Winters Express: Wednesday, March 19, 2025

FFA programs shape future leaders in agriculture and beyond

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

When it comes to farming, it’s all about the future.

Next-generation Golden State farmers are California’s future.

California FFA advisor Charles Parker said the fruits of all the statewide groups are rooted in local community members who love their land.

“It’s not about the officers, it’s not about state officers, it’s not about the association — it’s about the local members, that’s the value,” Parker told the Winters Express “And particularly in those small communities.”

Like any good crop, after it is produced and benefits the community, local FFA leaders must pass the leadership baton to ensure “the future” remains just that.

Winters native Kent

Benson, 2024 Georgia State FFA Honoree, knew when it “was time to move on” after his 26-year career teaching agriculture and leading the Winters FFA at Winters High School. Benson’s unprecedented FFA career exemplifies what it means to dedicate one’s life to local land.

As a high school, Benson walked away with the FFA Member of the Year two years in a row. Though his college career in Chicago was successful, he said he “ always wanted to come back to Winters.” However, like a seasonal crop, career timing is everything.

“When I graduated from college, there weren’t any job openings,” Benson said. That’s where Jack Graf came in. The two-term Yolo County Superintendent of

See FFA, Page 9

Celebrating ag growth, innovation and community

Express staff

March 18, 2025, marks the 52nd annual National Agriculture Day, an event dedicated to recognizing the crucial role agriculture plays in daily life. Organized by the Agriculture Council of America (ACA), this year’s theme “Together We Grow” highlights the interconnectedness of the agriculture industry and its impact on food production, sustainability, and economic stability.

Events for National Ag Day take place both virtually and in person in Washington, D.C. A core leadership team of college students, along with representatives from national farm and commodity organizations, will gather to discuss the future of agriculture and engage in advocacy efforts. Participants from Agriculture Future of America (AFA), 4-H, FFA, and Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANNRS)

will be involved, demonstrating the next generation’s commitment to the industry.

“Students are interested in advocating on behalf of agriculture and their future roles in the industry,” says ACA President Jenny Pickett. “Their participation in National Ag Day activities provides a glimpse of the future of agriculture. It’s exciting to learn from the students what they think agriculture will be like in the years ahead, and how their involvement will shape the industry and America as a whole.”

Agriculture in the U.S.

National Ag Day and the weeklong celebration of National Ag Week (March 21-27) serve as reminders of agriculture’s far-reaching impact. Agriculture is not only responsible for feeding the nation but also plays a key role in providing fiber for clothing, fuel for vehicles, and raw materials for count-

less products.

“From the food we eat and the fuel for our vehicles to the fiber in the clothes we wear, and the oil used to make children’s crayons, agriculture touches everyone in some way,” says Pickett.

The program encourages every American to:

• Understand how food, fiber, and fuel products are produced.

• Appreciate agriculture’s role in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products.

• Recognize agriculture’s essential contributions to the economy.

• Consider career opportunities within the agriculture industry.

A legacy of growth and innovation

The history of agriculture in America is deeply intertwined with the country’s development. From early European-influenced farming techniques to westward expansion and the establishment

See AG, Page 9

Investing in healthy soils strengthens farm resilience

By Margaret Honig California Farm Bureau

Soil health isn’t just a

the foundation of productive farms, resilient crops and long-term sustainability. As someone who works closely with farmers, I see the challenges firsthand: unpredictable weather, water restrictions, rising input costs and shifting regulations, all of which make soil management feel like one more hurdle in an already demanding industry.

Yet, healthy soil is an investment. It directly impacts yield stability, disease resistance, water efficiency and overall farm resilience. In California’s citrus industry, where growers are battling huanglongbing, extreme heat and increasing regulatory pressures, soil health can be a critical tool for longterm success.

Research consistently shows that improving soil health leads to better fruit quality and yield sta-

bility, stronger root systems that support longevity, greater resilience to drought and erosion, and reduced reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

The challenge?

Many soil health practices require upfront investment and longterm commitment, and in an industry where margins are already tight, not every grower can afford to take that risk.

That’s where the Healthy Soils See SOIL, Page 10

Christine Souza/California Farm Bureau

Soil health is the foundation of productive farms, resilient crops and long-term sustainability.

Council requests changes to food vendor ordinance

By Sonora Slater Express staff writer

The ongoing discussion of an ordinance that would place a cap on the number of mobile food vendors in Winters, as well as add or modify a variety of other food-vendor regulations, was continued to the April 1 Winters City Council meeting for further discussion after several changes to the directive were requested by the council members.

During the Feb. 18 meeting, council members requested:

• Disallowing tables and chairs at food trucks, except in very specific pre-approved cases.

• Setting specified allowable hours of operation.

• Requiring vendors to display their health department certification.

• Swapping from the more arduous conditional use permit system, which has each application go through the Winters Planning Commission, to a more streamlined permit system that can be approved by other city staff members.

Additionally, the council requested striking any

mention of a 4-hour or longer time period of operation from the definition of a stationary food vendor. There was continued disagreement about whether to include a cap on the number of vendors.

At the last January meeting, which featured a discussion of the ordinance, the council primarily discussed the pros and cons of having a cap on the number of vendors, requested clarification on and change to the conditional use permit system, which has now been somewhat resolved, and more information on the code enforcement process for the existing and hypothetical new regulations. While some code enforcement challenges were lessened with changes to the ordinance, including requests for the vendors’ business and health permits to be openly displayed, and the simplification of rules related to hours of operation, there were still some unanswered questions that may be discussed at the April 1 meeting.

Laddish

Resident Kate

See VENDORS, Page 7

Middle school robotics team are state champs, qualify for Worlds

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Get involved

The Winters Middle School Robotics Team 95694B claimed victory on March 16 at the 2025 California Regional VEX twoday tournament, securing a state championship title and earning a coveted spot at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship in May. This year’s Team 95694B is composed of sixth-graders Ryan Coleman and Will Whitworth, along with eighth-grader August Nelson. Nelson, a returning competitor, was part of the first WMS team to compete in Worlds in 2024. With this year’s championship experience under their belts, the team is set to refine their robots and strategies in preparation for the international competition. For updates, follow @wintersrobotics on Instagram and Facebook.

YCOE launches new Center for Language and Literacy

Center programs aim to address critical literacy gaps

Express staff

The Yolo County Office of Education (YCOE) has launched the Yolo Center for Language and Literacy to tackle pressing literacy gaps in Yolo County, where only 42 percent of third-grade students read at grade level, according to a 2024 report from the California Department of Education.

The center aims to enhance classroom instruction and student

learning across Yolo County and the greater Sacramento region. “Literacy is the foundation for success. When children and youth develop strong literacy skills, it has a direct impact on their achievement in school and beyond,” said County Superintendent Garth Lewis. “With the support of UC Davis and UC San Diego, YCOE will provide the tools and resources needed to improve literacy across our schools, particularly for multilingual learners.”

The center is supported by UC Davis’ Center for Public Service and Education and the California

Reading and Literature Project at UC San Diego, part of the California Subject Matter Project. Dr. Heather Schlaman, YCOE’s language and literacy coordinator, will lead the initiative.

“Our goal is to bring the latest research and best practices to the professional development of TK12 educators,” said Schlaman. “This is a unique opportunity to cultivate a strong network of teacher leaders who are dedicated to delivering high-quality literacy instruction and supporting their colleagues throughout the region.”

Key initiatives of the Yolo Center for Language and Literacy include:

• Establishing a regional site for the California Reading and Literature Project to offer literacy-focused professional learning for TK-12 educators.

• Expanding the “CRECEMOS: Growing Bilingual Teachers” initiative to strengthen the bilingual teacher workforce, supported by the Bilingual Teacher Professional Development Grant.

• Providing local

See CENTER, Page 7

The Winters Robotics Club brings together students from both WMS and Winters High School, fostering collaboration and mentorship. High school students play an integral role in guiding their younger teammates throughout the season. Winters Robotics Inc. provides essential support to the teams, including funding for tournament registration, supplies, and more. Community members interested in volunteering or donating can visit www. wintersrobotics.org.

Yolo supervisors hear update on budget development, modify county mental health clinic hours

By Rebecca Wasik McNaughton Media

On March 11, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors received an update on the fiscal year 2025-26 budget development.

When it comes to an economic outlook, Yolo County Chief Financial Officer Tom Haynes indicated that GDP growth remains relatively strong, the unemployment rate is rising gradually, inflation is lower but remains stubborn, interest rates are slowly declining and home prices are resuming an upward trend.

The economy is projected to continue growing but at a slightly slower pace. Inflation is expected to remain above the federal government’s 2 percent target. Federal actions are causing uncertainty as well. There may be potential impacts due to tariffs and deportations.

Options presented to the board at its FY 2024-25 adopted budget hearing included hiring reviews, a hiring freeze, the elimination of vacant positions, department reduction plans, man-

datory/discretionary program analysis, furlough and the use of reserves.

According to Chief budget official Laura Liddicoet, the FY 2025-26 budget principles include:

• Strengthen financial sustainability by working towards achieving a structurally balanced budget. Do this by seeking out all opportunities for ongoing revenue enhancements and long-term cost savings while considering all options to minimize program reductions.

• Identify one-time solutions, including funding sources and budgetary solutions, to mitigate program reductions and service impacts, while developing longer-term solutions.

• Pursue grant funding where opportunities exist, provided those opportunities do not lead to ongoing expenses that the county will have to finance in future years.

Total projected revenues for FY 2025-26 are $108,950,932.

Salaries and benefits make up $323 million (43 percent) of the county’s operat-

ing budget. Pension, energy and insurance rates continue to increase.

The preliminary base budget gap for FY 2025-26 is $39.6 million.

The chief administrative officer, county departments and the department of financial services will conduct budget meetings this month and next month. The board is expected to receive another budget development update on April 29. Budget balancing will occur in early May and budget briefing the first week of June.

The Recommended Budget Hearing before the board is scheduled for June 10.

Supervisor Oscar Villegas said that the board and county may need to consider changes to the cannabis tax, while Supervisor Sheila Allen suggested the possibility for a county sales tax measure in the future.

Mental health clinics

Over the past six years, the Board of Supervisors, local mental health board

See COUNTY, Page 7

Winters Robotics Team 95694B members Ryan Coleman, Will Whitworth and August Nelson won the championship and earned a spot to compete at the VEX Worlds champtionship.

Courtesy photo

Public Safety Report

vehicle accident with injury

March 5: 8:44 a.m., E. Grant Avenue, False alarm or false call (other)

~10:06 a.m., E. Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~12:53 p.m., Almond Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~12:59 p.m., Railroad Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~1:57 p.m., E. Grant Avenue, EMS call –excluding vehicle accident with injury

~7:59 p.m., Myrtle Drive, Person in distress (other)

March 7: 3:37 a.m., Caselli Court, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~6:19 a.m., County Road 89 and County Road 31, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~8:53 a.m., Edwards Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~6:14 p.m., Russell Boulevard, Motor vehicle accident with no injuries.

March 8: 3:11 p.m., Wildrose Lane, EMS call – excluding

~4:09 p.m., Main Street, Public service assistance (other)

~6:45 p.m., Rojo Street, Person in distress (other)

March 9: 12:14 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~6:55 a.m., Morgan Street, Public service assistance (other)

~12:48 p.m., Main Street, False alarm or false call (other)

~6:04 p.m., Highway and Monticello Dam Road, Dispatched and canceled en route

March 10: 4:36 a.m., Almond Drive, EMS call excluding vehicle accident with injury

~8:53 a.m., Edwards Street, EMS call excluding vehicle accident with injury

~10:17 a.m., Scotty Way and Hiramatsu Lane, Public service assistance (other)

~12:37 p.m., Carbahal Street, EMS call excluding vehicle accident with injury

March 11: 4:44 a.m., Griffin Way, EMS call excluding vehicle accident with injury

March 12: 1:58 a.m.,

See REPORT, Page 5

Read obituaries online at wintersexpress.com/obituaries

To submit an obituary, visit the “Submission Forms” page or hover over “Obituary” for the submission link

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Janet Mabel Kinloch, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend, who passed away peacefully in Lahaina, Hawaii, on Jan. 2, at the age of 91.

Born on June 1, 1933, in Manila, Janet was the oldest of three children, the daughter of an American salesman father and a mother who immigrated to the Philippines from China. As a self-described tomboy, she was adventurous and curious.

When World War II brought the Japanese occupation of Manila, 8-year-old Janet was forced to leave school, so she spent her days at home learning with a tutor. She recalled a time when Japanese soldiers came to search her home. Fearful that the soldiers might find the family’s illegal radio, she hid it under a pile of clothes in a laundry basket and nervously carried it out of the house, right past the soldiers, as she pretended to be doing chores.

In 1945, Janet and her family were among

August 23, 1950 –February 11, 2025

Forever in our hearts It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Father Benjamin Baylor. He was a truly amazing man. He had a heart of gold, a smile that lit up a room and he touched the lives of everyone he met. He truly enjoyed the simple things in life, family, comedies, Westerns, going for walks,

YESTERYEAR

Lake Berryessa water levels rise

Express staff

The water level of Lake Berryessa rose by 0.47 feet over the past week, increasing to 8,907 acre-feet of water storage, according to Rick Pile, with the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, March 18, he reported that the lake elevation was 441.01 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,570,407 acre-feet. The SID released 75 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 836 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 65 acre-feet of water per day.

Obituary

the first civilians evacuated from the Philippines to America. After traveling by airplane and ship, they settled in Texas, then New Orleans, and eventually Los Gatos, California. It was there that Janet graduated high school and later married the “cute guy” who worked across from her school. Together, they had five children and lived in various places around the country before returning to California.

Janet’s love for travel and people took her around the world. When her children were young, she embarked on a solo threeweek trip through Europe. Her dream of volunteering with the Peace Corps came true in 1981 when she went to Guatemala at age 49. Her time there inspired her sense of freedom and adventure for the years that followed. “I was truly free to go and do what I pleased,” she said. “Now it was just a matter of deciding what it would be.”

and “Looney Tunes.”

He was an amazing trumpet player and could often be heard whistling beautiful tunes. He was the most selfless giving person we’ve ever known. He would always help anyone in any way he could. He strived to stay positive and upbeat no matter what life threw at him. He had very strong faith, went to church regularly and always made

Janet moved to Winters, California, in the late 1980s, where she spent the next three decades building lasting friendships. Her home was always open to her children, grandchildren, and anyone in need. Whether offering a place to stay, paying for college tuition, or simply being a steady presence in the community, Janet’s kindness and generosity knew no bounds. She was actively involved in the Winters Senior Foundation, the Soroptimist group and other organizations. In 2020, Janet moved to Maui to enjoy the warmth of the Hawaiian sun.

Janet is survived by her sister, Joyce Catalano; her five

sure his bible was close by. Laughing was his favorite, whether he was acting goofy, telling jokes or making fun of you, it was always because he wanted everyone around him to be laughing too.

children, Jennifer, Piper, Mitchell, Lee Anne, and Pam; her three stepchildren, Leslie, Don, and Robin; seven grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a wide circle of family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love, curiosity, and an enduring spirit of adventure. In honor of Janet’s legacy, the family requests donations to the Winters Senior Foundation or Goal4. org, causes dear to her heart.

A memorial mass and celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Friday, Sept. 19 at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony Parish, 511 Main Street, Winters, CA 95694.

You don’t have to travel

for

All the attributes you expect of a good neighbor – personal consideration, understanding, and consistent support – you can expect from us.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudy and Minerva, brother James and sister Rosemary. He is survived by his wife Marilyn; his four children Laura, John, Mary and Gabriel; his sisters Patricia, Nancy, Lorraine and Carol, and his brother Frank; as well as many other extended family members. Although he was living in Texas when he passed he spent many years raising his family in Winters and we thought it was important to share this in the Express for those who knew him.

Janet Kinloch

Benjamin Baylor

Picked by Charley Wallace

Mike Franco/File photo

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM: The 1993 varsity volleyball team consisted of, from left, (top row) coach Barbara Martinez, Maribell Arellano, Heather Rose, Sara Kent, Jenny Morrison and coach Polita Gonzales; (middle row) Nancy Walton, Melissa Willard, Christina Mendoza and Rosalina Garibay; (front row) Rachel Espinosa, Hillary Hightower, Adriane Ramos and Sandra Cortes.

Regional News

Air district announces Clean Air Calendar Art contest

Special to the Express

The Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District will launch its 2025 Clean Air Calendar Art Contest for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Students are encouraged to create art about this year’s theme, “Why is Clean Air Important to You?”

“We’re so excited to be hosting our Clean Air Calendar Art Contest again this year and can’t wait to see all the creative and meaningful entries,” District Executive Director Gretchen Bennitt said. “This contest is a great way to engage students while also educating the community about the importance of air quality.”

Research has shown the negative impacts of poor air quality on human and environmental health. This contest provides an opportunity for students to learn about clean air and the small changes that can

lead to a big impact on the environment, Bennitt said. There will be 12 winners of the contest. Air District staff will select first, second and third place winners in each of the following grade categories: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. Winners will receive Amazon gift cards ($30 for first place and $25 for second and third places) and be featured in the 2026 Clean Air Calendar, which will be distributed throughout the community.

Multiple Winters students have had their artwork selected as entries to appear in the calendar in past art contests. The deadline to submit art for the contest is 4 p.m. on April 25. Students must be attending schools within District boundaries, which includes all of Yolo County and the northeast part of Solano County including Dixon, Rio Vista and Vacaville. Submissions must be 8.5by-11 inches in land-

scape orientation. Entries, with completed entry forms, can be submitted via email to ArtContest@ysaqmd.org or dropped off in person to the District office at 1947 Galileo Court No. 103, Davis, 95618. For more contest information, visit: ysaqmd.org/ classrooms or email the District’s Public Information Officer, Brielle Jamros at BJamros@ysaqmd. org.

The Yolo-Solano Air Quality Management District’s mission is to protect human health and property from the harmful effects of air pollution. As a public health agency, the District is responsible for safeguarding air quality and overseeing air pollution control in Yolo and northeastern Solano counties, including the cities of Dixon, Rio Vista, and Vacaville. For more information, visit ysaqmd.org. Connect with the Air District via Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Nextdoor.

Thompson announces 2025 Congressional art competition

Special to the Express

Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for all high school students in California’s Fourth Congressional District.

“Every year, I look forward to the Congressional Art Competition. It is a wonderful chance to showcase the incredible talent of students across our district,” said Thompson. “I am excited to see this year’s submissions and encourage all high school students to submit their artwork.”

The winning artwork from our district will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year alongside the winning pieces of artwork from other Congressional Districts. In addition, the grand prize winner from our district will be flown with a guest to Washington, D.C. to attend an awards ceremony. The day of the ceremony will be announced soon.

Napa County’s Taylor Webster won last year’s competition for her piece “Forlorn” which is composed of charcoal pencil. Tay-

State wants more kids in bilingual classes — but won’t fund enough to expand them

Editor’s Note: This story was originally published by CalMatters.

By Tara García Mathewson CalMatters

As California gets closer to its 2030 goal of having 1,600 dual language immersion programs in the state’s public schools and advocates call for a more ambitious vision, legislators have pumped the brakes on funding.

In 2021, the Legislature created a $10 million grant program to help schools expand dual language programs over the last three years, but now that money is gone.

The only bill before the Legislature this session would have the state spend just half that over the next three years, with that $5 million going to buy or create books and other teaching materials in languages other than English.

Conor Williams, a senior fellow at The Century Foundation and an education policy expert, is a critic of California’s limited investment in dual language immersion programs, which have students spend part of their school day learning in English and part of the day learning in another language. He said the new grant program “feels a little bit like replacing the windshield wipers when you’ve got a flat tire — or two flat tires. You can fix them but you’re not going

anywhere until you address the tires.”

Dual language immersion programs have become sought after by parents of all backgrounds wanting their children to become bilingual. In the 2023-24 school year, 1,075 schools had students enrolled in such programs, according to data from the California Department of Education, which puts the state on track to meet its 2030 goal. The education de-

To get a meaningful portion of these children a bilingual education, the state needs many more teachers. Yet no bills this session aim to address the bilingual teacher shortage.

“This is almost like gas in the tank,” Williams said, continuing with his analogy. “You just can’t do what everybody in California says they want to do in California until you fix the teacher pathway problem.”

“You just can’t do what everybody in California says they want to do in California until you fix the teacher pathway problem.”

Conor Williams, senior fellow

partment especially encourages schools to offer these programs to the children of immigrants because research shows they help students learn English better and faster, close academic achievement gaps and lead to a host of beneficial long-term outcomes.

Advocates like Williams want many more children from this group to have access to bilingual education. Yet data obtained from the Education Department show only 10 percent of English learners were in some type of bilingual program during the 2023-24 school year.

Slow progress, tight finances

Global California 2030 projected the state would have 90 approved bilingual teacher preparation programs by 2025. Yet according to the state commission on teacher credentialing, there are only 48.

As CalMatters reported in December, the state’s anemic

bilingual education offerings are a direct result of a ban on such programs from 1998 to 2016 and the state’s failure to create a systemic recovery since then.

Recognizing the state’s tight finances this budget year, advocates did not push for any major initiatives. But Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California worked with Assemblymember Mark González, a Los Angeles Democrat, to introduce Assembly Bill 865, which calls for $5 million over the next three years to help schools either purchase or create instructional materials for bilingual programs. Outside of English and Spanish, it is difficult to find high-quality, standards-aligned materials, and the funding is expected to take the pressure off teachers to create their own. Martha Hernández is executive director of Californians Together, a coalition that includes Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California and which formed to oppose and overturn the state’s

See FUNDS, Page 7

lor’s work is currently displayed in the U.S. Capitol. Artwork must be submitted in person by April 17, to one of Thompson’s district offices:

• 2721 Napa Valley Corporate Drive, Napa, CA 94558

• 2300 County Center Drive, Suite A100, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

• 622 Main Street, Suite 106, Woodland, CA 95695

The submitted artwork will be judged by a panel of local artists and art experts with the winner announced after the deadline.

The guidelines for the Congressional Art Competition include the following:

• Artwork must be two-dimensional.

• Each piece can be no larger than 26 inches high x 26 inches wide x 4 inches deep, including the frame.

• Framed artwork cannot weigh more than 15 pounds.

• Acceptable mediums for artwork are as follows:

• Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.

• Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and

REPORT

Continued from Page 4

Morgan Street, EMS call excluding vehicle accident with injury

View the Winters Fire Activity and Call Log at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.

Police Report Log

March 9: 10:15 a.m., Interstate 505/Putah Creek Road, Assist outside agency

March 10: 12:54 a.m., 200 block of Lenis Avenue, Civil dispute

pastel drawings be fixed.)

• Collages: must be two-dimensional

• Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints

• Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.

• Computer-generated art

• Photographs Each entry must be original in concept, design, and execution and may not violate U.S. Copyright laws. Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement), that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted. The winning piece must be available to be mailed to Washington D.C. in the original medium (that is, not a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing).

Students and teachers interested in the Congressional Art Competition may contact any of Thompson’s district offices for further guidance and instruction.

March 11: 4:06 p.m., Railroad Avenue/ Baker Street, Violation of court order ~7:17 p.m., Anderson Avenue/W. Main Street, Towed vehicle ~7 p.m., 1000 block of Ramos Drive, Missing person & return View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log. For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see www.winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.

Yolo County residents can get a Winters Express print and digital year-long subscription combo for $30

Visit wintersexpress.com and subscribe today

Community

Winters students shine at Poetry Jam/Slam

Special to the Express

The power of poetry took center stage at the 15th annual Poetry Jam/Slam on Thursday, Feb. 27, as Winters Joint Unified School District students showcased their recitation skills and creativity before a captivated audience in the Winters High School gymnasium.

Students from Waggoner Elementary, Shirley Rominger Intermediate, Winters Middle School and WHS participated in the event, impressing a crowd of community members, family and friends with their heartfelt performances.

The Poetry Jam session featured elementary-aged students who recited a variety of poems spanning different genres. Some chose to recite classic works, while others took a more personal approach, presenting original compositions that highlighted their creativity and storytelling abilities.

The evening progressed to the Poetry Slam segment, where

middle school and high school students took the stage to compete before a panel of judges. These young poets delivered passionate and thought-provoking performances, tackling a range of topics from personal experiences to social issues, using rhythm and wordplay to engage the audience.

This year’s judges included Denise Cottrell, Rebecca and Woody Fridae, Liz Coman, Kenneth Matheson and Jesse Loren Evelyn Frazier

Your Sleep Matters Your Matters

Saturday, April 26th

Duck Derby, Parade, Food & More!

Celebrating our community's youth from the past to the present, “Youth Around the World” special tabloid will be published on Wednesday, April 23rd. It will be mailed to all Winters’ households and distributed throughout the community with 5,000 printed copies and on-line edition. Festivities begin on Saturday, April 26th with fun for the whole family. Be a part of this community wide section with your advertising message.

placed first in the high school competition. Atlas Roehrs placed second and Ricki Rodriguez placed third. Val Soriano and Edward Palmer were given honorable mentions.

Galilea Ramos Bermudez placed first in the middle school competition. Gianna Wroten placed second and Sasha Del Toro placed third. Anthony Garcia Gutierrez, Isabelle Duer Kraft and Julieta Duenas were given honorable mentions.

The annual event has become a beloved tradition in Winters, fostering a love for literature and self-expression among students. The supportive atmosphere and enthusiastic participation reflect the strong sense of community and the value placed on artistic expression within the school district.

As the applause rang through the gymnasium, it was clear that the Poetry Jam/ Slam was not just a competition or performance but a celebration of the power of words and the voices of Winters’ young poets. The event continues to inspire students to explore their creative potential and share their perspectives with the world.

Celebrate Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros with Yolo County Library

Special to the Express

The Yolo County Library invites children and their families to a vibrant celebration of Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros (Children’s Day/Book Day), a nationwide initiative promoting literacy, diversity and the joy of reading.

Every child will receive a free book, and all locations will feature special performances and engaging science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) crafts.

“Día champions the importance of literacy for children of all linguistic and cultural backgrounds and fosters connections between children and families, weaving a rich tapestry of books, languages and cultures,” said County Librarian and Chief Archivist Diana Lopez.

“Our team has planned diverse and delightful family programs and will be giving away a terrific variety of children’s books. We hope you join us in this fabulous celebration!”

Celebrated worldwide in spring, Día de los Niños honors children as the heart of every community, while Día de los Libros underscores the power of books to inspire and empower young readers. Yolo County Library’s celebration connects children and families to diverse stories, cultures, and languages through engaging events across multiple li-

brary branches.

Local celebration dates include:

• April 16 at 2 p.m. Esparto Regional Library, 17065 Yolo Ave., Esparto with Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera.

• April 19 at 11 a.m. Winters Community Library, 708 Railroad Ave., Winters with Ballet Folklorico del Ecuador INTI-TULPA.

Other Yolo County celebration dates are:

• April 5 at 11 a.m. South Davis Montgomery Library, 1441 Danbury St., Davis with Folklorico and Dilly Dally the Clown.

• April 12 at 1 p.m. Yolo Branch Library, 37750 Sacramento St., Yolo, with Steve Chaney and Corny Crow.

• April 23 at 2:15 p.m. Clarksburg Branch Library, 52915 Netherlands Ave., Clarksburg with Ukelele Storytime.

• April 26 at 1:30 p.m. Knights Landing Branch Library, 42351 Third St., Knights Landing with a Magician.

• April 26 at 1 p.m. Arthur F. Turner Community Library, 1212 Merkley Ave., West Sacramento with Folklorico Latino de Woodland.

• April 27 at 2 p.m. Mary L. Stephens – Davis Branch Library, 315 E. 14th St., Davis with Cascada de Flores. No reservations are required, and all programs are free to attend. Programs are sponsored and supported by Yolo County’s Friends of the Library groups and the Yolo County Library Foundation.

For more information, please visit the Library’s website www.YoloCountyLibrary.org or connect with the Library on Facebook and Instagram @yolocountylibrary.

Courtesy Photos

The winning poets from Winters Middle School and Winters High School. Below, Elementary school students delighted the crowd with their performances.

Property Tax delinquent if

not paid by April 10

Special to the Express

The Yolo County Tax Collector’s Office reminds taxpayers who own property in Yolo County that the second installment of 2023-24 Secured Property Tax, was due Feb. 1, and will be considered delinquent if not paid by April 10.

To avoid a penalty, property taxes must be paid by the April 10 deadline. A 10 percent penalty will be applied to late payments. Envelopes must be postmarked no later than April 10 if taxes are paid by mail. It is suggested that payments be mailed a few days before the April 10 deadline to ensure the envelope will have the proper postmark. The only acceptable postmark for deadline payments is a U.S. Postal Service postmark.

Taxpayers have the option of paying property taxes by credit card (plus a 2.34 percent convenience fee) or electronic check (no charge). These payments can be made online at www. YoloCounty.gov (select the Pay Property Tax icon) or by phone at 877-590-0714. Payments made using either of these two systems must be completed before midnight on April 10 to avoid penalties. Please note that it may take three to five business days for banking institutions to confirm electronic check payment was successful. To ensure timely processing, electronic check payments should be made at least five business days prior to

spoke during the public comment period, and asked the council to ensure compliance and enforcement is built into the ordinance effectively.

There was also conversation about expanding the suggested map of where mobile food vendors could operate, given that the space currently allotted is rather small, but Mayor Pro Tempore Bill Biasi said he wasn’t sure if he was in favor of extending the map of possible areas. He noted that many of the current food vendors are operating outside of the given area, and that he would like to see effective enforcement, which may be easier in a more contained area.

However, Council member Carol Scianna said that the

the due date. Current law does not relieve property owners of payment responsibility or the imposition of penalties because of failure to receive a tax bill. If you own property in Yolo County and did not receive a tax bill, please call 530-666-8625 or email TaxInfo@ YoloCounty.gov as soon as possible.

For inquiries or more information concerning tax bills and payments, you can visit the Yolo County website and select the “Pay Property Tax” icon. You may also call the Yolo County Tax Collector’s office at 530666-8625 during business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you prefer an in-person visit, the office is located at 625 Court Street, Room 102 in Woodland, and is open during the same business hours. Please note that on April 10, the office will remain open until 5 p.m.

Property taxes are a critical funding source for local governments including cities, school districts, local cemetery districts, community colleges, rural fire districts, and other public services. More than half of the property tax revenue goes to local school districts while rural fire districts rely on property taxes for over 90 percent of their annual funding. Yolo County itself receives about 9 percent of property taxes collected, which equates to 9 cents of every dollar.

map area was quite small, and was concerned about what they would tell the vendors currently operating outside of the allotted area, especially when she feels that the current locations of many of the food trucks are working well.

“Why force them to move?” Scianna said.

Mayor Albert Vallecillo added to the pushback on the map, saying that nearly half of the allowable space is unusable because there is no shoulder, making it a dangerous location for anyone to stop. He suggested an on-theground scouting trip at a later date to see where some other good places for the trucks might be.

1998 ban on bilingual education.

“There’s much more that we need to do related to the expansion of biliteracy programs, such as addressing the teacher shortage,” Hernández said. But the instructional materials grant program is “one critical piece of the puzzle,” she added. She expects the grant program to improve equity across California schools and help close achievement gaps between students who speak less common languages and their English-speaking peers.

Assemblymember González sees the grant as a lifeline for districts developing critical programs.

González represents one of the most linguistically diverse legislative districts in the state and said educators describe having to create their own standards-aligned instructional materials in less common languages. That’s time teachers can’t spend designing engaging lessons or giving students helpful feedback.

Seeking more funding Hernández said

she is still hopeful the state will put more money behind bilingual education programs before the budget year wraps up.

Assembly Bill 2074, signed into law in the fall, called for a formal implementation plan for the state’s English Learner Roadmap, which outlines how schools can best serve students who do not speak English fluently. There are more than 1.1 million of these students in the state’s public schools, or about 1 in 5 students statewide. After AB 2074 passed without any funds attached, a budget trailer bill set aside money for one new position at the California Department of Education to spearhead this work.

Hernández said the department has also been pursuing philanthropic funding for an advisory committee established by the law that would create a more concrete plan for implementing the roadmap and develop a way to hold districts accountable for achieving that.

But Californians Together would like to see more money for the effort. The original bill called for three new staffers at the education department, not one, so the coalition will contin-

ue to advocate for the original request.

In the meantime, Williams has been writing about how Texas does a better job of educating students still learning English. His latest report points out that California and Texas each have about the same number of students who enter school speaking a language other than English. But in Texas, these children outperform their Golden State peers on a national test of reading and math in both fourth and eighth grade. The state also has significantly smaller gaps in performance between English learners and those who already speak English fluently.

While many factors affect test scores, making it impossible to say for sure that bilingual education causes Texas students to outperform Californians, Williams said the consistent gap at both grade levels every testing year is compelling.

— Tara García Mathewson is an award-winning reporter who primarily investigates the use of technology in education for CalMatters and The Markup, which merged in 2024.

CENTER

and community advocates, have asked the Health and Human Services Agency to significantly increase services, expand contracts and create new programs. While these expansions have been very beneficial to the public, they have also depleted Mental Health Services Act fund reserves.

As the county approaches the 2025-26 fiscal year, the agency has a need to reduce and shift. Funding issues have been exacerbated as the county shifts from Mental Health Services Act to Behavioral Health Services Act under Prop 1.

The county currently operates three mental health clinics in Woodland, West Sacramento and Davis. All clinics offer the same services.

HHSA Director Nolan Sullivan asked the board to make a decision based on three options, with staff highly recommending option one.

Option 1: Modify the Davis and West Sacramento Clinic hours of operation as follows:

• Davis Clinic: Mondays and Wednesdays

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• West Sacramen-

“What’s on this map is very limiting if we want to see future businesses sprouting,” Vallecillo said.

to Clinic: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Option 2: Close the Davis Clinic and route client care to West Sacramento or Woodland.

Option 3: Add three full-time positions to continue operating the Davis Clinic full time (one clinician, one case manager, and one administrative clerk).

Ultimately, the board did vote unanimously to approve option one.

Sullivan says this has been an issue that the HHSA department has been anticipating for about seven to

Should the council follow through on expanding the areas where food trucks are allowed to operate at the April meeting, the ordinance will first have to return to the planning commission before it can get final approval from the council.

Vallecillo requested that staff put the information from the ordinance language into a matrix or spreadsheet for the upcoming meeting in order to make the differences between regulations for food truck vendors and sidewalk vendors more clear.

“I think there are too many pieces for me to vote yes on this tonight,” Vallecillo said. “I think it’s important for us to take the time to dial this in to come up with something that works for half a decade or longer.” VENDORS

“It’s unfortunate that we, as a society, don’t really understand the need for it or have equity for it for other kinds of health services that we need.”

Sheila Allen, supervisor

eight months.

Supervisor Lucas Frerichs was reluctant to cut a program in his own community but understood that budgeting is extremely tight. He was adamant, as was Supervisor Sheila Allen that adequate public notice go out about the change.

“The fact is that mental health has never been fully funded,” said Allen. “Never. It’s unfortunate that we, as a society, don’t really understand the need for it or have equity for it for other kinds of health services that we need.

Continued from Page 1

professional development opportunities in the Sacramento region, with a focus on effective instruction for multilingual learners.

“What makes the Yolo Center unique is the collaboration between higher education and the K-12 community,” added Superintendent Lewis. “I’m excited about the programming and professional development it will bring, which I believe will benefit our county, the Sacramento region, and potentially have a statewide impact.”

Nancy McTygue, ex-

But we’re trying to do the best we can in the current situation.”

The Woodland clinic is currently the most popular clinic, which is why its hours are not changing.

“We’ll think of some phone trees and some messaging that folks can actually get service remotely, from other offices, connect to other resources too,” said Sullivan.

“We have our access line, which is great, it is 24/7 but sometimes the wait can be sort of long.”

“Again, it’s not that we want to inconvenience folks and send

ecutive director of UC Davis’ Center for Public Service and Education, emphasized the long-term vision of the center

“We see the Yolo Center as a means to enhance and expand our collective efforts to foster student literacy and language development. By combining resources, expertise, and networks, we aim to create a sustainable, collaborative effort that benefits students in Yolo County, the Sacramento region, and across California,” McTygue said.

For more details on the Yolo Center’s programs and upcoming events, visit ycoe.org/ yolocenter.

them from Davis or West Sac to Woodland or Davis or West Sac, but we also can provide some transportation resources. We can assist in other ways. I know it’s not ideal but folks still if they really need it, let’s say they really have to get their injectable that day, they can get services in the other offices, it’s just not as convenient.” Sullivan anticipates this change to go into effect in approximately two weeks.

The Yolo County Board of Supervisors will next meet on March 25.

Eventos hispanos

El Ayuntamiento celebra el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer y aprueba el cierre de called

El informe policial anual genera comentarios sobre la discrepancia en la dotación de personal

Por Sonora Slater

Traducido por Carol Alfonso

Representantes de tres de las cuatro tropas de Girl Scouts de Winters asistieron a la reunión del Consejo Municipal de Winters del 4 de Marzo para aceptar la proclamación que reconoce Marzo como el Mes de la Historia de la Mujer.

La proclamación se centró en las maneras en que el liderazgo y las contribuciones de las mujeres han beneficiado a la comunidad de Winters en su conjunto, incluyendo una larga trayectoria de liderazgo femenino, incluyendo alcaldesas, concejales, presidentas de juntas escolares y más.

La líder de tropa y editora del Winters Express, Crystal Apilado, agradeció al consejo por reconocer este mes y destacó algunas de las muchas maneras en que las Girl Scouts sirven a la comunidad, incluyendo la limpieza de parques locales. También mencionó que uno de los beneficios de la organización es que enseña a las niñas diversas habilidades que les ayudan a alcanzar el éxito y les da confianza en sus proyectos profesionales a medida que crecen. “Cuando las mujeres triunfan, todos triunfamos,” dijo el concejal Jesse Loren, citando a la autora Kendra Spencer. “Me alegra mucho que estemos reconociendo este mes.”

En otras noticias, el calendario de consenso para la reunión, aprobado por unanimidad, incluyó la aprobación del cierre de calles para el evento anual Downtown Winters Spring Open, que este año se celebrará del 28 al 29 de Marzo.

El plan de cierre de calles aprobado corresponde al evento Downtown Winters Spring Open del Viernes 28 y el Sábado 29 de Marzo.

El 28 de Marzo, la calle Main Street estará cerrada desde la avenida Railroad Avenue hasta la calle First Street el Viernes por la tarde, de 2 a 10 p.m.

El Sábado, el cierre de Main Street se extiende a lo largo de Railroad Avenue para incluir E. Main Street hasta Elliot Street desde las 5 a.m. hasta las 4:30 p.m. Informe policial, comentarios del personal

El jefe de policía, John P. Miller, presentó el informe anual del Departamento de Policía de Winters al consejo, destacando que, en el sitio web de calificación de vecindarios AreaVibes.

Consigue una suscripción

WE impresa y digital por 30 dólares.

“Cuando las mujeres triunfan, todos triunfamos.”

Concejal Jesse Loren, citando a la autora Kendra Spencer

com, la ciudad ha recibido una esquiva calificación de matrícula de honor en la categoría de “Delincuencia,” lo que la sitúa entre las ciudades más seguras de Estados Unidos. AreaVibes señala en su sitio web que la tasa de delincuencia de Winters es un 75 por ciento inferior a la tasa general de California, con 696 por cada 100,000 habitantes. A modo de comparación, todas las ciudades cercanas tienen puntuaciones cercanas a la C. El principal delito que enfrenta actualmente el Departamento de Policía de Winters es el robo. Miller denominó su labor “policía orientada a la comunidad,” en referencia a la gran cantidad de eventos de participación comunitaria que la agente de servicio comunitario Andrea González ha coordinado durante el último año, incluyendo la participación policial en el Día de la Juventud (Youth Day), la Noche Nacional de Salida (National Night Out), Shop With a Cop, el Día de la Seguridad Pública, el Desfile de Tractores Navideños (Tractor Parade), Trunk or Treating, una campaña de donación de sangre y más. También afirmó que su principal objetivo es prevenir la delincuencia, haciendo referencia a la teoría de la ventana rota, que sostiene que las señales visibles de la delincuencia aumentan la delincuencia. Por ello, una de las maneras más eficaces de disuadir la delincuencia es adoptar medidas que fortalezcan la percepción del delincuente de la certeza de ser atrapado. Esto incluye la limpieza de la zona afectada mediante la gestión de vehículos abandonados y otras tareas de limpieza no atendidas en la ciudad, así como el trabajo proactivo del departamento de policía, en lugar de limitarse a responder a las llamadas. El departamento cuenta actualmente con 11 empleados juramentados a tiempo completo, un coordinador administrati-

vo compartido entre la policía y los bomberos, y dos agentes de servicio comunitario. El año pasado, perdieron a dos agentes y un sargento que se fueron a otras agencias, y prevén que más agentes dejarán el departamento este año. La contratación ha sido un desafío, ya que el 70 por ciento de las agencias en Estados Unidos reportan dificultades para reclutar y la escasez de agentes, lo que resulta en bonificaciones y salarios competitivos. Miller afirmó que la retención de agentes debería ser una prioridad para la agencia y para la ciudad.

La ciudad cuenta con un programa de cadetes, pero antes de que cualquier cadete pueda unirse a la fuerza policial, primero debe pasar por la Academia de Policía, que suele durar unos seis meses. Después, incluso si la ciudad financia su formación en la Academia, el cadete no tiene obligación legal de permanecer en la agencia de Winters durante un período específico. Las concejales Carol Scianna y Loren expresaron su agradecimiento al departamento, señalando la eficacia del enfoque comunitario del Departamento de Policía de Winters. Cuando se abrió un período de comentarios públicos, dos empleados actuales del Departamento de Policía de Winters aprovecharon la oportunidad para explicar por qué consideran que la retención y el reclutamiento

para la agencia han sido tan difíciles. “Una calificación de matrícula de honor es notable y no es fácil de conseguir,” dijo el sargento Manuel Cardoza. “Y es gracias al arduo trabajo de los hombres y mujeres del departamento de policía. Actualmente, los miembros del departamento de policía se sienten ignorados, despreciados y sin apoyo por parte de la ciudad.” González, quien comentó durante la reunión que es una de las empleadas que actualmente busca trabajo en otro lugar, amplió este comentario. Se centró en el hecho de que su trabajo, como muchos otros en Winters, requiere una cantidad y variedad de tareas que, en una ciudad más grande, se dividirían entre varios puestos, pero su salario simplemente no lo refleja.

“Mis funciones van mucho más allá del alcance de un puesto típico,” dijo González al enumerar algunas de las tareas que realiza habitualmente.

“En otras agencias, estas tareas se dividirían entre tres o cuatro puestos diferentes, pero aquí me encargo de todas,” dijo González. “A medida que nuestra ciudad crece y la carga de trabajo aumenta, la compensación y la dotación de personal no se adaptan al ritmo. Todos compartimos el amor por la comunidad y nos encargamos de lo que sea necesario, pero la carga puede volverse abrumadora.”

González coincidió con el comentario de Cardoza de que los agentes del Departamento de Policía de Winters se sienten ignorados por la ciudad después de haber expresado previamente estas preocupaciones, y señaló que otros empleados de la policía han sentido lo mismo. Sentimientos similares expresó el exsargento José Hermosillo el año pasado, quien desde entonces se ha trasladado a otra agencia. Loren enfatizó que se han sentido ignorados por el consejo y dijo que este no fija los salarios de los empleados policiales y que se les pide que permitan que las negociaciones salariales se lleven a cabo sin su intervención para mayor equidad.

“Eso nos pone en la posición de parecer indiferentes, pero nos importa profundamente y esperamos que las cosas se resuelvan,” dijo Loren.

El administrador municipal interino, Joe Gorton, confirmó que las negociaciones salariales para los empleados policiales están actualmente en curso con un tercero. El alcalde Albert Vallecillo dijo que impulsaron la ‘Medida S’ con la esperanza de generar más fondos.

“Lamento mucho que hayamos llegado a este punto porque he visto esto como un problema durante mucho tiempo,” dijo Vallecillo.

Celebra el Día de los Niños/Libros en la Biblioteca del Condado de Yolo

Especial para el Express La Biblioteca del Condado de Yolo invita a los niños y a sus familias a una vibrante celebración del Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros, una iniciativa nacional que promueve la alfabetización, la diversidad y la alegría de leer. Todos los niños recibirán un libro

gratis, y en todas las sedes habrá actuaciones especiales y atractivas manualidades de ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería, arte y matemáticas (STEAM).

El Día defiende la importancia de la alfabetización para los niños de todos los orígenes lingüísticos y culturales y fomenta las conexiones entre los niños y las familias, tejiendo un rico tapiz de libros, idiomas y culturas, dijo Diana López, bibliotecaria y archivera jefe del condado. Nuestro equipo ha planeado diversos y encantadores programas familiares y regalará una gran variedad de libros infantiles. Esperamos que se unan a nosotros en esta fabulosa celebración.” Celebrado en todo

el mundo en la primavera, el Día de los Niños honra a los niños como el corazón de cada comunidad, mientras que el Día de los Libros subraya el poder de los libros para inspirar y capacitar a los jóvenes lectores. La celebración de la Biblioteca del Condado de Yolo conecta a los niños y las familias con diversas historias, culturas e idiomas a través de eventos atractivos en múltiples sucursales de la biblioteca. Las fechas de celebración locales incluyen:

• 16 de abril a las 2 p.m. Biblioteca Regional de Esparto, 17065 Yolo Ave., Esparto con la Filarmónica y Ópera de Sacramento • 19 de abril a las 11 a.m. Biblioteca Co-

munitaria de Winters, 708 Railroad Ave., Winters con el Ballet Folklórico del Ecuador INTI-TULPA Otras fechas de celebración en el Condado de Yolo son:

• 5 de abril a las 11 a.m. Biblioteca South Davis Montgomery, 1441 Danbury St., Davis con Folklorico y Dilly Dally el Payaso.

• 12 de abril a las 13.00 h. Biblioteca Yolo Branch, 37750 Sacramento St., Yolo, con Steve Chaney y Corny Crow • 23 de abril a las 2:15 p.m. Biblioteca Clarksburg, 52915 Netherlands Ave., Clarksburg con Ukelele Storytime • 26 de abril a la 1:30 p.m. Knights Landing Branch Library, 42351 Third St., Knights Landing con un Mago • 26 de abril a la 1

p.m. Biblioteca Comunitaria Arthur F. Turner, 1212 Merkley Ave., West Sacramento con Folklórico Latino de Woodland • 27 de abril a las 2 p.m. Mary L. Stephens - Davis Branch Library, 315 E. 14th St., Davis con Cascada de Flores

No se requieren reservaciones, y todos los programas son gratuitos para asistir. Los programas son patrocinados y apoyados por los grupos de Amigos de la Biblioteca del Condado de Yolo y la Fundación de la Biblioteca del Condado de Yolo. Para obtener más información, visite el sitio web de la Biblioteca www.YoloCountyLibrary.org o conéctese con la Biblioteca en Facebook e Instagram @yolocountylibrary.

Sonora Slater/Winters Express

Las Girl Scouts de Winters (al frente) Isabella Banuelos, Ella Cooper, Sophy Tufveson y Emily Coleman con (al fondo) la Fiscal Municipal Adjunta Joanne Gin, el alcalde Albert Vallecillo, la concejal Carol Scianna, la líder de tropa Crystal Apilado, el concejal Jesse Loren y la líder de tropa Caroline Tufveson celebran la proclamación del Mes de la Historia de la Mujer.

Schools planted seeds to help Benson find a role in the school district.

“Within a couple of days, I got a phone call from the principal who said, ‘We’re going to restart an ROP (Regional Occupation Program),’” Benson said.

The rest is rich soil history, with Benson, like his predecessors, stressing the importance of the word “future” in the FFA.

Current WHS FFA student Alison Aguiar, who serves as the state FFA Central Region President, is the first to tell you it is not about now.

“Our current group of FFA members help set up the expectations of our organization for the future,” Aguiar said, noting the past has everything to do with the present. “Within California FFA and the National organization as a whole, multiple chapters are known for having strong programs due to their historical track record.”

specialized agricultural regions, the industry has continually evolved. The Civil War and World War II further accelerated agricultural advancements, leading to the creation of centralized farming systems and modern techniques. Since its formation in 1973, the Agriculture Coun-

Aguiar said the involvement they encourage and are experiencing now allows the chapter to follow a similar path and facilitates groups in the future that will work to live up to the achievements of previous FFA members.

As aforementioned, Benson set the bar high as a Winters FFA predecessor, as seen in countless accolades and agricultural Europe tours. Current Winters FFA advisors Kayla Mederos and Donnie Whitworth have worked to bring the program to where it is today.

“Similarly to how our actions today are vital for our future, our achievements in the past of our FFA program have allowed and encouraged students to continue to join and work towards new goals,” Aguiar said. “We have had past members go on to find jobs through this program, learn about their passions or simply develop skills crucial to where they ended up today.”

According to the student president, past success fuels present change and stu-

cil of America has worked to promote the importance of agriculture through education and advocacy. National Ag Day, which started as a single-day event, has since expanded into a full week of celebrations aimed at increasing public awareness and appreciation.

How to celebrate National Ag Week pro-

dents see their peers compete in new competitions or going to interesting conferences encourage them to do the same.

With personal growth comes regional expansion.

“Just this year, Winters FFA is experiencing quite a big change with the Yolo Section being moved into a

cities and has very small rural communities,” Parker said. “In those communities, the program does so much beyond.”

However, creating history while focusing on the future is not easy, as Aguiar’s academic career shows.

“Throughout my last four years in this program, I

“I am so incredibly grateful to have been a part of this organization and seen the successes that I have.”

Allison Aguiar, Winters FFA

whole new region (from the Central region to the North Coast region,” Aguiar said.

“It is super important that these students today work to embrace this change so that we can come into this new region on a good note and be as active as possible,” Aguiar added.

The Winters FFA solidifies the statewide advisor’s words.

“California has very large

vides various ways for people to celebrate and support agriculture:

• Attend a local event: Many farming organizations host events recognizing agriculture’s contributions.

• Engage on social media: Share stories and facts about agriculture using the #NationalAgDay hashtag to spread awareness.

• Visit a farm: Learn first-

don’t think I ever truly had the realization of my impact on the future of Winters FFA,” Aguiar said. “Now, as a senior, as I reflect, it is incredibly inspiring to see all that my peers and I have achieved, and how that has encouraged other people to either join FFA or even just learn about it.”

Getting ready to pass the FFA shovel on, Aguiar said she is “able to hear under-

hand from farmers about their work and the challenges they face. Beyond celebrating agriculture’s impact, National Ag Week serves as a reminder of the challenges the industry faces. From a decline in agricultural workforce numbers to the increasing need for sustainable farming practices, awareness and advocacy are crucial for ensuring the

classmen express their desire to do similar things to me within this organization, and it has truly shown me that my actions can have an impact, even if I don’t realize it.”

“I am so incredibly grateful to have been a part of this organization and seen the successes that I have,” Aguiar said. “Even more so than that, I am grateful that this organization is so heavily supported by our community, because that support is what makes it possible for it to thrive, both through funding but also the positive connotation around our program.”

From a bird’s eye view, the statewide FFA advisor notes the sheer importance of homegrown farmers.

“We always say that the programs are built on the backbone of the local members,” Parker said, adding community remains the most important part of FFA.

“That’s why people remember them because they’re out there doing good things and supporting the local communities and that’s what drives FFA.”

future of American agriculture. As the nation continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: agriculture is the foundation that sustains us all. This National Ag Day, let’s recognize the farmers, scientists, and industry professionals working tirelessly to keep our food supply safe, our economy strong, and our communities thriving.

Program comes in. Funded by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, this program helps farmers implement research-backed soil health practices such as compost application, cover cropping, reduced tillage, nutrient management, hedgerow planting and more.

At the California Bountiful Foundation, the nonprofit research affiliate of the California Farm Bureau, we administer the Healthy Soils Block Grant Program in partnership with the California Citrus Quality Council and the Xerces Society. Together, we help citrus growers access funding, implement best practices and receive technical assistance tailored to their operation.

The benefits of healthy soil aren’t just theoretical — they’ve been proven through years of research, on-farm demonstration trials and farmer feedback. Here’s how some of the program’s most impactful practices contribute to better soil health management:

• Compost application: Compost adds organic matter, improves microbial diversity and enhances water retention. Research from the University of California, Berkeley, found that compost-amended soil

stores more carbon and improves water-holding capacity, which is critical for drought resilience and long-term fertility.

• Cover cropping: Cover crops such as legumes and grasses reduce erosion, fix nitrogen and suppress weeds. A UC Davis study found that cover crops can replace synthetic nitrogen fertilizer needs, helping farmers reduce input costs while maintaining soil health.

• Reduced tillage: Excessive tilling disrupts soil structure and accelerates carbon loss. Studies show that reducing tillage en-

buckwheat, toyon and sage, growers can attract natural enemies such as parasitic wasps, lady beetles and lacewings, all of which can reduce the need for chemical pest control.

Even with proven benefits, many farmers hesitate to adopt new soil-health practices due to:

• Economic hurdles: Upfront costs for equipment, labor and materials can be prohibitive, even with cost-share support from the Healthy Soils Program. Continued funding and financial incentives are critical for widespread adoption.

“The benefits of healthy soil aren’t just theoretical — they’ve been proven through years of research, on-farm demonstration trials and farmer feedback.”

hances water infiltration, preserves soil microbes and helps retain carbon in soil while improving farm resilience in droughtprone regions.

• Hedgerow plantings: These native plantings increase pollinator activity, improve biodiversity and help reduce pesticide use.

A UC Cooperative Extension study highlights how hedgerows can support beneficial insects that help control common citrus pests. By planting species such as California lilac,

• Short-term vs. long-term returns: Some practices such as composting and cover cropping take years to show measurable results, making them difficult to justify when farmers need immediate returns to stay profitable.

• Market pressures: Consumers and food companies increasingly demand sustainability, but there’s no consistent financial incentive for farmers implementing these practices, meaning the cost burden often falls on the producer.

• Extreme weather, water scarcity and soil erosion: In some California regions, topsoil loss due to heavy rainfall, wind erosion or drought can undermine efforts to rebuild soil structure. Without incentives for cover cropping and reduced tillage, soil degradation will continue to impact productivity.

The Healthy Soils Program helps bridge the transition by offsetting costs and providing technical support. The California Bountiful Foundation and its partners have awarded 39 projects to citrus growers in Fresno, Imperial, Kern, Placer, Riverside, Tulare, San Diego and Ventura counties.

Each participating citrus farm receives up to $200,000 to improve soil health, water retention and carbon sequestration. Among the widely adopted practices are compost application, cover cropping and woodchip mulching. The California Bountiful Foundation also provides technical assistance, regional hedgerow guidance and material sourcing support. At the foundation, we’re committed to helping farmers integrate soil-health strategies while keeping their operations profitable and productive.

The Healthy Soils Program helps improve soil fertility, water retention and long-term productivity.

While challenges such as upfront costs and technical adjustments remain, the 39 awarded projects in citrus groves lay the groundwork for stronger, healthier soils. As these practices take hold, they will drive lasting benefits for citrus growers, agriculture and the future of California food production. At the California Bountiful Foundation, we are committed to supporting this progress and ensuring that healthy soil continues to strengthen California farms for years to come.

For 2025, CDFA received 15 Healthy Soils Block Grant Program proposals, which are under review with a public comment period set for March-April. For details on funding opportunities, visit www.cdfa. ca.gov/oefi/healthysoils/. To learn more about soilhealth practices that can benefit your farm, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/resources/guides-and-instructions/conservation-practice-standards.

—Margaret Honig is the Healthy Soils Program Project administrative lead for the California Bountiful Foundation, an affiliate 501c3 of the California Farm Bureau. She may be contacted at mhonig@cfbf.com.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in the March 5, 2025, issue of Ag Alert and reprinted with permission of the California Farm Bureau.

Thursday, March 20

Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK or www.wintersjusd.org

Thursdays

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

Friday, March 21

Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House

Sunday, March 23

Free Community Vinyasa Yoga, 8–9 a.m., Winters Community Library (708 Railroad Ave.), Every Second and Fourth Sunday

Tuesday, March 25

Winters Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m.,City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/planning-commission/

Wednesdays

Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution, Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue

Upcoming Events

March 28–March 29

Downtown Winters 4th Annual Spring Open, March 28: 5-9 p.m./March 29: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/events

Tuesday, April 1

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

Library Services

Winters Library Public Hours (School in Session),

Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8–8 p.m., Fri: 8–5 p.m., Sat: 1-5 p.m. (Mask Only 1–3 p.m.)

Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library

Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library

Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@ yolocounty.org Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.

Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing

Older Adult Programs

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

Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org

Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)

Ongoing

View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents

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

Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September through May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)

Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org Winters Open Mic, third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.).

Metaphysical Book Club, Fridays at 5 p.m., 212 Grant Ave., Sign up at dixiesbookclub@gmail.com or call 530212-5026

12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair.

Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com

Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org Dance Fitness, - first/third Sundays February thru July, 8 to 9 a.m., Winters Community Library. No registration required.

Walking Meditation, third Sunday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Meet behind the Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave. Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: » St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m. » Yolo Housing office building, 62 Shams Way: Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m.

Housing market up in February HOMES, Page 2 Charley talks about inflation OPINION, Page 3

Winters Friends of FFA empowers future farmers, strong agricultural community

By Luzangely Martin Special to the Express

Last month, the Friends of Winters FFA and its President Elliot Herrera sold out tickets to the annual Wild West Dinner Dance event despite it being postponed for over a month.

“With the economy being down, not a lot of people were able to come out. But with slight changes, we were able to sell out our event with 200 people,” said Herrera. Herrera has been supportive of the FFA program since he graduated from Winters High School in the Class of in 2011. He was the chapter president his senior year and also participated in leadership events, conferences.

In high school, he competed on multiple teams such as Grapevine Pruning, Shed Building Design Build and raised livestock for the Yolo County Fair. He’s big on advocating that the agricultural program not only teaches students technical skills but also life skills for the future.

“It’s more than just animals, we have the CNC software and the Floral Program is huge, compared back to when I was in high school,” Herrera said.

This view has inspired Herrera to be the Friends of Winters FFA president for eight years.

Friends of Winters FFA is a state recognized nonprofit organization that raises money for the sole purpose of giving back to the community and supporting the Winters FFA program and its students. Friends of FFA is in charge of covering any financial needs for students.

“We pay for all the registration fees for every student that goes to an event, like nationals or states, and cover for their hotel rooms,” Herrera said.

In addition, Friends of FFA

also provides resources for students who would like to purchase an FFA jacket and provide new equipment related to the WHS agricultural program.

“Last year we purchased a 20-foot enclosed trailer so that equipment could be hauled to competitions a lot easier than using the big livestock trailer,” Herrera said.

While the primary goal of the program is to provide valuable support to FFA students, it also seeks to ease the financial burden on parents who are responsible for the costs associated with their children’s activities.

“(Winters FFA) makes it easier for the parents to not have to pay for that, and we’ve never said no to any of the requests we’ve received from students,” Herrera said.

The Wild West Dinner Dance event is the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser for the WHS FFA program. Fundraising activities include raffles, live auctions, and games. Friends of FFA solicit donations from local businesses for raffle prizes and rely on volunteers for presentations. These volunteers range from past FFA alumni to community members, especially for the dinner event.

Though high school students are not typically involved due to the environment of the event, which includes alcohol, everyone else is welcome to participate. Herrera adds that volunteers don’t need to have any prior knowledge of FFA or agriculture.

“Anybody can volunteer. We’ve had community members see us during our meetings and ask ‘Oh what’s going on here?’ and we’ll be like ‘Oh a meeting for FFA Boosters’ and then we’ll get them to volunteer for our fundraisers,” said Herrera.

Furthermore, the social gathering features auctions which serve to support local bakers and businesses who contribute

desserts and prizes for ticket drawings. Those tickets will then be placed on a board as a display.

“All items were donated by local bakers. We had some stuff from Putah Creek and a high school senior who donated a cake,” said Herrera.

Herrera emphasized that everything that goes into the organization goes back to the students.

“It tightens the sense of community because it’s going to someone local, someone they know. It could be a friend, or a friend’s kid. Like for me, I didn’t realize how many of my cousins are actually in high school now. So without realizing it, I’m helping them out as well,” Herrea said.

Supporting organizations like Friends of Winters FFA is crucial in helping the next generation of agricultural leaders thrive. If you’d like to learn more ways to support Friends of Winters FFA, visit www.friendsofwintersffa. com or email them at friendsofwintersffa@gmail.com for more information about the next Wild West Dinner Dance event.

To stay engaged, visit the Friends of Winters FFA Facebook page for future fundraisers and updates on the WHS FFA Program. By participating in its annual fundraiser or simply making a donation, you can help strengthen the agricultural community in Winters. — Luzangely Martin is a senior at Winters High School. For her Senior Capstone Project, Martin is working to interview with and write a series of articles featuring local nonprofit organizations and share about their current volunteer needs. She is also working to bolster community service at WHS by creating a high school volunteer resource guide as part of her project.

Courtesy photo

Marion Kammerer, Frances Ramos, Joyce Neely and Peggy Kelley — dubbed the Golden Girls by their tour group — pose in front of Titanic Belfast in the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland). They traveled to the U.K. stopping in London for a few days where Frances met newly found cousins, and then by train to Scotland and finally to Ireland.

Courtesy photo

Winters Friends of FFA raise funds to support Winters FFA students to ensure they can participate, travel and find success in their agricultural journey at Winters High School.

The art of home lighting: Enhancing comfort, style

Many

more expansive.

Homeowners should not underestimate the power of lighting in their homes. Beyond aesthetics, lighting can significantly impact personal well-being, as a well-lit environment has been shown to enhance

mood and productivity. Understanding the different types of lighting and their best applications can help create a balanced and inviting home interior.

Ambient lighting

Ambient lighting provides overall illumination for a room, ensuring that it is evenly lit. According

to Lowe’s Home Improvement, ambient lighting is essential in every home. This type of lighting is typically achieved through overhead fixtures such as ceiling-mounted lights, chandeliers, and floor lamps. Properly positioned ambient lighting fixtures should be centrally located and closer to the ceiling to ensure even light distribution, allowing for safe navigation and a welllit environment.

Task lighting

Task lighting is designed to provide concentrated light for specific activities. The home improvement firm Hiller describes task lighting as a targeted source of illumination, ideal for activities like reading, crafting, cooking, or working at a desk. Examples include under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, desk lamps, and pendant lights positioned over a workspace. By using task lighting in key areas, homeowners can reduce eye strain and enhance productivity in their daily activities.

Accent lighting

Accent lighting serves to highlight specific features within a space. According to Lowe’s, this type of lighting is often

used to showcase artwork, collectibles, plants, or architectural elements like fireplaces. Spotlights, wall-mounted fixtures, and recessed lighting are common choices for accent lighting. While not meant to fully illuminate a room, accent lighting adds depth and character to a space, making it more visually dynamic.

Decorative lighting

Decorative lighting serves an aesthetic purpose, adding personality and style to a home. BLOCC House of Interiors describes decorative lighting as fixtures that enhance a room’s visual appeal, including chandeliers, sconces, pendant lights, and unique installations such as fairy lights or

neon signs. Whether used in a child’s bedroom for whimsy or in a home bar for a trendy look, decorative lighting can contribute to a space’s overall ambiance and theme. A well-balanced approach

While each type of lighting serves a distinct function, the most effective home lighting design incorporates a combination of these elements. Layering ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting ensures that a home is both functional and stylish. By thoughtfully integrating these lighting types, homeowners can create an inviting and versatile space that meets their daily needs and reflects their personal style.

Courtesy photo

Homeowners should put thought into the types of lighting they can utilize in their homes

Give your home a new look with these shutter styles

Metro Special to the Express

Homeowners have many options at their disposal if they want to improve their homes.

A focus on the exterior can be a promising and rewarding way to direct renovation dollars.

Curb appeal has a significant impact on how a home is viewed.

Manicured landscapes, updated windows and doors and well-lit landscapes can improve the value of a home and ensure it sells quickly and above market rate.

When homeowners assess items they may want to change, shutters can be an area of consideration. Shutters can help windows look a little less plain. In most modern residential properties, shutters are purely decorative. However, their roots lie in home protection. Originally, shutters were used in lieu of windows so they were the only way to safeguard a home’s interior from the elements. Some shutters still offer that protection, but those typically are installed on homes in hurricane-prone areas.

Window shutters lend a finished and

distinctive look to a home and are available in various styles.

• Louvered: A louvered shutter features several wood slats that overlap each other on the same frame. A typical louvered shutter features two sets of slats separated by a center rail. Some functional louvered shutters are operational, meaning the slats can be tilted to allow air to flow through. But this is something typically reserved for indoor shutters. Decorative ones have fixed slats.

• Panel: Panel shutters come in different styles. Raised panel shutters present a boxed design where

rectangular features will stand out from the rest of the frame. Flat panel shutters (sometimes referred to as shaker) have the boxed design, but those rectangles are not raised. Recessed panels are the opposite of raised panels. As their name suggests, recessed panels are set back from the rest of the frame.

• Board and batten: Board and batten shutters are formed from grouped single boards joined together with shorter crosspieces of wood called battens. Battens are positioned horizontally or at an angle. These shutters have a

more informal, rural feel.

• Bahama/Bermuda: These tropical-inspired shutters are of the louvered variety, but they’re installed from the top of the window rather than on the sides.

• Scandinavian: Scandinavian series shutters are very decorative board and batten shutters. They feature a series of cutouts and designs.

• Combination: Some shutters offer the best of both worlds, with louvered on top and a solid panel on the bottom, or vice versa. This gives homeowners infinite options. Shutters are available in various materials. The most common include wood, vinyl and composite. Cedar, mahogany and pine are commonly used woods for exterior shutters. Vinyl is more economical and lightweight, but they can be challenging to clean and do not offer the longevity of other materials. Composite shutters are durable and cost less than wood in most cases. Color is another consideration when replacing shutters. Shutters can stand out or blend in with the siding and other architectural accents.

Create a spring lawn revitalization strategy

prevent additional weeds from taking over.

While most greenery rebounds naturally, lawns may need a little extra TLC in order to return to their once lush, green glory.

Revitalizing a lawn in spring is a multifaceted process but can be well worth the reward when green grass adds to a beautiful landscape and functional yard. Here is how to get started when the weather warms, courtesy of The Farmer’s Almanac and The Home Depot.

• Clean up debris. Spend a few hours raking up leaves from the lawn and removing any other winter debris like twigs so that air can reach the grass below. Also remove any thatch that has developed.

• Test the soil. Take a sample of the soil to determine its pH level and nutrient needs. Then you can make adjustments to set a strong foundation for the lawn to grow.

• Do some weeding. Pull out any weeds that have poked through early on and apply a pre-emergent herbicide to

• Start the aeration process. A core aerator punches holes into the soil. This enables air and water to penetrate through to the roots.

• Overseed the lawn. Apply grass seeds over the lawn, paying special attention to any bare or thin areas so that the seed will fill in the lawn.

• Water consistently. It is important to water the lawn deeply and consistently, especially when the weather is dry, to help promote strong root development.

• Time fertilizer correctly. Apply a spring fertilizer around three weeks after the lawn starts to turn green or after the first two or three mowings. If fertilizer is applied too early it can feed weeds instead of the grass and result in fertilizer runoff.

• Mow to an appropriate height. Begin to mow when the ground is dry enough and the grass is long enough to need cutting. Leave some length to the lawn; otherwise, sunlight will reach the soil and encourage weed seeds to germinate.

Courtesy photo

Homeowners should consider updating their shutters to give their home curb appeal and a new look.

Express Yourself

How much will the changing economy affect us?

Just when I thought prices were stabilizing, the cost of a cup of coffee went up. I don’t pay attention to prices at the grocery store like I should, but I do know that food costs a lot more than it did a few years ago. I do pay attention to the price of paper whenever I head to the paper warehouse.

Envelopes are a staple that I print all the time. It is like the price of gasoline when you were younger. I joke about 27 cents per gallon at Louie’s Arco on Railroad Avenue when I put a dollar’s worth in my Austin Healey. It only held seven gallons, so the cost of filling up the tank was cheap. This was the car that you couldn’t drive farther than you could walk home because it was always breaking down.

During the pandemic, envelopes cost more than $50 per thousand, if you could find them. Walking into the paper store was like looking for toilet paper. I started buying whatever I

“ I wasn’t the only one increasing my inventory, which compounded the problem.”

thought I might need in the future, because most of the shelves were empty. I wasn’t the only one increasing my inventory, which compounded the problem.

Iremember buying whatever brand of envelopes I could find, and the quality wasn’t always the best. It took more than a year before the shelves were half-full and my regular brand of envelopes were back in stock. Five years go by and envelopes are back to $38.25 per thousand, which is almost affordable. I used to charge $50 per thousand for printed envelopes, which means for a while, I was working for free.

See QUICK, Page 7

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20).

Aries, forcing an agenda right now might backfire. It is best to be patient and let things unfold organically. A few new people may come to your aid this week and support you.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21).

You might need to reconsider what you have been fighting for, Taurus. A current battle could be particularly hard to win, so you will have to rethink your strategy.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21).

Someone in a position of power might try to convince you that their way is the best approach this week, Gemini. You are determined to stick with what you think is right, but keep an open mind as well.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22).

Cancer, avoid impulsive decisions right now, particularly those that are financial gambles. Poor or selfish actions can deliver consequences that are hard to reverse.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23).

Leo, what you desire could be in direct conflict with what a loved one in your home wants. Instead of trying to force your ideas on them, figure out a way to compromise.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22).

Virgo, the universe is calling the shots right now and time is moving at whatever speed is right. It might seem like very slow progress, so you’ll need to remain patient.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23).

Libra, this week you might be tempted to put wants before needs. Self-control is needed or you could start spending more than is financially wise right now.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22).

Scorpio, frustrating exchanges between you and loved ones might leave you retreating to quieter spaces. Any communication is better than no communication, so keep that in mind.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21).

Sagittarius, you can resist a certain situation, but you might need to remain flexible as you do so. Don’t fight battles unnecessarily right now. Look for the silver lining if need be.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20).

Capricorn, shortcuts can compromise your personal growth. The pathway to greater success is to work hard and put in the hours necessary to reap the most lasting rewards.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18).

Aquarius, you have more power than ever before, but remember it comes with extra responsibility. Always use your authority wisely and think through decisions thoroughly.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20).

Pisces, if you hope to make progress, you may have to change tactics. What you have been doing simply isn’t working. Start looking at other strategies.

State housing market rebounds with high home sales

California Association of Realtors Special to the Express

California’s housing market rebounded in February as statewide home sales reached the highest level in more than two years amid declining mortgage rates at the start of the year, the California Association of Realtors said Tuesday. Closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 283,540 in February, according to information collected by CAR from more than 90 local Real-

tor associations and MLSs statewide. The statewide annualized sales figure represents what would be the total number of homes sold during 2025 if sales maintained the February pace throughout the year. It is adjusted to account for seasonal factors that typically influence home sales.

February’s sales pace surged 11.6 percent from the 254,110 homes sold in January and was up 2.6 percent from a year ago when a revised 276,280 homes were sold on an annualized basis. The February sales level was the highest since October 2022.

Although home sales have rebounded strongly, they have remained below the 300,000 mark since September 2022. With uncertainty remaining the theme for at least the first half of this year, housing

sentiment could be negatively impacted, and home sales, as a result, could remain soft in the upcoming months.

Statewide pending sales in February dipped from last year’s level for the third consecutive month, but the drop was much smaller than the decline observed in January. The sales dip of homes in escrow could be due in part to a jump in mortgage rates at the beginning of February, but the public’s growing concern about a recession may also have played a role in the slowdown in housing demand in recent weeks.

The ongoing policy and economic uncertainties have been weighing on consumer confidence and have created instability in the financial market in the past few weeks. With mortgage rates expected to remain

volatile in the near term, pending sales could continue to fluctuate as the market enters the spring homebuying season.

“California home

sales rebounded strongly in February after a sluggish start to the year, supported by increased buyer activity and more available homes on the market,” said CAR President Heather Ozur, a Palm Springs realtor. “Lower borrowing costs made homeownership more accessible to buyers who were previously sidelined by affordability challenges, while the rise in available inventory will help ease some of the competitive pressures that have defined the market in recent years and set a positive tone for the market for the rest of the year.”

Express Yourself

A new chapter for Winters Youth Day

By Ashley Del Rio Winters Youth Day committee

Big changes are coming to the annual Winters Youth Day event.

For the first time, the Youth Day Festival, offering free kid activities and food/vendor fair, will be moving to downtown Winters, a shift that we, as organizers and committee members, hope will bring new energy to the event while continuing to honor its longstanding tradition.

Winters Youth Day has been a community staple since 1933, celebrating the town’s youths and their contributions. Over the years, it has evolved into a cherished small-town celebration, featuring a parade, family-friendly activities, and strong community connections.

Why the change?

The decision to shift the post-parade festival to downtown Winters comes with a big goal in mind: to revitalize this beloved tradition and deepen community involvement. By moving the event to Rotary Park, in Downtown Winters, we aim to bring new energy to Youth Day — not just as a fun family event but as an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of Winters, which starts with our kids. This move also creates a valuable partnership between Youth Day and local businesses, helping to boost the local economy by drawing visitors and creating a more immersive experience for attendees.

We see this as a way to keep the parade and festival fresh, encourage more participation, and bring people together in the heart of Winters. Past Downtown eventssuch as the annual Tractor Parade, Carnitas Festival, Fall Harvest Festival, and many others — have shown how impactful these gatherings can be, increasing foot traffic and creating opportunities for

local businesses to thrive.

Already, several local businesses have signed up for information booths and food trucks, like Burger Bros, a newer, local food truck in town offering scrumptious burgers, fries and shakes, as well as Winters Friends of the Library, who will be sharing information about their various programs and upcoming local library events (and participating in the Parade, as they have done every year since 2006).

In exciting news, the legendary dunk tank is making its grand return — offering opportunities to dunk the police chief, fire chief and even Winters JUSD superintendent into the water! By working with downtown businesses, we can create an even better event, expand traditions and create a celebration that benefits everyone, from the local youth, new families and longtime Winters residents whose roots go back generations.

Pulling off an event like this takes a huge amount of volunteers and community support. The Youth Day Committee members have been encouraging local businesses, school groups and families to get involved — whether it’s by entering a float, volunteering, or just coming out to enjoy the day. We have worked

hard to strengthen relationships between city and school officials to spark excitement in our youths, offering hands-on learning experiences such as participating in Winters Youth City Council and Youth Board of Trustees meetings and civic engagement days. Through these opportunities, students get a chance to gain a deeper understanding of local governance and develop skills that build toward their future capabilities, an investment that can generate excitement and foster interest in becoming future civic leaders.

Another addition is to hand over some of the promotional roles to students.

Student apathy had hit an all-time high in recent years regarding running for the Youth Council or being in the royal court.

The 2023 Council and Royal Court experienced last-minute cancellations and absences.

The Youth Day Royal Court had been a long-standing tradition since the second Youth Day celebration in 1934, and was revamped in 2005 when Winters High School students elected the first Sweethunk, in addition to the Sweetheart.

For the 2024 event, a discussion was had about whether to discontinue the Royalty tradition since it was simply a title and

The February statewide median price increased on a year-over-year basis for the 20th straight month, but the gain recorded was the smallest since July 2023. On a monthto-month basis, the February median price dipped from the prior month, and the monthly drop was larger than the 10-year historical average dip of negative-0.7 percent recorded between the two months. The downward trend in the statewide median price will likely reverse in the coming months, however, as home prices typically begin rising in March and continue climbing until the end of the homebuying season in August.

(UII), which measures the number of months needed to sell the supply of homes on the market at the current sales rate, dipped month over month but grew solidly from its yearago level as more new listings hit the market. The index was 4.0 months in February, down from 4.1 months in January and up from 2.9 months in February 2024.

• Total active listings in February, in fact, grew at the fastest pace in two years. The level of active listings last month was at a 4-monthhigh and marked the 13th consecutive month of annual gains in housing supply. The strong yearover-year growth continues to be an encouraging sign for the market, especially for buyers.

had no civic engagement involved. However, concerns were expressed that if the Royalty option was removed it would exclude students who would otherwise not participate in the Youth Day opportunity.

The Royalty roles turned into a Youth Day marketing opportunity but didn’t come to full fruition in time for the 2024 event. This year, middle school students will have the opportunity to work with the Winters Express to brainstorm how they can help to create marketing-related efforts and the role of the Royal Court is still in the works.

As the event inches closer to its 100th anniversary, the goal is to honor the tradition that so many of us grew up with — including myself, who began participating in this parade at just 4 years old, and now as a 30-year-old mom watching my own 4and 2-year-olds participate in the kiddie parade with many years ahead of them. While honoring tradition, we can also evolve the event, creating an even more meaningful experience for our future generations to enjoy and carry forward.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26, and be sure to check out www.wintersyouthday.com for updates, volunteer opportunities, parade sign-ups and more details.

“The moderation in mortgage rates that began at the start of the year, coupled with a noticeable increase in homes for sale last month, provided a much-needed boost to California’s housing market in February,” said CAR Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine. “Although sales are still below historical averages, this increase marks an encouraging shift in the market. Despite ongoing economic and policy uncertainties, mortgage rates are expected to stabilize later this year. As a result, the housing market is likely to see continued improvement through the second and third quarters of 2025.”

Other key points from C.A.R.’s February 2025 resale housing report include:

• The statewide Unsold Inventory Index

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• New active listings at the state level rose year-over-year by double-digits for the second consecutive month, as more sellers decided to list their homes for sale. While the number of newly added properties remained below the pre-pandemic level, the latest figure recorded last month was nearly on par with the level of newly added listings recorded in 2022. New active listings, however, also recorded their first January-to-February decline in the last five years. The unusual dip could either be just a temporary hiccup due to the recent financial market volatility, or it could be a signal of the concern of the economy’s well-being, which could in turn have a lingering effect on supply in the upcoming spring homebuying season.

I hope it doesn’t get so bad that I have to drink Clan MacGregor.

Enjoy the rain and have a good week.

thought I was making good money. When people talk about being retired, inflation often comes up. I’ve said it before and I’ll repeat it again, this is a good time to be retired. Being in business is hard enough without having your costs rise faster than you can raise your prices. If your customers won’t pay extra, you end up going out of business or selling to someone who thinks they are smarter than you are. Can you imagine being a farmer today? You think the government is there to help you but then you watch the evening news about tariffs and trade wars. I worry about the price of Scotch whisky, but I can always take a lesson from my father who drank the cheapest Scotch he could find.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

In March, the Winters Youth Day committee hosted the inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unified School District and Youth Board of Trustees meeting. The Youth City Council meeting is scheduled to take place in April.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

While the Youth Day festival is changing its location to Rotary Park and behind the Winters Community Center, the annual Kiddie and Main parades will not change and follow the same route as last year’s Youth Day parades down Main Street ending along First Street.

California’s cities and schools face big budget gaps, few options

Editor’s Note: This commentary was originally published by CalMatters.

By Dan Walters CalMatters

California’s state budget is mired in what fiscal authorities call a “structural deficit,” meaning its revenues cannot keep up with spending mandated by current law.

For several years, Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature have papered over the chronic gap between income and outgo with gimmicks, including on- and off-budget borrowing and creative accounting, plus dips into “rainy day” funds set aside for emergencies.

Those maneuvers merely postpone the day of reckoning because the administration and the Legislature’s budget analyst, Gabe Petek, project yearly multibillion-dollar shortfalls indefinitely.

The state’s dilemma has several roots, most notably an erroneously high multi-year revenue forecast in 2022 that led to a belief that there would be an immense budget surplus and to sharply increased

Editor’s Note: This commentary was originally published by CalMatters.

Diverse Perspectives

spending. The administration later pegged the revenue error at $165 billion over four years.

That factor was exacerbated by what Petrek dubbed “a sluggish economy.”

“Outside of government and health care, the state has added no jobs in a year and a half,” Petek noted in a November fiscal overview. “Similarly, the number of Californians who are unemployed is 25 percent higher than during the strong labor markets of 2019 and 2022.”

State government is not alone in facing chronic budget deficits. The state’s major cities and many school districts are also feeling the pinch of stagnant revenues and inflation, especially with rising worker salaries. Add the horrendous Los Angeles wildfires and President Donald Trump’s potentially huge federal spending reductions and the budget gaps could become even wider.

A few days ago, Matt Sza-

“Outside of government and health care, the state has added no jobs in a year and a half.”

Gabe Petek, budget analyst

bo, the city of Los Angeles’ chief administrative officer, and city Controller Kenneth Mejia bluntly warned the city council that LA is several hundred million dollars short of covering its budgeted expenditures — not even counting the likely effects of wildfires on revenues and spending.

“The city is facing significant headwinds,” Szabo said, adding “immediate spending reductions required.”

“The city of L.A., financially, we are in trouble,” Mejia told the council in a letter. He added, “The city is estimated to overspend by $300 million over budget. So when you have less revenues compared to your budget, and you have more expenses over your budget — that’s a big gap that we have to fill.”

San Francisco’s new mayor, Daniel Lurie, says he wants to “eliminate $1 billion in overspending” over the next three years to cover an $876 million deficit over two years. “The era of onetime or Band-Aid solutions is over,” Lurie told other officials after taking office in January.

Anumber of smaller cities, including Sacramento, are also dealing with significant deficits.

Meanwhile, many school districts are also facing big budget gaps due to declining enrollment and chronic absenteeism that reduce state aid based on attendance, in addition to the expiration of federal grants meant to cope with COVID-19 and employee union demands for raises to offset inflation-hammered personal budgets.

The Fiscal Crisis and

Management Assistance Team, a state agency that monitors school district finances, recently issued a report on school systems in various degrees of fiscal difficulty, with those in Oakland and San Francisco on the list of the most troubled.

The agency cited not only enrollment declines but the jolts of losing federal pandemic aid and rising costs, particularly for fire insurance and electric power, as factors. In theory, local officials could seek tax increases as they ponder ways to balance their budgets. However, voters facing rising living costs of their own are not likely to approve of that solution. Therefore the options are either make real spending reductions, which might mean laying off workers and closing schools, or emulate the state’s gimmickry and hope the problems solve themselves.

— CalMatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how California’s state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan Walters, go to Commentary.

Elders, caregivers deserve better than funding hurdles and shuttered programs Diverse Perspectives

By Courtney E. Martin Special for CalMatters

When my dad was young, he took off his own braces with pliers in the garage after his parents ran out of money to take him to the orthodontist. He answered the door for debt collectors, faking as if his parents weren’t home to avoid confrontations.

He knew economic precarity in his tiny bones.

It’s no wonder, really, he became a bankruptcy lawyer when he grew up. More on the nose than any novelist could write it, my dad’s “hero’s journey” was largely determined by his craving to create the safety he never had as a child.

My dad doesn’t remember any of this, mind you.

He is about a decade into his dementia journey, and almost all of his memories — short- and long-term — have burned to ash in the relentless fire of the disease. These days it is me,

Editor’s

his adult daughter, and my brother and mom who are the keepers of the plot twists, characters and narrative tensions that animate his life story.

Because my dad was on a quest to never be poor again, we are in a minority of family caregivers who have access to the money we need to care for him.

For a while, that meant taking him to a day program for adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s. It was an oasis in an otherwise overwhelming life of family caregiving. My mom, brother or I would drop him off and enjoy a solid day of uninterrupted work, household administration or even just a much-needed nap.

But last December the center closed down because of the inexplicably high fees that the state charges such programs annually and the unconscionably low Medicaid reim-

“There are so few affordable day program options for families across California .”

bursement rates it pays. The state gave the organization $76.27 a day for care that costs $250 to provide — a reimbursement rate that hasn’t changed since 2009. The closure sent us and about 40 other families into a tailspin. There are so few affordable day program options for families across California. In fact, in 32 counties, Medi-Cal recipients have no access to programs like these, according to the California Association of Adult Day Services.

Instead, we have been relying on an in-home health aid about 20 hours a week and are touring memory care facilities, some of which cost as much as $15,000 a month out of pocket. The wait lists are long. Figuring it all out is exhausting, on top of the

daily work of caring for my dad — cooking him every meal, bathing him, making sure he takes his ever-changing combination of medications at the right times, weathering his agitation.

And we have the absolute best possible scenario: three committed family caregivers and one professional, as well as research acuity and the financial resources to make sure we can honor my dad in these last months of his life.

The proposals that have surfaced during the first few weeks of the Trump administration threaten to make this already bad situation even worse for families whose financial picture doesn’t look like ours — the majority of American families caring for an elder with dementia who are totally dependent on Medicaid.

One likely proposal will be Medicaid work requirements, which may sound

innocent enough, but as Justice in Aging explains: “Though most people targeted by work requirements should remain eligible, the red tape alone will take away coverage from people who are already working, older adults who are retired or have difficulty finding work, people with disabilities, and family caregivers. Moreover, resources spent on implementing these bureaucratic hurdles will delay access to critical health, financial, and food support for everyone.”

Our elders and their caregivers deserve a better story. My dad’s ability to build wealth was born out of his childhood trauma and accelerated by his white male privilege. None of that should be a prerequisite for a dignified ending in this extremely rich country.

—Courtney E. Martin is an author and podcaster and writes a Substack newsletter called Examined Family. She is a caregiver in El Cerrito.

Technology can lower barriers to employment for Californians with disabilities Diverse Perspectives

By Matt Cherry Special for CalMatters

When Craig Warren graduated college, he wanted to be a music therapist to help people with the healing power of music. He got a job in a large mental health institution, where he led music, recreation and art sessions and took notes after each interaction. Born visually impaired, Warren uses a computer and a phone with a screen reader and braille display. One day the hospital switched its electronic medical record system to a program that was incompatible with his screen reader. Just like that, he was out of a job.

Cases like Warren’s are not isolated. People with disabilities just entering the workforce face barriers that can seem insurmountable. Though 2023 saw a record high share of people with disabilities in employment, their work participation rate was 24 percent, or less than a

third of the 78 percent rate for people without disabilities.

New technology — and its rapid adoption for remote work during COVID-19 — continues to break down many barriers for people with disabilities. There are more ways than ever for workplaces to ensure accessibility, often at little to no cost. For example, voice recognition expands communication options for those who face challenges with traditional keyboards. And auto-captioning ensures that people who are deaf or experiencing hearing loss can fully engage with multimedia content. However, better planning and training are needed to ensure employers tap into this newly empowered pool of workers.

Ability Central, a foundation I work for, has granted $15 million to California nonprofits that focus on communication disabilities and make skills and leadership development a major focus.

One of the organization’s investment highlights is a job readiness program by the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley. It provides paid internships and leadership development to prepare disabled students for meaningful employment and leadership roles.

This year a focus will be training people with disabilities to work in the field of emergency preparedness. The recent fires in LA, where some residents with disabilities burned to death, showed the tragic consequences when people with disabilities are not fully included in disaster response planning.

Another promising career development program is Mychal’s Learning Place in Hawthorne. It provides support, on-the-job training and public-facing work experiences for youth with developmental disabilities. Mychal’s not only provides jobs for people who are often unemployed, it encourages the creation of new businesses that tap into their skills.

A third program of promise for young people with disabilities is the CripTech Incubator Lab by Leonardo in Oakland.

It helps disabled artists to develop haptics and AI technology skills so they can join the next generation of tech innovators, bringing their unique perspectives to solve problems and create technologies that can benefit everyone. These programs empower people with disabilities to access the tools and knowledge needed to become successful workers in today’s job market.

velopment programs, we can ensure that disabled workers are part of a more inclusive future.

Craig Warren now works at Ability Central as a Salesforce administrator. Salesforce software’s accessibility features and our inclusive workplace practices mean Warren can perform in a high-tech role on an equal basis to his colleagues.

“Meaningful employment not only boosts financial independence but also deepens social inclusion.”

Meaningful employment not only boosts financial independence but also deepens social inclusion. By investing in assistive technologies, accessible design and workforce de-

In his words, “My hope is that I can make the online world a more accessible, inclusive place. I hope I can spread the message that accessibility is important.” Financial support for this story was provided by the Smidt Foundation and The James Irvine Foundation. —Matt Cherry is the director of philanthropy for Ability Central, a nonprofit that works to expand communication access for individuals who are deaf, disabled or neurodivergent. He is also a parent of two teenagers with disabilities.

Note: This commentary was originally published by CalMatters.

Arts & Entertainment

Songs In Solidarity features local faves

Winters Open Mic and The Winters Theatre Company are producing Songs In Solidarity, a benefit concert on April 4 at the Winters Opera House, to support those impacted by the LA Wildfires. The concert includes three local bands and plenty of local beer and wine.

The band lineup includes The Big Poppies, The Putah Creek Crawdads and Island Crew.

The Big Poppies are a local rock ’n’ roll powerhouse who have evolved from a grunge funk trio into a 4-piece band with original music in styles ranging from danceable bops, rock ballads and psychedelic jams.

Putah Creek Crawdads are a Yolo County staple who have enthusiastically delivered folk, bluegrass and acoustic country since 1965. It features David Coppock, banjo and vocals; KateLaddish, fiddle, guitar and vocals; John Rominger, guitar and vocals; Jim Hilliard, upright bass and vocals; and Wayne Ginsburg, mandolin and vocals.

Island Crew is the

area’s favorite psychedelic-Aloha jam band trio. The Crew plays songs about boats, beaches and bars. The band consists of from left, Ian Padilla vocals, conga, pan drum, djembe, bongos and kalimba; Ernie Silva singer-songwriter, 6 and 12-string guitars; and Al Pemberton vo-

cals, lap steel, guitar and ukulele.

Over 12,000 homes, schools and businesses were impacted by the January wildfires. Proceeds from Songs In Solidarity go to California Community Foundation a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that is on the ground delivering critical fi-

nancial aid, legal support, mental health services, housing assistance, and small business stabilization for families and workers.

Tickets are $30 and other contributions can be made at www. zeffy.com/ticketing/ songs-in-solidarity.

Artery features ceramic-sculptures exhibit

Express staff

The Artery presents “A Wing and A Prayer” featuring Janine Echabarne’s ceramic sculptures from now through March 24. Echabarn titled her show “A Wing and A Prayer” because it expresses her feeling that we are flying on one wing in a dangerous time. The bas-relief pieces are like prayers or wishes for all people, everywhere, to enjoy basic human rights. These rights are to love who we want to love; the right to be safe and nurtured; the right to be joyful in expres-

Odd Fellows

Classic Film Fest highlights

Doris Day

Special to the Express Classic Hollywood cinema returns to the Odd Fellows Hall for a three-week run starting Sunday, March 30. This is a continuation of the “Davis Odd Fellows Classic Film Festival.” Everyone is welcome to enjoy these films. The Davis Odd Fellows Hall is located at 415 2nd St. in downtown Davis. The Classic Film Festival Committee is delighted to announce the Spring Classic Film Festival line-up, coming up on three successive Sundays on March 30, April 6 and April 13. The films are recommended by film critic/reviewer Derrick Bang and selected by the committee. The genre for the upcoming Festival is Doris Day Classic Movies. Bang will speak before each movie, enlightening those attending on the plot, director, actors, and fun things to look for See CLASSIC, Page 10

Winters Live concerts launche at Opera House

Special to the Express Preserve is excited to announce the highly anticipated 2025 Winters Live! concert series, bringing an electrifying live music season to the historic Winters Opera House.

From March 29 through Oct. 4, this premier concert series will feature fourteen spectacular performances, transforming the 1876 landmark into Winters Live — a vibrant tribute concert venue offering reserved table seating, general admission seats, and dedicated standing and dancing areas.

Fans of classic rock and legendary bands can look forward to a high-energy experience as top-tier tribute acts take the stage to honor some of the most excellent musicians of all time.

The 2025 Winters Live lineup highlights include:

• March 29 – The Big Jangle: A heartfelt tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers.

• April 12 – Fog City Swampers: Bringing the iconic sounds of

DMTC

sions of our own making.

“A Wing and A Prayer” has been an accomplished jeweler for many years. Ceramics now give her another way to express her creativity. The sculptures begin as slabs of clay that are joined and pushed from the inside to make the form, which is then altered by adding or taking away clay to complete the idea.

The Artery is open seven days a week, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

Special to the Express

The Davis Musical Theatre Company Young Performers’ Theatre will open the gates and welcome young and old, and everyone in between, to Arendelle, in DMTC’s production of beloved modern classic, “Frozen Jr.,” which is set to run from Saturday, March 15, through Sunday, April 6, at the Jean Henderson Performing Arts

Creedence Clearwater Revival to life.

• April 25 – Damage Inc: Capturing the pulse-pounding intensity of Metallica.

• The Allmond Brothers: Celebrating the legendary jams of The Allman Brothers Band.

• The Sun Kings: A premier tribute to The Beatles.

• Journey Revisited: Delivering Journey’s timeless classics and soaring rock ballads.

• In The Spirit of Lennon: An intimate acoustic celebration of the life and music of John Lennon.

“We are thrilled to present this incredible lineup of musicians in Winters,” says Paul Stich, the Winters Live music series promoter.

“This concert series offers live music lovers the chance to relive the energy and nostalgia of their favorite bands in an intimate, historic setting.”

Tickets and additional details will be announced soon.

Follow Preserve Public House for updates, and get ready to rock out at Winters Live!

Center, 607 Peña Drive, No. 10, in Davis.

A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, “Frozen Jr.” expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood.

See ‘FROZEN,’ Page 10

Courtesy photo

The Putah Creek Crawdads are, from left, David Coppock, Kate Laddish, John Rominger, Jim Hilliard and Wayne Ginsburg.

Courtesy photo

Janine Echabarne’s “Between Heaven and Earth” is part of the “A Wing and A Prayer” exhibit at the Artery this month.

Warriors spring sports season schedules

Spring

track and field, baseball, softball, and golf teams ready to hit their stride, fans can mark their calendars for a full slate of competitions.

Here’s a look at the upcoming schedules for each team as they prepare to represent Warrior pride on the course, field, diamond and the green.

Track

March 22 Falcon Invite at River Valley, 8

a.m.

April 4 Durham Invitational at Durham, 1 p.m.

April 9 SVL Meet No. 1 in Winters, 3 p.m.

April 18 Small Schools Invite at Chico High, 10 a.m.

April 30 SVL Meet No. 2 at Paradise, 3 p.m.

May 8 SVL Championship in Winters, 1 p.m./3 p.m.

May 16 Div. III Meet at Butte College, 3 p.m./4 p.m.

May 23 NSCIF Meet at West Valley, 3 p.m./6 p.m.

Baseball

*Sacramento Valley League game

March 19 at Gridley, JV/V, 4 p.m.

March 21 at Napa, JV/V, 4 p.m.

March 28 vs Esparto, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 1 at Colusa, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 4 vs Colusa*, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 8 vs Pierce*, V, 4 p.m.

April 11 at Pioneer, JV, 4 p.m.

April 11 at Pierce, V,

4 p.m.

April 14 at Woodland Christian, JV, 4 p.m.

April 15 vs East Nic*, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 18 at East Nic, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 22 vs Durham*, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 23 at Durham, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 25: vs Live Oak, JV/V, 4 p.m.

April 29 at Willows, JV/V, 4 p.m.

May 2 vs Willows*, JV/V, 4 p.m.

May 6 vs Paradise*, JV/V, 4 p.m.

May 9 at Paradise, JV/V, 4 p.m.

May 16 Playoffs –First Round, TBA

May 20 Playoffs –Second Round, TBA

May 24 Playoffs –Championship, TBA Softball *Sacramento Valley League game

March 19 at Gridley, V, 4 p.m.

March 21 vs Woodland Christian, V, 4 p.m.

March 28 at Vacaville Christian, V, 4 p.m.

April 1 at Colusa*, V, 4 p.m.

April 4 vs Colusa*, V,

Featuring musical hits such as “Let it Go,” “In Summer” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman,” a cast of beloved characters, and a story loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, “Frozen Jr.” is sure to thaw even the coldest heart.

Directed by Brian McCann, choreographed by Kelly Lynn Jordan, with

4 p.m.

April 8 vs Pierce*, V, 4 p.m.

April 11 at Pierce*, V, 4 p.m.

April 15 vs vEast Nic*, V, 4 p.m.

April 18 at East Nic*, V, 4 p.m.

April 22 vs Durham*, V, 4 p.m.

April 23 at Durham*, V, 4 p.m.

April 25 vs Live Oak, V, 4 p.m.

April 29 at Willows*, V, 4 p.m.

musical direction by Montana Monce, this remarkably talented cast features Emma Nason as Elsa, Maya Clossick as Anna, Sebastian Muench as Olaf, Anthony Reynolds as Kristoff, Josh Teramoto as Prince Hans, and Amelia Teramoto as Sven.

Even though Kristoff may think that “Reindeer are Better than People,” they disagree, over at DMTC, and hope that you will come out to see these gifted young performers

May 2 vs Willows*, V, 4 p.m.

May 6 vs Paradise*, V, 4 p.m.

May 9 at Paradise*, V, 4 p.m.

May 16 NSCIF – Rd 1, TBA, 4 p.m.

May 20 NSCIF – Rd 2, TBA, 4 p.m.

May 24 NSCIF –Championship, TBA, 4 p.m.

Golf

March 27 at Noon vs Willows High School

“Let It Go” onstage “For the First Time in Forever.”

“Frozen Jr.” plays on Saturdays at 2 p.m., March 15 through April 5; on Friday, April 4 at 7 p.m.; and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 6. All performances are at the Jean Henderson Performing Arts Center.

Tickets and Reserved Seating are $10 for all ages and can be purchased online at dmtc.org or by calling 530-756-3682 (there is a $2 facility fee per ticket).

CLASSIC

at Glenn Golf & Country Club

April 1 at Noon vs Maxwell at Colusa Golf and Country Club

April 9 at Noon vs Colusa at Colusa Golf and Country Club

April 14 at Noon vs Pierce at Arbuckle Golf Club

April 17 at Noon vs Paradise at Table Mountain Golf Course

April 29 at Noon vs East Nicolaus at River Oaks Golf Club

is:

Continued from Page 9

while watching. He’ll do a quick Q&A afterward. The doors open at 6:29 p.m. and the films are shown around 7:01 p.m. It’s free of charge (although donations are always welcome to support classic films). Free popcorn is provided. The Odd Fellows bar will be open to purchase drinks. The film festival lineup

May 8 at Noon vs Durham. The location will be announced. The Northern Section CIF playoffs are scheduled for May 12 and the championship for May 19 match details will be announced.

All WHS spring sports schedules are available on the WHS Athletics department page at whs.wintersjusd.org under the “Student Life” tab.

March 30: “Pillow Talk” featuring Doris Day and Rock Hudson

April 6: “That Touch of Mink” with Doris Day, Gig Young, and Cary Grant

April 14: “The Thrill of it All” with Doris Day and James Garner

For more information about the Davis Odd Fellows, contact Juelie Roggli at juelrog@gmail.com.

Skyler Neal

Skyler Neal, a Winters High School junior, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Girls varsity basketball head coach Ivan Dodic said that Neal “became a force down low both on offense and defense” this season. “Skyler had a career-high 11 points against East Nicolaus as well as a game-winning block on a last-second shot which secured the win for us. Skyler also played a major role in the last playoff game of our season as she led an 11-point comeback in the second half against Orland which just fell short,” Dodic said.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy Photo

Last year’s varsity baseball team had the opportunity to play at Sutter Health Park. The team’s next home game is March 28 against Esparto, starting at 4 p.m.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

The next home track and field meet is on April 9 at 3 p.m. at Dr. Sellers Field.