and a heart full of Christmas cheer.

Traycee Jurado/Courtesy photo

Cabaret director Billy Larkin (left) plays music as Matt Dunn and Heather Clark perform for the audience.

Everyone 6 months and older should get an updated COVID vaccine along with their flu vaccine from a health care provider or local pharmacy.

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