Winters Express Wednesday, July 5, 2023

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Fortnightly takes the helm to host local blood drive

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

The Winters Fortnightly Club has accepted the baton from Winters Lions Club and will host the next Community Blood Drive on Monday, July 24.

Karen Benson-Neil told the Express that the Lions Club was facing challenges and that Fortnightly accepted the opportunity to help host blood drives with Vitalant. Last month, the blood drive timeframe shifted to later in the afternoon to allow for more time so residents coming home from work could have time to donate blood. The upcoming blood drive on Monday, July 24, from 3–7 p.m. at the Winters Community Center, 201 Main St. Community members are encouraged to schedule an appointment with Vitalant, although walkins are welcome. To schedule an appointment contact Vitalant at 877-258-4825 and mention blood drive code SMFM164 or visit https://tinyurl.com/t2yc8fcw.

Donors must bring a photo I.D. with them on the day of the blood drive. They are also encouraged to eat and drink plenty of fluids before donating. Whole blood donors must be at least 16 years old (16-year-old’s need a signed Vitalant parental consent form available online at Vitalant.org), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good general health.

Donors are able to complete a 10-minute Fast Track Health History Questionnaire on the day of the blood drive online at https://vitalant.org/health.

Questions regarding scheduling and donating can be directed to 877-2584825.

Mark your calendars for the remaining two 2023 Winters Community Blood Drives on Sept. 18 and Nov. 20.

The Fortnightly Club celebrated 100 years of serving the Winters community in 2022. Today Forthnightly continues to raise funds to donate to local nonprofits, causes and an annual scholarship.

Community celebrates eight elders

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

The Winters Elder Day Council hosted the fifth annual Elder Day Celebration on Saturday, June 24, at St. Anthony’s Parish Hall.

This year, eight local elders over the age of 90 or who are turning 90 in 2023 were honored at the event.

Organizer Wally

Pearce and event emcee Woody Fridae shared enthusiasm over the ability to celebrate Winters elders again.

The 2023 honorees included: Esperanza Santana (age 102), Tony Garcia (age 92), Gail Wingard (age 92), Roy Bellhorn (age 91), Germaine Hupe (age 91), Walt Neil (age 90), Claude Rohwer (age 90) and Doyle Pinkston (age 90).

Fridae shared sto-

Chamber of Commerce moves forward with structural changes

By Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

The Winters District Chamber of Commerce is on a mission to be the ultimate boon to local businesses. Although there have been changes on the

executive board, the chamber itself is looking forward to a bright future with more initiatives that help bring people and businesses together.

The aforementioned board leadership change refers to Sue Moualim stepping down as the executive director and becoming one of the board of directors that consists of Michael Gradl,

Rody Boonchouy, Jack Vickrey, Jason Jurado and Lyndsay Ancora. Meanwhile, the Executive Board consists of Secretary Belyn Lee, Treasurer Rachel Woods and Board Chair Chris Calvert.

According to Calvert, this change took place sometime in December and the responsibilities of the executive director have been

See CHAMBER, Page 3

ries and memories for each of the honorees and engaged them with questions about some of their answers they had shared in an interview with Pearce. Each of the honorees enhanced upon Fridae’s commentary by sharing emotional and amusing memories and advice.

Garcia and Pinkston proved that one is never too old to engage in some basketball court trash-talking as they recalled happenings of a basketball game where Woodland beat Winters. Garcia and Pinkston both joyously shared their perspectives of what really happened that day, and both were all smiles.

Pearce acknowledged previous honorees who were in attendance including

See ELDERS, Page 3

First ag roundtable brings voice

to Yolo farmers

By Jacob Hoffman Express staff writer

Two Yolo County supervisors, who represent Districts 2 and 5, the former including Winters, held the inaugural Western Yolo Ag Roundtable meeting on June 22 — a forum meant to foster dialogue and direct communication between the region’s farmers and its supervisors.

District 2 Supervisor Lucas Frerichs and District 5 Supervisor Angel Barajas spoke with the Winters Express about their decision to hold this meeting, how the first one went, and what Yolo farmers can expect from these meetings in the future.

The ag roundtable was the culmination of Frerichs and Barajas’s shared desire to hear the voices of the Yolo County agricultural community.

“Supervisor Frerichs and I launched this roundtable initiative to

build and bolster our relationships with the agriculture community,” Barajas explained. “This meeting…provided farmers with county ag information, ag program and services, as well as a forum for open dialogue.” Frerichs noted that during his campaign for supervisor, many rural voters expressed a desire to be better represented.

“One of the things I heard regularly while I was campaigning for the board supervisors was concerns from rural parts of the county that there might not be adequate representation of those viewpoints on the supervisors,” Frerichs said. He hopes that these roundtables will allow the supervisors to “regularly engage

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Roy Bellhorn, Tony Garcia, Germaine Hupe, Walt Neil, Doyle Pinkston, Claude Rohwer and Gail Wingard. Honoree Esperanza Santana was unable to attend the event and her grandaughter attended in her place.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express Woody Fridae (right) hands Doyle Pinkston the mic to share his perspective on what happened at a basketball game against Tony Garcia when they were in high school.

Courtesy photo

Chris Turkovich (center) hosted Supervisors Lucas Frerichs (left) and Angel Barajas’ inaugural Western Yolo Ag Roundtable meeting at Turkovich Family Wines.

Winters Express

On Saturday, June 17, the first Winters Volunteer Fair was held at Three Oaks Park on Taylor Street (between Neiman and Chapman Streets) to bring 27 nonprofit organizations from Winters and Yolo County into one of the newest neighborhoods in town.

Winters City Councilwoman Carol Scianna and Winters Express Editor-in-chief Crystal Apilado organized the event

with the goal to bring volunteer opportunities to new residents. Multiple local organizations were in attendance and were able to make new connections, gain lists of interested residents who would like to learn more, and even learn more about other nonprofits’ missions themselves. They included Winters Fire Department, Beautiful Winters, Winters Farm to School, Historical Society of Winters, Winters Senior Foundation, Win-

ters Runners and Walking Group, Winters Youth Day, Winters Theatre Company, Kiwanis Club of Winters, Winters AYSO, Meals on Wheels Yolo County, Winters Participation Gallery for the Arts, Winters Hispanic Advisory Committee, Winters Community Corazón, Winters Friends of the Library, Winters Police Department, Winters Chamber of Commerce, UC Máster Gardeners of Yolo County, Winters Education Foundation, Yolo County

Creating connections with nonprofits Events support Scholarship

Children’s Alliance, Winters Rotary Club, Winters Music Boosters Association, Winters Combined PTA, Putah Creek Council, Yolo Food Bank, Genesis Community Church and the Center for Spiritual Living Yolo. Scianna and Apilado hope to organize future volunteer fairs in other Winters neighborhood parks to create more access and opportunities for the residents that live in the surrounding areas.

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Two upcoming events this month will benefit the Noah Lichwa Memorial Scholarship.

Winters teens Noah Lichwa and Michael Bazan-Jimenez died from injuries sustained in an ATV accident on June 9, 2022. Since then, multiple awards and scholarships have been set up in their memories.

The Noah Lichwa Memorial Scholarship was established and awarded for the first time this May and will continue to be awarded to a graduating Winters senior.

Lichwa’s mother, Jenyse Marin told the Express the fundraising efforts are in honor of what would have been Lichwa’s 16th birthday on July 16.

The first is a monthlong campaign where Marin is encouraging community members to donate $16 for his 16th birthday to the scholarship. Marin said they will collect the donations of $16 through Aug. 1. The donations can be made at First Northern Bank for the “Noah Lichwa Memorial Scholarship”

account or by Venmo to @Jenyse-Marin.

The second is a Kona Ice Shop event on July 16, from 12–6 p.m. On July 16, 20 percent of purchases at Kona Ice in Winters will benefit the memorial scholarship fund. Marin said that while it’s not required to show the event flier, people should mention it “just to be on the safe side.”

Marin shared her gratitude to community members who have already donated

and who have shared about the events on social media.

“All donations to the Noah Lichwa Memorial Scholarship will go to awarding Winters High School seniors to help pay for a college degree. Noah had aspired to go to college and by donating in his memory, you will help other high school students go to college in his stead,” Marin said. Donations to the scholarship can be made year-round at First Northern Bank.

Courtesy photo

Noah Lichwa Memorial Scholarship was established and awarded for the first time this May and will continue to be awarded to a graduating Winters senior.

Courtesy photo Lynne Secrist shows off instruments that Winters students can learn to play with Winters Music Boosters.

divided up among the other board members and sub-committees.

“We do not have an executive director, and at this point in time, we have no plans on recruiting one,” said Calvert. “What’s happening is, the board is a working board and they’ve taken the responsibility of doing what an executive director would do. They’re doing a variety of different things, and there have been subcommittees that have been appointed.”

The subcommittees have taken on areas of focus to re-establish the chamber’s goals and directions, as well as spearhead other efforts and initiatives on how they can better

ELDERS

Continued from Page 1

Mary Hemingway

who was the oldest honoree present that day. Pearce paid tribute to past honorees Phil Snow and Helen Hosier with a moment of silence.

Each honoree received a photo print taken by Fridae, and a certificate from the Winters Elder Day Council, the city of Winters, Supervisor Lucas Frerichs, Rep. Mike Thompson, and Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry.

Fridae took the opportunity to thank Wally and Sharon Pearce for their efforts to keep the Elder Day going and presented them with a gift from the board.

Fridae said despite ongoing health issues, both Sharon and Wally have put in a lot of time and care to ensure local elders are celebrated.

Wally Pearce said

support local businesses.

“One subcommittee is dealing with an economic plan and budgeting for the future for the chamber so we have a roadmap of where we’re going financially and how we’re going to sustain ourselves,” said Calvert. “One of our board members, Rody is the superintendent of the Winters Joint Unified School District, and he and I and Erica Johnson who is the Executive Director of the Workforce Innovation board, have been working on putting together a career expo both for businesses and students so they can see how to move into employment or their future. We’re looking forward to doing this the following spring at the high school.”

Calvert said there is also

the Winters Elder Day Council is continuing to collect nominations for local residents who are 90 years of age or older, or who will be turning 90 in this calendar year, and who have not yet been recognized at a previous Winters Elder Day celebration.

According to Pearce, they already have four elders on their list to honor at the 2024 Elder Day event.

Winters Elder Day was first celebrated in 2017 as a way for the community to gather together to honor local elders, acknowledge their personal contributions to their families and community, and hear stories about their life experiences.

To recommend a community elder in the specified age group, contact Pearce at 530-7717265 or email denropro@gmail.com.

a budding partnership with the Esparto Chamber of Commerce. In this collaboration, both chambers are seeking to bolster their overall effectiveness while not duplicating efforts. To him, the decisions and happenings in Winters impact Capay Valley and vice versa.

A new wing of the chamber is the Ambassador Committee which is the foundation of the chamber’s volunteer force. These go-getters help inform and educate other members about the organization, and engage with the public at mixers and other signature events while performing a number of other tasks that help the chamber be as effective as possible.

“A lot of chambers have ambassadors, and ambas-

FARMERS

Continued from Page 1

with especially rural voters and those in the agricultural community, to solicit their opinions and hear from them and try to use that information to help inform my policy-making process.”

During the first meeting, the supervisors invited a number of Yolo County officials to present information to the agricultural community, as “we felt it was important for the agricultural community to hear from a variety of speakers from different county-related agencies, like Yolo Flood Control District and Yolo-Solano Air Quality District and others to make sure that we’re giving them all timely information that can be used,” Frerichs said.

Frerichs and Barajas both noted certain big issues that were an important part of the meetings, with Barajas specifically describing concerns “such as solar farm installations, the preservation of prime agri-

sadors really do a lot of the chamber work when you get down to it. Ambassadors are at mixers and provide a workforce for a chamber. Yes, the working board is involved but nonetheless, it’s not quite everything you need. And ambassadors are important because they don’t have to be a board member to provide a service and there’s all kinds of things they can do to make an impact,” said Calvert. “We have a Visitor Center, but we’re working on getting it staffed. Part of that staffing could come from ambassadors.”

Details about the Chamber’s Ambassador program can be found online on the Chamber’s website. So far, they have three ambassadors listed.

Calvert emphasized one

cultural land, groundwater well drilling and illegal dumping.”  Regarding what impact the supervisors hope to see from these meetings, Barajas explained that they “seek to establish a continued partnership with our region’s farmers” with their aim being to “identify prominent issues impacting the agricultural community, then coming up with possible solutions to address those needs.”

“I think it’s really important to have ongoing conversations,” Frerichs said, “to make sure that communication is a twoway street, so that it isn’t just when a particular issue arises, it’s really that we’re communicating with the community on a regular basis, so it helps build relationships.”

Frerichs also expounded on some specific issues related to Winters, including decreasing groundwater and concerns about the area’s fire services.

“One of the issues out there that directly relates to Winters,

of the chamber’s main focuses is writing down what it does to clear up any ambiguity about how the chamber functions.

In light of that, one of the last big changes Calvert said is the hiring of a social media manager for the chamber. He conceded that the chamber hasn’t done a great job at establishing a social media presence due to so many other projects being worked on, so it’s opting to bring on someone solely dedicated to that task.

To learn more about or get in touch with the Winters District Chamber of Commerce, call 530-7952329, visit 201 First St, check out the website at www.winterschamber.com or email at director@winterschamber.com.

there’s been a lot of discussion across the county about the Fire Service…there’s the Winters Fire Protection District and obviously there’s the city of Winters Fire Department, but a lot of the Fire Districts themselves are having challenges, and so we want to make sure the county is being responsive to the funding challenges that the Fire Districts have been facing,” Frerichs said.

Already, the supervisors are looking to the next ag roundtable, which they hope to host sometime in the fall. “There’s already some items that are going to be up for discussion with the next board of supervisors meeting,” Frerichs said, such as discussions of groundwater issues and well drilling. “We also are

having discussions about the next date for our second opportunity to hold these meetings, and we thought it would be a good idea to rotate locations between Districts 2 and 5.”

Barajas concluded by reiterating the pair’s commitment to the desire for connection, communication, and better governance with these roundtables.

“We will continue to build relationships with our agricultural community so we can better understand their needs and areas of concern. No other Board of Supervisors duo has launched an initiative as such. It is critical that we work with our rural communities and keep them informed about initiatives and services that may be beneficial to them,” Barajas said.

Week

Public Safety Report

City of Winters

Fire

The Winters Fire report log is expected to return next week.

Police

Arrest Log

Jun. 19: Gonzalez, Hubertino (Age 40), Charges:

Winters PD Warrant, Disposition:

Transported to Yolo County Jail

Jun. 22: Canchola, Victor Manuel (Age 40), Charges:

Winters PD Warrant, Disposition:

Transported to Yolo County Jail

~Jimenez, Eduardo (Age 37);

Charges: DUI, DUI .08 percent or over BAC, Refusal to take a chemical test, driving with a suspended license, Possession of a controlled substance, Failure to stop at a stoplight; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~Lopez, Ricardo Jr (Age 29), Charges: Two Winters PD Warrants, Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear

Jun. 23: Lloyd, Kyron Johnny (Age 33), Charges: Public Intoxication, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

Jun. 24: Cerros, Gustavo Jr (Age 33), Charges: Take vehicle without owner’s consent, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

Jun. 25: Duran Garcia, Salvador (Age 35); Charges: Violation of Court Order, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of unlawful paraphernalia; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

Report Log

Jun. 21: 9:41 a.m., 100th block of Kennedy Drive, Vehicle Tow

Jun. 22: 2:11 a.m., 700th block of Dutton Street, Audible Alarm ~10:13 a.m., Ramos Drive/Niemann Street, Vandalism

Jun. 23: 6:27 a.m., 100th block of Broadview Lane, Audible Alarm

Jun. 24: 2:52 a.m., I-5/Myers Road, Outside Agency Assist

Jun. 25: 6:31 p.m., Main Street/Vasey Street, Vehicle Tow ~7:36 p.m., 700th block of Railroad Avenue, Audible Alarm

Jun. 26: 12:17 a.m., 800th block of Jackson Street, Domestic Dispute ~1:48 a.m., 900th block of Railroad Avenue, Found Property

Jun. 28: 6 a.m., E. Grant Avenue/ Matsumoto Lane, Assault

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

Dispatches from the Express archives.

Years Ago

145 Years Ago

July 6, 187C8

(From the files of The Winters Advocate)

The press dispatches give a detailed account of the attempted fourmile race between Mollie McCarty and Ten Broeck at the Louisville race course on Thursday last.

“A Louisville dispatch says the weather was very hot today, and the track heavy from last night’s rain. Cheers were long and loud when the two horses were led out, Walker bestride Ten Broeck, and Howson riding the mare. The mare was under a steady pull, while Ten Broeck was having all he could do to keep close up when the first two miles had been made. It was here so plainly apparent that Mollie had far the best of it that J. T. Williams, owner of Vera Cruz, bet $100 to $10 that the mare would win. At the three mile post she began to weaken, and at three and a half miles her tongue hung out and she ran like a tired dog, while the horse moved freely and easily. On entering the fourth mile, Howson put the steel into the mare’s sides quite vigorously for a final effort, but though the game little creature responded nobly, she could not overtake the big horse, and she seemed to shut up like a knife, and was soon twenty lengths behind. Harper was carried about on the shoulders of the crowd. The mare’s prostration and consequent inability to run after entering the fourth mile was

simply a mild form of sun-stroke. None but a Kentucky born and bred horse could stand a four mile run in such heat.

130 Years Ago

July 8, 1893

The trustees of Union school district have elected Miss Cora Williams as teacher for the next term, to begin September 4.

The trustees of Apricot school district have elected Miss May Stern of San Jose teacher of that school for the next term.

The Buckeye school trustees have re-elected Miss Pauline Spencer as teacher, and she will begin her labors for the next term on Monday, August 14.

The High School Trustees will meet this afternoon for organization and elect a teacher for the next term.

Miss Olive Wilson left Thursday for a visit to the World’s Fair. She will return in time to assume her duties in the school room.

Most of the fruit growers are drying their fruit now, owing to the unsatisfactory prices obtained for the fresh article.

Mrs. E. Ireland went to Alameda last Saturday to visit. her son Charles. She returned Wednesday, bringing her little grandson with her.

95 Years Ago

July 6, 1928

At the regular meeting of the City Dads Tuesday evening, the

clerk was instructed to notify the Municipal Band that the appropriation for them this year was exhausted.

At a meeting of the Solano County Chamber of Commerce last Monday, a resolution was adopted favoring a low water bridge to be built at the north end of the Pleasants Valley road.

Mrs. Frank Irland and little son of Imperial who have been with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. F.E. Wilson for the past two months returned Saturday to their southern home.

Miss Lorene Waggoner of Sacramento spent the Fourth at the J. S. Waggoner home.

Frank Martin and family who have resided on the Mrs. W.B. Cooper place in Olive district the past two years now occupy a residence on East Abbey street. Mr. Martin moved to town to be nearer his work at the store.

Horace Smith was a holiday guest at the home of his mother, Mrs. E. Smith.

Misses Stella and Jennie Reasoner and Doris Connor left Wednesday morning for Berkeley to attend the C.E. Convention.

“Bill” Boyce has been chosen as the new head of the Woodland Rotary Club.

80 Years Ago

July 9, 1943

The town board members were all present Tuesday evening to hear Mayor

Ireland’s account of his trip Sunday to Camp Beale to see the christening of the tank “City of Winters.” He met the tank crew, who showed him through the tank and promised to keep in touch with Winters as to the tank’s location.

According to Postmaster C.A. Graf, the local postoffice, on July 1 moved up from third to a second class rating.

Word has been received by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. H.A. Mermod, that their son, Jack, has left Chicago and is “somewhere overseas.”

Mrs. J. Diaz reported to the town board that she had raised $344 for the flash board dam fund. Cost of installation this year was $116.58. S. Walter Humphrey observed his 83rd birthday, Sunday, July 4th. Neighborhood friends presented him with a cake, with the proper four score and three candles.

Mr. and Mrs. Pat Mahoney, and son Sgt. Malcolm Mahoney, at home on furlough, enjoyed a fishing outing in Butte county last week.

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Frisbee and children, Donald and Laura were holiday visitors at Santa Cruz. Winters’ rural fire truck was called to extinguish a grain fire north of the road opposite the Thornton Glide ranch. 25 acres of barley and a pumping plant were reported as lost.

Death notice

Christine Ann (Olander) Long (born April 23, 1949) of Fort Mohave, Arizona, died May 26, 2023. She was a retired supervisor of Correctional Education Programs at the State of California.

A memorial service will be held on July 14, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Winters, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Reception to follow at the Parish Hall from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Picked by Charley Wallace

The Winters City Council recognized Victims’ Rights

in 1982. Pictured (from left) JoEllen Perkins, from Yolo D.A.’s office, District Attorney Rick Gilbert, Supervisor Twyla Thompson, Mayor Jack Losoya and Police Chief Steve Godden.

Christine Ann (Olander) Long

Make outdoor living spaces more comfortable

Metro Special to the Express

Private backyards are now go-to spaces for recreation and entertainment and great places to recharge the body and mind.

One ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic was more time spent outdoors, even if it was predominantly on one’s own property. OnePoll, in conjunction with the lawn care company TruGreen, surveyed 2,000 American homeowners and found participants spent 14 hours outside every week in 2021, which was three hours more than prior to the pandemic.

In addition, respondents admitted that time spent outdoors was therapeutic.

A separate survey conducted for the International Casual Furnishings Association found that people now spend more time relaxing, gardening, exercising, dining, and entertaining outside than in years past.

Though COVID-19 may no longer dominate headlines, the desire to enjoy outdoor spaces has not waned.

While enjoying outdoor living areas, homeowners can do all they can to make these spaces comfortable and welcoming. The following are some good starting points.

Get all lit up

Outdoor spaces can be enjoyed no matter the hour when there is ample lighting. That could be why the International Casual Furnishings Association reports those who plan to renovate their outdoor spaces list outdoor lighting as a

priority. Outdoor lighting not only sheds light on entertaining spaces, but also makes spaces safer and more secure.

Increase privacy

No matter how friendly homeowners are with their neighbors, there comes a time when privacy is paramount. Fencing, whether it is wood or vinyl, or even a natural fence made from closely planted hedges, can ensure residents feel comfortable venturing outdoors to swim, take a cat nap or even star gaze in private.

Address the elements

Homeowners should note the direction their backyard faces and the typical daily conditions of the space. For example, a yard that faces southwest may get plenty of strong sun during the day, requiring the addition of shade trees, covered patios or arbors to cut down on the glare and heat. If the yard is often hit by winds, trees or bushes planted strategically as windbreaks can help.

Sit comfortably

High-quality comfort-

able seating increases the liklihood that homeowners will want to stay awhile in their outdoor spaces. A deep seating set complete with plush chairs, outdoor sofa or love seat and chaise lounge chairs gives people more opportunity to sit and stay awhile.

Take a dip

A pool can be the perfect gathering spot on a warm day, while a spa/hot tub can bridge the gap to cooler weather. According to the Family Handyman, soaking in hot tubs can relax

tired muscles after a long day, loosen up stiff joints, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

Bite back at bugs

Homeowners may want to consider using a professional exterminator to get rid of ticks, mosquitoes and other nuisance insects from outdoor spaces. As people spend more time enjoying their properties, they can consider the many ways to make outdoor living spaces more comfortable.

Adobe/Stock photo

While enjoying outdoor living areas, homeowners can do all they can to make these spaces comfortable and welcoming.

Signs a roof must be repaired

The exterior components of a home, such as the siding and the roof, help to protect its occupants from the elements. While many roofing materials can last for decades, at some point in time homeowners will likely have to repair or replace the roof on their home.

Roof wear and tear may not always be so

evident, particularly because most homeowners do not make it a point to get on their roofs very often. The first sign of roof damage typically is a leak that is noticeable from the indoors. It may include a browned spot on the ceiling or even pooling water in the attic. Leak from storm damage or something minor like a water intrusion through a nail hole or from a lost shingle typically

can be repaired easily enough. However, additional indicators may necessitate a complete roof overhaul. Here are some signs a roof is in need of repairs or replacement.

Sagging roof

If the roof is sagging, it could be due to excess loads, such as water-damaged shingles or even weakened roof structure. A professional will need to restore the integrity of the roof.

Cracking and buckling

It is likely that shingles will have to be replaced if there is cracking or if shingles are buckling and warping.

Exposed nails

Exposed nails may rust and contribute to a leaky roof, says Family Handyman. How long the nails were exposed could indicate if the roof can be repaired or if everything should be redone.

Lost granules

Asphalt roofing shingles have small granules on the surface. Over time these granules will slowly degrade and fall off. If there are many granules in gutters or if one can see that portions of the shingles are bare, it is likely time for a new roof.

Home fireplaces typically are wood-burning or gas. Though maintenance for these fireplaces differs, certain preparatory steps must be taken to prepare a fireplace for winter.

Adobe/Stock photo

Prepare a fireplace for the winter

Metro Special to the Express

As hours of daylight shorten and fall gives way to winter, thoughts shift from fall foliage to spending time cuddling under warm blankets and being cozy indoors. A fireplace can improve the ambiance of any room and help to create a warm and welcoming gathering spot.

Home fireplaces typically are wood-burning or gas. Though maintenance for these fireplaces differs, certain preparatory steps must be taken to prepare a fireplace for winter.

Clear the clutter

Items can accumulate in areas that are not in use, and a fireplace is no exception. Take a few hours to remove any belongings from in front of the fireplace and clean the mantle thoroughly.

Have the chimney cleaned

Hire a professional chimney cleaning company to inspect the chimney and clean it thoroughly before winter. According to BobVila.com, a chimney should be cleaned once a year, or after about every 80 fires.

The National Fire Protection

Association says failure to properly clean chimneys is one of the leading contributors to home fires. That’s due to creosote, a highly flammable residue that builds up in the flue that lines the chimney.

Inspect the interior

The interior of a wood-burning fireplace is likely lined with fire bricks. Check for cracks and loose joints. Hire a professional mason to make any repairs, as special materials are needed to withstand the heat of fires.

Install a chimney cap and screen

According to Family Handyman, a chimney cap is a protective covering that goes over the top of the chimney. It is made of steel or copper mesh with a cap on top. This protects the chimney from rain and downdrafts and keeps animals and debris from getting into the chimney.

Prune overhanging branches

If there are trees close to the home and the chimney, cut them back, as they can be a fire hazard. Branches and leaves also can restrict the proper draft of the chimney.

Adobe/Stock photo

Signs a roof is in need of repairs or replacement include sagging roof, exposed nails and organic growth.

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, July 6

Winters Hispanic Advisory Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance)

Thursdays

Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690

Monday, July 10

Winters Climate Action Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters.org/climate-action-commission

Tuesday, July 18

Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/

Upcoming

Thursday, July 20

Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/ WintersJUSDBoardAgendaCommunitySite

Monday, July 24

Winters Community Blood Drive, 3 –7 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Register at Vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 with code 'SMFM164'

Library Services

Winters Library Open to Public (No School 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.

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.

By Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

Budding local legend Ciena Barbosa is putting that Winters work ethic to good use, as she’s recently been selected to become a junior coach on the Sprinkles competitive cheer team through Dream Xtreme Cheer. Although only 12, her drive and resiliency have been instrumental to her current — and future — cheerleading success.

Dream Xtreme All Stars is a competitive cheerleading program based out of Vacaville that was created in 2018 by Ashley Newberry. Not only is Newberry the founder, but the cheer director and head coach as well.

The program itself accepts all skill levels, however, youth are placed into teams according to their overall skill level. After displaying an exemplary aptitude for the sport, Barbosa found herself on the most advanced team where she’s been for the past couple of years.

While most would be content joining the ranks of an elite-level cheer squad, Barbosa’s ambition yearned for more. So, she applied for and this June became a junior coach for the Sprinkles Cheer team — the younger division cheer squad.

coaching and ... taking initiative. Her leadership makes her stand out as well. No matter the year, she’s always been a leader on the team gathering everyone and I love how inclusive she is. She always makes sure everyone’s included, and with teenage girls, things can get a little catty, and she makes sure she squashes that behavior when she sees it and tries to make it right.”

As one can imagine, competing and coaching require a substantial time commitment, dedication and countless hours of driving. Luckily for Barbosa, her parents, James and Olivia Barbosa are up to the task — so long as she is up to the task of keeping her grades up all the while.

a week doing practice year-round. But we were very excited when she was chosen

a

her

Tech

Thursdays, Second Thursday, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-666-8005 to schedule an appointment

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.) **No yoga July 5**

Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering

Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)

Ongoing

Winters Farmers Market, Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Main Street – downtown Winters, discoverwinters. com/farmers-market

Winters Wide World of Sports exhibit Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., Winters Museum, 13 Russell St.

Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org

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 Saturday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5 p.m.), Downtown Main Street. 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.

“I really believe in empowering our youth, and a way that I do that in my program is to teach them leadership and give them responsibilities within their own facet that makes them comfortable. We’re teaching them those skills they’ll use later in life and it’s really fun to see them take on these roles in the gym and step up as leaders to these little girls who look up to them,” said Newberry. “It’s been cool watching Ciena dive 100-percent into

Ashley Newberry Dream Xtreme All Stars founder

Winters 2023 midyear real estate report

By Joedy Michael Special to the Express

As we reach the midyear mark of 2023, the housing market in Winters continues to exhibit a steady and encouraging trajectory.

3 bath home

First, the demand for housing remains high in Winters, primarily driven by its desirable location and the growing interest in suburban living. The town’s close proximity to major employment centers

78 acres planted to walnuts.

like Sacramento and Davis has attracted professionals seeking a quieter lifestyle. This influx of homebuyers has created a competitive market with multiple offers becoming commonplace for well-priced properties. The average days on market for June 2023 is down 35 percent from its high of 109 in February 2023.

In the first half of

2023, Winters witnessed a moderate value appreciation. While the rate of appreciation has slowed compared to previous years, the average sale price has increased by 3.5 percent this year. Price, paired with current interest rates makes affordability concerns persist for some potential buyers, particularly firsttime homeowners. Although we have

seen an increase in inventory, up 44 percent from the start of the year, it’s still far too low and is further intensifying the competition among buyers. This limited inventory, coupled with high demand, has contributed to a shorter time on the market for properties. Wellpriced homes often receive multiple offers within days of listing, leading to quick sales and potentially driving up prices. New construction projects have also been a notable feature in Winters. Of the 32 homes currently

listed for sale, 14 of them are new or under construction. Furthermore, the rental market in Winters has experienced similar trends. With high housing prices, many individuals and families opt to rent rather than purchase a home. Rental rates have seen a steady increase and the demand for rental properties remains strong. The current rental rate for the available rentals listed on Zillow is $2,970 for a single-family home in Winters. The housing market

See REPORT, Page 3

of English walnuts. Great location and great soil. $1,399,000.

SUPER CLEAN & FRESHLY PAINTED. 5 bed, 3 bath home, walking distance to beautiful downtown Winters. Low maintenance front and backyards. Seller offering $15,000 in closing cost credits. Offered at $759,000. Call for details.

AN ABSOLUTE PIECE OF PARADISE ON 3.26 ACRES! Just outside the Winters City limits. This home has it all. Tastefully remodeled great room, includes your own personal bar, and an amazing wood burning fireplace. The outdoor pool area is like a private retreat.Beautiful outdoor kitchen with all the amenities, as well as a full outdoor bathroom and shower. Oh ya, there’s more.

The shop is 50X90 and has its own gym area. Plenty of room for the motor home, and or boat. Offered at $2,095,000

5.85 ACRES OF WALNUTS in between Winters and Davis off Russell Blvd. County says you can build on it! Offered at $550,000. Call for details.

38 ACRES! Beautiful Chandler Walnut orchard. Located just outside of Winters off Putah creek road. Very well taken care of. Great producer, Excellent soil, solid set sprinkler system with an ag well. Would make for an awesome building site! Offered at $1,095,000.

35.75 ACRES OF INCOME PRODUCING WALNUTS! Located just East of town towards Davis off Russell Blvd. Could make for a great building site (check with the county)! Offered at $949,000. IN NATOMAS. Super clean 3 bed, bath. Offered at $569,000. GREAT STARTER HOME. 3 beds, 1 bath. New flooring throughout. Close to all schools. Offered at $350,000.

2 BEDROOM 2 BATH HALFPLEX. Close to core downtown. Great court location. Good sized backyard. Offered at $445,000

Call for details!

INTERESTED IN SELLING?

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS IN NORTH VACAVILLE!

6 approved lots with separate APN numbers. Final map approved project is ready to move forward. Lots located in area of million-dollar(+) homes. Seller owns 31 water rights. Call today for more details! Priced at $1,199,999.

5 ACRES ZONED INDUSTRIAL. Commercial water and PG&E at lot. Great location on Airport Road close to new housing tract and Trilogy housing tract. Call for details.

Sale Pending! 5 ACRE, 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS with a nice horse set 3 stall barn with tack room, outdoor sand arena, fenced and cross fenced, 2/2 bath modular home along with a large shop, custom chicken coop. Home has been completely remodeled

“Committed

Express Yourself

Continuing efforts to build community

One of the new journeys I’ve had the opportunity to bring to the community as a journalist is leveling the Express’ Welcome to Winters special edition up from a regular newspaper insert to a magazine.

I’m not new to publishing magazines, as in my previous publishing career I worked as an editor for multiple monthly and annual magazines in the pet industry. However, trying to develop something valuable to the current community already residing here, as well as something that would be beneficial to new residents at the same time was the task at hand. We had to bring you something that stepped beyond what you would find in the weekly edition.

For this year’s upcoming Welcome to Winters magazine, I want to continue my commitment to help build our community back up to pre-COVID times. While I know we will probably not be able to go back to the same as we were, I truly believe that we can build back to the Winters that we all love and cherish.

Help support free music downtown

I think it starts with taking those baby steps of reintroducing our community to remind residents about all of the wondering and heartfelt charms that we love. And, bringing to light the “how” we get things done – by working together to uplift everyone from our neighbors who need extra care to our neighbors who are sharing small rays of sunshine from behind the scenes. Our community is special because we take care of each other, we look to support each other, and we strive to make living in Winters an amazing experience in this lifetime. Residents don’t take these actions because “we have to” but because “we want to.” That’s what makes all the difference.

I’m reaching out to all of you in hopes that you’ll shoot me a quick email to news@ wintersexpress.com to share what makes living in Winters “extraordinary” to you. I feel it’s important to hear about the different experiences and perspectives in order to bring our community together and to share that Winters spirit with our newest neighbors.

Letters

We are reaching out to you today to seek your valuable support for our wide-ranging initiative to showcase live music in downtown Winters. The Winters Downtown Business Association’s aim is to foster a vibrant and engaging downtown atmosphere that enriches the lives of both residents and visitors alike. Music has an extraordinary power to bring people together, uplift spirits, and create a sense of community and sense of place. Understanding this, we have undertaken the endeavor of organizing free music events throughout our downtown area, aiming to enhance the cultural fabric of our community and provide a unique experience for all.

Our downtown music season begins each year with the Spring Open Event held during the last weekend in March and concludes each season on the final weekend of October with the Harvest Festival.

During the months

REPORT Continued from Page 2

in Winters has plateaued in some areas and has shown growth in others as we reach the midpoint of 2023. High demand, limited inventory, and new construction projects have shaped a competitive market with rising home prices. While affordability remains a concern

of April–October, the WDBA offers Music on Main each and every Friday evening downtown inside the closed block of Main Street. During the months of June and August, the WDBA offers our Summer Concert Series in Rotary Park every Thursday evening. These music programs are designed to showcase a diverse range of talented local musicians, giving them a platform to perform and share their artistic expressions. By hosting these events in prominent downtown locations, we aim to create an inviting and inclusive atmosphere, attracting a wide range of attendees and promoting downtown businesses. The WDBA is committed to supporting and showcasing local musicians while at the same time providing these music performances at no charge to the community. This commitment does however put a large financial burden on our small organization. To make this program a resounding success,

See MUSIC, Page 4

for some, the town’s charm and proximity to major employment centers will continue to attract buyers. As we move into the second half of the year, it will be crucial to monitor the market for any potential shifts and adaptability to changing conditions.

Reach Winters Realtor Joedy Michael at Joedy.Michael@norcal gold.com.

been working hard the last couple seasons as a leader within her own team. So, when they opened up applications to be a junior coach, she knew right away she wanted to do it and coach a team that had some other Winters girls on it,” said her mother Olivia Barbosa. “We always told Ciena, ‘Whatever you want to do, we’ll support it.’ She misses a lot of school time for these competitions, so it takes a lot of dedication to maintain her grades with all

the travel.”

For Barbosa, the sport of cheerleading calls to her innate love of teamwork and is nothing short of an adrenaline rush. From being on stage to perform after countless hours of practice to the deafening roar of the crowd, this passion has Barbosa’s heart RPM revving high.

“It feels good being a coach and I really like it. The girls I’m coaching are really nice and sweet and tell me how they want to be like me when they’re older. I’ve been coaching for about two weeks now and I love it,” said Barbosa. “I really hope

that I can teach them to work well as a team and to find passion for the sport. I know a lot of them are nervous about going on stage, and I hope I can help

with their confidence. I also want to help with their attitudes, like even if they’re in the back of the routine, they’re just as important as who’s in front of the routine. It’s amazing and I want to stick with cheering as long as I possibly can.”

Kitten influx creates need for local foster volunteers

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

Kitten season is in full force, and Yolo County Animal Services is seeking the public’s help in providing foster homes for abandoned litters.

Animal Services also offers tips for handling what may appear to be kittens who are left behind, but in fact, may still be under their mother’s care.

Since mid-May, the Animal Services shelter in Woodland has taken in about 160 kittens that are currently in foster care. They range in age from two to 12 weeks old, including “bottle-baby” kittens that require bottle feeding and intensive around-theclock care to ensure their survival.

“While prior fostering experience is preferred, we provide training and guidance for those new to this rewarding role,” said Stephanie Amato, Yolo County director of animal services. “Additionally, we will supply you with all the necessary equipment and supplies to care for the kittens.”

Amato says the shelter seeks the following qualities in foster volunteers:

Dedication

Bottle-feeding kittens demands unwavering commitment, with feedings every two to three hours, including overnight.

Patience and gentleness

Handling these fragile kittens requires a gentle touch and patience to ensure the kittens are securely held in the correct feeding position and their food intake is closely mon-

itored.

Good hygiene

Because bottle-fed kittens are susceptible to infections, meticulous hygiene prac tices are crucial.

Animal Services pro vides all the neces sary supplies to maintain a clean environment, including sterilized bottles and clean ing equipment.

Socialization and love

Nurturing bottle babies goes beyond physical sustenance. Each kitten requires love, affection and socialization in order to become well-adjusted cats.

Observation and monitoring

Bottle baby kittens require vigilant monitoring to detect potential life-threatening deviations. Volunteers need to observe their weight gain, litter-box habits and overall development.

Potential fosterers should also keep in mind the emotional challenge of caring for bottle-baby kittens, some of which do not survive.

“Mental preparedness and resilience are essential qualities for foster caregivers,” Amato said.

To register interest in fostering, visit friendsofycas.org/foster, which lists the necessary information, or email yolofosterprogram@gmail.com.

Curriculum Assessment Instruction and Technology (CAIT) Committee on May 1 2023 The Winters JUSD Board of Trustees will consider both course and instructional materials approvals on June 8, 2023 (information) and June 22 2023 (action) The recommended curricula for the proposed courses are: Krugman's Macroeconomics for the AP Course 4th Edition; BFW Publishers 2023 and Integrated Introduction to Culinary Arts Management; SDC Publications

2022 These materials are on display at the Winters joint Unified School District office for public review through July 14 2023 6/14, 6/21, 6/28, 7/5 #381

Now, what if you’ve found a kitten — or kittens — who appear they’re abandoned?

According to Friends of Yolo County Animal Services, the kittens most likely have a mother who has left her litter temporarily to hunt down something to eat. If they’re warm and not crying, assume the mother cat is caring for them. If you’re unsure, try this tip: sprinkle a ring of baking flour around the kittens, then check for footprints after a few hours. Give the kittens plenty of space so that the mother isn’t afraid to return.

“Taking kittens from their mother drastically decreases their chance of survival,” the organization wrote in a recent newsletter (www.friendsofycas.org/foundakitten). “Unless the kittens are in immediate danger, or sick or injured, please leave them where they are or take them back to where you found them.”

If the mother hasn’t returned to her litter after eight hours, however, the kittens may have been abandoned. If possible, consider fostering the litter until they’re old enough for adoption, about eight weeks.

If fostering isn’t possible, email a photo of the litter to ycaslostpets@ yolocounty.org for help in determining the next steps. Other groups that can offer assistance and resources include the Orphan Kitten Project, orphankittenproject@gmail.

Legal Advertising

Continued from Page 3

we are seeking community support by seeking financial contributions: The WDBA is seeking sponsorships for both the Music on Main performances and for the Summer Concert Series as well as the Spring Open and Fall Festival. Monetary donations will be allocated towards artist fees, event logistics, promotions, and infrastructure to ensure smooth and enjoyable music experiences for all. We sincerely appreciate any financial contribution, no matter how big or small. Please see our attached Sponsorship levels.

We invite you to join hands with us and be a part of this exciting journey towards creating a thriving downtown music scene. Together, we can forge stronger community bonds, showcase local talent, and provide memorable experiences for all who visit our downtown area.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss further details, please do not hesitate to contact me directly

Thank you for considering our request, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your commitment to our community.

CHRIS TURKOVICH President, Winters Downtown Business Association

Courtesy photo

ABOVE: Ciena Barbosa, center, and her coaches, Kimberly Nottingham (left) and Ashley Newberry, at the end of season awards ceremony. Ciena was presented the “Golden Heart” award. RIGHT: Ciena Barbosa and her team “J-Bling” for the 2023 season.

MUSIC

Adobe/Stock photo

Nominate youths for Athlete of the Week, pitch summer sports

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

School is out and summer is here, but that doesn’t mean the Express is done with sports.

Some of the Express editorial team members played youth sports as well as competed as Warriors on Winters High School teams throughout all four years of high school.

The Winters community has indeed embraced the notion of small-town sports, and have continued to uplift and support our local youth in their endeavors.

Our staff writers will be covering the Winter Little League All Star Juniors, 50/70 and softball teams and the Winters summer swim team to share highlights and notable athletes with the community.

We are looking to coaches and the community to help nominate WLL and swim team athletes from all divisions.

This editor also appreciates that there is a wide variety of athletic opportunities available in neighboring communities, and wants to make sure that all Winters youths

Stay Cool

How to nominate

who are participating and competing get a nod for their efforts.

The Express is looking to the Winters community to reach out and nominate an Athlete of the Week or to tell us about an exciting happening in the world of sports.

Cheer, swim, horse competitions, travel teams — if they are rocking it, we want to hear about it.

To be considered for the Pisani’s Athlete of the Week, nominations and supporting content must be submitted by Monday at noon.

Nominate a local athlete for consideration as a Pisani’s Athlete of the Week at tinyurl.com/4f78a6y2.

Include as many details and points of contact so our staff can reach out to coaches for comments about the athlete.

Community members are also encouraged to draft their own Athlete of the Week write up and submit them through the same form.

If including a hi-resolution photo of the athlete, make sure it is a profile photo of

the individual facing the camera from at least the waist up. Individuals should not be too far away or the photo may not print clearly. Do not send photos that have images, graphics, logos or social media filters.

Adult athletes

The community is invited to share article pitches with us about local athletes who are participating in competitions, races or making efforts to reach personal fitness goals. Reach us at news@ wintersexpress.com.

Alaka’i Lucero

Alaka’i Lucero, a fourth grader this fall at Shirley Rominger Intermediate School, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Not only does Lucero play for the Winters Jr. Warriors in the Peewee division, but he also tears it up in the Vacaville flag football league, Under the Lights. “Alaka’i had two touchdown receptions and two pick-sixes (an interception returned for a touchdown) this week,” said head coach, James Barbosa. “Alaka’i is a hard worker and is always giving 110 percent!”

Adobe/Stock image