Winters Express: Wednesday, April 10, 2024

City staff address proposed camping ordinance

By Amelia Biscardi and Crystal Apilado Express staff

In the shortest city council since 2022, at 15 minutes long, the Winters City Council had a single public comment and only consent calendar items.

On April 2, the city council met — with council member Jesse Loren absent. The council members provided updates on meetings they attended, approved the consent calendar and addressed a public comment.

City Manager Jeremy Craig requested that Agenda Item E on the Consent Agenda be removed and continued later saying, “We had some additional information we needed to research so we would like to push that to another meeting.” Item E was Res-

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

On Thursday, April 4, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees was presented with the new anti-bullying program developed by the school district’s anti-bullying committee. The information item will come back to the board for approval on April 18. The anti-bullying committee was an assembly of faculty, students and families totaling 22 members.

olution 2024-23 — “Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Davids Engineering, Inc. to Conduct Two Groundwater Feasibility Studies in the Not-ToExceed Amount of $579,268 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Agreement.”

The sole public comment made by Winters resident Jeff TenPas was in regards to the proposed camping ordinance designed to protect Putah Creek by preventing homeless people from camping there. TenPas said he has walked his dog along the creek about twice a day for the last 30 years and has not felt threatened or bothered by individuals and asked for clarification regarding where in the city

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

On Tuesday morning, a small group of community members gathered at Rotary Park to watch as a crew worked to install the finished Japanese monument. The completion of the Japanese monument was emotional and celebratory for all in attendance. The project was initiated following the work of

the Historical Society of Winters to highlight the lives and experiences of Winters Japanese residents in “The Lost Japanese Community” exhibit at the Winters Museum in the fall of 2021. The Winters City Council unanimously approved the placement of the Japanese monument in Rotary Park as presented by the Flloyd Shimomura and Woody Fridae on behalf of the his-

torical society on June 20. The monument features a 1930 Japantown photograph of the community gathered for a funeral. The monument is placed so that when looking at it, the viewer faces the Winters Community Center — the same perspective as the 1930 photograph — with the trestle bridge visible in the background on the right side. The

2 p.m. At that time, the monument will officially be unveiled to the public. Additionally, on Saturday morning a Buddhist service will be hosted at the Winters Cemetery at 11 a.m. and a Taiko

The committee met for 4 meetings in which it reviewed bullying prevention policies, school prevention strategies as well as Winters JUSD data to help understand student needs. The mission of the anti-bullying program is to create a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment for all students, emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance against bullying. This includes prevention policies and resources available to students and parents.

Winters Middle School Vice Principal Oscar Garcia presented to the board what the anti-bullying committee discussed during its meetings,

as well as the bullying prevention strategies Winters JUSD should be utilizing to protect and support students.

Three WMS stu-

dents joined Garcia. Isabella Banuelos, Sophia Bermudez and Jax Cooper were part of the anti-bullying community and provided a student perspective on what the school district could do differently to help prevent bullying. The trio are Winters Girl Scout Troop 1125 Cadettes who initially spoke to the board about bullying in public comments at the Oct. 19 meeting. Jax Cooper, a seventh-grader at WMS, shared her perspective as a middle school student. “Winters Middle School didn’t have a good plan to prevent bullying. We weren’t satisfied with how

things were being handled,” said Cooper. One of the several new prevention methods laid out by Garcia that the committee developed was a bullying prevention manual to be utilized district-wide. The manual has six chapters and defines what is — and isn’t — bullying, prevention tips and reporting procedures for students, teachers and parents.

Chapter 6 of the manual explains how Winters JUSD will respond to bullying, which includes counseling, behavioral intervention and education, and if the bullying is severe

(Right)

Demographic study projects enrollment increase from TK program, future house builds

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

On Thursday, April 4, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees was presented with information on a demographic study performed by King Consulting.

King Consulting’s Director of Demographics Rob Murray’s presentation outlined what the fu ture demographics of Winters JUSD enrollment will look like, with predictions on what the district student enrollment will be by the 2030–31 school year. King Consulting had conducted a similar demographic study just last year.

Lake Berryessa water levels down

Express staff

primarily due to demographic trends. These trends include decreased birth rates that have reached their lowest number since 1984. According to the study, “birth rates are the single best predictor of the number of future kindergarten students.” It is due to the expanding enrollment of transitional kindergarten and future developments that are keeping enrollment from decreasing in the next decade.

Murray’s presentation stated that due to decreasing birth rates and single-family-focused housing developments, enrollment could decrease in the future, if it were not for the expanding transitional kindergarten enrollment, as well as hundreds of new homes being built as part of the residential developments within the school district’s boundaries. Due to enrollment expanding every year until 2025, when 4-year-olds will be eligible to enroll in

kindergarten this will be “effectively creating a new grade level,” said Murray. This will boost the school district’s enrollment to supplement any descreases that come as a result of demographics trends, such as decreasing birth rates. More students are projected to be available to enroll once the new housing developments are finished. While single-family homes typically bring in fewer students than affordable housing developments, recent trends seem to indicate that single-family homes are generating more students than measured in previous years. A total of 1,346 units are currently being developed, which is estimated to generate 205 students by the end of 2031.

Winters JUSD enrollment is positioned to decrease

Current enrollment in the Winters JUSD is 1,576 students. According to the study, by the year 2030 enrollment is projected to increase to 1,813 students. This is the moderate enrollment projection. The low projection is 1,649, and the high is 2,012 students by the 2030 school year, a difference of 363 students.

These projections, as well as the study as a whole, will aid the school district in planning its future construction projects that will need to accommodate the increase in enrollment, and to also be prepared if future enrollment falls within the low or high projections.

The water level of Lake Berryessa slightly went down during the past week by 0.02 feet, with a decrease in the storage of 377 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, April 9, the

lake level was 439.90 feet above sea level, with storage computed at 1,549,405 acre-feet of water. Evaporation on the lake averaged 135 acre-feet of water per day. The SID is diverting 144 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 351 cubic feet per second flowing at the Diversion Dam.

Programa ProspeROSA de Thriving Pink proporciona recursos sobre cáncer de seno Eventos hispanos

Thriving Pink trabaja para conectar a las mujeres con apoyo

Por Angela Underwood Traducido por Carol Alfonso

Thriving Pink, es el recurso del Condado Yolo para la lucha y supervivencia de pacientes con cáncer de seno, trabaja arduamente para oscurecer el tono del color asociado con la enfermedad generalizada. “Un diagnóstico de cáncer de seno puede conllevar importantes desafíos físicos, emocionales, espirituales y financieros,” dijo Joni Rubin, presidenta de la junta directiva. “Nuestra visión en Thriving Pink es que nadie pasará sola por el cáncer de seno.” Citando altas estadísticas de cáncer de seno, con una de cada ocho mujeres diagnosticadas, Rubin dijo que el apoyo y los recursos de la comunidad son muy importantes a lo largo del camino con el cáncer de seno.

Según Rubin, muchos pacientes de Winters reciben las subvenciones financieras del programa “Granting Pink” del grupo, y añade: “Queremos asegurarnos de que cualquier persona que pueda beneficiarse de nuestro apoyo sepa acerca de nosotros y pueda participar en nuestros programas y servicios sin costo.” Los talleres educativos, las caminatas mensuales y el programa “Pink Peer Mentorship” también benefician a los residentes de Winter. El programa “ProsperRosa” de Thriving Pink apoya a las comunidades latinas y de habla hispana en Winters con programas de extensión virtual para las comunidades rurales del Condado Yolo. “Cada mes, tenemos dos talleres educativos en Zoom que están abiertos a cualquier persona,” dijo Rubin, y agregó que los temas incluyen avances en el tratamiento del cáncer y el bienestar posterior a la curación. “Se nos ha unido gente de lugares tan lejanos como Nueva York y Canadá.”

La cirujana y presidenta de ProspeROSA, Alicia Silva, quien creció en Woodland, dijo que le apasiona brindar apoyo y educación a la comuni-

dad hispana/latina que enfrenta el cáncer de seno. “Ser diagnosticado con cáncer de seno ya es bastante difícil sin tener que añadir desafíos lingüísticos y recursos limitados,” dijo Silva. “Nuestro objetivo es ayudar a las latinas y sus familias en su camino con el cáncer de seno.”

El grupo recientemente agregó un “Cafecito” mensual y una caminata en Woodland para personas de habla hispana para complementar las caminatas mensuales en el área de Davis, además de brindar asistencia a la comunidad incorporada y rural de Yolo Occidental. “Hacemos charlas sobre cáncer de seno, detección temprana y reducción de riesgos en todo el condado para grupos locales como RISE en Esparto y Empower Yolo en Knights Landing,” dijo Rubin. “También participamos en eventos comunitarios locales, como el Festival de la Almendra (Almond Festival) en Esparto.” María Del Rio, sobreviviente de cáncer de seno y profesional de la salud mental, es voluntaria de ProspeROSA y detalla cómo “un diagnóstico de cáncer de seno, o cualquier diagnóstico

Vea ROSA, Página 3

Vasquez sounds alarm about glassy-winged sharpshooter

Solano County

Supervisor John Vasquez said that the glassy-winged sharpshooter “poses a significant threat to a number of high-value crops” in a newsletter this week.

It is the first time a Solano County official has directly acknowledged the seriousness of the threat.

Prior to this, due to the relative containment and no immediate neighboring commercial ag oper-

they could camp if housing in Woodland was full or unavailable — with specific mention of during the winter season.

“What I can’t decipher from the ordinance is where would the camping in Winters be? I’ll preface that by saying as far as I can tell where they’ve been camping is about as far out of the way and as interferes with public use of the creek as probably as little as possible,” TenPas said. “I can’t quite imagine where the permit will be issued for people to camp.”

Mayor Bill Biasi said the council had extensive discussion at the last meeting and deferred to Po-

de cáncer, se siente como si alguien se hubiera escapado de ti.” “Especialmente cuando tienes 27 años y llevas una dieta saludable y un régimen de ejercicio,” dijo Del Rio sobre su propia historia. Creo que cuando recibes un diagnóstico, solo quieres sobrevivir y entras en este modo de supervivencia en el que necesitas sobrevivir para ver crecer a tu hijo y estar presente para él.”

Del Río dijo que todavía está aprendiendo del cáncer de seno como sobreviviente y lo calificó como un proceso de por vida. “Aprendemos a vivir una nueva normalidad y a ser defensores de la salud de las mujeres y la concientización sobre el cáncer de seno. Creo que mientras estaba

ations or nurseries, the assessment of the sharpshooter infestation has been equally contained, though it has been called “an imminent danger to Solano vineyards and California’s grape growing regions.” Vasquez broke that mode in a newsletter sent out last Thursday, emphasizing the need for county residents to support the eradication efforts.

More than 138 adult sharpshooters and more than 500 egg

lice Chief John P. Miller who said the ordinance only applied to areas within city limits and does not apply to the Solano County side. Miller said while individuals can camp in certain areas of the city during public hours, you have to get a permit to do so.

masses have been discovered in the 3,500 acres in the Browns Valley area of Vacaville since October 2021, Solano County reported in announcing an emergency extension. The infestation remains confined to the quarantine area, the county Agriculture Department reported in November.

“To underscore the threat glassy-winged sharpshooter poses to ag and the overall economy, the Califor-

fying ‘where’ withing the city ordinance.”

“The ordinance complies with the current law...”

Martin de los Angeles, assistant city attorney

“Laws prohibit the activity vs allow the activity,” Miller said continuing “(the ordinance) prohibits the activity in certain areas. We don’t go as far as actually identi-

recibiendo quimioterapia lo que me ayudó fue mi fe, mi familia y la determinación de superar la quimioterapia y no dejar que eso me detuviera.”

Del Rio dice que se ofrece como voluntaria para contribuir a la comunidad hispana/latina y ser parte de un gran equipo que brinda defensa, educación, empoderamiento y sanación comunitaria. “La comunidad latina en Woodland es muy rica en cultura y unión,” dijo Del Rio. “Es agradable ver a la comunidad apoyarse mutuamente en momentos difíciles.” Del Rio espera crecer con la comunidad hispanohablante de ProspeROSA. “Es muy importante que todas las comunidades tengan acceso a los servicios y prosperen independientemente de sus orígenes,” dijo Del Rio.

nia Department of Food and Agriculture issued a proclamation of an Emergency Program in November 2021 and November 2023, which aids our local efforts to contain and ultimately eradicate the pest,” Vasquez noted in the newsletter.

“With the weather starting to warm up and the pest becoming active again, it is imperative that our Solano County Agriculture Department

See PEST, Page 5

Assistant City Attorney Martin de los Angeles further clarified that during the winter season or other extraordinary instances the ordinace would be enforced on a situational type of approach. “The ordinance complies with the current law, which is — from an enforcement perspective — it wouldn’t be enforced against persons sitting, lying or sleeping on city property

Rubin, quien también es sobreviviente, dijo que ofrecerse como voluntario y compartir su experiencia con el cáncer de seno es parte del proceso de curación. Rubin, que fue diagnosticada con cáncer de seno en etapa tres hace 15 años, dijo: “Conectarme con personas que habían recorrido este viaje delante de mí realmente me ayudó durante mi tratamiento, y ahora puedo hacer lo mismo por otros.” “Me permite pagarlo,” dijo Rubin. El otoño pasado, el grupo trabajó con los dos estudiantes del último año de Winters High School en su proyecto Capstone para crear conciencia

which we designate in the ordinance if there’s no housing or shelter available,” de los Angeles said. “As the chief pointed out, we didn’t point out what would be available but we also have built into the ordinance authority for the city manager to issue guidelines and also provide notices — all of this comes before any enforcement would ever occur.”

There were no agenda disussion items or presentations, which usually take up the bulk ofcity council meetings. The next Winters City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 16, at 6:30 p.m.in the City Hall council chamber, 318 First St. The meeting agenda will post to cityofwinters. org/194/Meetings.

specific student. “There was no reason to believe that there was a live weapon in the class,” Miller said. “We followed our safety procedures and did not initiate a lockdown protocol because there was no imminent threat. Law enforcement reported promptly to support our investigation and they also determined that there was no imminent threat,” Bermudez said. “The safety and security of our students and staff are paramount, and we followed all necessary protocols to ensure everyone’s well-being during the investigation.”

Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the WMS administration at 530795-613 or email jbermudez@wintersjud. org.

“Due to protocols

MANUAL Continued from Page 1

“There was no reason to believe that there was a live weapon in the class.”

John P. Miller, police chief

and limitations of statutes and case law, the school administration is handling the primary investigation,” Miller said. Winters PD will continue to work closely with the school district on matters related to the incident.

On Sunday, Bermudez sent out the weekly Cardinal Express newsletter to reaffirmed that the safety and well-being of students is a top priority. “We understand that creating a safe environment requires constant vigilance and collaboration from everyone involved,” Bermudez said.

enough, suspension or expulsion. Another new resource developed by the anti-bullying committee is a reporting form that allows an option to report anonymously. The forms are site-specific and are available on the Winters JUSD website and each of the schools’ websites. This report allows students or individuals who are victims or witnesses of bullying to report it.

en la comunidad sobre la detección temprana. “Durante el mes de Octubre de concientización sobre el cáncer de seno, participamos en el partido de fútbol Pinkout del Winters High School, hicimos actividades de divulgación empresarial en el centro y recibimos una proclamación del Ayuntamiento Municipal de Winters,” dijo Rubin. El grupo también entrega bolsas cómodas para pacientes recién diagnosticados a todos los sistemas de salud locales, incluido Winters Health Care. “Winters Health Care también es uno de nuestros socios, junto con UC Davis, en una subvención que recibimos del Common Spirit Health que brinda educación y extensión sobre el cáncer de seno a la comunidad latina, incluida la educación sobre el riesgo genético y el apoyo a las pruebas genéticas,” dijo Rubin.

The report will be sent to school site administrators and designated staff to enable an investigation into what has been reported and take corrective actions if needed. Once approved, details will roll out to educators and families at each school site. The bullying prevention manual and the bullying report forms are available on the Winters JUSD website, along with family and student bullying resources.

El grupo también es miembro de la Cámara de Comercio de Winters (Winters Chamber of Commerce) y está trabajando para asociarse con la Asociación Empresarial del Centro de Winters (Winters Downtown Business Association). “Siempre estamos abiertos a formas adicionales en las que podamos hacer correr la voz sobre Thriving Pink para ayudar a cualquier persona en Winters que experimente el cáncer de seno en cualquier etapa de su viaje,” dijo Rubin. Para obtener más información sobre Thriving Pink y el programa ProspeROSA, visite www.thrivingpink.org.

Express staff

145 Years Ago

April 12, 1879

(From the files of The Winters Advocate)

The town was posted with large bills on Wednesday announcing the picnic at Dixon on Mayday.

The work of loading the gravel trains will be done by Chinamen, a large force of whom are already at work grading the track into Cache Creek at Madison.

The Winters public school will continue three or four weeks longer and then the money will be exhausted. The vacation will probably last three months.

The engine “Sacramento” is running on the V. x V. Road in place of the “Ben Ely,” which has been taken to Sacramento for repairs.

Thos. Keefe has sold his drug business to Dr. Bell. H.R. Bell, M.D., a graduate of the University of Maryland, and a brother of the Doctor, will arrive from the east in about two weeks, and a partnership will be formed under the name of Bell Brothers.

M.C. Palmer, our energetic grocer, has secured the agency for Fish Bros. Wisconsin wagons, and has received quite a large supply of the same.

130 Years Ago

April 14, 1894

A new side track for the accommodation of fruit shippers is to be put in at this station before the shipping season opens. It will run parallel with and between the main track and the east siding, now used by the Porter and Earl companies and the lumber yard. At the Directors’ meeting last Saturday,

J.H. Wright, ex-treasurer of this county, was chosen as Cashier of the Bank of Winters to succeed J.B. McArthur, resigned.

Mrs. Bundy and daughter and Grandma Austin had a narrow escape on Wednesday last. As they were driving along the grade near G.W. Thissell’s house, their horse commenced to back and went crashing over the bank into the creek fifty feet below. Fortunately no bones were broken, though Mrs. Austin received several bad cuts on her face and forehead. That none of them were killed is a miracle. It seems to us that one warning would be enough to persons who allow their stock to roam about town, as if it were a barnyard, running over flower beds and mashing down shrubbery of all kinds, spoiling what improvements we try to make to our little town. Now, this is the last warning, for we heard the Constable say yesterday that he was going to begin to gather up all loose stock. So, look out.

95 Years Ago

April 12, 1929

Purchase of dumping grounds for town garbage has been completed. The 50 acre piece, just south of the L.A. Sackett orange orchard to the north of town, has been purchased by J.H. Peterson of Dixon.

Frost hit hard again last Sunday and Tuesday mornings. Growers with lighted pots, for the most part, held their own, but in spite of the smudges injury occurred in streaks. The Boyce & Boyce Orchards is an example of this. With all their pots going they lost their apricot crop. They had a fine crop until Tuesday morning.

The Ray Sears residence on First and Edwards street is being remodeled.

Deed from Mrs. Lillian Cannedy to W.R. Chapman of 1,436 acres in sections 19, 30, 9N. 1W., and sections 24, 25, 9N. 2 W. were recorded this week.

80 Years Ago

April 14, 1944

Out of a total registration of 451, 254 ballots were cast at Tuesday’s Municipal election. W.E. Riley, who was appointed to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of W. Lloyd Adams as clerk, proved high man with no opposition in polling 225 votes. L.M. Ireland, popular mayor was next polling 204, highest of the three nominees for city councilmen. A.J. Bertholet, incumbent, polled 84 votes and Vernon Jeffery won the seat with 150 votes.

Robert E. Johnson, son of Mr. and Mrs. G.L. Johnson, 319 Baker St., Winters, has been graduated from Deming Army Air Field, New Mexico, and has been commissioned a 2nd lieutenant.

Lt. (j.g.) Carl Holmes and Mrs. Holmes arrived during the weekend from Chicago on brief furlough.

Lt. James R. Barker, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Barker of Winters, has completed the Army Air Forces Training Command’s four-engine pilot transition course at Hobb’s Army Air Field, New Mexico. He is now qualified as a Flying Fortress commander, according to the announcement of Col. Joseph P. Bailey, commanding officer of Hobbs Field.

Howard Hansen has been appointed to fill the vacancy on the elementary school board of trustees occasioned by the resignation of H.E. Mermod several weeks ago, as trustee and clerk of the board.

Miss Helen Salaverria, U.C. student, was an Easter guest last week in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. B. Salaverria. W.A. Armstrong

at

Mrs. B.M. Sinclair had as her guests recently her daughter, Mrs. Arthur Brainard and children of San Jose. The Ladies Aid of the M.E. Church served a silver tea on Wednesday at the home of Mrs. S.A. Campbell, on West Main Street. At the regular meeting of Union District Mothers Club plans were made for the school picnic to be held Friday, April 26, in Chapman hills. On May 10, Miss Paulk’s pupils will have a musical program for the parents and friends.

Yolo supervisors approve to expand county animal shelter veterinary space

By Amelia Biscardi Express staff writer

With a unanimous approval from the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, the Yolo County Animal Shelter will begin an expansion of adequate veterinary space.

On Feb. 27, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors discussed some of the issues facing the shelter, primarily focusing on the need for a new space for veterinary procedures such as spay and neuters. And it’s only across a small ditch and street from the shelter in Woodland at 2780 East Gibson Rd. The shelter’s current setup for veterinary services is a large rig they were able to receive for free from hurricane sandy. However, the need for shelter animals and community animals continues to grow and so must the space.

Leslie Linbo, Director of the department of community services, said that she was able to visit, as animal services is under the umbrella of community services instead of the sheriff’s department. Linbo made her way into the rig and noted how small it was. “I don’t think it’s any wider than 10 feet wide,” Linbo said. “It’s barely enough space for two people to walk around comfortably.

The surgical tables are large enough for a dog barely 40 pounds, so we have to outsource services for larger dogs.”

The current spay and neuter rig, according to Stephanie Amato, director of Animal Services only can fix 15 to 25 animals a day.

With 15 to 25 animals a day, kitten season, 70 to 80 animals in the shelter at any time

and a long list of animals on the low cost spay and neuter program, Amato is glad her team is continually chipping away.

In addition to the size constraints, the shelter has only recently hired enough veterinary staff to preform procedures. For Amato, she has found that getting an animal spayed and or neutered also helps as a preventative mea-

sure. “Our spay neuter is going to get up and running really shortly,” Amato said. “That’s an opportunity for us to alter that animal, it’s an opportunity for us to make sure they’re licensed, rabies vaccinated.”

“Yolo County Animal Services operates out of an antiquated building,” Linbo said. “It lacks adequate space for employees, volunteers, sheltered animals, it also lacks adequate space for spay and neuter and other essential veterinary services.”

In the meeting Linbo explained that the approach was to work on repairs in pieces. Starting with a new HVAC system, fans in some evaluation yards and a new shelter roof.

One of the things that Lindo and the Yolo County Supervisors discussed at the meeting was that Yolo County is large and making the trek out to Woodland isn’t fea-

sible for some -- For some Winters residents especially.

Shile law enforcement in Winters tries to assist with strays, for most animal services residents usually need to make the trip to Woodland.

“We need a complete business plan to make sure that we are addressing all the needs in our community,” Lindo said. “Especially those disadvantaged communities and the most vulnerable populations.”

Some of the ideas floated during that discussion were possible spay and neuter vouchers as well as potential shuttle services.

“One of the great things about having animal services in community services is that we have fleet services within our department,” Lindo said. “We have found a surplus van that can be outfitted

drum performance is scheduled at 1:30 p.m. at Rotary Park.

The Winters Museum (13 Russell St.) will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to feature the return of the Lost Japanese Community of Winters exhibit to event attendees.

Monument project origin

Fridae and Shimomura spoke with the Winters Express about the origin of this project and what it means for the community. From June 2021 to March 2022, the historical society hosted an exhibit in the Winters Museum called the Lost Japanese Community of Winters, which detailed the around 300 people of Japanese descent who lived in Winters, with the first arriving as early as 1888. But after the beginning of World War II, the U.S. government forc-

Continued from Page 3

Continued from Page 1 has the support of the affected community so that GWSS does not continue to reproduce and spread.”

The newsletter stated that there are 360 types of crops the insect feeds on, most notably grapevine, but also almond, olive and citrus.

“In addition, while crepe myrtle trees are commonly planted in residential areas due to their beautifully colored flowers, they also make one of the most desirable hosts for GWSS,” the newsletter states. The biggest concern is to the wine grape industry.

“This disease kills grapevines by clogging their water-conducting vessels. The University of California reported that the disease destroyed over 1,000 acres of grapevines in Northern California between 1994 and 2000, causing $30 million in damages,” the newsletter states. “In Solano County, the combined value of just the grapevine and almond crop in 2022 was more than $47 million. Nursery products are also a top agricultural commodity in Solano County, bringing in nearly $44 million in 2022. Should this destructive pest expand outside of the current treatment area, the

ibly interned Japanese Americans from across the west coast in internment camps. Many of Winters’ Japanese families didn’t elect to return following the burning of Japantown on V-J Day. Fridae described how the exhibit detailing this lost community originated and grew until “it had taken on a life of its own.” What began as a push by Gloria Lopez to track her own family’s ancestry in Winters grew into a larger project at

losses to the farming community could be ruinous. There are countless jobs and people’s livelihoods at stake,” the letter states.

Funding for research on the sharpshooter and the Pierce’s disease comes from federal, state and local governments, as well as the agriculture industry itself. There is no known cure for the disease.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture shares details and information on the glassywinged sharpshooter and how to identify in a brochure published at https://bit.ly/ 3PWrrdV.

the historical society delving into the history of Winters’ different communities, culminating in the Lost Japanese Community of Winters exhibit. The photograph was taken in 1930, depicting many of Japantown’s residents gathered for the wake of a member of the Nishida family, and Fridae says that it “gives an idea of how big the Japanese community was here in Winters.” The photo also serves as a guide for the mon-

ument sign, which will be placed, “in approximately where the camera might have been when that photo was taken, which gives people an idea of where the Japanese community was as well as its size and a sense of togetherness among the community.”

At that time of the exhibit, the historical society began raising funds for a commemoration of some kind that would lead directly into this

current project, with Shimomura saying, “I think it was something that we talked about in general, but it wasn’t until after the exhibit was over that we started talking about it more concretely.”

These donations raised during the exhibit are the primary funding behind the new project. Shimomura said, “The monument is going to be totally paid for by private donations” and won’t cost the city anything to install.

Amelia Biscardi/Winters Express

Yolo County Animal Shelter staff have plans to upgrade the trailer used for veterinary procedures in the near future.

Perfect pairings for garlic shrimp skewers

Editors Note: I have heard the feedback that you love my That Hometown Taste food column. I promise my local food picks will return soon, especially with the change of the seasons and the end of Girl Scout cookie-selling season. I’m also contemplating a name for my newest column, and I hope you will try out some of the recipes. Be sure to tell me some of your local favorite menu items so I can try them too. – Crystal Apilado, Editor-in-Chief

With a break in the rain, I decided it was time to bring out the grill – and what better warmer weather menu item than meat on a stick? This month I’m sharing a new favorite Garlic Shrimp Skewers recipe. The seasoning is simple and the shrimp don’t take very long to grill. While you could air fry, bake, or even pan saute these crustaceans, cooking on the grill adds a magical smokey, charred flavor that I refuse to pass up.

Once again, there were no leftovers. My children approve of this method of cooking shrimp, including the one who has mixed feelings about eating shrimp.

I highly recommend using fresh minced garlic and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice on top. The combination of the spice from the fresh garlic zings with the citrus from the lemon.

The addition of paprika adds a savory note that compliments

“While you could air fry, bake, or even pan saute these crustaceans, cooking on the grill adds a magical smokey, charred flavor that I refuse to pass up.”

the creamyness of the shrimp. If you’re not a fan of bold flavors, I would recommend cutting down on the amount of paprika and black pepper. The combination added a punch of flavor, which my family enjoyed.

Garlic Shrimp Skewers

adapted from aheadofthyme.com

Ingredients

1 pound large white shrimp (about 24 pieces), peeled and deveined

1 tablespon olive oil

2 tablespoons garlic, minced

1 tablespoon lemon juice

½ tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Putting it together

Combine the shrimp with the oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt and pepper in a bowl or large sealable bag. Toss to evenly coat the shrimp and set aside for 15 to 20 minutes to marinate. You may want to flip the bag or shrimp halfway through. You can optionally soak your bamboo skewers

while it marinates to help prevent the wood from charring in the open flame. You should get your grill going at this point.

Skewer the marinated shrimp onto the bamboo. I added four to each stick, but add as many as you’d like based on the size of the skewer rod.

Once your grill is hot enough or your coals are glowing, place the skewers evenly on the grill or a grill pan. I cooked my shrimp skewers over indirect heat and covered the grill for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turned completely opaque.

If you must have these shrimp but don’t have a grill or it’s not grilling weather, you can bake the shrimp or air fry them at 375F for 12 to 15 minutes.

Perfect Pairings

This month, Turkovich Family Wines and Berryessa Gap Vineyards answered my request for what adult beverages to pair with it.

Luciana Moreno

Turkovich, winemaker at Turkovich Family Wines, recommended pairing this dish with Turkovich Estate White blend or Tempranillo.

She said to “savor

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the perfect balance of coconut and vanilla in every sip” of the Turkovich Estate White blend. Of the Tempranillo, Turkovich said the “spice meets berries in perfect harmony, crafting a full-bodied masterpiece with an unforgettable finish.”

Corinne Martinez, President and COO of Berryessa Gap Vineyards recommended the Albariño wine. Martinez said the Albariño grape is originally from Northwest Spain, Galicia, which is a region famous for seafood tapas or pintxos.

“Shrimp with garlic is very traditional. The crispness and acid of the Albariño balances out the richness of the garlic, olive oil and shrimp,” Martinez said.

Nicole Salengo Lee, winemaker at Berryessa Gap Vine-

SHELTER Continued from Page 5

with kennels.”

Mayor Bill Biasi, who also serves on the Joint Powers Association, explains that for Winters specifically they want to ideally get services in town. “One of the other things that’s been brought up is having a mobile spay neuter (...) trailer and they can bring around to different cities and provide low cost spay neutering services to people who can’t get their animals to the shelter,” Biasi said.

As well, a partnership between the county and the UC Davis Veterinary School is in the works, and for Supervisor Lucas Frerichs it’s something to look forward to.

“Having increased

yards recommended pairing the dish with the newly released 2023 ZGB Rosé.

“It’s youthful and fresh with beautiful, delicate fruit notes that will complement the saltiness and richness of the seafood without overpowering the delicate flavors in the shrimp,” Salengo Lee said. “Neither the wine nor the shrimp should outshine the other and this combination of flavors will balance each other out.”

Salengo Lee shared tips on how to pair foods and flavors with the right wine.

“With wine pairings, I always consider and try to match the heaviness of the dish with the strength of the wine’s ‘character’ when selecting a wine to pair with a dish,” Salengo Lee said. “A wine’s ‘character’ can

collaboration in partnership with UC Davis, on this on this very important issue, makes perfect sense,” Frerichs said. “And

“We haven’t lost hope for the long term to build a new animal shelter.”

Leslie Linbo, community services director

so we are going to we really are so excited about sort of reinvigorating our relationship with the university.”

Frerichs has been hearing from a lot of residents and advocates, wanting to im-

be demonstrated in several ways, i.e.: aroma, weight of wine, freshness factor, how the fruit is presented, is the wine dry or sweet, acid profile, texture, tannin profile, finish, etc.”

She said the 2023 ZGB Rosé is “a combination of Zinfandel, Grenache and Barbera made in the Provencial style (very light in color and delicate with balanced alcohol), with expressive yet delicate fresh berry flavors like wild strawberry and ripe cherry with hints of blood orange and melon with some floral and spicy notes.”

These pair with the shrimp which “has a slight saltiness, a firm texture, a fresh-fromthe-sea flavor (but not fishy) that is delicate but also can has creamy notes as well as a richness that is the magic of seafood.”

prove shelter services

“I think we’re gonna see a really positive sort of next steps in the not so distant future,” Frerichs said. “That is just going to be, just sort of a real win-winwin for all the parties involved.”

Amato agrees that the aging shelter will continue to need improvements, but wants to put funds and resources back into the community.

“I really feel strongly about animals coming here for people to reclaim, but they also need to know that we want to give them back,” Amato said. “And we want to give it back to the back vaccinated and want to give you back the resources that you need.”

Linbo cautioned however that while in the meeting they were looking for approval of funds to make repairs in the existing shelter, that didn’t change the long term goal of a new shelter.

“We haven’t lost hope for the long term to build a new animal shelter,” Linbo said. “The existing shelter is very old like I said and nearing the end of its useful life. Even after completing the deferred maintenance, it’s not

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

The delicate and creamy, yet sea creature flavor of the shrimp should be considered when pairing it not only with seasonings, but also wine profiles.

Wednesday, April 10

Winters Youth Day Committee Meeting, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance, https://linktr.ee/ wintersyouthday

Wednesdays

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

Thursday, April 11

Library Event: Dolly Parton Literacy Night, 3:30–5:30 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/

Thursdays

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

Monday, April 15

Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/187/Natural-Resources-Commission

Tuesday, April 16

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

Wednesday, April 17

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

Thursday, April 18

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

Friday, April 19

Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8:30 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House

Library Services

Winters Library Public Hours (School in Session)

Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m.

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

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

Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@ yolocounty.org

Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.

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

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

Older Adult Programs

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

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

Ongoing

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

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

Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St.

Winters Open Mic, third Thursday of the month (January thru March), 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House, 13 Main St.

Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Hooby's Brewing, kiwanisclubofwinters@ gmail.com

Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org

Walking Meditation, third Sunday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Meet behind the Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave.

Stewardship events inspire residents to take action, care for their environment

In this multi-part series, the Express explores the programs and opportunities Putah Creek Council offers to our community and region.

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

The Putah Creek Council’s Stewardship Program is extremely important to the group’s mission because the group does the active, hands-on habitat enhancement work throughout the lower Putah Creek Watershed.

That’s the answer from Putah Creek Council’s executive director Phil Stevens when asked why the Stewardship Program is vital to the group’s mission.

“The Stewardship Program partners with local agencies such as the Solano County Water Agency, Yolo Resource Conservation District, and Friends of the North Davis Channel to get community members involved in the habitat enhancement work being done in their area,” Stevens said.

Stewardship Coordinator Maddie Galal said being a steward has many benefits, including counteracting some of humanity’s harm to the planet by restoring and maintaining valuable native habitats.

“There are also benefits such as beautifying local parks and green spaces that volunteers may frequent,” Galal said. “Because of this, many of our volunteers express a feeling of personal fulfillment after participating in a stewardship event.”

The PCC program has many types of stewardship events, with some commitments longer than others. According to Galal, the group welcomes community volunteers to participate in any event at any time without requiring a year-long commitment.

“However, the Stewardship Team differs as members commit to a year-long program, attending comprehensive training sessions and assuming additional responsibilities such as leadership roles at major events,” Galal said. “It is important for our Stewardship Team members to commit to the year-long program because of the training we provide them.”

According to the program coordinator, PCC recruits and hosts a Stewardship Team training bi-annually in the winter and summer, noting “we provide a much larger background to our team members than we do for regular volunteers.”

“Because we only recruit and train twice a year, it is important that Stewardship Team members are committed to using this knowledge to assist PCC staff for at least a year,” Galal said.

The bi-annual training is timed perfectly with Mother Nature’s schedule. Different restoration tasks are taught during the winter and summer training sessions based on specific seasonal

events.

“For example, we plant in fall through winter, weed in spring, and do irrigation maintenance in summer,” Galal said, adding team members take on the greater responsibility of leading creek clean-ups, working with adolescents, and participating in Stewardship Team only workdays that require greater knowledge of the ecosystem.

“Being a community leader has other benefits, such as educating others about the importance of environmental conservation and inspiring them to take action,” Galal said.

Additionally, according to Galal, community leadership fosters essential skills, including communication, organization, and teamwork, which are valuable assets beneficial in future endeavors.

“Furthermore, it builds connections between community members over a shared purpose,” Galal said.

Stevens said the program “fulfills many of our goals, including fostering relationships with local agen-

Nature’s diversity rightly reflects that of the PCC, according to Galal, who said, “It is important to have a diverse set of stewards because each steward brings a different set of life experiences, career/educational experiences, and skills to the team.”

“Team members can

“That sense of belonging in nature moves people profoundly — it speaks to something ancestral, something out of deep time that still lives within us.”

Maddie Galal, stewardship coordinator

cies, educating the community on environmental practices, and allowing volunteers to participate in the work being done in their area.” Galal agrees, noting PCC’s ties to the community offer residents the opportunity to participate in projects taking place in their neighborhoods.

“This builds partnership, trust, and inclusivity because, by taking part in our restoration work, community members feel a sense of ownership and involvement with the projects, strengthening the connection to PCC,” Galal said.

share their various skills and knowledge with one another,” Galal said. “Having a diverse set of Stewardship Team members also allows us to connect with our diverse community because it makes people from all backgrounds feel welcome to join and be involved.”

Both Stevens and Galal stress PCC’s Stewardship Program relies heavily on volunteers to complete habitat enhancement work. “We welcome volunteers of all ages (with some exceptions) and experience, and love educating and work-

ing with community members on stewardship tasks,” Galal said. The project coordinator encourages residents to check out putahcreekcouncil.org/events to find a Stewardship event personalized to interested applicants.

Some of the local stewardship events are close to home, right here in Winters. PCC hosts regular creek clean-up days including along the Winters Putah Creek Nature Park and Putah Creek Road, Dry Creek, Stephenson Bridge, and our toward Davis in the UC Davis Riparian Reserve and the city of Davis South Fork Preserve. Additionally, PCC partners with the Solano County Parks and Solano Resource Conservation District to maintain and care for the Solano Lake Park area. “Whether it’s planting trees or controlling invasive weeds or building cages to protect young plants from herbivores, PCC helps people see and feel nature as not something other than them, but rather something they’re a part of,” Galal said. “That sense of belonging in nature moves people profoundly — it speaks to something ancestral, something out of deep time that still lives within us.”

Putah Creek Council/Courtesy photo Volunteers worked to clean up along Putah Creek on Aug. 23. Putah Creek Council hosts seasonal creek cleanups from Winters to Davis.

Factors that make the current real estate market unique

agents have helped millions of people find homes over the years. Such real estate professionals wear many hats, not only helping people buy and sell homes, but also serving as sounding boards and calming influences when unforeseen, and sometimes frustrating, issues arise during the process of buying and selling a home. The value of working with a trusted real estate professional is even greater in a fastpaced market when offers must be made, and are often accepted, quickly. In such situations, an experienced professional can advocate for their clients, offer advice and even ease concerns buyers and sellers

may have about a given transaction. Such scenarios have played out countless times in recent years, which has been a particularly unique period in real estate. Numerous variables have combined to make the real estate market more challenging in recent years, and those factors underscore how valuable it can be for buyers and sellers to have an experienced professional in their corner.

• Low inventory: Low inventory is among the more noticeable characteristics of the current real estate market. Though inventory has increased since January 2022, when the National Association of Realtors reported that the supply of homes for sale represented a supply of just 1.6 months, mark-

ing a record low, it remained low enough at the start of 2024 (around 3.5 months) for industry professionals to characterize the market as unbalanced. According to the online financial resource Bankrate, a five- or six-month supply of homes is usually needed to declare a balanced market. Projections indicate an anticipated increase in single-family home construction, which should lead to greater inventory in the coming months and years.

• High prices: Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development indicates the median sales prices of houses sold in the United States in the fourth quarter of 2022 was $479,500. In Canada, the median sale price for a home in 2022 was a little more than $522,000 (nearly

$704,00 in Canadian dollars). Median sales prices dropped considerably in 2023 (the average sale price in the third quarter of 2023 in the U.S. was $431,000), but buyers can still expect to pay considerably more for a home in 2024 than they likely would have in the first quarter of 2019, when medi-

an sales prices were $313,000 in the U.S.

• Quick-moving: A home is the most expensive purchase many people will ever make, which undoubtedly adds a little stress to the process of buying a home. That stress may be exacerbated by how quickly homes are selling in the current market. Estimates vary depending on the source, but the NAR reported that homes sold in October 2023 spent an average of just 23 days on the market.

By comparison, the online real estate listing service Zillow notes the average number of days a home spent on the market, including closing time, was 140 days in 2010. Low inventory, high prices and quick-moving properties are characteristics of the current real estate market. Working with a trusted real estate professional can help both buyers and sellers navigate those variables more efficiently and effectively.

File photo

Numerous variables have combined to make the real estate market more challenging in recent years.

Express Yourself

Chamber of Commerce weather

Having perfect weather makes living in California worth the hassle of putting up with bad government. Well, most of the time. The Winters Chamber of Commerce’s official slogan used to be “Winters, Where Springtime is Forever.” I’m not sure if that is still used by the Chamber, but it is catchy. It is hard to beat this weather, now if it will just last until Youth Day on the 27th and the Japanese Memorial dedication on May 4.

By the time you read this, the memorial should be in place, under a tarp, waiting for its big unveiling. There were a lot of people involved in making this happen, mostly guided by the Historical Society of Winters. The Japanese community stepped up with funding along with other community members and the Rotary Club of Winters. The Guerrilla Gardeners, I’m sure they have a more formal name, designed and planted the landscape, with help from the city of Winters Public Works Department. A big hand to everyone involved.

It is 11:15 on Monday and I just stepped outside, with my ISO-rated solar glasses from 2017, to watch the

“The Winters Chamber of Commerce’s official slogan used to be ‘Winters, Where Springtime is Forever.’”

eclipse. I was a little disappointed. It looked like maybe 15 to 20 percent, not the 40 percent I was expecting. I do feel sorry for all those who traveled to Austin, Texas, or other cities along the southern path of the total eclipse, just for a view of the clouds.

Sherri and I were fortunate enough to plan a trip to Idaho in August 2017 to see the last North American total solar eclipse with our son’s family. It was an amazing experience and well worth the time and energy to drive to Boise. We had great weather in Weiser, Idaho, and the community knew how to through a party. And, we had a clear blue sky.

I was planning on traveling to Austin to see my cousin and view my second solar

See QUICK, Page 4

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) There is more to any situation than the money factor, Aries. When a new opportunity comes your way, look beyond the payoff to see what the heart of the offer entails.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) Look to your family members if you need inspiration on a new project, Taurus. Use loved ones as a sounding board for all of the ideas that are bouncing around.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) The willpower that you have been relying on lately is still going strong, Gemini. That is excellent and it’s having a profound effect on other areas of your life.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22) Cancer, gossip is not something you usually delve into, but you may get roped into a conversation this week. Try not to give any weight to the rumors swirling around.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) Leo, you shouldn’t be boastful about your abilities, but try not to be too modest. Accept the credit you are given. Graciously embrace all of your good press.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) An interesting invitation might come your way, Virgo. It could open the door to a very busy social calendar if you accept and do some key networking.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) Libra, an issue that you were worrying about is unlikely to surface. Stay in the present instead of looking ahead to all of the things that might go wrong.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) It may seem as if you are operating on autopilot, Scorpio. Days seem a carbon copy at this point. Do something to alter your routine.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) It’s best if you avoid crowds for the time being, Sagittarius. You will benefit from some quiet time that only comes with being alone or within small groups of close friends.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) You are not normally characterized as “impulsive,” Capricorn. However, this week you may surprise everyone. An opportunity to travel or another venture could drop in your lap.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) Aquarius, if you are not feeling challenged, you have to find activities that will get your brain moving again. Do whatever you can to spark some excitement.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) The choices coming your way are quite varied, Pisces. It can be overwhelming, so do not make any rash decisions until you work through all of your options.

Express Yourself

Empowering our community to be the one

thrive.

As we enter Child Abuse Prevention Month, it is essential to recognize both the progress we’ve made as a community and the work that lies ahead in safeguarding our children. This year’s theme, “Be the One,” speaks volumes about the power each of us holds to make a positive difference in the lives of children in our community.

Yolo County, like many communities, grapples with the reality of child abuse and neglect. In 2023, Yolo County Child Welfare Services investigated allegations of suspected child abuse or neglect involving 1,044 children. While not every allegation was determined to be substantiated, the 135 Yolo County children who

entered foster care that year underscore the ongoing challenges we face. Particularly concerning is the disproportionate representation of Black children in foster care entries; despite constituting just 2.44 percent of Yolo County’s child population, Black children through age 5 accounted for 13.33 percent of entries into foster care in 2023.

As members of the Child Abuse Prevention Council, we are actively engaged in national initiatives aimed at reducing entries into foster care. Recognizing the pressing need to address this disparity, we have honed our focus this year on preventing both child abuse and entries to foster care for Yolo County children — with a focus on preventing entries to fos-

ter care of Black children 5 and younger. This aligns with Yolo County’s Comprehensive Prevention Plan that seeks to incorporate culturally responsive strategies to safeguard our most vulnerable children and mitigate the disproportionate risk they face of entering foster care.

Poverty, while not deterministic of neglect, often exacerbates stressors on families, increasing the risk factors for child maltreatment. In California, 31 percent of families do not have their basic needs met, while in Yolo County, 24.3 percent of single-parent families experience poverty, highlighting the intersection between socioeconomic factors and child welfare (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020).

The Yolo County Child Abuse Prevention Council continues to advocate for local initiatives that will improve the ability of families to be self-sufficient and applauds the efforts of the Yolo County Basic Income Program (YOBI) that seeks to serve Yolo County’s most vulnerable residents.

Educational initiatives aimed at strengthening household financial security can also play a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of child abuse and neglect. By improving parents’ ability to provide for their children’s basic needs, access developmentally appropriate childcare, and alleviate parental stress and depression, we can create more stable and nurturing environments for our children to

It is essential to recognize that child abuse prevention is not solely the responsibility of social services or law enforcement. It’s a collective effort that requires community-wide engagement and education. Research by renowned psychiatrist Dr. Bruce Perry underscores the critical importance of positive relationships in mitigating the risk of child

See CHILD, Page 6

eclipse, but the cost just got out of hand.

A normal flight to Austin is about $250, but this week it was $1,800 per person, and finding a room was easy, but expensive, too. And you wonder why people don’t like the airlines or hotel chains.

The Glory Hole was spilling last week. We received a little more rain, but the creek looks pretty full, so

I’m not sure how long the spill will last. If you get a chance, head up to the lake and take a look. You’ll get to see the last of the Redbud in bloom and a few poppies and lupine, too. Enjoy the weather, and have a good week.

Baseball bats in a win over Pierce Bears

On Tuesday, April 2, the Winters High School varsity baseball team won its game against Pierce High School by a score of 14–3.

The Warriors took their lead early on in the first inning when Jordan Calvert hit a good single and Jake Woods executed a perfect bunt, each helping their team earn one run for the Warriors. The Warriors continued to pull ahead in the second inning with a hit by Jordan Wojan and a double by Isaiah Pazmino and Calvert. The Warriors were also able to score five runs on two hits in the bottom of the third. Overall it was a great day at the plate with Ashton Baylor, Pazmino, Calvart and Sebastian Rodriguez each collecting two hits while Pazmino, Calvert, Miles Mariani and Wojan drove in two runs each for the Warriors. Baylor, Lopez, Woods and Isaac Lopez also drove in one run each for the Warriors. Rodriguez used his speed and

smart base running to lead the team in stolen bases with four out of the six stolen bases the Warriors racked up throughout the game.

Pazmino pitched a great game and surrendered zero hits and one run over four innings. He successfully struck out four

Softball defeats Pierce Bears

On Tuesday, April 2, the Winters High School varsity softball team demolished the Pierce Bears in a 15–3 victory at home. With standout performances from several athletes behind the plate, the Warriors scored 15 of their runs on just four hits, as well as 10 walks issued by Bears pitching. The Warriors were

smart at the plate, with 10 different players getting at least one RBI on the day. Kyle Dreyer miraculously racked up three RBIs without registering a single hit.

Allison Aguiar was a terror on the base paths stealing three bases, though never getting a hit — the second time this season Aguiar has stolen three bases in a single game. Aguiar leads the team

in batting average at .423.

Warriors Mia Borges also had a great game at the plate, smashing two hits and scoring three RBIs. On the mound, Bayla Garcia pitched all five innings and had a fantastic outing against the Bears. Garcia struck out seven and allowed three runs on four hits and one walk. The Tuesday outing increased

batters and gave away six walks. Lane Brown stepped in to relieve Pazmino for one inning, giving up two runs on one hit. Brown struck out one Pierce batter and walked two.

Baylor stepped in to catch after two years of playing in the outfield and lead the team with six putouts. Calvert played a great game at first and was on top of the ball with five putouts and one assist. Maraini has two assists at third. Rodriguez had two chances at Pierce pop flys with two successful outs. The Warriors turned one double play and ended the game with only five errors. The Warriors will have their next home game against Live Oak on Friday, April 12, at 4 p.m.

Girls relay team keeps first place streak

By First Last Special Contributor

A small crew of Winters High School track and field athletes participated at the Vern Regier Track Invitational on Friday, March 29 at Durham High School. In all, 22 schools brought teams to compete. The girls team continued the trend of claiming top five spots in the few events they competed in. The girls varsity 4x100 Relay team of

sophomores Violet Tuel, Varenna Terronez, Ismene Taylor and junior Jordan Tucker left the competition in the dust. The crew snagged first place in the heat at 53.55, ahead of Red Bluff’s team in second by 2.38. Terronez and Tucker took top places in the girls 100-meter heat. Terronez in first at 13.95 followed by Tucker in second at 14.08. Sophomore Ava Muir-Vickrey took second place at 14.72 in the girls junior varsity 100-meter race. For the boys team, sophomore Avhin Willim placed third in the junior varsity triple jump at 35 feet. The Warriors head to Live Oak on Wedneday, April 10 for the Sac Valley Leage Meet No. 3 and to Chico on Friday, April 12, for the NorCal Small School Invitational. Winters will host the Sac Valley League Meet No. 4 on Wednesday, April 17 at 3 p.m.

Simple safety tips for water sports enthusiasts

Bodies of water like lakes, rivers and oceans often elicit fond memories of fun times spent under the sun. Safety should always be a priority when spending time on the water, especially when participating in water sports, including swimming and water skiing.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 40 people die by drowning every hour of every day, which equates to around 372,000 deaths each year. Many of those deaths, the vast majority of which occur in low- or middle-income countries, are preventable, and safety is at the core of drowning prevention.

Though drowning incidents are not as prevalent in the United States and Canada as they are elsewhere in the world, the popularity of water sports in both countries underscores the importance of revisiting the various ways to stay safe when out on the water.

• Take water sports lessons. The carefree nature of spring and summer can make it easy for water sports enthusiasts to forgo lessons before trying their hands at water skiing and wakeboarding. But such lessons can teach peo-

ple techniques that can keep them safe on the water. Courses teach everything from how to get up and out of the water to how to properly handle a tow rope. They also can teach boaters how to navigate waters while towing skiers, tubers and wakeboarders.

• Learn hand signals and go over them before getting in the water. The National Safety Council emphasizes the importance of basic hand signals, which can be used to help boaters communicate with the people they’re towing. Hand signals are vital because water sports tend to be noisy, so nonverbal communication may be the only way boaters can communicate with the people they’re

towing. Signals can be used to communicate anything from directions of turns to speed requests to the condition of the person being towed. A list of hand signals can be found at www.boaterexam.com/safety/safety-common-hand-signals.aspx.

• Inspect tow lines. The NSC advises inspecting tow lines prior to beginning. Such inspections can confirm that tow lines are not caught in the propeller or wrapped around anyone before the activity begins.

• Wait for the propeller to stop before getting back on the boat. People being towed should always wait for propellers to stop before climbing back into the boat. It doesn’t take long for

propellers to stop, and those extra few seconds can dramatically reduce risks for accidents or injuries.

• Avoid water sports at night. Visibility is compromised once the sun goes down. That can make it hard for boaters to see any obstacles that might appear in the water, and it also makes it very difficult for them to communicate with the people they’re towing. As a result of such difficulties, the NSC urges water sports enthusiasts to only engage in such activities during daylight hours.

Water sports make summer even more fun. Safety should always be the utmost priority for anyone involved in such activities.

Photography/Courtesy photo Isaiah Pazmino celebrates as he crosses home plate to score against Pierce High School.

KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo Ashton Baylor steps in to catch after a two years break from behind the plate on April 2.

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

Uriel Castellanos/Pexels.com

Warmer weather lends way to water sports. Keep safety in mind before heading out onto the water.

Stress management is vital to wellness

By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council

Since 1992, April has been recognized as National Stress Awareness Month, and while stress is sometimes unavoidable for most Americans, there’re ways to help prevent and manage it. Stress Awareness Month is also recognized as a proactive endeavor to reinforce the fact that many individuals aren’t doing themselves any favor by stressing conditions out of their control.

Sponsored by The Health Resource Network, a nonprofit health education organization, National Stress Awareness Month is a cooperative effort to inform people about the dangers of stress. During the month of April, health care professionals and medical experts across the country join forces to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for stress.

Annually, the American Psychological Association surveys people across the United States about stress: its sources; its intensity; and how people respond to stressors, both mentally and physically.

Since 2007, the Stress in America survey have determined various external factors negatively affect stress levels, from economic downturns to the impact of racism to political conflict. The survey also reveals that respon-

abuse and promoting resilience. Supportive connections with caring adults can serve as a powerful buffer against the effects of trauma, offering children a sense of security and stability in tumultuous times.

This year, all Child Abuse Prevention Councils in Northern California have joined forces under the “Be the One” campaign, uniting our efforts to prevent child abuse and promote child well-being. It’s a testament to the strength of our region’s commitment to protecting our most vulnerable members.

It’s remarkable how a single positive connection with just one person can change a child’s life for the better. We feel the profound influence of social connections in our day-to-day lives. A hug from a friend or a smile from a stranger on a difficult day can alleviate stress and uplift our spirits. Research confirms the importance of strong social supports in promoting the mental health of parents and children alike. We encourage you to extend a caring connection to someone today. A simple smile, a listening ear, or a gesture of kindness can

dents are profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic including its ongoing health problems, and that the external factors Americans listed in previous years as significant sources of stress remain present and problematic.

According to Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, stress management is … “a set of techniques and programs intended to help people deal more effectively with stress in their lives by analyzing the specific stressors and taking positive actions to minimize their effects.”

Common causes of stress include being under considerable pressure, facing big changes, worrying, not having control over an outcome, overwhelming circumstances, employment loss, and times of uncertainty.

Stess and aging

Stress and aging go together over the course of people’s lives that triggers biochemical responses that kick our bodies into high gear so we can better handle certain situations. Conversely, people aren’t meant to be in this high-alert mode for long periods of time. While stress hormones and tension are important reactions, when stress response is triggered in everyday situations, those physical and chemical reactions take a toll on health and on the ability to be resilient and cope.

help alleviate the negative impacts of stress and foster resilience. Throughout Child Abuse Prevention Month, we invite you to join us in learning more about the efforts of the Yolo County Child Abuse Prevention Council. Visit www.strongfamiliesyolo.org to explore resources and information on how you can contribute to our collective mission. Whether you’re a parent, educator, healthcare professional, or concerned citizen, your involvement can make a meaningful

Stressors that affect senior adults often result from the loss of a loved one, too much unstructured time, a shift in relationships, or a loss of physical abilities such as vision, hearing, balance or mobility, plus chronic illnesses, cognitive impairment, psychosocial stress of caregiving or personal loss of independence, retirement, separation from family and friends, and financial.

When stress becomes overwhelming and prolonged, the risks for mental health problems and medical problems increase. Long-term stress increases the risk of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, substance abuse, even muscle tension. Without medical intervention by a person’s primary physician, ongoing chronic stress, however, can cause or exacerbate many serious health problems, including health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.

Cardiovascular disease, plus heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and even stroke.

Chronic worry and emotional stress trigger a host of health problems, chronic headaches, muscle tension and pain, heart disease, heart attack, high-blood pressure, stroke, even sleep problems. The problem occurs when a fight or flight condition is activated daily

difference.

By becoming informed about the science of resilience and learning how to create more caring connections, we can provide support for those who need it most. Prevention goes beyond awareness; it requires action. Together, let’s heed the call to “Be the One” who steps in for our children and ensures they have the safe, nurturing environment they deserve.

In closing, we urge you to join us in our collective efforts to create a brighter, safer future for the chil-

by excessive worrying and anxiety that causes the body’s sympathetic nervous system to release stress hormones such as cortisol, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which sit atop each kidney.

When released into the bloodstream, cortisol acts on many different parts of the body. The physique responds to stress or danger by increasing the body’s metabolism of glucose to control blood pressure.

Stress is a normal psychological and physical reaction to positive or negative situations in life, such as a new job or the death of a loved one. Stress itself isn’t abnormal or bad. What’s important is how people deal with stress. A person’s body reacts to stress in ways meant to protect them against threats from predators and other aggressors. For example, people may take on a huge workload, pay bills or take care of their family. Because of this, people may feel as if they’re always under attack, but this can change. You don’t have to let stress control your life.

This April 2024, please join the Winters Elder Day Council as we recognize the National Stress Awareness Month and bring attention to the negative impact of stress. Please remember, effective stress management is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle.

dren of Yolo County. Together, we can empower our community to prevent child abuse and build a more resilient and compassionate society. Let’s stand united as advocates for our children, because every child deserves to grow up in a world where they feel valued, cherished, and safe.

— Tony Kildare is the chair of Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency, CAPC, on behalf of the Yolo County Child Abuse Prevention Council.

Letters

Go-Karts return

Nine years ago while watching the Youth Day parade

I saw Cibara, the Shriners go-kart team, and thought they were great. My dad has been a Shriner for over 50 years but never joined. Seeing Cibara inspired me to join Shriners so that one day I could drive in the parade with Cibara. I always enjoyed being a part of the Youth Day parade and looked forward to leading the group one day.

In August of 2022, a group broke into the Shriner’s location and stole or vandalized all of our karts and our trailer. This was a huge loss. We started fundraising to help build new karts.

One of the people who reached out to me was Mike Sebastian on behalf of the Youth Day Committee. He gave the group that helped us get back on our feet. Last year I became Captain of Cibara and was very excited to lead the group in my hometown parade.

We were hoping to have a few karts ready for the parade last year but the process took longer than expected.

We have now finished building all 12 go-karts. With the help of Steve Kemp, who is an expert go-kart builder, we have awesome-looking karts. Cibara is very excited to have the Youth Day parade as the first one in our new karts where I will be leading the group.

We look forward to putting on a great show for everyone to honor Mike and the Youth Day Committee.

GEORGE WALES Winters, Cibara Captain

Honoring Philly Thomson

I am thrilled to extend a warm invitation to the Winters community to join us for a special event honoring our beloved Coach Philly Thomson.

As part of my Senior Project, we are hosting the WHS Alumni Baseball Game on Saturday, April 27, Youth Day with a 1 p.m. start time at the varsity baseball field.

Coach Philly Thomson has been an integral part of my baseball career and our community, dedicating his time and passion to shaping the lives of countless individuals through his coaching. His impact stretches far beyond the baseball field, touching the hearts of players, families, and fans alike. This event serves as a tribute to his dedication and unwavering commitment to our community.

We invite you to bring your family and friends for an afternoon filled with fun and excitement as we cheer on our favorite alumni. It’s sure to be a memorable occasion, filled with nostalgia, camaraderie, and the joy of baseball.

Join us as we celebrate Coach Philly Thomson’s legacy and the enduring spirit of our community. Let’s come together to honor a remarkable individual and create lasting memories on the diamond.

All monies collected at the Alumni Game or in sponsorships will be donated to the WHS Varsity Baseball Program in Coach Philly Thomson’s honor.

We look forward to seeing you there!

ANTHONY DURAN WHS Senior, Class of 2024