Winters Express Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Senior Commission hears update on Senior Center project, seats newest commissioner

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

The Winters Senior Commission on Aging welcomed its newest commissioner on Wednesday, Jan. 11.

Mark Rowan was appointed by the City Council at a special council meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 10. Rowan stepped in to fill the remainder of the term vacated by Wally Pearce in October 2022. The term is scheduled to expire on June 1, 2025.

Rowan told Commissioners he had moved to the area in 2020 and he was ready to get involved within the community.

“I love Winters and I want to do my part

Youth Day committee may cancel 2023 event if new volunteers don’t step up to help plan, sit on board

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

The annual Winters Youth Day event may be canceled if more community members do not volunteer to help plan the different aspects or to sit on the committee’s board.

President Mike Sebastian told the Express that only two board members are left, and they cannot plan the event alone.

Sebastian said the responsibilities that come with planning the event are too much to handle for just the two of them.

“Our secretary/ treasurer and Assistant General Chairman have had to take a leave due to a family emergency in Central

California. With her on leave, that leaves only two board members to run the entire event,” Sebastian said. “I am limited in what I can do due to my health, so it is imperative that we get a few more volunteers to help run the show.”

The 85th annual celebration is expected to take place on the last Saturday of April. If not enough volunteers step up by the end of the month, Sebastian said they will cancel the event for this year.

According to Sebastian, they are in need of a few more folks to sit on the board, as well as to serve as event chairs to help plan the different activities including the Main Street parade and Kiddie parade, the Duck Derby, City Park vendors and to coordinate children’s activities. The committee is specifically in need of someone

with accounting experience to serve as Treasurer to handle finances.

Last year, the Youth Day Committee was in a similar position of needing volunteers to step up. Sebastian is a long-time Youth Day volunteer and has attempted to retire from the committee multiple times, but stepped up to help bring the event back in person following the pandemic.

Sebastian said it is vital that individuals who would like to volunteer to contact him sooner than later because there are upcoming deadlines to get permits submitted and to get communications sent out.

Community members who are interested in volunteering or who have questions about what the volunteer needs are should send

Council approves increase for waste management rate

By Jacob Hoffman Express staff writer

In both their first meeting of the new year, and the first full meeting with newly elected councilmembers, the Winters City Council held a brief in-person-only meeting on Jan. 10. The meeting had two principal discussion items, including a rate increase for Waste Management in Winters.

City Manager Kathleen Salguero Trepa explained that Winters will be subject to an off-cycle increase in tipping fees at the

gates of the central landfill, which will translate to an increase in waste management rates for Winters residents.

“The rates are being adjusted because the county,” Trepa continued, “underwent a competitive solicitation for a landfill operator, and the result of that is — the costs went up about $1 million a year, primarily for two reasons. One, for increases in prevailing wage rates based on the inflation we’ve all been experiencing, and then also complying with the emission standards

for air quality associated with the heavy equipment being used out of the landfill…”

With the costs increasing, the county moved the costs down to individual cities, including Winters, and Trepa explained “under our agreement with Yolo county” it has “the ability, with 60 days notice, to pass that cost on to the individual cities as well as (its) own unincorporated areas, so they provided us 60-day notice back in October — we took that information, provided it

Eight Winters Robotics members inducted into Honors Society

By Jacob Hoffman Express staff writer

On Dec. 16, eight members of the Winters Robotics Club were inducted into the International Robotics Honors Society. Winters Robotics Vice President Laura Mariani discussed with the Winters Express what this honor means for the students inducted and for the Winters Robotics Club as a whole.

The Club is made up of teams of two to

three students, who then get to compete in robotics competitions across Northern California and the country. The club’s most recent accolade the club received is having eight of its students inducted into the International Robotics Honors Society.

“The International Robotics Honors Society is a recognition of students that are achieving high-level skills in the robotics world,” Mariani said.

The inductees in-

cluded Miles Mariani, Jack Felsen, Jack Tuel, Ben Nelson, Jesus Cruz, Julian Garcia, Liliana Rodriguez and Jack Bryant.

In order for students to join, they must apply to become members of the honor society which begins with a lengthy process for the applicants to prove not only are they skilled in robotics, but also demonstrate well-rounded scholastic qualities.

Future subscriber: Max Ezekial Arons Baptiste

Abigail Arons and Terrell Baptiste of San Francisco announce the birth of their son Max Ezekiel Arons Baptiste. Max was born on Oct. 2, 2022 at 1:10 a.m. At birth Max weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces and measured 21 inches. He joins his older sister, Eva Jean Arons Baptiste (2 years old). She welcoms his to the family. Max’s maternal grandparents are Karen Olson and Barry Parker of Winters, and Tom Arons and Anne Morris of Austin, Texas. His paternal grandparents are Annett and Dwain Baptiste of Houston, Texas. Max’s mother, Abby Arons is a Class of 2024 Winters High School graduate.

Submit birth announcements to the Express online at https://tinyurl.com/mrecft6j.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

The project site for the Winters Senior Center is at the corner of East Street and Baker Street, across from the Yolo Federal Credit Union and next to Blue Mountain Terrace Senior Apartments.

Courtesy photo

Superintendent Rody Boonchuoy (left) joined Miles Mariani, Jack Felsen, Jack Tuel, Ben Nelson, Jesus Cruz, Julian Garcia, Liliana Rodriguez, Teacher Diane Halsey and Jack Bryant when they were inducted to the International Robotics Honors Society.

Courtesy photo

Basketball recap

By

The Winters Warriors basketball teams laced up again for another week of competition, tipping off last Monday, Jan. 9 against Colusa High School.

Women’s varsity

The women’s varsity basketball team played host to the flock of RedHawks and squared off in a remarkable show-

down. When the feathers settled, however, Colusa ended up edging the Warriors in a close game winning 51–46.

A few days later on Wednesday, Jan. 11, the Warriors were set to take on Paradise High School. Mother Nature had other ideas with her rainstorms making it too dangerous for travel. The game itself will be rescheduled for a later date.

To cap off their week on Friday, Jan. 13, the squad traveled up to Willows High School to take on the Honkers. Unfortunately, the Warriors didn’t bring their A-game and would lose 41–34.

“The girls played hard at times against Colusa last Monday, but not consistently hard. We definitely could have had that one at home then the rain washed the game against Paradise out,” said head coach Jeff Christian. “We played again Friday and that was a rough one. We’re missing a couple of players, but didn’t play consistently and didn’t play hard, and lost to Willows. Nothing against them, but we had no business losing to Willows because we were the better team and they took it to us. We’ve got work to do and hopefully, we can take a step toward getting better.”

Men’s varsity

The varsity men’s team traveled up to

Colusa to take on the RedHawks. The Warriors fought hard, even cutting their opponent’s lead to within single digits at one point. In the end, Colusa’s offense would tip the scale back in their favor and go on to win 64–42.

Unfortunately for the Paradise Bobcats who came to play a few days later on Wednesday, Jan. 11, they’d be going up against an aggravated Warriors squad. The four-quarter beatdown sent the Bobcats back home with their tails between their legs and an 85–55 loss on their record, courtesy of the Winters Warriors.

The Warriors would carry that momentum with them as they

squared off against Willows on Friday, Jan. 13. There was no bad luck voodoo for the Warriors on that Friday the 13, only a grind against the Honkers that ended in a 58–53 win for Winters High School.

“We had a long week with three games in five days, but I think we’re starting to hit our stride as a team. On Monday against Colusa, we didn’t handle their press well in the first half but did in the second half. We cut their lead down to single digits and forced a time-out. Ultimately, we lost the game but played hard all the way through,” said head coach Brendan McShea. “Wednesday we played our best offensive game yet

WHS winter sports season upcoming games

Wrestling

Jan. 21 – Corning Invite at Corning

Feb. 4 – SVL Championship at Paradise

Soccer — Men's and Women's teams

Jan. 19 – Los Molinos at home, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Jan. 24 – Live Oak at home, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Jan. 26 – Willows away, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Jan. 31 – Pierce at home, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Feb. 2 – Colusa at home, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Feb. 7 – Los Molinos away, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Feb. 9 – Live Oak away, 3:15 p.m./5:15 p.m.

Men’s Basketball

Jan. 20 – East Nicolaus, away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 23 – Colusa, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 25 – Willows, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 – Live Oak, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 31 – Pierce, away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 – Paradise, away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 7 – Durham, away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 – East Nicolaus, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Women's Basketball

Jan. 19 – East Nicolaus, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 23 – Colusa away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 25 – Willows, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 27 – Live Oak, away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Jan. 31 – Pierce, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 3 – Paradise, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 7 – Durham, home, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

Feb. 10 – East Nicolaus away, JV 5:30 p.m./Var. 7 p.m.

against Paradise and shot almost 50 percent from the field.

Marcus Lopez and Logan Crabtree had great games on both ends as did Colton Brown showing his versatility in guarding every position on

the floor. We finished the week in a close game against Willows. We were up five with less than two minutes to go and we caused a five-second count on Willows’ inbound play to seal the win.”

Yolo Audubon Society offers January events

Yolo Audubon Society

Special to the Express

Yolo Audubon Society will offer a lecture and two birding field trips in January.  These events are free and open to the public. Both field trips will feature easy walks and good photo opportunities.

This month’s Yolo Audubon meeting features Nancy Ullrey, the executive direc-

tor of the Cache Creek Conservancy. She will talk about the habitat improvements at the Cache Creek Nature Preserve and Capay Open Space Park, as well as the expansion of bird boxes in those areas. Ullrey will also discuss how the Conservancy was created and share her hopes for the future of birding at the Cache Creek Nature Preserve.

The meeting will be

held Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. For details on how to join the meeting go to yoloaudubon.org or facebook.com/yoloaudubonsociety.

On Saturday, Jan. 21, Sharon Kirkpatrick will lead a field trip to the pastures of southeastern Solano County to search for overwintering raptors and other winter visitors. In prior trips, the group has seen Prairie Falcons, Merlins, Golden Eagles, Ferruginous Hawks, Rough-legged Hawks and Mountain Plovers.

On Sunday, Jan. 29, Kevin Guse will lead the annual ‘Raptor Ramble.’ California’s Central Valley has one of the largest wintering raptor populations in the country.

Dani Johnson

Dani Johnson, a senior at Winters High School, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Johnson recently returned from an injury in the game against Willows, and she’s proven to be a supportive leader for the women’s varsity basketball team from the sideline. She’s been helping to boost morale by simply showing up every day and supporting her squad. “Dani (was) out for over a month, but she’s been so vital to our team with just her presence,” said head coach Jeff Christian. “I can’t think of a better representation of a student-athlete who is all-in for the team.”

Beginning birders

on both trips. For more information on how to participate in these events, go to the group’s websites; yoloaudubon. org or facebook.com/ yoloaudubonsociety.

Yolo Audubon, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, is a nonprofit organization whose mission

is

More information on birds in Yolo County is available at the websites.

Yolo Superior Court announces new text notification system

Yolo Superior Court Special to the Express

Yolo Superior Court has implemented a Text Notification system, now available for parties with current cases.

Parties can sign up through the court’s website at www.yolo. courts.ca.gov or by using QR codes available at the public service windows. This program is not available to individuals who are not a party to the case.

Once enrolled, parties will receive text notifications of court dates, continuances and cancellations

through their mobile smartphone devices. There is no charge for this service.

“The Text Notification Program is a part of the court’s continued commitment to transparency and access” Presiding Judge Daniel Maguire stated, “It is our hope that eligible parties sign up and use this free program and that they find it helpful. We get it, people are busy, and reminders are always helpful”

Shawn Landry, Yolo Superior Court’s CEO, added “We are excited about this public access tool that provides parties hear-

ing dates, times and courtroom information needed to appear at court. Most people already use text notification reminders for dentist appointments or other commitments in our daily lives, this is no different. It is really a win-win; a convenience for parties and it will reduce the number of postponements and failures to appear.”

Although most case types are eligible for Text Notification, there are some case types that are not available for this program due to strict confidentiality requirements.

The goal of this field trip is to see how many species of raptors can be found. Highlights of past trips include Ferruginous Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Golden Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Bald Eagle and Prairie Falcon.

are welcome

to foster an appreciation of birds and conservation in Yolo County. The group offers live and virtual events in an effort to educate and inform the public about birds and birdwatching.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Winters High School athletes celebrate after Marcus Lopez (No. 10) scored a three-point shot against Paradise High School on Jan. 11.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

Marcus Lopez lands a three-point shot against Paradise High School on Jan. 11.

JoAnne Fillatti/Courtesy photo

A red-tailed hawk sits on antique farm equipment.

School district accepting Hall of Fame nominations

Winters Joint Unified School District Special to the Express

In 2018, the Winters Joint Unified School District launched the inaugural Hall of Fame, a recognition program that honors those who have gone above and beyond for our school district and community to be recognized for their work and honored for what they do. Winters JUSD is now accepting nominations for the next Hall of Fame class.

The Hall of Fame consists of three categories: Alumni, Employee and Distinguished Service. The eligibility criteria for each group are detailed on the nomination form found on the school district’s website at www.wintersjusd. org/hof.

Alumni are eligible to be nominated 10 years after graduation from Winters High School, an em-

ployee is eligible five years after retirement, and a distinguished service inductee has no time requirements.

An alumnus nominee is a student who demonstrated high quality and character and was actively engaged in school programs while in school.  An alumnus nominee will have continued those qualities as a professional adult, specifically in their career/professional accomplishments, military service, or community service.

Former district employees nominated must have demonstrated outstanding qualities that had a significant impact on school scholastics, athletics, or other student-centered activities. They must have had an exemplary life of community service and good character.

The final category is the distinguished service inductee. This nominee is not

necessarily a Winters JUSD graduate but is a local citizen or businessperson who made extraordinary contributions to the district.

This person’s contribution was a significant benefit or exceptional honor to the school district or one of its schools.

The submission process for this year’s nominations began on Jan. 13 and closes on Feb. 3. The Hall of Fame honorees will be selected and informed of their selection in mid-February.

The inductees will be recognized at an Induction Ceremony on April 27.  Details about the ceremony will be announced at a later date.

Questions about the Winters JUSD Hall of Fame should be directed to Anietta Kelley, Assistant to the Superintendent, at akelley@wintersjusd.org or call the Winters JUSD office at 530-795-6100.

Suicide prevention services seeks crisis line volunteers, hosting training

By Shaurnet Mason Special Contributor

Suicide Prevention and Crisis Services of Yolo County (SPYC) will hold a seven-week crisis line volunteer training beginning Jan. 31 to March 7. Crisis line volunteers play a role in saving the lives of Yolo County residents; when they join the dedicated team of volunteers who answer the phones at SPYC, they become the first point of human contact in the steps toward mental health.

Volunteers undergo a 36-plus hour training program in which they develop the skills needed to address issues of depression, suicide, family relationship conflicts, and mental illness. Initially, volunteers commit to serving six hours per week with a one-year service commitment upon successful completion of the training program.

Volunteers have been, and continue to be, the backbone of SPYC. Quality training provides volunteers with

Eventos hispanos

Subvención estatal ayuda al distrito escolar en programa bilingüe de transición

Por Jacob Hoffman Traducido por Carol Alfonso

El Distrito Escolar Unificado de Winters (Winters Joint Unified School District – Winters JUSD) fue uno de los 27 distritos de los 140 solicitantes que recibieron una subvención de inmersión en dos idiomas (Dual Language Immersion – DLI) del estado como parte de la iniciativa Global California 2030. Esta subvención proporcionará fondos para una proporción de 50:50 del idioma en el aula y un programa DLI de 90:10 con el objetivo de que la mitad de los estudiantes desde jardín de infantes (Kindergarten) al grado 12 hablen dos o más idiomas para el 2030.

La Superintendente Asistente Phoebe Girimonte y la Especialista en Aprendices de Inglés Delia García-Espinoza presentaron los beneficios de este modelo propuesto y lo que esta subvención y el programa DLI significarán para los estudiantes de Winters.

García-Espinoza definió el DLI citando un estudio del 2001 que dice, “en los Programas de Inmersión Dual, los estudiantes que dominan el inglés y el idioma objetivo se integran a propósito con los objetivos de desarrollar habilidades bilingües, excelencia académica y actitudes positivas de competencia intercultural y personal para ambos grupos de estudiantes.”

Girimonte y García-Espinoza expusieron los beneficios que los investigadores encontraron entre los estudiantes bilingües, incluidos puntajes mejorados en pruebas estandarizadas y evaluaciones de habilidades cognitivas, así como beneficios culturales y sociales derivados de poder

relacionarse con personas en otros idiomas.

El programa actual de Educación Bilingüe en Desar-

icomisario Joedy Michael sobre las razones detrás de las proporciones, Girimonte dijo, “reconocemos que nuestros

que se llevará a cabo un foro el 24 de Enero para brindarles a las familias información adicional sobre el programa y la transición de los programas existentes. García-Espinoza le dijo más tarde al Winters Express que este grupo de trabajo, trabajará para “hacer que el proceso sea lo más fácil y fluido posible al ser lo más transparente posible con la comunidad.”

Las familias con niños en kínder de transición y kínder aprenderán sobre los

the opportunity to participate in the increased well-being not only of themselves but of those in their community.

Those interested in applying are asked to review the training dates listed below to ensure they will be able to attend each training date; there are no make-ups, and all potential volunteers are required to attend each training, on time, and for the full duration.

Applicants must be at least 20 years old. Training will be conducted virtually but all crisis line shifts must be taken in-office.

The Winter 2023 interview period is now through Jan. 25. The application deadline is Jan. 23. Applications submitted after the date will be retained for the next training session.

Training dates are scheduled for:

Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 6–9 p.m. (in per-

son)

Thursday, Feb. 2 from 6–9 p.m. (virtual) Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 6–9 p.m. (in person) Thursday, Feb. 9 from 6–9 p.m. (virtual) Tuesday, Feb. 14 from 6–9 p.m. (in person)

Thursday, Feb. 16 from 6–9 p.m. (virtual) Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 6–9 p.m. (in person)

Thursday, Feb. 23 from 6–9 p.m. (virtual) Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 6–9 p.m. (in person)

Thursday, March 2 from 6–9 p.m. (virtual) Tuesday, March 7 from 6–9 p.m. (in person)

To apply, visit www. SuicidePreventionYoloCounty.org to download and complete a volunteer application. Applications should be emailed back to SPYC at spyc@sbcglobal.net. For questions or additional information, please call the SPYC business office at 530-756-7542.

rollo (Developmental Bilingual Education – DBE), aprobado por los miembros de la junta directiva de Winters JUSD en el 2013, tiene un modelo de asignación de idiomas del 50:50. Se espera que la transición al programa DLI sea un proceso de tres años.

Hablando sobre cómo se verá la estructura del programa DLI, García-Espinoza dijo que el programa continuará desde el jardín de infantes hasta el quinto grado con un grupo de estudiantes organizado aproximadamente por un tercio de hablantes del inglés, un tercio de hablantes del español y un tercio de hablantes duales del inglés y español, y estos estudiantes pasarán al menos el 50 por ciento de su día escolar en su idioma de destino.

El programa comenzará en Kindergarten, con el currículo de idiomas diseñado para que el tiempo dedicado a la lengua objetiva sea del 90 por ciento en español al 10 por ciento en inglés, y cambiando cada año académico subsiguiente de una proporción de 80:20 en primer grado, 70:30 en segundo grado, y así sucesivamente hasta terminar en quinto grado en proporción 50:50.

Al responder una pregunta del fide-

estudiantes, incluso aquellos que están inscritos en un programa DLI, tendrán mucha exposición al inglés en otros entornos, por lo que hacemos queremos sumergirlos en ese idioma objetivo de español,” por lo que el objetivo del programa es tanto “animar y mantener ese idioma del hogar, como también para nuestros estudiantes que solo hablan inglés en el programa, para desarrollar su fluidez en español también,” que requieren estar inmersos en el idioma de destino para lograrlo por completo.

Girimonte explicó que el 2022–23 será un año de planificación para el distrito, ya que establece la infraestructura académica para el programa, incluido el desarrollo de un plan de evaluación y la familiarización de la comunidad con el programa DLI. El próximo año, el distrito escolar verá la implementación del programa desde el jardín de infantes hasta el primer grado. El programa se expandirá para incluir desde kindergarten hasta segundo grado en el año escolar 202324, con el objetivo de implementarlo hasta el quinto grado para el año escolar 2024-25.

Girimonte también aseguró a los miembros de la comunidad

Vea DLI, Página 5

“(El objetivo del programa es) fomentar y mantener la lengua materna, pero también desarrollar la fluidez en español de los alumnos que sólo hablan inglés.”

Phoebe Girimonte, Superintendente Asistente

Fire Jan. 7: 9:38 a.m., medical aid, 100 block of Orchard Lane ~10:31 a.m., medical aid, 100 block of Myrtle Drive ~9:31 p.m., medical aid, 100 block of Orchard Lane Jan. 8: 2:50 a.m., vehicle accident, CR 89/CR 31 ~12:12 p.m., vehicle accident, CR 88/ CR 32A ~3:17 p.m., medical aid, 400 Morgan Street ~9:51 p.m., medical aid, 100 block of Orchard Lane ~10:29 p.m., medical aid, 400 block of Plum Place Jan. 9: 8:10 a.m., structure fire, Via Robles ~9:22 a.m., medical aid, 100 block of Orchard Lane ~10:20 a.m., vehicle accident, Buckeye Road/CR 31 ~8:34 p.m., fire investigation, 610 block of Creekside Way ~8:35 p.m., mutual aid, Putah Creek Road/Gaddini Road Jan. 10: 9:04 a.m., medical aid, 120 block of Liwai Village Court ~10:17 a.m., medical aid, 420 block of Anderson Avenue ~2:55 a.m., medical aid, 400 block of Morgan Street ~11:13 p.m., medical aid, 100 block of Broadview Lane Jan. 11: 1:06 a.m., lift assist, 100 block of Broadview Lane ~11:31 a.m., medical aid, 800 block of Suffolk Place ~2:50 p.m., medical aid, 600 block of Manzanita Way ~6:06 p.m., medical aid, 100 block of Second Street Jan. 12: 12:45 a.m., medical aid, 10 block of Priscilla Court ~6:02 a.m., medical aid, 200 block of

Russell Street ~4:45 p.m., fire alarm, 400 block of Morgan Street ~5:06 p.m., medical aid, 100 block of Caselli Court

Police Arrest Log

Jan. 6: Poe, Rick Dean (Age 58); Charges: Driving w/ suspended license for DUI, Driving without an interlock device, Expired registration; Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~King, James William (Age 46), Charges: Winters PD Warrant, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~Porter, Darren Lawn (Age 57); Charges: Possession of a stolen vehicle, Public Intoxication; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Case Log

Nov. 10, 2022: 4:03 p.m., 60th block of Owings Drive, Assist Outside Agency Jan. 3: 9:18 a.m., 600th block of Thomas Street, Woodland, Burglary ~11:43 a.m., 400th block of Plum Place, Identity Theft Jan. 5: 10:28 a.m., 200th block of Wildrose Lane, Harassment via Communication Device ~1:27 p.m., 1000th Block of Rojo Street, Vehicle Towed Jan. 5: 4:21 p.m., 500th block of Railroad Avenue, Violation of Court Order Jan. 6: 3:33 p.m., E. Grant Avenue/Dutton Street, Vehicle Towed Jan. 8: 5:58 a.m., 900th block of E. Grant Avenue, Petty Theft ~8:12 a.m., 600th block of Railroad Avenue, Audible Alarm

145 Years Ago

January 19, 1878

(From the files of the Winters Advocate)

Rains which started Sunday and continued through Wednesday totaled 6.23 inches. The waters of Putah Creek rose rapidly on Tuesday and Wednesday, until 8 o’clock on the latter evening, when, owing to the pressure of the drift wood and brush on the piling of the railroad bridge, which acted as a dam on the upper side, the piling gave way, and the entire bridge, with the exception of the abutments on either side, broke loose with a terrific crash, and passed rapidly down stream. Fortunately no one was on the bridge at the time. The railroad company put on a boat next morning for the conveyance of passengers and freight, the train running as usual to the Solano bank of the creek.

A bill to allow women, white and colored, to practice as attorneys at law, passed our State Senate by a vote of 22 to 11.

Misses Lizzie Baker, Nettie and Clara Winters, left town on Monday last, to commence their studies at Mrs. Perry’s Seminary at Sacramento.

Our neighbors of Davisville, are about to add, it is said, to their other improvements, a weekly newspaper. We wish them success.

We are requested to caution our citizens against a chicken thief who is prowling around, supposed to be a two-legged animal.

130 Years Ago

January 21, 1893

Mr. and Mrs. George North celebrated the twenty-sixth anniversary of their wedding on Sunday last.

Henry and William Brinck and families and J. E. Sackett and

Years Ago

Dispatches from the

daughters went to San Francisco Wednesday afternoon, to attend the State Citrus Fair, now open there.

A horse belonging to T. E. Boyd became frightened at some object on Wednesday and ran away. After running twice around the hotel block the animal ran into and fell on the sidewalk in front of Griffith & Hazelrigg’s store and was captured. The cart to which it was attached was considerably damaged, and the horse was cut on the hind legs considerably.

High school pupils receiving an average of 90 percent or over for the month ending January 13, 1893 include: Myrtle Cooper, Fred Hemenway, Grace Dunton, Chester Hemenway, Alice Chadwick, Mattie Cole, Maud Culton and Esther Hemenway.

95 Years Ago

January 20, 1928

Eddie Graf took the Express man for a ride in the new Ford yesterday. It was the Tudor Sedan which corresponds to the coach in other makes of cars. Graf “stepped on her” up to 45 miles and she seemed to run just as

smoothly at 45 than at the lower speeds.

D. O. Judy, after conducting a livery and taxi business successfully for over 39 years in the Pioneer stable building on north side of Main street, has sold the valuable properties to E. H. Edwards Co. to be used in their progressive grain business. The frame building is an old landmark, built by Dan Tucker on lots now occupied by the City Hall. In the late 70s Tucker moved the structure to its present location.

The local Legion basketball team met and defeated the Davis quintet on the local court Wednesday

night 53 to 31. Freeman, after two weeks illness came back strong, playing 30 minutes, scoring 31 points.

Francis McGarr had the misfortune to break his arm at the wrist Thursday morning while cranking a car. Dr. King rendered first aid and the patient went to Woodland for thorough examination and treatment.

80 Years Ago

January 22, 1943

Mrs. John Chulick was hostess to a group of neighbors Wednesday afternoon, the day marking the first birthday of her little son. A birthday cake, with a single candle highlighted the social hour of refreshments.

In response to request for an interview, Miss Marjorie Herron went to Napa Wednesday and learned that she had been selected as instructor in Home Economics in the Napa Jr. College, to assume duty at the opening of the spring semester, Monday, Feb. 8.

Ensign George Crum, 24, son of Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Crum was graduated from the Diesel school for U. S. Naval officers on the University of Illinois campus at Urbana, Illinois, January 11. He now awaits assignment to duty with the fleet.

Obituary

June 4, 1932–Jan. 3, 2023

Bill Nelson Doughty died on Jan. 3, with his loving family around him. Bill was born in Oklahoma to Vernie and Geraldine Doughty. He was raised in Wyoming, living and working there until he joined the Coast Guard. In 1962, he moved to California and started working for the Post Office as a letter carrier. Shortly after he became Postmaster in Vacaville, he met his wife Anna, of 48 years, and they combined their families.

Bill loved his family, music, books, traveling and the ocean.

He is survived by

his wife, Anna, daughter Dawn Doughty, son Joe Doughty and wife Karen, son John Muller and wife Cindy, daughter Jennifer Hoskins and husband John, and daughter Robin, 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. He will be missed.

Things just aren’t the way they used to be.

were

Bill Nelson Doughty

Courtesy photo Bill Nelson Doughty

City of Winters

Picked by Charley Wallace File photo

CAN-DO-KIDS: Odette Christensen’s 1967 class at Waggoner School brought more cans of food for the Winters Food Closet than any other class. They received an extra recess for their e orts. Waggoner students gathered a grand total of more than 1,500 cans to donate to the food closet. Pictured with some of the cans are (from left) Veronica Chavez, Candis Cook, Jake Platt, Desiree Komiecko, Wes Padgett, Fabien Ceja, Tim Bolla, Brendon Hemenway and Ashlea Hilkey.

Our neighbors of Davisville, are about to add, it is said, to their other improvements, a weekly newspaper. We wish them success.

Express archives.

“They had to get recommendations from teachers, they had to be interviewed, they had to show their academic standing, they had to recite back what they’ve done with robotics,” Mariani said. “It’s more than just competing at these robotics (tournaments), it’s about learning teamwork, learning character development — the skill set that they have to apply to this honor society is going to be a skill set they have for the real world.”

For the eight students who succeeded in being inducted, Mariani says this honor puts them among a small cohort of other inductees since there are less than 40 carters in the United States with chapters that have inductees.

“It’s a small percentage of schools that get this distinction, so it was a huge honor for Winters to get the charter and it was a huge honor for these kids to be recognized,” Mariani said.

Even for those in the club who have yet to be inducted, Mariani

said this honor is still something the whole of Winters Robotics can take pride in.

“It really exemplifies what a strong robotics program and engineering program we have at Winters High School,” Mariani said. “It’s an exciting time for the school

Mariani also noted that the Winters Robotics Club has stiff regional competition that helps the teams hone their skills.

“Northern California has a really high-level competitive robotics world for high school students, so when they go

ing Winters Middle School students as well as volunteering in the community, which includes volunteering with Yolo Food Bank on Wednesdays.

Mariani gratitude from the club to the community, the school district, and parents who support the club, saying “we’re very grateful for the support from the community and from the school district, it’s been wonderful to see them competing.”

district to have such a strong engineering program.”

The Winters Robotics Club, as Mariani put it, “is a dynamic, student-driven robotics team opening doors for creativity through engineering” that includes students from sixth through 12th grades. Mariani said the club’s “fantastic coach” Dianne Halsey has “led the team to multiple awards, they go to a lot of different tournaments, state qualifications.”

to these competitions, they’re competing with some of the best teams nationally,” Mariani said.

But the club has still managed to make a name for itself, with most recently in 2022 when one of their teams qualified to compete at the VEX Robotics world championship.

Mariani says Winters Robotics is also dedicated to “giving back as well” by participating in other activities in Winters, including mentor-

to Waste Management — and they calculated what that net increase would be for solid waste disposal rates for our residents.”

Because of an existing agreement with the county, this means that “essentially this has already been pre-authorized for approval,” Trepa said, and there aren’t any available avenues for avoiding the rate increase.

For Winters residents, Trepa summarized the change as “an 8.44 percent increase in our tipping fees at the gate at the central landfill.” According to the calculations from Waste Management, it translates to a 2.85 percent increase across all of the rate structures — meaning it will affect residential, commercial and industrial rates.

“That equates to about less than a dol-

lar a month for our residential accounts,” Trepa said.

Following the city manager’s presentation, the councilmembers were invited to ask representatives from Waste Management some questions about the changes.

chart of estimated tons per household.

“Winters —  compared to Woodland, Davis, West Sac. — ours is higher, and I was just wondering if you know why,” Biasi asked.

Trepa answered that having inquired

“The experience these kids have now as members of the Robotics Club, this just opens up a world of opportunity for them,” Mariani stated, sharing how the club has helped put the high school and Winters in general on the map.

“We see some big high schools at these competitions, and we’re often asked, ‘where’s Winters?’ so we tell them and they say, ‘Wow, you have a robotics program?’ and it’s just an amazing thing to have this small school district really pushing for these students to succeed,” Mariani said.

ties” based on records in the tracking of tickets at the central landfill.

Waste Management representative Kayla Rodriguez said data showed Winters produces more trash per home compared to a bigger city like West Sacrament, as well as noting that the difference in population may contribute to this number.

Biasi also confirmed that, since this is an off-cycle increase, the rates are set to increase again in July. Biase noted his displeasure but conceded, “unfortunately, I don’t think there’s a whole lot we can really do about it,” noting that the City of Winters is under contract with Waste Management.

an email to mjsebast63@gmail.com for more information. More information about Winters Youth Day can be found on the Youth Day website at www. wintersyouthday. com.

Youth Day theme

Additionally, the Youth Day committee is holding the annual theme contest

for the 85th annual Youth Day Celebration in April.  A $100 prize will be awarded to the winning theme.

“We are tight on time this year so please submit your theme ideas,” Sebastian said.

Theme submissions should be emailed to mjsebast63@gmail.com by the end of the month. Sebastian said they need to have the theme selected by February.

Volunteers Needed Youth Day Committee needs help from the community

Email mjsebast63@gmail.com to volunteer to be a board member or to help chair one of the numerouse activities for the 85th Youth Day event. Help make the event happen in 2023.

caminos tradicionales y DLI durante las reuniones familiares anuales en Febrero.

Algunos desafíos actuales incluyen la dotación de personal, y Girimonte señaló durante la reunión que “una verdadera prioridad de nuestro trabajo tendrá que ser (la) contratación de personal altamente calificado, en particular maestros que cuenten con su certificación bilingüe.”

El superintendente Rody Boonchuoy finalizó la presentación diciéndole a la Junta que “existe una gran oportunidad en el lanzamiento de este trabajo, realmente se basa en la investigación,” destacando su experiencia en sus distritos anteriores con programas similares que fueron exitosos, al mismo tiempo que reconoce los posibles desafíos. de mantener la proporción de un tercio, así como equilibrar el interés en el programa dentro de la comuni-

Mayor Bill Biasi inquired about the difference in rate increases for Winters residents versus other city residents, referencing an attached

dad.

Hablando hacia el futuro, Girimonte y García-Espinoza señalaron que los planes actuales de DLI siguen siendo solo para estudiantes de escuela primaria, ya que los problemas de personal se agravan con niveles más altos.

García-Espinoza estuvo de acuerdo en que tomaría “algunos años llegar a ese nivel,” pero agregó que el distrito ya está trabajando para  y evaluar “cómo todas las piezas encajan en su lugar para cuando este grupo llegue a la escuela

with the County, the probable “largest contributing factor to that is that the residents in Winters recycle less than the residents in the other communi-

intermedia para brindar el mejor programa educativo posible.”

Girimonte concluyó reiterando el entusiasmo que ella, los Síndicos y el Superintendente Boonchuoy expresaron sobre este programa durante la reunión.

“Esta transición se trata de valorar, sostener y honrar la alfabetización bilingüe y el bilingüismo entre nuestros estudiantes y nuestras familias,” dijo Girimonte. “Y reconocer que somos una comunidad bilingüe y bicultural y que tenemos la opor-

“I don’t like to see our rates go up,” Biasi added, “but I don’t think we have any choice.”

The motion was passed unanimously and the rate increase immediately goes into effect.

tunidad de reforzar, sostener y respetar (la) lengua materna y promover el bilingüismo a medida que nuestros estudiantes avanzan en el sistema escolar y llegan a la edad adulta.”

La transición del programa se presentó como un elemento informativo en la reunión de la Junta Directiva del 15 de Diciembre.

“The experience these kids have now as members of the Robotics Club, this just opens up a world of opportunity for them.”

Laura Mariani, Vice President

“I don’t like to see our rates go up, but I don’t think we have any choice.”

Bill Biasi, Mayor

“That equates to about less than a dollar a month for our residential accounts.”

Kathleen Trepa, City Manager

Front door styles

Metro Special to the Express

A grand entryway simply wouldn’t be complete without an impressive front door. A front door can dazzle guests and create a homeowner’s desired vibe before anyone even steps inside, which only underscores how important the choice of door style can be.

When shopping around for a new front door for their homes, homeowners can consider the many popular styles as they seek to choose one that fits an existing scheme or use a new front door as a springboard to a redesigned home interior.

Farmhouse

Farmhouse doors are not all one and the same. Traditional farmhouse doors provide a rustic look that’s become popular in home decor over the last decade or so. Modern farmhouse doors are a little less rustic because they incorporate more contemporary elements into their design. Each option is ideal for homeowners who aspire to create a farmhouse vibe in their home interiors and exteriors.

Modern Modern front doors

tend to boast a bold look and many are made up of large glass panels. Some homeowners prefer modern front doors because the glass in them allows lots of natural light into their home’s interior. The added light in the entryway appeals to homeowners who want to brighten up these spaces, which tend to be dark in homes with more traditional doors.

Traditional Traditional front doors may be the most recognizable to today’s homeowners. Often solid wood but sometimes enhanced with glass, traditional doors may feature subtle, yet ornate designs. Traditional front doors might feel out of place in modern or rustic homes, so they’re generally best suited to homes with owners that prefer more traditional decor inside their homes.

Custom It’s important that homeowners recognize they need not pigeonhole themselves into a particular design style for their front doors. Custom front doors may be costly, but many door manufacturers or contractors customize front doors.

How to handle a lengthy renovation

The global pandemic reignited people’s passions for home renovations, as they directed dollars that would normally have been spent elsewhere into the places where they were now spending the most time — their homes. According to the 10th annual Houzz & Home survey of more than 70,000 respondents in the United States, higher-budget projects cost around $85,000 or more in 2020, compared with $80,000 in the two years prior. Kitchen projects were the most popular among renovating homeowners.

Even though many COVID-19-related restrictions have lifted and life has largely returned to regular programming, renovations remain a popular investment. Homeowners embarking on home renovation projects understand that a certain measure of upheaval is to be expected, but some may not fully anticipate the impact that renovations have on daily life. The following are some tips for making it through a lengthy renovation.

Discuss the timeline with contractors

It may be easier to make a plan for how much life will be disrupted if you have an idea of how long the renovation will be (if everything goes according to plan). Sit down with contractors and have them spell out the minutiae of the project so you’ll be able to anticipate what’s going on day-to-day.

Start at the right time

Some contractors may say they can fit your project into their schedules in between other jobs. While this may seem convenient and timely, your work may be put on hold if there are delays with the other job or jobs. Instead, it

may be better to hold off until the contractors can devote the bulk of their attention to your renovation.

Recreate commonly used spaces elsewhere

A kitchen or a bathroom remodel often requires giving up spaces that are used throughout a typical day. Unless you have a spare full bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need to make due. Set a microwave, tabletop electric burner and a coffee pot on a folding table in the garage or utility room. Rent or purchase a small refrigerator where you can store a few necessities. Ask your contractor to set up a makeshift outdoor shower so you have a place to get clean when the bathroom is under construction.

Pack up and cover

Remodeling one room may cause a trickle down effect on other areas. Dust from dry-

wall sanding can infiltrate many rooms in the home. Pack and label boxes with items not immediately needed and store them in another area. Cover most things so a film of dust won’t form on them.

Adjust your schedule

Sleeping in will be a thing of the past for the duration of the renovation, as may be working from a home office. Try to get out of the work zone as much as possible for new scenery and respites from the noises and smells.

Ease up on cleaning standards

It’s challenging to keep a home clean during a renovation. Relax standards and expect a mess for some time. Explain to guests what they’ll find if they drop by.

Renovations can disrupt life, but often are well worth the sacrifices homeowners must make to see them through to completion.

Metro/Stock photo

When shopping around for a new front door for their homes, homeowners can consider various popular styles.

Metro/Stock photo

Renovations can disrupt life, but often are well worth the sacri ces homeowners must make to see them through to completion.

Make bathrooms safer for seniors Bird food for thought

“Danger” might not be the first word to come to mind when individuals consider their bathrooms, but perhaps it should be?

After all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that each year more than 1.5 million aging adults visit emergency rooms for fall-related injuries, many of which occur in the bathroom.

Many falls and spills that occur in the bathroom can be prevented. Seniors, or their loved ones, can make some minor adjustments to bathrooms so falls are less likely to happen.

• Install grab bars in the shower and bath and elsewhere, as necessary. Grab bars make it easier for aging men and women to get into and out of the shower or the tub by giving them something to hold onto. This can be especially helpful for seniors who must step up and over their tubs to bathe. Though they’re primarily used in showers and tubs, grab bars also can be installed alongside toilets for seniors who could use a little help sitting down and getting up from their toilets. AARP notes that sheltering arm grab

bars provide the best support around toilets. Such grab bars come around both sides of the toilet and look similar to armrests.

• Install LED lighting. Poor lighting in a bathroom can make it hard for seniors to see, which can make them more vulnerable to slips and falls. That’s especially so for seniors who find themselves making frequent bathroom visits overnight. Even bathrooms with seemingly adequate lighting may be dangerous if they feature dated light fixtures that rely on incandescent bulbs to light the room. Incandescent bulbs burn out with greater frequency than LED alternatives, which can last for years. The longer bulbs last, the less

often seniors need to change them, which also reduces their risk for injury. In addition to replacing traditional fixtures with LED alternatives, individuals can plug in LED night lights that make it easy to see when making nighttime visits to the bathroom.

• Utilize non-slip bath mats. Non-slip bath mats often utilize rubber-backed liners to ensure the mats stay put even when floors get wet or damp from condensation after a hot bath or shower. Non-slip mats can be placed where individuals will enter and exit the shower and even by the toilet and sink so individuals always feel steady on their feet.

• Clean bathrooms regularly. Bathroom surfaces can grow

slippery from soap scum, condensation and previous spills. Prompt and routine cleaning can reduce the likelihood that seniors will fall in their bathrooms. Seniors who have difficulty keeping up with household cleaning can hire a cleaning service or ask a younger relative to help them keep their bathrooms clean and safe.

Seniors can fall anywhere in a home, but may be more likely to do so in a bathroom. Various measures can help make bathrooms safer for aging individuals.

Birding is a wildly popular hobby. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, about 45 million Americans are birders..

It’s not uncommon for birding enthusiasts to travel great distances to see beautiful birds in serene settings. But individuals also can entice beautiful birds to come to them. Bird feeders beckon birds to millions of backyards every day, making them an ideal addition to properties owned by people with an affinity for avians.

• Nectar: Individuals who want to attract hummingbirds can do so with nectar. Nectar must be placed into a hummingbird feeder and also might attract orioles to the backyard.

• Black-oil sunflower: Black-oil sunflower attracts an array of birds, including blue jays, cardinals, chickadees, and sparrows.

• Mixes: Seed mixes also can be found at grocery stores and appeal to a variety of birds. Individuals who want to keep their feeders close to their decks or patios may want to look for mixes described as “nomess.” The NWF reports that mixes tend to attract ground-feeding birds, such as doves and sparrows.

• Suet: Suet is sought after in winter by bird lovers who want to help birds stay healthy and strong during times of year when food sources are scarce. Suet requires a suet feeder, which is unlike most bird feeders.

• Thistle or nyjer: The NWF notes that goldfinches love this small, high-quality seed. Because thistle or nyjer is something of a specialty seed, birders who want to put it out will need to purchase a finch feeder.

Metro Special to the Express

Seniors or their loved ones can make some minor adjustments to bathrooms so falls are less likely to happen.

Metro/Stock photo

serve the community,” Rowan said in his application.

The Senior Commission on Aging still has one more seat to fill. The application of interest is available on the City of Winters website at https://tinyurl.com/2s3t53mx.

Applications can be submitted in person or mailed to the City Clerk at City Hall, 318 1st St., Winters, CA 95694. Applications can also be sent via email to cityclerk@ cityofwinters.org.

Senior Center update

City Manager Kathleen Salguero Trepa updated Commissioners about the status of the City’s efforts to obtain the plans for the Winters Senior Center.

According to Trepa, the City is continuing to work with Domas Management Company to obtain a signature from the original architect who drafted the plans to sign them over to Domas. She told Commissioners the City met with the original architect in September, who has been silent since.

The Winters Senior Center project has been held up for two years first due to a standstill from the pandemic, and now due to the current issue at hand. Without obtaining the right to use the plans, the City is unable to incorporate new 2023 code energy updates, or obtain bids for the project.

“We’ve seen the plans, we have the plans, we don’t have the rights to use the plans,” Trepa said.

Commissioner Marianne Boyer reported that the Fundraising committee has been successful and will present an official update to City Council at an upcoming meeting. In the meantime, the Senior Commission members will take time to look through the initial first draft of the list of potential equipment and furnishings for the Senior Center.

Older adult wellbeing

The topic of the well-being of older adults in the community was brought up in a discussion. Commissioner Tina Lowden inquired if the City, the Winters Police or Fire Departments, or if Yolo County had a protocol or program

where public safety officials or volunteers check in on senior citizens who live alone and do not have family or a caregiver who regularly interacts with them.

Trepa said the City does not have a program or protocol that addresses that issue, but advised Commissioners to encourage older adults to make connections with their neighbors and to communicate some regular signs and behaviors to look for.

“People can watch out for some regular signs (blinds open every day) and look out for a change in regular behaviors,” Trepa said.

In her City Manager’s Jan. 13 update, Trepa shared about the group’s discussion and concerns for elderly living on their own who might have a medical event or fall unbeknownst to others.

“Being left unattended for days could have devastating results for that person,” Trepa said.

She encouraged all Winters residents to reach out to neighbors if they live next door to someone who might need an extra hand or who might appreciate being checked on to establish a signal that “all is OK.”

“The Winters community ethos of service to others/service to the community runs strong here,” Trepa said. “These individual bonds and connections weave the fabric that makes Winters the truly magical village it has been and continues to be.”

Senior Resource Guide Commissioners are in the beginning stages of looking through the Senior Resource Guide to make updates for 2023. Commissioner Karen Croley is taking the lead in creating a team to identify updates to the publication that provides resources for older adults in the area. Commissioners plan to release a new update this fall.

The current version of it is available in both Spanish and English on the City of Winters website at cityofwinters.org/senior-resources.

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance).

CHP seeks adults to serve as Senior Volunteers

California Highway Patrol Special to the Express

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) Woodland Area office is looking for motivated citizens who want to give something back to their community as Senior Volunteers. Senior Volunteers assist in both administrative and field capacities.

The objectives of the CHP Senior Volunteer Program are: To assist the CHP in providing enhanced public service to the community, to provide an opportunity

for senior citizens to make a definitive contribution toward improving public safety and service, and to instill among participating volunteers an understanding and appreciation of the justice system, human relations, and ethics in the field of law enforcement.

Administrative

functions include filing, data entry, photocopying, answering phones, and assisting the Watch Officer at the front desk. Field functions include working at community events, school safety patrol, and shuttle vehicles/equipment.

Senior Volunteers drive marked CHP vehicles, in uniform

while performing field duties. Volunteers attend shift briefings and occasionally ride along with officers. To become a Senior Volunteer the applicant must be 55 years and older, can work a minimum of four hours per week, pass a background check, have a good driving record, and complete the California Highway Patrol Senior Volunteer training program. Citizens interested in the program may call Officer Rodney Fitzhugh at 530-0662-4685.

Plan for medical emergencies

Metro Special to the Express Medical emergencies pose a significant threat to human health. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, unintentional injuries accounted for more than 192,000 deaths in 2020.

Unintentional injuries are not the only situations that qualify as medical emergencies, which also can result from sudden, life-threatening issues like heart attack or stroke. Knowing what to do in the wake of a medical emergency can reduce the likelihood that such instances end in tragedy.

• Document your medical history and keep printed documentation in an easily accessible place. Younger individuals likely won’t have as much documentation regarding their medical histories, including existing conditions, medications and even previous emergencies.

• Pack an overnight bag. Aging men and women or young people with a history of illness and/or medical emergencies should pack an overnight bag or ask their caretakers to pack one for them. Include pajamas, personal toiletries and other care items, and even some books or activity books so you have something to do should you require an extended

stay in the hospital.

• Become CPRcertified. The medical experts at MedStar Health recommend that individuals take classes for first aid

and CPR. Such lessons can save lives and help anyone experiencing a medical emergency get immediate attention until first responders ar-

rive to administer additional care. Some organizations may offer free CPR courses, while others offer training at affordable prices.

Wednesday, January 18

Yolo County/Winters City 2x2 Meeting rescheduled to Wednesday, February 15 at 4 p.m.

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, January 19

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

Thursdays

Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 200 Baker St. – Rooms 4 & 5, 530-668-0690

Friday, January 20

Healthy Aging Food Truck Program, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Blue Mountain Terrace Apartments (147 E. Baker St.), RSVP to 530-210-2961, http://yolohealthyaging.org

Monday, January 23

Winters Natural Resources Commission Special Meeting, 6 p.m., Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ natural-resources-commission/

Tuesday, January 24

Winters Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m.,Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/planning-commission/

Upcoming

Monday, February 6

Winters Hispanic Advisory Committee, 6:30-9 p.m., Zoom Meeting info, email cambios@covalle.net or jesse.loren@cityofwinters.org

Wednesday, February 8

Winters Senior Commission on Aging Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), check www.cityofwinters .org/winters-senior-commission-on-aging

Library Services

Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m. Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 13:30 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, Second Thursday, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-666-8005 to schedule an appointment Afterschool Adventure (ages 6-12), Third Thursday, 3:30 p.m., Winters Community Library Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library

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

Older Adult Programs

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

Winters Senior Foundation Game Days, Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)

Ongoing

Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Meeting details: https://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 Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5 p.m.), 13 Main St. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m., Yolo Federal Credit Union Community Room

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.

Funding a rst home purchase

Capstone Project revives Find A Cure Night tradition

By Aaron Geerts Express sta writer

Winters is filled with traditions, and among its most significant and impactful is Find A Cure Night. Although it’s been on a hiatus the last two years, Winters High School men’s varsity basketball team athlete AJ Pignataro is reviving the magic of this event through his Senior Capstone Project.

Find a Cure Night’s story begins back during the 2004–05 WHS basketball season. Zach and Jared Davis — standing at 6 feet, 9 inches and 6 feet, 7 inches — were warmly welcomed transfers from Folsom. With the twin towers on the roster, the men’s varsity basketball team was poised to win it all, and they did just that with their section championship banner raised high in the rafters of the Young Gymnasium ever since — the ‘One Ego’ team, as they called them-

selves.

The following year, playing basketball in college, Jared became ill with a rare disease known as Aplastic Anemia. Although he fought like a Warrior for the better part of a year, the disease took his life on Aug 8, 2006 at the age of 19. Heartbreaking as it was, it also inspired the coaching duo assistant coach Benny Geerts, this reporter’s father, and head coach Jason Davis, as well as Jared’s parents Ross and Sue Davis to create the Jared Davis Memorial Scholarship.

Every year since its creation — save for the last couple — the scholarship’s primary fundraising event has been Find A Cure Night, where Jared is honored along with other heroes in the community who are or have fought an uphill health battle.

“I’ve heard about Find A Cure Night in the past and have even attended some of them as a kid. I’ve always been around it and thought I’d do it and it would be cool to bring it back. I also just wanted to do something for the community too,” Pignataro said, talking about what inspired him to revive Find A Cure Night as his Capstone Project.

Thus far, Pignataro has been able to secure the Buckhorn BBQ Food Truck, has rallied the WHS cheer squad, and will have Jared’s framed jersey at the game. The next part is getting the word out to the community.

In the past, Find A Cure Night kicked off before the men’s varsity basketball game with an introductory speech made by either Benny Geerts or Jason Davis. They would talk about Jared, the significance of his impact on friends and family, and how the tradition of Find A Cure Night honors his memory.

Pignataro, however, will

carry on the tradition in his own way as he’s slated to say a few words before the game begins. He also confirmed The Buckhorn BBQ Food Truck will donate some of its revenue proceeds from the event to the Jared Davis Scholarship — and a donation box will also be there for all in attendance to give to.

“It’s not only important for the Jared Davis Scholarship Foundation, but it’s also an event where the community can come together, support a good cause and enjoy a basketball game while they’re at it. Overall, it’s going to be a good time,” said Pignataro. “It’s interesting to see the perspective of setting it up and what you have to do to create it. As a kid, I was more interested in the basketball game, but it’s cool now seeing where all the money is going towards. Also, I’ve never really done something in the community in the past, and just doing this has given me a different perspective about all the other people who do this kind of stuff in

Some may be surprised to learn that I was never a Girl Scout when I was younger. My leadership skills developed naturally on their own as I bossed around my cousins, directed classmates on what to do in group settings, and finally found a more finesse approach through experience and leadership opportunities through college and adulthood.

I volunteered to be a Troop leader when my middle daughter was in Kindergarten, in 2017, and got a crash

course in all things Girl Scouts. I wanted to ensure she had the opportunity to be one, and at the time I was self-employed (pre-Express days).

The pandemic was hard on the Girl Scouts organization in general. When the girls were unable to do anything beyond Zoom meetups in 2020, I was worried about how many troops in our local council would make it through. As of the beginning of 2022, only one troop remained active in Winters.

However, by the end of the year, three new

Winters troops had started up and a world of potential collaborations and opportunities to bring locally-based activities to our girls opened up. In addition to my multi-level troop of Juniors and Cadettes, two new Daisy troops and a Brownie troop began their journeys. It wasn’t until this

weekend that I was really able to grasp that the come-back was real and I breathed a little easier about it for the first time in a long time. With the official kick-off of Cookie Season on Friday, Jan. 13, three of our troops traveled to Davis for the first Cookie Rally in a few years. The majority of the girls had never been to one, and are going to be selling cookies for the first time ever this year. It was truly an honor to see all of them participating, giggling and making big plans for their ventures. Even more exciting: watching my middle-schoolaged Cadettes engage and interact with a Cadette troop from Woodland.

is

school

Middle

Courtesy photo

Jared Davis graduated from Winters High School in 2005. He died in 2006 from Aplastic Anemia.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo

AJ Pignataro for Find a Cure.

Funding a first home purchase

Buying your first home is a huge decision and an even bigger investment. But there are ways to make it easier for you.

Grants can help you with your purchase, relieving some of the stress of getting your first mortgage, leaving you to decide whether you want the three-bedroom with the patio or the four-bedroom with the yard.

What do grants pay for?

Grants for firsttime homebuyers can pay for your down

payment and closing costs. Sometimes, these assistance programs have strings attached, so make sure you read the fine print before cashing that check. Here are some examples from the experts at Bankrate.

• DPA second mortgages: A down payment assistance second mortgage is available through many state housing finance agencies. In this program, you will apply for a 30-year mortgage to finance your home, then another, smaller mortgage to help with the down payment or

closing costs. You’ll pay both loans off at the same time.

• Deferred-payment loans: Some programs allow you to defer payments until you sell your home, refinance or pay off your mortgage. In the meantime, the interest won’t accrue, keeping the amount you owe the same.

• Forgivable loans: These loans can wind up being free if you stay in the home long enough. Make sure you understand all of the terms and conditions of loan forgiveness.

Other homebuyer programs

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac also offer several loan programs that can help first-time homebuyers. They include:

• Conventional 97 mortgage: These mortgage loans require 3 percent down but require a minimum credit score of 620. Like most loans, the borrower will also be required to pay for private mortgage insurance, which is an additional cost to your monthly payment.

• HomeReady mortgage: This program also requires only 3 percent down but

offers more flexible underwriting.

• FHA, VA and USDA loans: These allow borrowers in special classes to take out mortg fgages with little to no money down.

An FHA loan can go to borrowers with a credit score as low as 580 and at least 3.5 percent down, or down to 500 and 10 percent down. VA loans go to qualified U.S. military members with lower interest rates and sometimes not even a down payment. USDA loans qualify some rural properties up to 100 percent financing.

• Good Neighbor Next Door loans: This program provides housing aid for law enforce-

ment officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians and teachers. Borrowers can get 50 percent off a home in a revitalization area, provided they live in the home for at least three years. More programs to help Some employers may also help workers with housing needs, usually in neighborhoods near the place of business.

Nonprofits may also offer mortgage help to first-time homebuyers. One organization, the Neighborhood Assistance Corp. of America, provides low-rate mortgages to low- and moderate-income borrowers without requiring a down payment or closing costs.

BEAUTIFUL RANCH

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GREAT CURB APPEAL! 4 beds, 3 full baths. Just over 2100 square feet. Centrally located close to all schools. Offered at $599,000.

3 BED, 2 BATH ON A CORNER LOT. Established neighborhood. Offered at $445,000. Call 530-383-1185.

WALKING DISTANCE TO DOWNTOWN.

New roof. Offered at $499,000.

Special to the Express

Adobe/Stock photo

Causes of ‘tech neck’ and how to prevent it

By Aaron Geerts Express sta writer

As mankind evolved over millions of years to stand upright, it’s only taken a couple of decades for technology to slouch our necks and backs. Dr. James Stirton, the head chiropractor at Winters Family Chiropractic, helps straighten out this phenomenon known as the ‘tech neck.’

Ironically enough, the onset of tech neck is similar to the ageold warning from the elderly to youngsters making silly faces, “If you keep making that face, it’s going to get stuck that way!”

As it turns out, that’s not such a far-fetched warning since nearly everyone with a smartphone can attest to spending hours on end with their necks and heads bent down looking at it. The result is the degradation of one’s posture and an unsightly bend at the neck (hints at the name).

“A lot of additional neck pains and strains and headaches happen around

this time of year. It’s not just the weather, but also the fact that we have probably the most electronics upgrades than any other time because of the holidays. That means we’re inside looking down at our electronics more,” said Stirton. “Usually, you start feeling it within weeks to a couple of months of use. It just depends on how flexible you are as well. But, the prominence of the lump at the base of the neck at the top of the shoulders is called the vertebral prominence. It’s noticeable on most people unless there’s swelling around it. The swelling, though, is a sign of the tech neck. And likely, in individuals who have that are experiencing regular bouts of strains and pains.”

In Stirton’s estimation, spending around

two hours a day looking down at one’s various electronics will cause repetitive stress injury to one’s neck and back. It will yield strains, pains and headaches that are also bolstered by the change in the weather pressure.

“That area of the neck is called the cervical lordosis (which is the natural curve of the spine in the neck). Any transition point in the spine will have higher stress as well. So, it’s like it’s the highest spot of the crane you’re repetitively overloading,” said Stirton.

Of course, where there’s gloom and doom and aches and pains, Stirton is quick to provide measures and remedies to mitigate the damage.

“By the time the pain arrives, there’s a problem in the joints, in the bones of the

neck and upper back. So, getting evaluated by a chiropractor would be a great idea to start the recovery in those areas getting chronic sprains. Another thing you can do is simply reduce your screen time,” Stirton said. “The big line in the sand is that you should never exceed how much time you sleep or work on your screen. If you sleep eight hours,

you shouldn’t spend more than that on your technology. So, chiropractors will use adjustments and manipulations to help loosen and mobilize the stuck areas in the neck and back. Something else you can do at home is roll up a towel, lie on your back on the floor or bed and put it behind your neck and let your neck hang back. It’s like a mirror image

of what you’re doing looking down and something we do at our office.”

For more information, call Winters Family Chiropractic at 530-795-4500, visit its website at americanriverchiropractic.com, or email Stirton directly at jimstirtondc@gmail.com.

It’s like the good doctor always says, “If you’re not certain, ask Dr. Stirton.”

Dos and don’ts of healthy weight loss

Maintaining a healthy weight promotes long-term health. Being overweight or obese are risk factors for various conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The World Health Organization reports that the worldwide obesity rate has tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight. Of these, more than 650 million were obese.

Health issues related to obesity are largely preventable. Losing weight in a healthy manner is essential for safe and lasting results. Individuals aspiring to lose weight can follow these guidelines on what to do and what not to do.

DO add lean protein sources to your diet. Healthline indicates the body burns calories when digesting and metabolizing protein, so a high-protein diet can help to shed up to 80 to 100 calories per day. Protein also helps you to feel full, reducing the propensity to overeat.

DON’T get hung up on numbers early on. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that even modest weight loss of 5 to 10 percent of your total body weight is bound to produce health benefits, such as improvements in blood sugar levels, cholesterol and blood pressure. Start small and gradually build up.

DO eat at least four servings of vegetables and three servings of fruits daily. Produce contain an abundance of vital nutrients and is often fiber-rich and low in calories, which helps you to feel full.

DON’T overlook the impact of beverages on weight loss. The calories in sugary beverages, including

Eat at least four servings of vegetables and three servings of fruits daily. Produce contains an abundance of vital nutrients and is often ber-rich and low in calories, which helps you to feel full.

some all-natural fruit juices, can add up quickly. Stick to water, tea or other unsweetened beverages to help with weight loss. DO get moving more. The Mayo Clinic notes that while it is possible to lose weight without exercise, getting moving can help burn off the excess calories you can’t cut through diet alone. Exercise boosts metabolism and benefits mood and

strengthens muscles and the cardiovascular system as well.

DON’T go shopping while hungry. If you do, you may make impulse buys that compromise healthy eating plans.

DO speak with a doctor if you are vetting diet and exercise plans. A healthcare professional can assist you by indicating if a particular diet or fitness routine is

acceptable for your age, goals and current health status.

DON’T forget to track eating. Most healthy diets involve some sort of calorie-counting, whether they actually require you to document your intake or use a formula to attribute “points” or another measure related to what you eat. Writing or tracking the foods and beverages you con-

Losing weight in a healthy manner is achievable when you seek guidance and follow some time-tested techniques.

sume will provide the most honest assessment of habits that could affect weight loss.

DO include foods you enjoy. Completely restricting access to occasional treats may cause you to resent healthy eating, which can derail weight loss

goals. The principle of moderation can apply to healthy weight loss as long as you account for the more calorie-dense foods.

Losing weight in a healthy manner is achievable when you seek guidance and follow some time-tested techniques.

Adobe/Stock photo

Spending around two hours a day looking down at one’s various electronics will cause repetitive stress injury to one’s neck and back, says Dr. James Stirton.

Metro Special to the Express

Adobe/Stock photo

Know what you’re doing

Gramps Says

A few years back, Putah Creek was designated as a catch-andrelease stream and it is now open to fishing year-round. As such, it attracts fly fishermen from near and far. But, as I have mentioned before, it is not an easy stream to fish and the trout are finicky. One day on the stream I watched a couple of guys hooking up one fish right after another, and the fish were of a nice size, in the three to four-pound range. The fishermen were definitely zoned in. They made a point to recognize my only hook-up of the afternoon, a half-pounder.

This reminds me of the lesson that I learned from Allen James that it pays to know what you’re doing. Allen was a Native American who grew up on the reservation near Stewarts Point. When I knew him he was in his 60s and lived in the Santa Rosa area. I was his employer. One day our discussion got around to fishing and he offered to meet up at Stewarts Point and take me ‘rock fishing.’ At the appointed time I, and most of my five sons, met Allen in front of the store at Stewarts Point.

See SOPHIE, Page 7

FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK S OFFICE

Jesse Salinas Yolo County Clerk/Recorder

F20230010 01/04/2023 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business Name: EFFORTLESS IAM Physical Address: 955 CRANBROOK COURT APARTMENT 301 DAVIS CA 95616

Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s): JOYCE P BARRETT 955 CRANBROOK COURT APT 301 DAVIS CA 95616 Business Classification: Individual Starting Date of Business: 01/04/2023 s/ JOYCE BARRETT Official Title: FOUNDER/OWNER Corporation Name: I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original docu-

FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK S OFFICE

Jesse Salinas Yolo County Clerk/Recorder

Business is located in YOLO County

Fictitious Business Name: A+ Gutter Cleaning

Physical Address: 1520 E Covell Blvd Ste B5 #122 Davis CA 95616

F20220860 11/08/2022

Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s): 1) Higgins Home Services 460 Brentwood Dr Benicia CA 94510

Business Classification: Limited Liability Company Starting Date of Business: N/A s/ Lesley Watson Official Title: CEO Corporation Name: Higgins Home Services I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal

Jesse Salinas County Clerk/Recorder State of California County of Yolo Published Dec 28, 2022; January 4, 11, 18, 2023 #277

1, 8, 2023 #285

New Conservatory Theatre Center, 25 Van Ness Avenue, San Fran‐cisco

Honey Gold Jasmine

@ 8:30pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

The Sheep @ 8:30pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

Spartaque @ 9pm 1015 Folsom, 1015 Folsom St, San Francisco

Rod Stinson: West Sac Girls Softball Fundraiser @ 6pm Jackrabbit Brewing, 1323 Terminal St, West Sacramento

Lilan Kane @ 6pm Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge, 6480 Washington St, Yountville JonEmery

Book Discussion @ 2pm / $15 “Choosing The Dance” -TK Daniels Novel (self-help) New Frontier Win‐ery, 1040 Main Street, Suite 101, Napa. theprincessbookclub@ya hoo.com, 916-470-8951

"The Big Lebowski" (1998) @ 7pm / $5 Crest Theatre, 1013 K Street, Sacramento

Jeff Plankenhorn @ 7:30pm House Concert, A Lovely Private Residence, San Francisco

Lynne Kaufman's "Poetic Justice" @ 5pm / $12.50

The Marsh San Francisco Main‐Stage Theater, 1062 Valencia St., San Francisco

JASON MARSALIS VIBES QUARTET W/ ADAM SHULMAN, DAVID EWELL & JAZ SAWYER Show 7 @ 6pm SFJAZZ Center, 201 Franklin St, San Francisco

Sunny & The Soul @ 8pm / $12

Brick and Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco Arden Jones @ 8pm / Free Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St., San Francisco

Fred Armisen @ 8pm

Great American Music Hall, 850 O'‐Farrell St., San Francisco

The Surfrajettes @ 9pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

Fire�y Art: Folsom Hills Elementary, Session C @ 2:45pm / $119

Jan 30th - Mar 20th

Folsom Hills Elementary, 106 Manseau Drive, Folsom. 916-4197644

Early Engineers: Empire Oaks, Session C @ 2:45pm / $119

Jan 30th - Mar 20th

Empire Oaks Elementary, 1830 Bonhill Dr., Folsom. 916-419-7644

Chess Academy: Russell Ranch Elementary, Session C @ 2:45pm / $105

Jan 30th - Mar 20th

Russell Ranch Elementary, 375 Dry Creek Road, Folsom. 916-4197644

Chess Academy: Sandra J. Gallardo, Session C @ 2:55pm / $90 Jan 30th - Mar 13th Sandra J. Gallardo Elementary, 775 Russi Rd, Folsom. 916-419-7644

Chess Academy: Russell Ranch Elementary, Session C @ 2:55pm / $105

Jan 30th - Mar 20th Russell Ranch Elementary, 375 Dry Creek Road, Folsom. 916-4197644

Fire�y Art: Folsom Hills Elementary, Session C @ 2:55pm / $119

Jan 30th - Mar 20th Folsom Hills Elementary, 106 Manseau Drive, Folsom. 916-4197644

The Moss Winter Tour 2023 with Special Guests The Kaleidoscope Kid @ 7pm Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St, San Francisco

The Moss - Winter Tour @ 8pm / $17 Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St., San Francisco

The Moss @ 8pm Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St, San Francisco

BIT @ 9:30pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

Talent Acquisition Week | San Diego, CA @ 9am / $1495-$1795

Jan 31st - Feb 2nd

Educating Today’s TA Pros for

Mean Girls @ 7:30pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St., San Francisco

Dear Evan Hansen @ 7:30pm Orpheum Theatre-San Francisco, 1192 Market St., San Francisco Smirk @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Forest Blakk @ 8pm Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St, San Francisco

Forest Blakk (Canada), Peter Raffoul @ 8pm / $17 Cafe Du Nord, 2174 Market St., San Francisco

Mean Girls @ 1pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St., San Francisco

Savor

Saturday Jan

No

2708 J St, Sacramento "Ennio" @ 7:30pm / $35-$69 Club Fugazi, 678 Green St., San Francisco

Mean Girls @ 7:30pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St., San Francisco

Dear Evan Hansen @ 7:30pm Orpheum Theatre-San Francisco, 1192 Market St., San Francisco

Ben Goldberg @ 8pm Great American Music Hall, 859 O'‐farrell St, San Francisco

Mike Lane (Comedy): Mixed Race Sweetie @ 9pm PianoFight, 144 Taylor St, San Francisco

Litty DeBungus @ 9pm Boom Boom Room, 1601 Fillmore St, San Francisco

DJ Abilities, 1Ton of Potluck @ 10pm / $20 Brick and Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco

DJ Abilities @ 10pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco

Mescalito (Tahoe): Dana‐palooza - Private Party @ 7pm South Lake Tahoe

Mean Girls @ 7:30pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St., San Francisco

Ambrose Akinmusire Quartet w/special guest Joshua Redman @ 7:30pm SFJAZZ Center, 201 Franklin St, San Francisco "Ennio"

@ 9pm / $22 The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco

Rosario @ 9pm Roccapulco, 3140 Mission St, San Francisco

Black Olive Jazz: Noel Jewkes and Kay Kostopoulos play “Broadway On Broadway” at Key’s Jazz Bistro. @ 7:30pm Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco

Mean Girls @ 7:30pm Golden Gate Theater, 1 Taylor St., San Francisco

A Moment's Notice @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐mento

I Sank Atlantis @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐mento

Sounds of the Underground @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Nineteen Eightyfour LIVE with Sounds of the Under‐ground (San Francisco, CA) @ 8pm / $15 Neck of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Preacher @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐

Danny

Bobcat Goldthwait @ 7:30pm Swedish American Hall, 2174 Mar‐ket St, San Francisco "Ennio" @ 7:30pm / $35-$69

607

Davis Cabaret Underwritten by Suzy Goldschmidt, in honor of David Goldschmidt Daring, provocative, and exuberantly entertaining, this 1966 musical explores the dark and heady life of Bohemian Berlin as Germany slowly yields to the totalitarian regime of the Third Reich.

Pity the poor Pocket Park in Winters

Last month the City installed a massive, absolutely straight as an arrow, and very wide concrete and brick walkway right down the center of the downtown “Pocket Park” area, extending from the alley called Newt’s Expressway, behind the Winters Hotel, all the way through the Park to the sidewalk on Main Street.

The Winters Pocket Park is the open parcel of land on the North side of the first block of Main. It is the small empty lot between Ace Hardware and Yolo Pharmacy.

You have probably walked right by many times — the small Free Little Library box and the Winters community piano are both just inside the edge of the Pocket Park.

This new concrete walkway was never presented to the Planning Commission for discussion or approval. It never appeared as a discussion item at the City Council. And not one word about it appeared in the Winters Express Apparently, City staff decided we needed a concrete mini road to dominate the center of our barren Pocket Park. And so it was done.

This grand walkway, or concrete mini road — most of it is 8

feet wide, and each of the ends/entrances is an astonishing 19 feet wide – engulfs nearly 20 percent of the entire park area.

When I moved to Winters 17 years ago, one of the first projects I heard about was the proposed “Pocket Park” on the North side of Main street. I worked with several local groups trying to prepare plans for the Pocket Park.

We sometimes met with a City Councilmember or a Planning Commissioner and occasionally with John Donlevy, who was then our City Man-

ager. We discussed what could go into the Pocket Park, including shade trees, flowering plants, a simple winding pathway, art installations, unusual artistic lighting, and a fountain near Main Street.

Year after year, the discussion continued. More meetings were held, more ideas were discussed, and more proposals were offered. But no action was ever taken by the City. I heard nothing about the Pocket Park for a very long time. But in the past few years, another community-led group has

provided the City with several new proposals, clearly and artistically presented to create a space where a small, gently winding pathway would encourage people to stroll under newly planted shade trees, artwork would be displayed around the perimeter, and a small stage would encourage live music performances.

But instead of taking any action regarding these new Pocket Park proposals, the City chose to surprise us with the road-size concrete walkway.

And that wide walkway is not the only new large installation that the City has surprised us with in the Pocket Park.

Several months ago, when PG&E’s power lines were being placed underground along Newt’s Expressway alley, between the backside of the Winters Hotel and the Pocket Park, PG&E also installed several large metal electrical equipment boxes inside the Park. These large metal boxes are surrounded by 12 concrete stanchions, creating a 36-foot-long perimeter barrier protecting the electrical boxes.

The City claims they had no idea that PG&E was going to

‘Gray’ area: growth by position, not segregation

How can we manage the growth of our town in a smart, responsible way? What is the next smallest, incremental thing we can do to grow to meet our needs so that growth is consistent and manageable rather than huge and sporadic?

To break these questions down, we need to define smart responsible growth for Winters. Growth should be sustainable in a way that pays for itself and the additional resources and services it requires, or minimize the strain on our current system.

Growth by outward expansion adds additional maintenance costs in the form of more roads, pipes and planters for every additional mile, foot and inch. Additional wells, new fire capabilities, new regulations with population increases, and more police to cover more area. All will be required and paid for with money we don’t have. Incremental change allows

inevitable growth to happen in a more manageable way, but we have to create opportunity for it.

We often think of infill as developing empty lots that are already surrounded by buildings, or tearing down old buildings and replacing them with new ones. But we should also consider the repurposing of existing buildings for new ideas not allowed by old zoning.

Rigid zoning can be a restriction on infill.

Zoning is, by definition, the segregation of land by use. Houses over here, public space near the creek, shops over there, add in some mixed-use retail/residential and divide it with streets. Growth typically occurs in pre-designated zones. So, new nonresidential buildings

in Winters will likely be placed across from Round Table, next to PG&E, north on Railroad or north of Taco Bell. And houses must be built on land pre-designated for them, next to Lorenzo’s Market, where the fruit stand is, across from the Catholic Church, at the end of Walnut Lane and north of the high school Ag site.

Remember, the city’s role in growth is setting up the rules for how and where not implementing the what and when.

Downtown Winters is the economic center of our city, but it is limited in size by the zoning. But what if our zoning was flexible? What if every zone could expand and contract as needed in small incremental ways?

allow our zones to expand and contract to support local creative ideas and meet new needs without the government unnecessarily complicating it as our city changes. The guidelines for how would be predetermined.

This would allow for natural incremental growth. Growth by position, not segregation. Zoning would flex to meet new needs in a controlled, predictable way. Commercial buildings could become housing. Housing could become small local community shops or businesses. Community enhancement and development become locally controlled at the lowest level by the people it affects.

We were fully geared up with poles, tackle boxes, hooks, lures and lead sinkers. I noticed that Allen didn’t carry anything. I asked if he planned to fish. He responded, “Yes.” Knowing he was a man of few words, I let it rest there. He guided us to a favorite spot on some huge seaside boulders. While we rigged up our equipment I noticed that he pried a few mussels off a nearby rock shelf. He pulled a roll of twine from one pocket and a hook from another.

When I next looked over I saw him throw his rig into and through the thick bed of kelp. The line was weighted with just the right-sized rock that he had picked up off the beach and the bait of mussel sheathed the hook in such a way as not to snag on the kelp. Meanwhile, all of our efforts were in vain — we became hopelessly ensnared in the kelp. We even managed to break one pole. A lot of rockfish were taken home that day, all graciously provided by Allen.

This is when I learned that Allen was something of a legend in that area. After returning from our fishing lesson, Allen sat down on the wooden bench in front of the store at Stewarts Point. Several of his acquaintances sauntered over and greeted him, and they didn’t leave. The numbers grew as he related his repertoire of stories. I will share with you a sample of the stories that he

told.

The Great White Chief had many workers build large lighthouses and install loud foghorns all up and down the coastline (he recited the various locations) and do you know what? The fog just keeps rolling in.

When an onlooker asked how he got the reputation as an accurate weather forecaster, he responded that as a young man, he worked for a logging outfit on the coast. On a cloudy day the foreman, wanting to plan his day, asked Allen, “What time is it going to rain?” Allen, looked up and contemplated the sky for a few moments and then replied, “3:15.”

When it rained the foreman’s watch read 3:17 but he quickly reset it to the correct time, 3:15.

Sophie Says

Gramps can tell you fish stories from now until next Christmas, so don’t encourage him.

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Need

community

volunteers for Capstone interviews

Winters High School is looking for volunteers to help interview seniors as part of their Senior Capstone Projects. This is an opportunity for the community to meet our youth and hear about all the wonderful things they are doing in school. If you are interested in interviewing seniors (we give you the questions!) about their projects and plans after high school, please consider volunteering to be an interviewer. Interviews are Wednesday, Feb. 1 from 1:45–4 p.m. To sign up please call WHS at 795-6140 or email ccasavecchia@wintersjusd.org or ahurst@wintersjusd.org.

Senior Capstone wouldn’t be possible without the support and volunteers from our amazing community. We thank you in advance for your support.

ANDREA HURST and COURTNEY

This might be done by allowing properties on the border of two zones to use the characteristics of either zone as if they were in each. A “Gray Zone” if you will.

So, if the owner of a house across the street from a commercial building wanted to open up a business that conforms to the zoning of the neighboring commercial building, that would be allowed. Likewise, the commercial building could be converted to housing if the proper changes were made to conform to the residential zoning of the aforementioned home. Both examples would move the zone boundary line and

I won’t pretend to know all the intricacies of the state zoning regulation, so I can’t say if there is something preventing us from making Gray Zones a reality. But I think this is a good idea to build on that addresses many of the development issues on all sides of the debate.

Housekeeping

This section is new. I’ve decided to try adding a few sentences as needed to communicate information that otherwise doesn’t need a full-on column. On Jan. 10, we approved a Waste Management rate increase that will result in an average increase of $0.79 per bill. This was due to a pass-through cost from the county landfill increasing its costs. Our existing contract with Waste Management does not have any discretion on increases like this that I saw. Fortunately, it is not a significant increase.

SOPHIE

Richard Kleeberg/Courtesy photo

The new wide concrete path and PG&E Electric Boxes installation.

community, how hard they work and how people don’t really realize it. It just feels good and has been a good experience overall for me.”

For Zach Davis — now a longtime Winters resident and father of two — it’s always been a night to enjoy with family and friends.

“I like that Find A Cure Night is being brought back because basketball in this town means a lot to me. It’s always been an event that’s brought a lot of people together and gives them a variety of reasons to come out. Whether it’s for my brother or if it’s just for themselves, it’s an opportunity to come out and watch

SCOUTS

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challenging enough, and seeing the fall-out impact of not being in social situations for two years has been startling and a panicky experience. Throwing teenagers who are strangers to each other in a group project setting could seem disastrous. But seeing the two groups be able to work and laugh together — following a quick awkwardness — was uplifting.

It was also exciting to see the first-year Daisies and Brownies look around in awe at all of the older girls in the room and participate in a Friendship Circle with all of them. We’ll all have to work on some of our Girl Scout sing-along songs, but it seems we at least have the arm cross-over down pact.

The icing on top was learning that all of the Troops took advantage of the opportunity to set some goals for what they wanted their cookie businesses to fund. Cookie season goes beyond just earning patches and making sure our community is stocked up on

a basketball game,” said Davis. “This game seems to always bring more people out. My wife Sterling and I are excited to see AJ make this event his own, how this night goes and hopefully, it comes back again next year. This event is always fun and brings a lot of happiness to a lot of people.”

Find A Cure Night is taking place on Friday, Jan. 27 when the Warriors will square off against Rio Vista High School. The junior varsity squad plays at 5:30 p.m. with the varsity team slated to tip off at 7 p.m.

Pignataro said donations to support the scholarship can be made at the door or via Venmo at @whsathleticswarriors, and attendees are encouraged to wear red.

those highly addictive Girl Scout cookies.

With the guidance of troop leader volunteers, the girls — even the Daisies — are introduced to the concept of saving money, making a plan for something they’d like to do, creating a budget and more soft skills that will one day incorporate into real-life skills.

Daisy Troop 744 wants to have an ice cream party and help people in need. Daisy Troop 2744 wants to do some fun things like have a pizza party and go on hiking adventures. Brownie Troop 1933 would like to take a trip to a nearby aquarium. My Juniors and Cadettes want to go camping and horseback riding, in addition to hosting a tea party for the younger Troops and finding new opportunities to give back and support their community.

I hope our community will help to support these young ladies this cookie season, and beyond. If buying cookies isn’t something you’re interested in, please tell a friend about who they can help buy from and even share social media posts

about upcoming cookie booths in February and March. And please help to share an encouraging word to let them know they’re doing a great job.

If you have an organization or opportunity where

take out a large chunk of the Pocket Park to install their power equipment. That sounds a bit hard to believe. Public utilities like PG&E don’t install tree stakes or a set of bricks without first producing several written reports, with dozens of drawings and descriptions. Based on my own years of experience as a Policy Consultant for Southern California Edison, I imagine that PG&E gave the City their proposed installation drawings at least six months, and likely a full year, before the work was done.

Since PG&E completed its huge Gas Safety Training Center in Winters a few years ago, they have often stated their desire to do good for the Winters community. It certainly seems like the City could have talked them into putting their equipment underground in the Pocket Park. But the City may have never even asked PG&E to leave the Pocket Park unharmed.

The PG&E electric box installation has taken away a good portion of one end of the Pocket Park. And the placement of the concrete walkway down the very center of the Park does more than just use up about a fifth of the Park. It may also make it impossible to plant shade trees because large trees planted near the old buildings could damage their foundations, and large trees planted close to the new wide walkway could damage the concrete and bricks. It does not look like there is any room left to plant shade trees.

Pity the poor Pocket Park. It was a fine idea, once, long ago. But the City has allowed that vision to disappear.

our local Girl Scouts can have an experience or help volunteer, please let us know. All of the troop leaders are working together to give them the best opportunities and first-hand experiences.

Courtesy photo

Daisy Troop 2744 members Charlotte Davis and Sadie Balogh learn more about the di erent types of cookies they’ll be selling.

Assistant coach Benny Geerts is surrounded by, from left, Keith Geerts, Zach Davis and Jared Davis.

KS Winters Photography/ Courtesy photo