Winters Express Wednesday, August 30, 2023

Night invites past cheer squad to participate

News, Page 2

City facing pending $2 million lawsuit

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

The city of Winters is facing a pending $2 million lawsuit for the lack of reimbursement to a Homes By Town — Winters Highlands (HBT).

On Friday, a special closed session for the Winters City Council was published on the city council meetings listing for Tuesday, Aug. 29. As of Tuesday morning, the meeting listing and agenda packet document had been removed. The Express reached out to the city to ask why the special meeting was no longer listed on the website.

A letter dated May 22 from Pioneer Law Group,

LLP to the Winters clerk, council, and managers alleges the city owes HBT more than $2 million from a promise made in 2017. According to a city resolution in June of 2017, “The City and HBT entered into a Public Improvement and Maintenance Agreement for construction of off-site improvements” that included specific mandates.

Those mandates included HBT fund and construct several off-site public improvements, including the West Main Street sewer pump station, a sewer force that main that extends from the Sewer

See LEGAL, Page 3

Council approves Harvest Fest Main Street closures

By Amelia Biscardi Express staff writer

After a bit of a back-and-forth, on Aug. 1, the Winters City Council unanimously decided to shut down part of Main Street for the three-day fall festival event in October, put on by the Winters Downtown Business Association.

For the event, Main Street will be Closed from Railroad Avenue to First Street starting at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 27. Then from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Main Street will be closed from the driveway west of Elliot Street to Second Street on Oct. 28

New Beeline transportation service

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

A new streamlined transportation service is buzzing through Winters full-time.

cluding added perks and new vans.

and Oct. 29. This 2nd annual Downtown Winters Harvest Fest is a three-day event hosted from Oct. 27 to 29 and will showcase many vendors, food trucks, as well as the downtown business community.

City staff initially asked the council to not approve the extension request from Main Street to Elliott Street. A handful of Winters DBA members voiced their concerns, resulting in the extension of street closures being passed.

Winters DBA president Chris Turkovich noted that, historically, the fall event has been bigger than the spring event. Delaney Holden, owner of Holden Events and Harvest Fest

See STREET, Page 3

The Beeline will replace Yolo Transportation District’s (YoloTD) micro-transit service with new spacious passenger vans and a whole lot of convenience. Autumn Bernstein, YoloTD executive director, presented the new YoloTD Beeline plan to the Winters City Council on Aug. 1, detailing all the transportation district changes, in-

According to Bernstein, the small vans reduce sound pollution when operating in nearby neighborhoods and provide a more comfortable ride. The Beeline offers seamless transfers to fixed route service and lower fares than for-profit on-demand services. Not to mention not missing the bus.

“What’s cool about this service is people can just request a ride at any time,” Bernstein said. Only an app away,

the new service can be downloaded to the phone. But old-school travelers can still dial a number if they choose. Bernstein said calls for a pickup remain welcome. And the new vans are equipped with WiFi and USB ports for charging during the trip. Trips beginning and ending in Winters are $2. Visitors can book their journey up to seven days in advance.

“Having an on-demand transit service that operates in Winters provides commuters or visitors

with the flexibility to travel throughout the city conveniently at a fraction of the cost compared to leading on-demand services,” Bernstein said.

Council member Jesse Loren, the transportation liaison for Winters, says while the new van and service times respect rider’s complex needs, it also remains the same.

“Many of the people who use the Beeline service to work in Winters continue to use our established

See BEELINE, Page

Root beer floats support robotics team

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

On Thursday, the community is invited to bring a picnic meal, enjoy a free concert and support the Winters Robotics Club root beer float fundraiser.

On Thursday, Aug. 31, the last free Thursday summer concert courtey of the Winters Downtown Business Association, features

Chicken & Dumpling at 6 p.m. at the Rotary Park Gazebo. The Winters Robotics team will be selling root beer floats to raise money to support their competition efforts this year.

“(The fundraiser) benefits the Robotics Club by helping pay for robot-build parts and the registration for upcoming

See PARK, Page 3

3

Courtesy photo

The Winters Robotics Club is selling root beer floats on Thursday to support its upcoming year of competition.

Mosquito tests positive for St. Louis encephalitis in Yolo County

Express staff

The Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District announced Friday that a mosquito sample has tested positive for St. Louis encephalitis virus in Yolo County.

Laboratory staff detected the virus while performing routine testing of mosquito

samples collected from an area north of Woodland. SLEV is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito just like West Nile virus. Mosquitoes infected with SLEV are more commonly found in the Central Valley and some areas of southern California.

However in recent

years, the virus has been spreading. This year, SLEV has been found in neighboring San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties.

“The finding of St. Louis encephalitis along with a record amount of West Nile virus activity this season highlights

See VIRUS, Page 3

new BeeLine on-demand transit service bus design in July.

Lake Berryessa water levels down

The water level of Lake Berryessa went down during the past week by 0.45 feet, with a decrease in the storage of 7,854 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 29, the lake

OneCreek technician program is open for fall

level was 424.66 feet above sea level, with storage computed at 1,273,225 acre-feet of water. Evaporation on the lake averaged 226 acre-feet of water per day. The SID is diverting 363 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 35 cubic feet per second flowing at the Diversion Dam.

Capstone project invites cheer alumni to perform

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Former Winters High School cheer squad members are invited to register to participate in a Senior Capstone Project alumni event in September.

Rayanne Roberts is hosting a WHS Cheer Alumni Night for her capstone project.

The goal is to include alumni cheer squad members (former mascots included) in a special performance and on the sidelines with this year’s cheer squad for the first half of the varsity football game on Friday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m.

Roberts said cheer alumni can participate at their comfort level by choosing whether to perform cheers, stunts, sideline dances, or supporting the team from the sidelines. The $50 registration fee includes a T-shirt for participants and will go toward funding the WHS cheer squad needs to raise for upcoming cheerleading competitions.

“I chose to host an alumni night as my capstone project because I wanted to incorporate my love of cheer as well as give back to the team that I have loved for the last three years,” Roberts said. “This season, our team decided to enter our first cheerleading competition. There are many costs associated with competitive cheer,

so I thought I could support my team by helping to raise the money needed for the competition.”

An optional alumni practice date is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 20

ones supporting the cheer program’s next steps. Cheerleading has evolved over the years. I look forward to meeting our cheerleading alumni, hearing about their time in cheer and sharing with them our team’s accomplishments,” Roberts said. “As I look forward to graduation, I know that it means saying goodbye to cheerleading. I hope that with my project, I can give former cheerleaders another chance to shine under the Friday night lights again.”

To register to participate in the event, visit https://tinyurl. com/36zumjje.

The last day to register is Wednesday, Sept. 6. Questions can be emailed to wintershighschoolalumni@ gmail.com.

Alumni event

In order to view the Sept. 2 Cheer Alumni Night performances, community members should plan to attend the varsity football game that evening.

The WHS athletics department recently ransitioned to utilizing the GoFan digital ticketing platform.

The Putah Creek Council’s OneCreek seasonal restoration technician program is back for fall 2023.

The program is a paid ($15.50/hour) part-time, seasonal position designed to give participants experience working with local partners and stakeholders along the Putah Creek Watershed. With the help of partner agencies, the OneCreek Program provides work experience in field work days, nursery work days, and skill development days.

The Fall 2023 OneCreek season will run for eight weeks from the week of Sept. 25 through the week of Nov. 13. The time commitment is between six to eight hours a week and includes a combination of onsite field work and independent reading/ research, depending on participants’ availability. Previous restoration experience is not required and applicants do not need to be enrolled students in order to participate.

The role works with and learns from experts selected for the educational opportunities they provide in habitat restoration, native plant landscaping, outdoor recreation management, native plant propagation, and nursery operations. Technicians receive an introduc-

tion to Restoration and Conservation career paths from regional professionals.

These experts will give guided presentations and engage in discussion activities about the concepts learned. The program will include exposure to the science behind the various restoration projects and research being conducted in the region. In addition, participants will receive the contact information of the agency representatives they gain handson experience and job training from during employment. The oneon-one opportunity to gain experience in the field with prospective employers is not often presented through college courses.

Work days will be held primarily outdoors within Solano and Yolo Counties and vary depending on the day. Transportation to the worksite is not provided. Applicants may apply via Google Forms on the Putah Creek Council website, and submit their resume and cover letter to the Education Program Manager Brenda at brenda@ putahcreekcouncil. org and cc Stewardship Program Manager Nicolle at nicolle@ putahcreekcouncil. org. More information about the OneCreek Program is available at https://tinyurl.com/ yc5x3u99 or by calling the Putah Creek Council office at 530795-9000.

from 6 to 8 p.m.

In a small town like Winters where neighbors take care of each other, Roberts is inspired by the empowerment of the theory where that we all shine when women help and uplift other women to rise up.

“I loved the idea that former cheerleaders would be the

All WHS all sports that charge a gate fee will be utilizing GoFan, starting with football, volleyball and basketball.

Attendees can download the app or visit the WHS GoFan page to purchase tickets. Spanish instructions are included.

Daniel Ward, WHS athletic director, said the athletics department is awaiting for chip readers to arrive so they can also accept card payments. QR codes will be displayed along the fence line for attendees. For details, visit the WHS GoFan page at gofan.co/ app/school/CA8082.

Eventos hispanos

Programa de atletismo pasa a la venta de entradas digitales

Por Crystal Apilado Traducido por Carol Alfonso

El departamento de atletismo de Winters High School (WHS) comenzó la transición a un sistema de venta de entradas digitales en el partido de fútbol local del pasado Viernes.

Daniel Ward, director atlético de WHS, dijo que la medida está en línea con la Liga Sacramento Valley League, que adoptó la utilización de la plataforma de venta de entradas digitales GoFan, y la Federación Interescolar de California (California Interscholastic Federation - CIF), que exigió que todas las entradas para los partidos de semi-finales (playoffs) se vendan exclusivamente a

través de GoFan.

Ward dijo que todos los deportes que cobran una tarifa de entrada utilizarán GoFan, comenzando con el fútbol, el voleibol y el baloncesto. El lanzamiento oficial fue el Viernes 24 de Agosto y el comienzo del voleibol se lanzará la próxima semana.

Ward dijo que el objetivo es dejar de usar efectivo y que esperan tener lectores de tarjetas bancarias con chips en un futuro cercano.

“No estamos lejos de recibir el mandato de la sección. Realmente estamos tratando de tomar una ventaja. El CIF ya lo exige para todos los partidos de playoffs,” dijo Ward.

El sistema de venta de entradas digitales brinda al departamento de atletismo del WHS la oportunidad de ofrecer a los fanáticos diferentes niveles de venta de entradas dependiendo de la frecuencia con la que frecuentan los juegos.

“Para los padres que

tienen hijos que practican varios deportes, les ahorra un montón de dinero. Simplemente traigan su teléfono,” dijo Ward. Los asistentes podrán elegir entre el pase de temporada polideportivo del curso escolar, un pase de temporada por deporte o una entrada individual por partido. Pueden descargar la aplicación o visitar la página WHS GoFan para comprar boletos. Se incluyen instrucciones en español. “Para los dos primeros partidos de fútbol habrá una línea de efectivo y una línea de GoFan. Después de eso, todas las entradas serán digitales,” dijo Ward.

También se mostrarán códigos QR a lo largo de la valla para los asistentes que necesiten comprar entradas en el lugar.

Para obtener más información, visite la página de WHS GoFan en https://gofan. co/app/school/CA8082.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo Rayanne Roberts

“I hope that with my project, I can give former cheerleaders another chance to shine under the Friday night lights again”

Rayanne Roberts

Special to the Express

Courtesy photo

Summer 2023 technicians learn vegetation management skills along Putah Creek.

the importance of mosquito control programs to protect residents from these and other mosquito transmitted diseases that pose a threat,” said Gary Goodman, district manager. As a result of the SLEV finding the District will continue closely monitoring the area by setting additional traps and enhancing surveillance and control methods.

In northern California, the mosquito species that carry SLEV, Culex pipiens and Culex tarsalis, are the same mosquitoes that are able to transmit WNV. The viruses also share the same symptoms. According to the

LEGAL

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Pump Station north to the Wastewater Treatment Facility, and a storm drain pump station and improvements to the Ranch Arroyo Detention Pond.

The resolution specifically states, “At the time that the other properties are developed, the City will collect the properties proportionate share of the cost from the landowners and will pass that reimbursement through to HBT.”

That never happened, according to Daniel Adam King and Joel Patrick Erbe, attorneys with Pioneer Law Group who signed off on the below letter.

“As you also know,

BEELINE

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and well-planned bus stops,” Loren said. “It’s important to maintain transportation infrastructure even when the size of the transportation changes. Riders have different needs for drop off and pick up.

Loren explains that YoloTD ran the 220 lines to Winters, Solano, Davis and Woodland even when times got tough.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many routes were canceled, it provided enough pause to try new things,” Loren said.

One of those new things is the BeeLine service, it first piloted in Knight’s Landing before Winters.

The pilot took off with Winters residents appreciating the personal service, Loren said, adding YoloTD continues to serve locals and people in Winters traveling to Solano and Yolo County locations. BeeLine riders who need to transfer to other lines in YoloTD can with a Beeline ticket, making the service even better.

Better service is the whole point, according to Bernstein.

“YoloTD takes pride in responding to the needs of our constituents and passengers,”

Bernstein said. “It’s important to change services and technologies as new opportunities become available to enhance the rider experience, reliability, and flexibility of service.”

YoloTD specializes in more than just efficient buses. They also boast road widening projects. Bernstein says they will invest

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people infected will not become ill. Initial symptoms include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting and fatigue from five to 15 days after being infected. Severe neuroinvasive disease often involving encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain occurs most commonly in older adults, those with a previous health condition or a weakened immune system.

Since there is no human vaccine or cure for SLEV or WNV, residents must be proactive and take measures against mosquito bites. “This is yet another reminder of the importance of wearing an effective insect repellent when spending time

the City’s own engineers have confirmed that HBT actually spent, and Meritage owes HBT $2,153 880.76 for Public Improvements constructed by HBT that benefited Meritage’s adjacent property,” the letter reads. “The City has also acknowledged that Meritage owes this reimbursement to HBT for Public Improvements and is fully aware Meritage refuses to pay.”

In September 2021, the Express reported the Winter City Council unanimously agreed to help legally finalize the final three phases of Winters Highlands, the development located in the northwestern portion of the city that included Homes by Towne (HBT) selling the land

and partner with the California Department of Transportation in a Route 80 lane-widening project that will run between Davis and West Sacramento. She says officials want to widen the four-lane freeway known to build up to 20-minute bottleneck times during high traffic.

According to Bernstein, if nothing is done, “traffic times will increase because freeway congestion grows exponentially.”

“Once the freeway is congested, that will result in three to four times congestion than we have today,” she said.

Bernstein explained that the new “managed lane” resembles a carpool lane.

“It’s where cars and buses can travel faster, saving sufficient time for travelers,” she said, adding the proposed project is under an environmental study.

YoloTD’s partnerships from large state agencies to tiny towns of Winters prove the transportation district’s desire to offer nothing but the best to its riders. And that collaboration is essential, according to

outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk,” said Goodman. Mosquito control is a shared responsibility, according to the district, which encourages residents to take an active role in reducing the threat of mosquitoes in their neighborhoods and backyards by taking these steps:

• Eliminate stagnant water that may produce mosquitoes from common sources such as plant saucers, buckets, wheel barrows, children’s toys, tires and other containers

• When outdoors, apply an insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus

• Ensure swimming pools, spas, fountains and ponds are proper-

for the three final Winters Highlands phases to Meritage Homes.

At that time, Mayor Wade Cowan asked if Meritage would still be allowed to begin needed grading once everybody signed on the dotted line, which city manager Kathleen Salguero Trepa confirmed was the case. Meritage Vice President Jeremy Goulart said then his group was excited to continue and be part of the community by the terms of the agreement.

But the agreement in 2021 has failed entirely. However, it’s not just the failure, but Winters’s lack of response that seems to be the problem.

Attornies state that despite “HBT’s repeated formal re-

Loren. She explains Yolo Transit District’s Board of Directors is made of elected representatives from Woodland, Davis, West Sacramento and Winters, as well as the Yolo County Board of Supervisors.

“We also have an ex-officio member from UC Davis,” Loren said. “The board makes fiduciary and ministerial decisions and sets priorities for Yolo County transit.”

It is essential for Winters to have a voice at the table where decisions are made that affect our residents, commerce, and the environment, Loren added.

The partnership is so important; Loren assures the connection stays as strong as a smooth bus transfer.

Loren said the YoloTD will have a booth and Beeline bus at the Winters Carnitas Festival (Festival de la Comunidad) on Sept. 30 at Rotary Park if all goes as planned.

“I hope people can check out how we have elevated transportation in Winters,” Loren said.

Both transportation representatives agree the stronger their relationship, the better the trip for the rider.

ly maintained

• Change water in pet dishes, bird baths and other small containers every two to three days

• Request mosquitofish for your ornamental ponds and fountains

• Report neglected swimming pools and other mosquito breeding sources

For more information about SLEV visit: https://westnile. ca.gov/sle or https:// www.cdc.gov/sle/ index.html

For current West Nile virus information, to report a mosquito breeding source or request our services, please call us at 1-800-429-1022 or please visit www. FIGHTtheBITE.net.

quests, the City has failed and refused to take simple, straightforward, and available action to fulfill its contractual obligations to HBT,” and “we again implore the City to take the simple and straightforward steps available to it in light of Meritage’s default in paying for Public Improvements required for its development.”

If Winters does not do so, the city will face a lawsuit that they will have to pay in full if it loses, including the fees for Pioneer Law Group.

In an email, Trepa said she could not provide comment due to the pending litigation. The Express will continue to follow the pending litigation in an upcoming edition.

Bernstein said the strength of most relationships is built on the principle of fostering shared values, goals, and a mutual understanding of each other.

“As the public transit service provider for Winters and Yolo County, Yolobus has the responsibility for ensuring residents of Winters are able to travel safely, efficiently, affordability, and reliably,” Bernstein said.

Bernstein said ensuring that Yolobus is continuing to meet the needs of the Winters community requires trust and open communication, which is built on maintaining sound relational ties.

Bernstein asks any residents with questions about the new BeelLine service to contact YoloTD customer service at 530661-0816, email custserv@yctd.org or visit yolobus.com/BeeLine.

Riders are encouraged to check out further service information on the YoloTD website, yolotd.org.

coordinator, told council members they don’t utilize the space under the pergolas during the events so attendees can have a space to sit.

Owners from Hooby’s Brewing and Steady Eddy’s shared that with the approval of the extension from the Spring event they saw record sales and had attendees travel down to their area that normally would not have.

One of the main concerns voiced by council members was barriers being incorrectly placed and or moved during the Spring Open. Additionally, with wildfire season, the water barriers will need to be filled, which could prove to be an issue.

tournaments,” said Jack Tuel, Winters Robotics Club president. The Winters Robotics Club team has continuously proven to be a local powerhouse with multiple VEX robotics tournament first-place or topfive wins over the last few years. Team 39599A members have qualified for two appearances at the VEX Robotics World Championship — 2022 and 2023 — where they went up against 22,000 teams worldwide.

At the world championship in April, Team 39599A placed 52nd place out of 80 teams — putting them in the top three percent of robotics teams around the globe.

In May, Winters Robotics Club members earned the top spot with the highest score overall in the Travis Spark Challenge hosted by the Solano County Office of Educa-

“It’s not so much an issue with the staffing, someone is there 24/7. As the season is picking up our water tender has been going out quite frequently on mutual aid,” Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III said. “We’re one of the closest ones around. I could say it’ll be here, and I can say it won’t be here. We’re down one tender right now because the other one is out of service, it’s just one of those gambles that we’ll take.”

The council determined that public works staff will assist with this if necessary.

To ensure that barriers are properly placed and marked, event coordinators will do a site walkthrough with the Winters public safety chief and director of maintenance and operations.

tion and Travis Air Force Base’s Phoenix Spark program. For more information on how to support the Winters Robotics Club or for volunteer opportunities with Winters Robotics, Inc., send an email to wintersrobotics@ gmail.com.

Music on Main

Although the Thursday summer evening concerts are coming to a close, the Winters DBA has free music lined up in part of the Friday night Music on Main concerts. The September musical lineup includes:

Sept. 1: Crescent Moon (roots rock)

Sept. 8: Danger Force 5 (surf rock)

Sept. 15: Polly and the Morphics (blues)

Sept. 22: Mike Blanchard & the Californios (Americana)

Sept. 29: All Hat No Cattle (country) For more information, see the events calendar online at discoverwinters.com/events.

PARK Continued from Page 1

145 Years Ago

August 31, 1878

(From the files of The Winters Advocate)

Our school commenced last Monday, 60 scholars had been enrolled up to Friday noon.

Campbellites are holding protracted meetings. Baptised on Tuesday, Mr. Northcutt and Mrs. World.

The trotting match that was to come off on the 31st between Scott, McGarth and Hayes is no go, because Hayes sold his colt.

A band of boys six or eight in number and from three to eight years old have been running the streets together for some time into all manner of mischief, and are fast falling into hoodlum habits. Venable Morris, who has charge of the Granger’s warehouse, caught them rifling his office last Thursday.

Several times of late we have noticed items in our contemporaries stating that our railroad had fallen into other hands, and that it was about to be discontinued and the track taken up, it did not pay, etc.

130 Years Ago

September 3, 1893

Miss Olive Wilson returned from her visit to the World’s Fair on Monday. She had a very pleasant time, also visiting relatives in Ohio.  Jos. Griffin and

Years Ago

80 Years Ago

September 3, 1943

Dispatches from the Express archives.

wife are in Woodland, where Mrs. Griffin has been visiting relatives for the past two weeks.

Prof. L.B. Scranton, who taught the high school last term, was in town this week. We are informed that he will teach the school in the Union high school district recently formed by Esparto and surrounding districts.

“Uncle” Ben Ely and wife and daughter

Miss Lizzie and Mrs. J.H. Ely and son Jim left last Thursday for Howard Springs, Lake county, for a couple of week’s stay.

Fred Wertner has moved from Pleasant Valley to his place in the Wolfskill 100 acre tract.

Religious services were held at the Brinck fruit cutting sheds last Tuesday evening. Miss Joanna Vansteenbergh, who is now a regularly licensed preacher, conducted the services.

The trustees of Wolfskill district school will meet this afternoon to elect a teacher and fix the time for the opening of the school.

Mrs. M.J. Hanson has moved her family into one of the Grunig

A band of boys six or eight in number and from three to eight years old have been running the streets together for some time into all manner of mischief, and are fast falling into hoodlum habits. Venable Morris, who has charge of the Granger’s warehouse, caught them rifling his office last Thursday.

Aug. 31, 1878

houses on Edwards street, opposite the school house.

The Winters Union High School will open next Monday, with Prof. T.J. Goin in charge.

By reason of taking off the evening train last Sunday, a number of persons who had purchased tickets for Winters, were unable to get through that night and had to stay in Vacaville over night.

95 Years Ago

August 31, 1928  Union School opens Monday. September 3 with Miss Mildred Paulk as teacher. Apricot School, Mrs. Anna C. Gregory, begins September 3.  Buckeye, Mrs. Maude Lamme. Winters, Mrs. Belle Dunnagan, principal, Mrs. Martha Sparks, Mrs.

Ruth Brown, Mrs. Adeline Islip, Sadie A. Boyce, Marie Hannon. Olive, Mrs. Myrtle Wolfskill, principal; Mrs. Zella Behrman, primary. Begins September 3.

Pleasants Valley, Mrs. Louise Pleasants. Begins September 3. Wolfskill, Mrs. Bertha Young. Begins September 3.

The D. Walters family of Pope Valley were Sunday guests at the Thomas Vasey home.

Bernard and Miss Frances Walters remained with their grandparents and have enrolled at the local high school.

Mrs. Fred Moody assisted in the post office Tuesday while Miss Evelyn Vasey served on the election board.

W.H. Gregory will return home today after a three weeks’ vacation spent in Mendocino county with his daughter, Mrs. Paul Grant and family.

Miss Addie Scott attended a surprise party in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Flick, Jr. which was held at their home in Knights Landing Saturday evening.

Mrs. W. R. Pugh has been selected and has accepted the elementary school position formerly held by Miss Dorothy DeMello. According to Dr. A.M. Herron high school principal, the faculty vacancies have been filled. Lt. Gunnard Johnson of Billings, Montana, has been selected for science and mathematics. Mrs. Maude Chapman of Vallejo will fill the commercial vacancy occasioned by the recent resignation of Miss Adah Allen. Mrs. Mary Uboldi of Oakland will take over the English department, and Miss Nona Burns of Burlingame, home economics. Other faculty members are Dr. Herron, principal, Latin; Misses Margaret Phariss, Spanish and Music; Bernice Blaettler, history, social studies, physical education; W. R. Pugh, manual training, phy sical education; W. Lloyd Adams, band and orchestra. Medical Cadet Eugene Ire land was inducted into active service a few days ago, and will don his uniform tomorrow. He is to continue his medical study at U.C. hospital for the present. Winters Post 242, American Legion, in connection with a nation-wide campaign of the Legion, is promoting a program to provide cigarettes for the fighting men overseas.

Public Safety Report

City of Winters

Fire

The Fire Log is expected to return next week.

Police Arrest Log

Aug. 16: Neal, Robert (Age 60), Charges: two Winters PD Warrants, Disposition:

Released on Notice to Appear

Report Log

Crystal Apilado, Editor-in-Chief

Fred Gladdis, Special Editor

Sydney Andrade, Staff Writer

Amelia Biscardi, Staff Writer

Aaron Geerts, Staff Writer

David DeLeon, Advertising Director Taylor Buley, Publisher-at-Large

Charles R. Wallace, Publisher Emeritus

The Winters Senior Center is seeking funding for equipment and programming. Mail checks payable to Winter Senior Center Fund to:

Aug. 17: 8:13 a.m., 800th block of W.

Grant Avenue, Sex Offense Investiga-

tion Aug. 19: 11:15 p.m., 800th block Railroad Avenue, Audible Alarm Aug. 20: 7:35 p.m., First block of Abbey Street, Audible Alarm Aug. 21: 3:18 p.m., 100th block of Quail Court, Vehicle Tow

Aug. 22: 1:33 a.m., 800th block of Jackson Street, Verbal Dispute

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

Picked by Charley Wallace

These Winters Warrior football players led the East football team to victory on July 15, 1994, at the annual East-West Charity All-Star Football Classic. Pictured (from left) are: Robert Perez, Grant Lindeman, Ray Penunuri, Alex Espinoza, Jose Guzman, Alvaro Del Rio and Ben Davis. Not pictured, Andy Smith.

Davis library targeted by third round of threats

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

Davis police evacuated the Stephens Branch Library for the third time in a week Monday morning, the result of another bomb threat that also prompted shelter-in-place orders at two neighboring schools.

Officers searched the area but found nothing suspicious at the East 14th Street building, which was closed at the time of the 10:06 a.m. threat. Police cleared the building shortly after 11 a.m. and both North Davis Elementary School and Davis High School lifted their lockdowns.

The FBI has joined the investigation, according to Yolo County Supervisor Jim Provenza.

Davis police Lt. Dan Beckwith said the latest threat followed the same pattern as those made on Aug. 21 and again Friday eve-

ning — emails sent to multiple media outlets including The New York Times and to California law-enforcement agencies, threatening to “blow up” the library.

Friday’s email also made “explicit threats” to the library’s regional manager, Scott Love, and other employees, Davis Police Chief Darren Pytel told The Davis Enterprise on Saturday.

“The belief is that these seem to be related, likely stemming from a person or group of people who are opposed to events that occurred last week,” Beckwith said Monday, referring to a contentious Aug. 20 meeting that Love ultimately shut down.

While the threats aren’t believed to be credible, “our response is going to be appropriate to maintain public safety while minimizing the impact to the commu-

nity,” Beckwith added.

He confirmed that all three emails contained derogatory language toward gender identity that was characterized as hate speech. They remain under investigation by the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office since the library lies under county jurisdiction.

Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Juan Ceja said Monday that detectives “are actively working on the case” and looking into whether the threats are connected to last week's meeting hosted by the conservative political group Moms for Liberty and attended by a large group of protesters.

"It's clear that these threats are meant to disrupt and intimidate our community, particularly affecting the library's functioning," the Sheriff's Office said in a social media post Monday, noting the agency deployed extra patrols in response.

Solano unveils emergency website

Express staff

The Solano County Office of Emergency Services unveiled a one-stop emergency information website page for area residents.

"We just want to make it as easy as possible for folks, because there is information all over the place," OES Manager Robyn Rains said.

The site is emergency.solanocounty.com.

There will be information relevant to ongoing disasters and emergencies, as well as standard preparedness and emergency alert information.

"Make a plan, and build a kit," Rains said, echoing her message this week to the Board of Supervisors about having a family emergency plan in place, and rehearsed, as well as to-go bags and other tips on being ready in the event

of a disaster.

As those residents in the English Hills and Pleasants Valley areas know from the LNU event, when wildfires hit, there is often very little time to get everything together to take with you, or even have the time to think about what is needed.

Rains also emphasized signing up for Alert Solano to receive notifications of pending emergencies. Those alerts can come on a variety of devices, including by phone and give residents as much time as possible to react.

There is also a link to Get Ready Solano, which includes, among other things, information on preparedness, evacuation zones and what to do with pets.

There will be information about power outages, and who and

Sutter Davis expansion project ahead of schedule

Express staff Sutter Davis Hospital received final approval from the state for its expanded emergency department — about a month ahead of the original schedule. It is the last major milestone in a construction project designed to offer patients greater access to some of the hospital’s most in-demand services.

with family members.

Hospital officials estimate patients will be seen in the new emergency department space starting Sept. 6.

where is impacted, as well as weather information and information on histories of past disasters.

"The wildfire camera link is up here, and I know that is very popular," Rains said.

There is also a link to Solano VOAD.

"(Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) is the vehicle in Solano County ... for coordinating private sector, nonprofit and community-based organizations, the faith community, and government agencies serving human and animal needs following a disaster," the website states.

Those organizations and individuals who want to be part of that effort can sign up there as well.

Working with the county GPS division, the site will become more and more robust over time, Rains said.

More trees, no pumpkins at Silveyville

Express staff

A local fall tradition is no more.

The Silveyville Farm will not have a pumpkin patch this year, nor in the future. Last year was the last season.

The pumpkin acreage will be dedicated to growing Christmas trees.

"It’s hard to find the words to express our heartfelt gratitude to our longtime pumpkin farm customers," the owners posted on the

farm's website. "It’s been a very rewarding experience to share a bit of country charm with all of you."

Over the 20-plus years of existence, the pumpkin farm offered tractor and hay rides, a straw slide, pumpkin painting, petting zoo and a chance to bathe, fully clothed in popcorn seeds. More than 1,000 visitors came every weekend when the patch was open.

It hosted school field trips and barbecues on some week-

ends.

The farm has been home to Christmas trees for more than 40 years.

Silveyville Farm is launching a new venue, "The Timbers at Silveyville's," which will feature a bridal cottage, and an area with towering cedar trees for wedding ceremonies.

There will also be a reception area.

“A hospital’s emergency department is meant to offer the highest levels of care to patients at their most critical time of need,” said Kevin Jones, D.O., medical director of Sutter Davis Hospital’s emergency department. “Our expanded space will give us more room and flexibility in how we care for those within the area and beyond.”

The emergency department dexpansion is the final part of a large-scale construction project that began in 2020. The department added 11,152 square feet and remodeled a little more than 3,000 square feet of existing space to expand to 18,332 square feet. The department now features an additional five triage/flex spaces and 11 treatment areas for a total of 23 treatment areas. Additionally, as mental health crisis needs grow for patients, Sutter Davis Hospital’s emergency department now includes four rooms especially designed for those patients’ unique needs. Other notable additions to the emergency department include a negative pressure room, which helps enhance infection control protocols, as well as a family conference room designed for private consultations

The two other major parts of Sutter Davis Hospital’s expansion included the Family Birth Center and the medical-surgical unit. An additional 11,000 square feet more than doubled the Family Birth Center’s size to 21,300 square feet. It added three labor and delivery rooms (for a total of nine), four post-partum recovery suites (for a total of 16), two special procedure/delivery rooms, and three more tubs to the hospital’s popular and distinctive water birthing program (for a total of five).

The medical-surgical unit added five new beds (for a total of 35) through 2,857 square feet of remodeled space.

The emergency department’s earlier-than-expected expansion tracks similarly to other parts of the construction project. The medical-surgical unit’s opening date was in November 2022 instead of December 2022—a welcome addition of space in light of increasing hospitalizations during the time’s “tripledemic” of flu, COVID-19 and RSV.

Because of the team’s careful and detailed planning, Sutter Davis Hospital made the unit’s beds available near the end of November 2022 through Califor-

nia’s state of emergency. The declaration allowed for some added flexibility in emergency use of space as a temporary response to address surges. The Family Birth Center’s early May 2023 opening also beat its original estimated opening date of late June 2023. Employees overseeing the hospital construction credit consistent communication with partners, conservative schedules and detailed planning for the accelerated timelines.

Other important features of Sutter Davis Hospital’s expansion include an MRI trailer with a bed lift and an emergency medical service landing pad to help support transportation of critical care patients. Additionally, the project included an upgrade of the central utility plant that features more efficient HVAC equipment and expanded water and sewer storage tanks available for 72-hour emergency use.

“We are so grateful to our teams and our partners who have made this expansion a reality through their vision, their expertise and their commitment to placing our patients and families first,” said Tammy Powers, chief administrative officer of Sutter Davis Hospital. “It is our privilege to serve this community, and this expansion enhances our capabilities to care for them now and well into the future.”

Fred Gladdis/McNaughton media

Sutter Davis Hospital officials estimate patients will be seen in the new emergency department space starting Sept. 6.

Medicare proposal would cover training for family caregivers

By Judith Graham KFF Health News

Even with extensive caregiving experience, Patti LaFleur was unprepared for the crisis that hit in April 2021, when her mother, Linda LaTurner, fell out of a chair and broke her hip.

LaTurner, 71, had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia seven years earlier.

For two years, she’d been living with LaFleur, who managed insulin injections for her mother’s Type 1 diabetes, helped her shower and dress, dealt with her incontinence, and made sure she was eating well.

Winters Senior Foundation revived its Bingo Day event on Aug. 3. Following bingo events will happen on the first Thursday of the month.

WSF brings back bingo

Winters Senior Foundation

A fun new activity is coming back for older adults this fall.

The Winters Senior Foundation reinstated its monthly Bingo Day earlier this month.

On Aug. 3, WSF hosted the first Bingo Day of the year. Local older adults gathered

together to play a spirited game of bingo.

WSF will host a Bingo Day on the first Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. in the St. Anthony Catholic Parish Community Room. The next events are scheduled on Sept. 7 and Oct. 5.

Players can get two

bingo cards for $1.

Program updates

WSF will not be holding its weekly chair yoga session on Wednesday, Aug. 30 or the social gathering meet-up on Thursday, Aug. 31. The weekly events are expected to return at the usual time the following week.

YoloCares offers wellness workshop

Express staff

YoloCares’ Center for Loss and Hope presents “Moving Through Grief,” a four-week program designed to guide participants emotionally and physically through different stages of grief.

Each week of the free workshop, held Tuesday evenings from contains a lesson related to grief, journal opportunities and 30 minutes of guided movement to help release emotions in the body and mind. The series launched on Aug. 29 and will continue on Tuesdays to Sept. 19,  Movement exercises vary from week to week and may include

dance, yoga, low-impact cardio and qigong. The exercises focus on cultivating healing energy while lessons help participants better understand where they are in their grief journey.

Instructors include Gail Kennedy, MPH; fitness and wellness expert Lisa Herrington and Renee Dryfoos, Ph.D., a qigong instructor with a background in the integration of Eastern and Western approaches to healing.

All sessions are held from 6 to 7:15 p.m. on Sept. 5, 12 and 19 at the Galileo Place Adult Day Center, 1909 Galileo Ct., Suite C in Davis. To register, email griefsupport@yolocares.org.

In the hospital after her mother’s hip replacement, LaFleur was told her mother would never walk again. When LaTurner came home, two emergency medical technicians brought her on a stretcher into the living room, put her on the bed LaFleur had set up, and wished LaFleur well.

That was the extent of help LaFleur received upon her mother’s discharge. She didn’t know how to change her mother’s diapers or dress her since at that point LaTurner could barely move. She didn’t know how to turn her mother, who was spending all day in bed, to avoid bedsores. Even after an occupational therapist visited several days later, LaFleur continued to face caretaking tasks she wasn’t sure how to handle.

“It’s already extremely challenging to be a caregiver for someone living with dementia. The lack of training in how to care for my mother just made an impossible job even more impossible,” said LaFleur, who lives in Auburn, Washington, a Seattle suburb. Her mother passed away in March 2022.

A new proposal from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services addresses this often-lamented failure to support family, friends, and neighbors who care for frail, ill, and disabled older adults. For the first time, it would authorize Medicare payments to health care professionals to train informal caregivers

who manage medications, assist loved ones with activities such as toileting and dressing, and oversee the use of medical equipment.

The proposal, which covers both individual and group training, is a long-overdue recognition of the role informal caregivers — also known as family caregivers — play in protecting the health and well-being of older adults. About 42 million Americans provided unpaid care to people 50 and older in 2020, according to a much-cited report.

“We know from our research that nearly 6 in 10 family caregivers assist with medical and nursing tasks such as injections, tube feedings, and changing catheters,” said Jason Resendez, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving. But fewer than 30 percent of caregivers have conversations with health professionals about how to help loved ones, he said.

Even fewer caregivers for older adults — only 7 percent — report receiving training related to tasks they perform, according to a June 2019 report in JAMA Internal Medicine.

Nancy LeaMond, chief advocacy and engagement officer for AARP, experienced this gap firsthand when she spent six years at home caring for her husband, who had amyotrophic

lateral sclerosis, a neurological condition also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Although she hired health aides, they weren’t certified to operate the feeding tube her husband needed at the end of his life and couldn’t show LeaMond how to use it. Instead, she and her sons turned to the internet and trained themselves by watching videos.

“Until very recently, there’s been very little attention to the role of family caregivers and the need to support caregivers so they can be an effective part of the health delivery system,” she told me.

Several details of CMS’ proposal have yet to be finalized. Notably, CMS has asked for public comments on who should be considered a family caregiver for the purposes of training and how often training should be delivered.

(If you’d like to let CMS know what you think about its caregiving training proposal, you can comment on the CMS site until 5 p.m. ET on Sept. 11. The expectation is that Medicare will start paying for caregiver training next year, and caregivers should start asking for it then.)

Advocates said they favor a broad definition of caregiver. Since often several people perform these tasks, training should be available to more than one person, Resendez suggested.

If you need medical supplies or have questions about how to navigate difficult conversations regarding them, we would be happy to help you

Courtesy photo

Patti LaFleur/Courtesy photo

Patti LaFleur’s mother, Linda LaTurner, moved into her home after her dementia progressed and care became complicated. “My mom had always been a very happy easygoing person. But she withdrew from social situations and cried a lot,” LaFleur says.

Wednesday, August 30

Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy Back to School Night, 5:30–6:30 p.m., CRA campus

Winters High School Back to School Night, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Winters High campus

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, August 31

Winters JUSD/Winters City 2x2 Meeting, 5 p.m., Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/2x2/

Winters Robotics Fundraiser, Last Summer Park Concert, Rotary Park Gazebo (Main and Railroad)

6-8 p.m., Root Beer Floats, Chicken & Dumpling (acoustic blues) free concert

Thursdays

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

Tuesday, September 5

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

WTC Auditions: "The Miracle Worker,"

6:30 –8:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), winterstheatre.org

Upcoming

Wednesday, September 6

WTC Auditions: "The Miracle Worker," 6:30 –8:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), winterstheatre.org

Thursday, September 7

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

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.

Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.

Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library

All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing

Older Adult Programs

Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Yoga canceled for Aug. 30.

Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Social Gathering cancelled for Aug. 31.

Ongoing

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

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 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.

Capstone project offers experience, keeps fruit stand open for summer

Aaron Geerts Express staff writer

The Double R Fruit Stand was created in 1978 by Linda and Rudy Rodriguez, and it’s been run by friends and family ever since.

As a family friend, Colton Brown has been working there every summer since he was a freshman. An opportunity this summer presented the perfect capstone project for him now that he is in his senior year.

Just a tomato’s throw away from I-505, the fruit stand is a monument to Winters’ agricultural roots, selling hand-picked and locally sourced goods and produce. It’s been operated by friends and family since its inception, However, Linda Rodriguez’s grandkids, who’d previously worked at the fruit stand, have gone off to college and she contemplated closing it this season. That’s when Brown agreed to not only run the stand but make a senior capstone out of the experience as well.

“Linda wasn’t going to open the stand this year because all the grandkids went off to college and she wasn’t very motivated to run it. I thought to myself, this place has been open for over 40 years, it can’t just close now. So I told her I’ll run it one more year, take on that manager role and use it as a capstone just to see if we can keep this busi-

ness going,” Brown said explaining his inspiration behind the move. “Originally, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do for a capstone and had a few other options to choose from. But then I thought, why not bust this out over the summer? This is a perfect

opportunity to get my capstone done so I can have a nice, smooth senior year without a bunch of stress.”

Brown kicked off his experience in early June with meetings and planning of his capstone with his mentors Linda and John Rodriguez. From

handpicking produce to creating employee schedules to networking and facilitating the managerial role, Brown’s been able to harvest a bushel of experience this capstone’s produced.

“Employees start at

See CAPSTONE, Page 6

Celebrating Elder Day honoree Gail Wingard

Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council

Gail Wingard was born in Industry, Kansas — a rural community of about 18 people — on Saturday, Jan. 31, 1931. He is one of six children.

In 1934, Gail’s family moved to Colorado. He said that his parents were very loving and his mother was a successful teacher. Gail’s grandmother owned and operated a small grocery store, and she would give him bubblegum.

Gail said his older brother was killed near Frankfurt, Germany, five days before the end of World War II, and was buried in the Netherlands. Gail and his wife Linda have visited his brother’s gravesite.

Of some of his early memories, Gail remembers when he was five years old, his sister taught him how to rollerskate — Gail fell and broke his right arm. About a year later, while playing on the schoolyard monkey bars, he fell and broke his left arm.

Gail taught himself how to drive. His first car was a 1934 Ford which he said he bought for $75.

On Dec. 7, 1942, when Gail was 10 years old, he first learned of the attack on Pearl Harbor. He and a friend were gathering up walnuts that day. Gail’s friend had a brother in the battleship USS Arizona. His friend later learned that his brother was lost during the attack when the Arizona was sunk. During World War II, Gail said he remembered many families had gold stars in their windows. He said when an American went off to fight, their family often displayed a flag bearing a blue star on a white field with a red border in their window. If one of those dreaded telegrams arrived informing them of their family member’s death, they would replace the blue star with a gold one, revealing that family’s sacrifice. He recalled there were many gold stars displayed in his neighborhood.

During the Depression, Gail

said his life as a child was very different than a child’s life today. With the Great Depression, he and his family were greatly impacted. Like millions of others, Gail lived in poverty and had very little to eat, let alone money to spare for entertainment. Gail also

remembers that for some reason a man gave Gail’s father a check for $25, and his father was very, very appreciative. Military service

Gail served four years in the Navy, with three-and-a-half of those years on the USS Philippine Sea (CV 47).

Gail was in the Korean War for 27 months and during that time he received a considerable number of military medals that recognized his bravery, gallantry, heroism and meritorious service. At a special luncheon in San Francisco, Gail received a medal and letter of gratitude from the Republic of Korea for his service. The awards were presented by the Council General Hyun of the Korean government — only 20 men received these distinguished awards.

During the Korean War, Gail participated in five major military conflicts on the USS

See WINGARD, Page 6

For the Record

Correction

For the Record: In the Aug. 23 edition of the Express, the photo of Elder Day honoree Doyle Pinkston was incorrectly labeled. The correct names and photos are printed here. We regret the error.

Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo Gail Wingard

Courtesy photo

Colton Brown puts together baskets of fruit to sell at the stand.

Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo

Doyle Pinkston

Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo Tony Garcia

Key points from July resale-housing report

California Association of Realtors

Special to the Express

Key points from C.A.R.’s July 2023 resale-housing report include:

• Sales declines continued to moderate at the regional level, with four of the five major regions recording sales decreases of less than 15 percent from a year ago. The Far North region posted the biggest sales dip at -16.7 percent from a year ago, followed by the Central Valley (-14.4 percent), the San Francisco Bay Area (-14.2 percent) and Southern California (-14.0 percent).

The Central Coast (-5.8 percent) was the only region that registered a decline of less than 10 percent, as two of the four counties in the region posted an annual sales increase.

• Forty-two of 51 counties tracked by C.A.R. registered year-over-year sales declines in July, with 30 counties experiencing annual sales drops of more than 10 percent and sales in

nine counties falling more than 20 percent from last July. Lassen (-68.4 percent) posted the biggest sales dip, followed by Del Norte (-37.5 percent) and Sutter (-34.4 percent). Eight counties registered sales increases from last year, with Mendocino (39.5 percent) gaining the most, followed by Glenn (38.5 percent) and Tehama (20.7 percent).

• At the regional level, home prices registered gains from a year ago in three of the five major regions and declined in two. The Central Coast (3.7 percent) continued to record an improvement in its median price and was the region with the biggest year-over-year gain in July. Three of the four counties within the region posted an annual gain, with San Luis Obispo being the only exception, declining 4.0 percent from the prior year. Southern California (2.7 percent) and the Central Valley (0.8 percent) also experienced an increase in their median prices from last

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year but at a more modest pace than the Central Coast region.

• At the other end of the spectrum, the Far North (-7.1 percent) posted a significant drop in its median price in July, with five of the six counties in the region experiencing price declines from a year ago. With interest rates remaining on the rise and housing affordability continuing to be a bigger issue for lower-price segments of the market, a downward price adjustment in the region in July was not a surprise. The San Francisco Bay Area (-0.3 percent) was the other region that experienced a median price decline, but the drop was flat compared to the Far North region.

• Home prices across the state stabilized somewhat in July, as fewer counties (27) registered year-overyear median price declines in July, compared with 37 counties in June. Mariposa experienced the biggest price decline with a drop of -23.6 percent from last July, followed by Plumas (-21.3 percent) and Mendocino (-19.0 percent). Twenty-one counties posted an increase in their median price from last year, a surge from 14 recorded in June 2023. Amador registered the biggest jump of 12.6 percent in price, followed by Santa Barbara (10.2 percent) and Kings (10.0 percent).

• Housing inventory in California climbed month-over-month in

July for the second straight month after inching up in June but continued to trail last year’s level as a lack of new listings remained the norm.Last month’s statewide unsold inventory index (UII) increased 13.4 percent from the prior month but dropped sharply by 19.4 percent on a year-over-year basis.

Active listings at the state level continued to fall more than 30 percent from a year ago and recorded the largest annual decline since May 2021.

With mortgage rates expected to remain high in August and September, a “lock-in effect” may prevent any meaningful improvement in supply conditions for the rest of the third quarter.

• Nearly 80 percent of all counties experienced a dip in active listing from last year, and 38 of them dropped by double-digits on a year-over-year basis. Mono (-64.2 percent)

posted the biggest year-over-year drop in July, followed by Alameda (-59.4 percent) and Contra Costa (-56.6 percent).Eleven counties recorded a year-over-year gain last month, with Mariposa registering the largest yearly gain of 42.4 percent, followed by Siskiyou (16.9 percent) and Del Norte (15.7 percent). On a month-to-month basis, 19 counties followed the statewide trend and may have begun the seasonal decline. Thirty-one counties, however, remained on an upward trend and continued to register monthly increases in July.

• The unsold inventory index (UII) in all price ranges declined by double-digits from a year ago in July, with the mid-price segment of $750,000$999,000 dipping the most by -25.8 percent year-over-year. The $500,000-$749,000 price range (-20.0 percent) posted the second largest decline from last year, followed by the sub$500,000 (-18.8 percent) and the $1 million price segment (-16.1 percent). All price ranges experienced a monthly increase in their UII from June, primarily due to weaker sales in July.

• The median number of days it took to sell a California single-family home was 16 days in July and 18 days in July 2022.

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Express Yourself

Winters has always had its share of crazy people, but I think it is getting worse, or I’m just running into more of them. Some people are just off a little and go through life living on the edge of sanity/reality, while others need to be institutionalized. At the very least they need counseling or placed under a doctor’s care and prescribed medications. If there was a simple solution, someone would have come up with it a long time ago. With all the research in new wonder drugs, mentally ill people don’t seem to be at the top of the list for new research.

I don’t think our court system is helping by keeping people on the street who can’t care for themselves. There needs to be a place to house mentally ill people, like state hospitals.

Where are these hospitals and how many beds are available to help people that can’t fend for themselves?

Where do families turn when they can’t control their children, or other family members when they can’t make them seek treatment? What happens to patients when they are on medication and realize that they do need help but don’t know where to find it? Is there a long-term solu-

tion to their problems? We aren’t helping people by letting them live on the streets, or in the creek. California, along with other states, is spending millions and millions on our homeless problem, but it is just getting worse. I don’t think high rent is the only problem because even when you find housing for some people, they don’t stay or cause problems with their neighbors. They need more than housing, they need help, counseling, job training or better medications. If they can’t be helped, take them off the streets and put them into a state hospital setting where they at least have a chance to get better.

What brought on this rant? I was walking out of Steady Eddy’s when a young man, whom I didn’t recognize, took

See QUICK, Page 4

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) Aries, you may want to move your relationship in a different direction, but your partner is resistant. This could be a conflict, or something that opens up a dialogue.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) Taurus, you might feel like doing all you can to make a problem go away, and think that acting immediately is the way to go. But ponder a few options beforehand.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) Gemini, a professional opportunity that seems to have many positive financial outcomes actually could have a down side to it. It’s best if you do your research before acting.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22) You may think that others do not understand you, Cancer. But that may be a good thing. You can focus on explaining your position and maybe make a few friends along the way.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) Leo, you tend to be attracted to things that tempt fate or may even be considered forbidden. When others want you to walk the straight and narrow for a bit, it could be tough.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) Virgo, an opportunity to get away presents itself. Enjoy this much-needed respite and don’t he afraid to go the extra mile to ensure the trip is as memorable as possible.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) You may want to do it all, Libra, but sometimes you have to let others know you have limits. When you don’t, it is easy to get taken advantage of or run yourself ragged.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) Scorpio, are you ready for an adventure? Identify some new hobbies and then learn all you can about getting out there and doing those types of activities with frequency.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) A loved one may want to be more cozy with you this week, but you’re content to have ample space and do your own thing, Sagittarius. Let your views be heard on this situation.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) Capricorn, you may want to tell a loved one what they want to hear right now to make a difficult situation go away. However, that only postpones the inevitable tough talk.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) You have been feeling like it is time to break away from your regular routine, Aquarius. It could be because there has been added stress on your shoulders. A vacation may be needed.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) There are some limits to doing all of the work on your own, Pisces. First off, you may lack the time and the expertise. Bring on helpers this week if anyone is available.

Mentally ill people are starting to worry me

There are a few other locals who could use mental health services, but I know them and know what to expect when I run into them.

the top off his cup and flipped it like a Frisbee onto the ground. I said, “Hey, there is a garbage can right there.” F-you

was his response. I said something else to him and he continued to curse and walk towards Rotary Park. He was still talking to himself as I was walking back to work. I looked over my shoulder to see how

he was doing and he was glaring at me, still babbling incoherently. That is when I realized that maybe I had made a mistake in telling him to not be an AH.

I watched as he walked across the park

towards the creek. I don’t know where he came from and I haven’t seen him since, but he needs help that he isn’t going to find in Winters, or anywhere else. There are a few oth-

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er locals who could use mental health services, but I know them and know what to expect when I run into them.

I’m going to have to learn to keep my mouth shut, walk away and let someone else deal with

our homeless problem. That is probably our biggest challenge when we expect someone else, or politicians, to fix a mental health problem. Take your meds and have a good week.

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF George Imamura CASE NO PR2023-0181

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

A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Yolo County Public Administrator in the Superior Court of California County of: Yolo

The Petition for Probate requests that: Yol o County Public Administrator be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval Before taking certain very important actions however the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action ) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as fol-

lows: Date: September 12 2023 Time: 9:00 A M Dept : 11

Room:

Located at 1000 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695

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

If y ou a re a c r editor or a c ontingent c reditor of the dec e d e n t y o u m u s t f i l e y o u r c l a i m w i t h t h e c o u r t a n d m a i l a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law

You may examine the file kept by the court the file kept by the court If you are a person interested in the estate you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250 A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk Attorney for petitioner: Dylan P Hyatt Meissner, Joseph, Palley & Ruggles, Inc 1555 River Park Drive Suite 108 Sacramento CA 95815 (916) 920-5983

Published August 23, 30, September 6, 2023 #408

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Betty Imamura CASE NO PR2023-0183

To all heirs beneficiaries creditors contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate or both of: Betty Imamura

A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Yolo County Public Administrator in the Superior Court of California County of: Yolo The Petition for Probate requests that: Yolo County Public Administrator be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval Before taking certain very important actions however the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action ) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: September 12, 2023 Time: 9:00 A M Dept : 11 Room:

Located at 1000 Main Street, Woodland, CA 95695

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

If y ou a re a c r editor or a c ontinge

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case Number: CV2023-1464

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner: DANNIE RAYMOND NEWMAN filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name DANNIE RAYMOND NEWMAN to Proposed name DANNY RAYMOND NEWMAN

T H E C O U R T O R D E R S t h a t a l l p e r s o n s i n t e r e s t e d i n t h i s matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated bel o w t o s h o w c a u s e , i f a n y , w h y t h e p e t i t i o n f o r c h a n g e o f n a m e s h o u l d n o t b e g r a n te

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Shizuko Imamura CASE NO PR2023-0182

To all heirs beneficiaries creditors contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate or both of: Shizuko Imamura

A Petition for Probate has been filed by: Yolo County Public Administrator in the Superior Court of California County of: Yolo The Petition for Probate requests that: Y olo

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

If you ar e a c r e dit or or a c ont inge nt cr e ditor of t he dec e d e n t , y o u m u s t f i l e y o u r c l a i m w i t h t h e c o u r t a n d m a i l a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court

Volleyball goes up against Esparto, Rio Vista teams

Sydney Andrade Express staff writer

Last week, the Winters High School volleyball teams competed against both Esparto and Rio Vista High Schools.

“I’m super proud of my girls. Both teams have been working hard. I am excited for what the season is going to bring,” said head coach Mari Chavez.

On Tuesday, Aug. 22, both the WHS junior varsity and varsity teams won their home nonconference match against the Esparto Spartans, dominating their competition.

Winters scores huge win over Dixon

Sydney Andrade

Express staff writer

On Friday, Aug. 25, the Winters High School varsity football team won their first home nonconference game against Dixon High School by a score of 20–12. The Dixon Rams are the biggest rival for Winters and while it’s a nonconference game it’s one of the most important games of the season.

“We were all extremely excited to get back out on the field. We had a great week of practice. I thought we were very well prepared and the kids were locked and focused all week,” said WHS athletic director and varsity head coach Daniel Ward.

Defensively, the Warriors played an amazing game. The Warriors kept Dixon out of the end zone until the third quarter of the game. When Dixon finally managed to get across the end zone the Warriors retaliated to finalize a solid victory in the fourth quarter with outstanding blocks and a third touchdown.

“We lined up correctly all night, did a great job tackling and thought we flew to the ball. We limited them to only 15 rushing yards on 16 carries which was huge for us,” said Ward.

In addition to limiting the Dixon Rams in rushing yards on carries, the Warriors starting defensive backs Ashton Baylor, Isaac Lopez and Jesse Madsen were huge assets to the game and were able to force three game-changing interceptions. Sebastian Rodriguez took advantage of those efforts at safety with two of the three game-changing interceptions.

Gio Jimenez, Julian Herera and Sebastian Valadez were also all very impressive. Together the three of them had over half of the total tackles for the Warriors.

“They are not the biggest linebacking corps around, but they are extremely fast and smart and some of the best in the area,” said Ward.

The defensive team may have given the Warriors the upper hand in the game but there were several players that had a huge impact on the game offensively. Cam Higgins and Robert Maggenti were exceptional at creating the gaps needed for their running backs to get through.

Quarterback Colton Brown completed 15 passes for a total of 219 yards.

“His ability to spread the ball around really allowed us to be a lot more balanced,” said Ward.

Wide receiver Lane Brown made five catches for 61 yards and did a great job finding the open spots to be available for several game-changing passes. Jimenez also played an amazing offensive game, giving the Warriors the momentum they needed with the first touchdown of the game in the second quarter

and then secured their win with another touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Jimenez not only made two touchdowns but had 26 carries for 141 yards and five catches for 60 yards.

Sebastian Valadez also scored a touchdown in the third quarter off a pass from Colton Brown.

While the Warriors are thrilled with their victory against Dixon they are already looking for ways they can improve their gameplay this coming week.

“Realistically, the game was a lot closer than it should have

been. We need to do a better job protecting the ball. We had three turnovers and all three of them were in the red zone,” said Ward.

Junior varsity highlights

The WHS junior varsity football team set the tone for the night with a 20–0 win against the Dixon Rams.

“Going into the game against Dixon we were confident we could get a win, but we still have some dust to clean off of our offense to compete with our upcoming competitors,” said junior varsity head coach Chris Kays.

Defensively, there were some phenomenal performances from Davin Perez and Kaimani Ricketts. Macguire Plitt and Aidan Baylor both caught game-changing interceptions,

Offensively the team played a great game. Plitt and Luke Felson each made impressive touchdowns off passes from starting quarterback Jake Woods.

“Jake was very poised with his passing decisions and knew when to run,” said Kays.

Anthony Matamoros was also a key player offensively and was all over the field as a utility player creating key blocks.

Winters will continue to put in the work as the teams prepare to take on Woodland Pioneer in another home game on Friday, Sept. 1.

On Thursday, Aug. 24, the junior varsity team won against Rio Vista in Period 2, while the varsity team just missed the mark and lost in period four.

Bayla Garcia and Alondra Molina both performed extremely well in the back row. Garcia made at least 10 digs, while Molina made five. Both players did an amazing job digging up anything that came their way. Garcia also made four solid back-row attacks.

Allison Aguiar and Jordan Tucker were very strong at the net. Aguiar made five strong attacks and continues to work hard at placing the ball.

“We had great plays defensively, struggled a bit the second game but came back strong in the third period and came close in the fourth. Anytime we go over 25 points you have to know how close of a game it was,” said Chavez.

Alondra Molina, a Winters High School senior, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Molina is a senior on the WHS varsity volleyball team this season. While an injury prevented Molina from playing last year, she is back and better than ever. “Alondra came back strong as a back row defensive player. She is a natural leader and works amazing with her teammates” said head coach Mari Chavez.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo Bayla Garcia sets up to pass the ball.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Cam Higgins and Robert Maggenti work to create a gap in the Dixon Rams line for their running back.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Junior Varsity athlete Macguire Plitt makes a touchdown off a pass from quarterback Jake Woods.

“We had a great week of practice. I thought we were very well prepared and the kids were locked and focused all week.”

Daniel Ward, WHS varsity head coach

Express Yourself

Have you read the newest Welcome to Winters

Iwas pleasantly surprised when the Welcome to Winters magazine arrived in my mailbox last Friday. I wasn’t expecting it to be sent out until later this week, but I’m not complaining. I have worked in publishing since 2006 and I have learned that curveballs and last-minute changes and additions are all a part of the ebb and flow of the publication chaos. I entered the realm of publishing as Facebook was first introduced to the public — where before it had been limited to college students. I was witness to the fall of Cat Fancy and Dog Fancy magazines and saw the birth of digital-only products. Both were devastating and “with the times” as digital publishing was thrust into the spotlight and became the ever-evolving monster or advances and algorithms it has become today.

People may see print publications (specifically newspapers) as a dying art, but I disagree. There is something to be said about having a newspaper or magazine in hand. There is a dynamic of influence in the willingness to be on the record in print. While social media and online reviews do give ease and occasional anonymity to statements, I’ve seen people willing to post online, but not willing to print it in the newspaper.

As a journalist, I believe that the news should relay facts and direct information. Features articles give us a little more wiggle room to be creative, while still inquiring

about important and truthful information. When Emma Johnson and I first stepped up to the helm of the Express in 2018, what we didn’t want to be was a printed version of a social media group page.

The opportunity to explore the essence of the Winters community was one that I did not want to pass up when it came time to begin brainstorming editorial content for Welcome to Winters. We are an extraordinary community, and there’s so much more to explore and uncover. This year’s Welcome edition was just the beginning steps of the journey my staff has begun to uncover.

My hope is that residents, new and established, see a little bit of themselves in some part of it. From fruit strands and agriculture to the “why” behind what draws folks to Winters — or back to Winters in some cases.

We are a community of tradition and generations of passing the torch to keep those events alive. We are also a community of new growth and have empathy for one another. While we may not always agree on something, it has yet to truly stop us from supporting and uplifting one another — or from throwing an epic community celebration.

That includes embarking on different roads and ventures to learn more about it all so we can best

share those stories with you. With every Winters Museum exhibit, I’ve found new perspectives and insight about what has shaped our community and how we’ve gotten from Point A to Point B to the present. I read past Express articles there and at the Yolo County Archives to learn more.

I invite you to share and look forward to hearing from you all about the things that you would like to see us continue to cover in upcoming Welcome to Winters publications. I keep a running list of ideas and topics that our subscribers and community members feel are of value and importance for not only new residents to know about but also for residents who have grown up here to reflect on and look back on.

I hope the latest edition of Welcome to Winters inspires you to engage in conversations with community members and the folks that we feature. One big hurdle in publishing is available space. It has especially been a challenge since the pandemic. Oftentimes, we are only able to offer you a tasting of an experience.

I challenge you to ask questions and to do some exploration on your own to learn more about what we share with you. There is always something more to learn about with everything we publish — the story doesn’t end with the final graph.

Philippine Sea. Gail was engaged daily in a continually hostile environment for 89 days at a time and then mandatory resting for two weeks. This went on during the entire 27-month tour where he was constantly exposed to military aggression.

Post-war, Gail became a member of the Winters VFW Post 11091 while it was active. It dissolved in 2020.

Life in Winters

When Gail moved to Winters in 1962, he became a partner in a local automotive dealership. During the early part of the 20th Century, Winters had multiple auto dealers.

Gail was employed for many years with Winters football, baseball and track and field events, coached by Jack Delbar and John Kammer.

In 1964, Gail worked with many community leaders, such as Bank of America, PG&E and Al Graf to assist the city of Winters in facilitating the first

9 a.m. to get their baskets made and fruit on the shelves. For me, I start a little earlier because depending on how much fruit was sold the day before or how low we’re running on certain produce, I go out and pick up fruit from Pedrick

zoning documents.

Employed by the Winters City Council, Gail successfully worked on many subdivision developments such as Apricot Avenue, the 58 homes of Valley Oaks, Almond Street, Creekside, and the Broadview and Colby Lane subdivisions.

Gail was the first city manager for the City of Winters. He also worked for the city of Williams. In 1975, Gail was city manager for the city of Lincoln. On Nov. 9, 2011, he stepped in as the part-time interim manager of the city of Orland until a permanent replacement could be hired.

Gail and Linda have four children and nine grandchildren. They will celebrate their 46th wedding anniversary this year.

Gail is also writing a book chronicling his

life. His book should be completed and available sometime this year.

A vigorous and dedicated worker all his life, Gail continues to do so much for his family, community, and country. Today, even at 92, Gail mows his own lawn.

Influential people such as Gail respectfully identify that others may hold them up as an example to emulate. They’re authentic and credible in their actions and encounters and understand that their humble reputation is the foundation of their ability to influence and lead. We owe a great debt of gratitude to those like Gail who sacrificed their lives so we can live free. We can repay them by remembering what they did and what they stand for.

may not have even met if I didn’t do this capstone. Also, even though this is a small business, it’s still a business and learning how to fill a manager role and how many things a manager has to do — it just opened my eyes,” said Brown. “Agriculture has always been a love of mine and I think doing this has opened me up to what I might want to major in, in college. Maybe something in ag or in business. It’s helping me figure out what I want to do in college and that’s the point of having a cap-

According to Brown, the Double R Fruit Stand will be open until Labor Day which lands on Monday, Sept. 4. The fruit stand is

Courtesy photos

Gail Wingard and his wife Linda show off some of the medals he received for his naval service. Linda holds a photo of the aircraft carrier USS Philippine Sea (CV 47), below, which Gail served on during the the Korean War.

Courtesy photo

Colton Brown picks peaches from the Double R Ranch orchard.