Winters Express: Wednesday, May 15, 2024

By Amelia Biscardi Express staff writer

With a light agenda but plenty of community events to unpack, the Winters City Council met for 40 minutes and approved moving forward with Proposition 218 on May 7.

Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III shared the results of a survey of the 218 Proposition which was majoritively positioned. However, only 13 percent of residents responded to the survey.

Snyder explained that this process, which began in February, gave residents around 30 days to respond to the survey.

One of the things

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

On Thursday, April 18, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees was presented with information on a proposed Transitional Kindergarten Curriculum.

The curriculum is projected to cost $24,028 and will be funded through the Universal Pre-Kindergarten Planning and Implementation Grant.

Assistant Superintendent Phoebe Girimonte and Waggoner Elementary School

Principal Chris Marcoux presented information on a new transitional kindergarten curriculum that would be implemented for the tran-

Snyder looks forward to if the process is approved in June is the possibility of the Insurance Service Office (ISO rating) in Winters improving. According to Snyder, that could — and should — bring down prices for commercial buildings insurance rates.

“The problem with ISO is that, 1: not every insurance company uses the rating to its full capacity,” Snyder said. “Most use some of it or part of it. But not all of it.”

However, for most Winters residents, it may not affect their pocketbook, but there

sitional kindergarten classes.

“This is a game-changer, opening up transitional kindergarten to a much younger brand of learner with a much different set of needs,” said Girimonte.

The district had a pilot team assembled of faculty from Waggoner Elementary to test out full units of two curricula but ultimately decided that the dual-language Frog Street for California TK curriculum was the best fit.

“Waggoner’s proposed adoption of a core curriculum for our Transitional Kindergarten is an important step forward for our program. The adoption of Frog Street curriculum allows us to foster critical thinking, creativity, and socialization of four-year-olds in our TK program that is aligned with the Winters JUSD’s Graduate Profile,

Celebrating Bike Month

Winters agencies and residents took to the streets on bikes to celebrate Bike Month. With the unveiling of new bike racks downtown, Bike Rodeo events for students and community fun — the message encourages Winters residents to work on reducing the usage of cars by riding

mission, and vision. When TK teachers piloted this program, they were especially impressed with Frog Street’s small group literacy and math instruction, childled playful learning, and integration of movement and music across the day.” said Marcoux.

Trustees shared Marcoux’s enthusiasm for the new curriculum.

“I have a TKer and during the parent-teacher conference the teacher expressed how great this was and how not often do you feel the fresh excitement, you could just tell they were excited for this.

I think this is a great program,” said Board President Joedy Michael.

The adoption of this curriculum is one of several ongoing efforts of the Winters JUSD to catch up to the increasing

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Planning Commission discusses outdoor personal cannabis cultivation, commercial zoning

By Amelia Biscardi Special Contributor

On April 23, the Winters Planning Commission approved re-zoning while also creating and adjusting an ordinance regarding personal cannabis cultivation and potential limitations. The ordinance will next go to the Winters City Council.

Taking on the first reading of creating limitations for outdoor cannabis growth for personal use, the planning commission discussed odor, light pollution and how to enforce it.

During the public

hearing, Winters resident Paul Meyers said that while he does not like the idea of allowing outdoor cannabis growth, he found the proposal relatively fair.

“The best way to eliminate this is to ban outdoor growing as the majority of cities in California have,” Meyers said. “At the last meeting, you gave city staff quite a challenge, which was to find a middle ground and I would like to compliment them on their work.”

The proposed ordinance, which still needs city council input and approval,

would limit the number of plants to six, with only three being allowed to be grown outdoors. The ordinance continues that outdoor plants should not be accessible to the public.

The ordinance continued that any indoor cultivation must comply with electrical, ventilation and fire regulations. As well as there must be locks and ways to ensure minors do not have access. Some of the other issues brought up during the discussion were the concern

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Middle school hosts Class Selection Information meeting Monday

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Winters Middle School is hosting an informational meeting on Monday, May 20, at 5 p.m. in the multipurpose room so families can learn about the new class selection options for the upcoming school year

At the April 18 Winters Joint Unified School District school board meeting, trustees unanimously approved the proposed WMS FLEX schedule.

The FLEX schedule adds a 25-minute block for all grade levels three to four days a week after the second period. FLEX would

be offered on full school days, Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays not on the Early Release schedule. Other FLEX schedule changes include:

• Switch the middle school to a semester model to align with the experience at Winters High School.

• Replace the current five-minute break after the second period and Advisory class with a 25-minute FLEX session for all students.

• Provide opportunities for all students to choose elective classes.

• Allow special edu-

cation students to receive specialized support during the FLEX session.

• Provide enrichment opportunities for other students to expand their interests and push them to the next level. The FLEX session offers a group rotation every 10 weeks. Groups would fluctuate based on the students’ needs for support or choice of enrichment.

Middle school sixth and seventh-grade students will receive the elective options on Thursday, and fifth-grade students

See WMS, Page 3

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

should be other impacts in the long term.

“While our homeowners will not see a big difference as far as the homeowners’ insurance rates, they will see a big difference in the quality of (the) level of service they are provided from our responders,” Snyder said.

The next step of the 218 process is for the consultant to begin work on sending out ballots which are expected to be sent out in June.

Forty-five days after the ballots have been delivered there must be a public hearing allowing the council to receive any comments from the community.

As long as the timeline stays on track, that would allow for the public hearing to be held during an August city council meeting. Once the public input part of the hearing is closed the ballots will be allowed to be opened and counted up.

If the results indicate that Proposition 218 should be passed, the council may pass a resolution.

However, the deadline for the decision to be made due to tax necessities is Aug. 10.

“It was a great day and I think the kids took a lot away from it.”

Jeremy Craig, city manager

Japanese memorial reflections

On May 4, spearheaded by the Historic Society of Winters and assisted by the city council, Winters remembered and reflected on a hurtful past towards Japanese Americans during World War II.

The event drew many people from all over the state and Winters resident Kate Laddish noted the importance of the council’s involvement.

“I think it’s really important that all five of you were there,” Laddish said. “And that sends a really strong signal that we really mean it and I think that’s really important for everybody.”

The city previously a proclamation condemning the previous actions by the city, written by councilmember Jesse Loren who was honored to be a part of it all.

“It was the most attended event I have ever seen in the community center,” Loren said. “And it was a great honor to be a part of the event.”

#7 East Main Street, Suite E Winters, CA 95694 530-795-3929

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Mayor Pro-Tempore Albert Vallecillo noted that in his over 40 years of living in Winters, that this event was one of the most well attended he has seen.

Youth Day appreciation

Additionally, the city council recognized the importance of Youth Day, especially being able to show students the ropes of local politics.

Council member Carol Scianna was part of the planning for the event and noted the importance of that.

“The students were wonderful up here and doing their city council meeting,” Scianna said. “So they’ll be bringing stuff to us on that.”

City Manager Jeremy Craig also noted that staff from neighboring fire departments joined Winters Fire and Winters Police Department for a live demonstration for the students.

“Also a big shoutout to our public works crew that barbecued and actually fed everybody including some fire folks,” Craig said.

“It was a great day and I think the kids took a lot away from it, which was great. But it also begins building that tradition of getting them in city hall and understanding what we do day in and day out.”

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enrollment due to California legislation that expanded the grade level to include four-yearolds. This year’s demographic study performed by Kings Consulting projected that by 2030 there will be 100 students enrolled in the TK program in Winters.

The search for curriculum for the TK classes, as well as the construction of four new classrooms for the TK level, is a result of the California legislation that will allow 4-year-olds to enroll in Transitional Kindergarten. Currently, Transitional Kindergarten has a piecemeal curriculum

“As Waggoner’s TK program continues toward the statewide goal of universal access for all four years by the 2025-26 school year, we are really happy to have a rich, engaging curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and prepares students for success in Kindergarten and their academic careers,” Marcoux said.

The Frog Street Curriculum will be available for public viewing at the district office on Baker Street for 30 days before returning to the board for a vote in June.

High school course audit

Trustees also received information from Winters High School Principal Justin Young and Girimonte on updating course descriptions to meet G requirements.

To meet those G requirements, courses must be academically

challenging, involve substantial reading and writing, include problem-solving and laboratory work, as appropriate, show serious attention to analytical thinking and research skills, develop students’ oral and listening skills, and incorporate learning to develop skills and cultivate interest in the academic enterprise.

Led by Young and WHS teachers, staff members looked at which WHS electives being offered did not meet those important G requirements.

“This is ongoing work, and this information is about what we can do now,” said

student outcomes in meeting A to G requirements. This includes removing the earth science course for freshmen, which didn’t meet science requirements for A to G.Going forward, incoming freshmen will take biology, which does fill the science requirements.

“I want to thank the staff for all their hard work. This is one big step in a multi-year process. There are many more steps in front of us,” said Superintendent Rody Boonchouy, referring to the school district’s efforts to get classes to meet A to G requirements.

Once the course de-

“We do have an incredible amount of electives, especially for a school our size, but one of the disservices we discovered was that not all of them are G-approved, college preparatory electives.”

Justin Young, principal

Girimonte.

Once WHS staff has finished the new descriptions for these courses, they will be submitted to the UC portal where it will be determined if they meet the requirements to be a college preparatory elective.

“We do have an incredible amount of electives, especially for a school our size, but one of the disservices we discovered was that not all of them are G-approved, college preparatory electives,” said Young. These revisions are part of several strategies from the school district to improve

scriptions are completed, staff will submit them to the University of California A to G Course Management Portal and will pend approval this spring. Staff will bring the item to trustees for approval at the June 6 meeting.

Upcoming meeting

The Board of Trustees next meet on Thursday, May 16, at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber.

The agenda includes the recognition of students and Winters JUSD Employees of the Year Nancy Gonzalez, Maria Martinez and Cathleen Olsen. Trustees will also recognize retiring staff members Olsen, Leonila Fernandez, Sandy Donaldson, Katie Aunan, Sue Bridge and Meredith Reinhart.

The full agenda and packet is available online at wintersjusd. diligent.community.

Task Force seeks input from caregivers of developmentally disabled adults

By Angela Underwood Express correspondent

Having a conversation about who will help your developmentally disabled adult child when you die is hard.

That is why the Yolo County Commission on Aging and Adult Services created a task force to discuss constituents supporting adults living with substantial developmental or intellectual disabilities.

Why? Because

“nearly 80 percent of Regional Center consumers are Yolo County living at home or with a parent caregiver,” according to Lucas Frerichs, Yolo County Supervisor Chair.

“As a community, we need to plan for how to care for adults living with a developmental or intellectual disability when a parent is no longer able to serve as a primary caregiver,” Frerichs said.

Yolo County Deputy Supervisor Shelia Allen said the issue of disabled adults left without a parent was presented to her by Alta California Regional Director (ACRC) John Decker after a constituent approached him

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will receive the listing on Friday. WMS Principal Jose A. Bermudez said the goal of Monday’s meeting is to meet with families who will have middle school students in the fall to help answer questions, get feedback and explain how the class selections will work.

Bermudez said the meeting is for parents of current fifth, sixth and seventh-grade students and encourages them to attend the meeting so they can support their students as they select their class preferences for the 2024–2025 school year. According to Bermudez, families’ “input and in-

about where what would happen to her child after she died.

“Then the commission decided that that was an important issue that the county had not looked at before, so we started a subcommittee,” Allen said.

The Aging Caregivers Task Force for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ID-DD) has been touring Yolo County in a town hall series, with a May 22 virtual session as the final one for all who could not make the in-person gatherings or have more concerns to bring to the table.

“We’re going to take all the information from what we’ve heard from all of these town halls, and then we’re gonna write a report that will come out at the end of the summertime,” Allen said.

The plan will entail action steps to address some of the issues found thus far, beginning with the availability of appropriate affordable.

“For persons with disabilities to be successful in living independently without their parents, supportive

sights are invaluable” to the WMS leadership team as they “strive to provide the best possible education” for their students.

Other happenings

WMS is hosting a few end-of-the year events.

Bermudez said he is looking for about 10 volunteers to help with various duties for the YCAL track finals on May 22 at Dixon High School. Individuals who are interested in helping should contact Athletic Director Alex Monsalve at amonsalve@ wintersjusd.org.

In celebration of Bike Month, the sixthgrade Environmental Education class is organizing a Bike Rodeo is taking place on Wednesday, May 15, from 12:30 to 1:20

housing needs to be available, so we are looking at how we can create more of those opportunities in Yolo County,” Allen said. “Housing is a major thing for both the persons with disability and then also for the aging parent.”

Decker has been a “key part of the planning,” according to Allen, who said he’s heard directly from these parents about what services they and their children need.

“Because of the work of this commission, we have started to work together to identify joint projects we already have on the books,” Allen said of the future housing opportunities in Woodlands and West Sacramento.

ACRC serves persons with disabilities from ages three up on behalf of the California Department of Developmental Services. Allen said Alta is considering updating its service plan.

“They decided as a starting point for any caregiver who is 70 years or older to make sure a succession plan is in place if the

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p.m. Middle schoolers will learn about and practice safe bicycling skills from Winters Police Department, can participate in a free bike helmet fitting and giveaway from the Yolo County Department of Health Care Services and have their bike tunedup by members of the Winters Climate Action Commission.

Students are encouraged to ride their bikes to school to participate in a bike obstacle course to put their learned safety and handling skills in action and to participate in a Bike Scavenger Hunt.

Students also have the option to participate in alternative activities in classrooms.

Por Logan Chrisp Traducido por Carol Alfonso

El pasado Jueves 18 de Abril, la Junta del Distrito Escolar Unificado de Winters (Winters Joint Unified School District –Winters JUSD) votó para aprobar la celebración de un acuerdo con el Distrito de Colegios Comunitarios de Yuba (Yuba Community College District) para ofrecer cursos de inscripción dual que otorgarán créditos universitarios a los estudiantes de la Escuela Secundaria Winters High School (WHS).

La acción es parte del Acuerdo de Career Access Pathways Partnership (CCAP). Los maestros de WHS, que cumplan con las calificaciones mínimas para impartir los cursos, ofrecerán siete cursos exclusivos para los estudiantes de WHS.

dad significativa de estudiantes que recibirán créditos universitarios, no solo créditos, sino que también desarrollarán esas habilidades,” dijo Young.

Los siete cursos incluyen tres cursos culinarios y cuatro cursos agrícolas. Los maestros de WHS les enseñarán en colaboración con un miembro del cuerpo docente de Woodland Community College.

Yuba

“Estoy emocionado porque una de las cosas que solicitan todos los colegios comunitarios es que al menos 20 estudiantes estén matriculados en cada uno de estos cursos. Eso significa que tendremos una canti-

“Lo interesante de todos los CCAP es que están cerrados (al público) y son solo para nuestros estudiantes. Todos esos lugares están reservados para ellos y recibirán ese apoyo de los maestros que mejor los conocen,” dijo Young. Es posible que haya oportunidades futuras de inscripción dual disponibles, dependiendo del interés del personal de WHS en impartir esos cursos, así como de que los maestros cumplan con los requisitos mínimos de calificación del curso en un colegio comunitario de California.

“Para los estudiantes, esto les permite verse a sí mis-

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that some cannabis varieties produce more odor than others. David Storer, a contractor planner for the city, said that disallowing certain varieties might not reach the root of the matter.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to name each of the varieties you would like to eliminate or prohibit,” Storer said. Storer continued explaining that even if one variety was banned, there may be other varieties cultivated with an equally pungent scent.

Gregory Contreras, planning

commission chair, said that initially, he found the ordinance beyond the scope needed.

The planning commission spent some time rewording and readjusting the ordinance before approving it unanimously.

The other agenda item the commission addressed was rezoning Neighborhood Commercial (C-1) to Central Business Commercial (C-2). Commissioner Ramon Altamirano re-

mos, verse unos a otros como estudiantes universitarios en el campus de la escuela secundaria. De manera similar para el personal, ver a su colega participar en un CCAP y ofrecer un curso de inscripción dual en Winters High School también hará que parezca más factible en el futuro. Por lo tanto, esperamos identificar oportunidades para que los estudiantes obtengan esos créditos mientras estén matriculados en Winters High School” dijo la asistente al superintendente Phoebe Girimonte.

Toda la junta expresó entusiasmo por el acuerdo y la perspectiva de ofrecer cursos de inscripción dual a los estudiantes.

“Qué gran comienzo para nuestros estudiantes, especialmente aquellos que quieren asistir a la universidadd,”, dijo el secretario de la junta Everado Zaragoza.

“Este es un asunto bastante importante y habla de una prioridad de la junta directiva y es lo que Fideicomisarios

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cused himself from the portion of the meeting because he resides near the area where the rezoning would occur.

The commission voted 4–0 to change the zoning from C-1 to C-2. Both of them allow housing and some commercial to be built on the property, however, the main difference is that C-2 allows for more commercial and retail businesses to be located there.

EMPLOYMENT

WINTERS CEMETERY DISTRICT is looking to hire a new District Manager. The position will be 40 hours per week M-F. This is an “At Will” exempt position working directly with a five-member Board of Trustees. This is a one-person office responsible for all matters relating to sales, scheduling of burials, computer mapping, implementing and adhering to policies and procedures, preparing Board meeting agendas and minutes, preparing fiscal year budgets, processing cash receipts and invoices prior to inputting into the County General Ledger system, also the hiring of grounds staff. Further information regarding job description, requirements, salary, benefits and the application are available to access on the Winters Cemetery website at www.winterscemetery.org under Job Announcement. Or you can email the District Manager at sheila@winterscemetery.org or call (530) 795-2475 to request the additional required information and application. The final date to receive resumes with applications is May 31, 2024, no exceptions!

CANNABIS

Obituary

YESTERYEAR

by Charley Wallace

As summer approaches, fire is always on our minds. It was no different in 1979, when the Winters Fire Department and the State Forest Service held a contest for signs to prevent forest fires. Those honored were front row: Aimee Justus and Michelle Delbar (plaque winners), Chrissie Hill and Terry Swaffer; back row, Harold Mossman, Larry Barb, Kim Hough and Lidia Rodrigues. In the background left are sponsor representatives Louis Javier of the Winters Fire Department and Aaron Bullock of the State Forest Service. Aimee’s sign was placed on State Highway 128 west of Winters for fire prevention signs.

Rosa Maria Gutierrez, 71, of Humble, Texas, formerly of Winters, California, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024 at Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital in Humble, Texas.

Rosa was born in 1952 in El Marmol, Guanajuato, Mexico, and immigrated to Winters, California, with her family in 1963. She graduated from Winters High School in 1972 and attended Solano Community College, where she met her husband, Salvador Gutierrez. They shared a beautiful union, exchanging vows on Feb. 15, 1975, in Reno, Nevada. Rosa found joy in the simple pleasures of gardening, traveling, bird watching, and Hallmark movies. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and compassion. As the matriarch of her large, beautiful family, she took immense joy in her children and was proud of her heritage and roots. A woman of unwavering faith, Rosa devoted herself to lifelong learning of the word of God and fearlessly stood as a witness for Christ. Her giving heart, warmth, and genuine interest

in others endeared her to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rosa leaves behind a legacy of kindness and unconditional love that will forever be remembered.

Rosa is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Salvador “Joe” Gutierrez, and their four children Maria Gutierrez, Martin Gutierrez, Jose Gutierrez (Rita) of Humble, Texas, and Hannah Gutierrez (Leif Gilbertson) of Denver,

Colorado. She was a loving grandmother to nine grandchildren Mallory, Michelle (Darnell), Khloe, Lisbeth, Victoriano, Llewyn, Joseph, Gianna, and Baby Gilbertson. Rosa also leaves behind three great-grandchildren Karmen, Elijah, and Alonzo. She is also survived by her four brothers Luis (Evangelina), Ramon (Irma), Juan (Debbie), and Lorenzo Jr. (Angelica) Lopez, and three sisters Lupe (Joe) Romero, Gloria, and Marina Lopez. Rosa is preceded in death by her father Lorenzo Cardona Lopez, her mother Carmen Gutierrez Lopez, and her beloved niece Linda Carmina Lopez-Hynson.

We keep her family in our prayers and joy in our hearts as she would have wanted. She is deeply missed by everyone she has touched.

A viewing service for Rosa will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on May 22 at Vaca Hills Chapel with a burial service on May 23 at Vacaville Seventh-Day Adventist Church at 11 a.m. May she rest in The Lord’s everlasting peace.

Update on Winters camping ordinance

By Amelia Biscardi Express staff writer

With the Camping Ordinance officially in effect, Chief John P. Miller explained that — so far — the local homeless population has been staying on the Solano County side of Putah Creek.

Winters City Council passed the ordinance due to the health, welfare and safety of residents in March. It requires any encamp-

ment down at Putah Creek or on other city-owned property to acquire a permit. There are exemptions allowed if housing or shelter is not available.

According to Miller, before enforcing this ordinance, city stff will offer up resources for housing options and allow individuals at least a 24-hour notice before enforcing. Any personal items will be stored by the city without

fines for 90 days, with exceptions being anything illegal or involved in a crime or items deemed hazardous to one’s health.

For private property, people can be removed as they are trespassing, by the police department.

Residents who have questions about the ordinace should contact Winters PD at 530-795-4561 or by email at tips.winters@winterspolice. org.

On Jan. 17, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family, Chris went home to the Lord. Chris was born in Woodland, California, on Jan. 12, 1959, to parents Gene and Betty Gale. Raised in Winters, California, Chris was beloved by those who knew him. As a kid, he enjoyed riding dirt bikes, playing football and taking family trips to the coast. Throughout his life, his enthusiasm and dimply smile lifted a room, and he didn’t seem to know a stranger! Chris enjoyed an early retirement from a long career in trucking and construction and built a home with his wife in Idaho in 2016. There he carried on his zeal for hunting, fishing, camping, forging friendships, dancing when no one else was, and keeping family recipes and traditions alive. A kid at heart, Chris also loved flying RC aerial devices and playing video games with his grandsons.

Chris will be remembered for his youthful and fun-loving spirit, his love of family and the outdoors, his masterful driving and fishing lessons, his faith in Jesus, his gift of encouraging those down on their luck, and the sparkliest turquoise eyes most have ever seen.

Chris is survived

by his wife Diane Gale; brother Edward (Carolyn) Gale; sister Wendy (Steve) Stroud; children Jessica Gale, Zachary (Renee) Gale and Skyler (Joline) Gale; grandchildren Jonah Christopher Reitan, Ariah Gale, Ember Gale, Kadie Rae Gale and Isaac Christopher Gale; stepchildren Tara (Trent) Layne and Derek (Tiffany) Schuchardt; step-grandchildren Wylie Layne and Caden Layne; nephews Nicholas Gale, Brannon Gale and Steven Stroud; niece Amie Stroud; a boatload of cousins and many friends, old and new. If you knew Chris, we welcome you to attend his celebration of life on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 11 a.m. in Woodland, California. Please contact a close family member for address details.

The next Express Coffeehouse Chat is on Friday, May 17 at 8:30 a.m. at Steady Eddy’s. Meet the Winters city manager, Superintendent and other community members.

MEMORIAL DAY FLAGS AND SERVICE

Winters Cemetery District (WCD) is seeking volunteers on Friday, May 24th, to help place the 498 flags on all Veterans graves. Please report to the center building at 9:00 AM SHARP (with a long screwdriver) for your instructions. Please don’t be late! The WCD is inviting the community to participate in our Memorial Day Service commencing at 1:30 PM on May 27th. We will honor the 26 Veterans that were Killed In Action, as well as the remaining 472 Veterans buried here. All Veterans and their spouses or partners are invited and encouraged to sit in the special seating to the right of the podium under the canopy.

Picked

File photo

Rosa Gutierrez

Courtesy photo

Christopher Gale

Courtesy photo

Varsity baseball shuts down Pierce in playoffs

Express staff

The Winters High School varsity baseball team shut out the Pierce High School Bears for a win in the first playoff game in the Northern Section, Division 4 Baseball NSCIF 2024 tournament on Saturday, May 11, at home.

Not only did the Warriors shut down the Bears with a final score of 10–0, but they played error-free and many athletes were fierce in the field and at the plate.

Isaiah Pazmino helped put the Warriors on the board with a solo home run

in the bottom of the first. Anthony Duran and Jordan Calvert rallied and brought in three more runs. In the bottom of the second, Duran, Ashton Baylor and Miles Mariani continued the momentum each scoring one run. Additional runs came in from Baylor and Derick Olson who executed patience at bat and led the team with two walks each. The bottom of the fourth brought in the final earned runs with support from a frenzy of stolen bases from Duran, Pazmino, Gio Jimenez, Sebastian

Rodriguez and Everett Beason. In total, the Warriors racked up 10 stolen bases. Calvert was a power player on the mound. Over five innings, he gave up one hit with zero runs, stuck out five batters and no walks on record.

The Warriors (16–11) traveled to take on the Durham High School Trojans (20–7) on Tuesday, May 14, for the next playoff game. Find game details on the WHS calendar at whs.wintersjusd.org or on the WHS Athletics social media account at facebook. com/wintersathletics.

Share feedback on travel around Winters, Yolo County

The Yolo County Transportation District is hosting a community workshop on May 21 to get residents’ feedback on improvements for points of connection between Yolo County communities.

The plan and play event will be hosted in the El Rio Villa community room (62 Shams Way, Winters) on Tuesday, May 21 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The

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caregiver dies or is no longer able to take care of them,” Allen said.

However, 70 may be too old, Allen added.

“We’re hearing in our town halls and ... that 70 is really late — that really the plans should be put in place earlier because one never knows when something’s gonna happen,” Allen said.

Transportation needs follow housing. A partnership be-

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workshop is open to all Yolo County residents. Refreshments and child-friendly activities will be provided.

The Yolo Transportation District is preparing the Yolo Active Transportation Corridors Plan to identify improvements to make travel easier and safer throughout the county. Ian Evans, Yolo County Housing/New Hope CDC Executive Director, said they will

tween Alta and RISE, Inc. may help, according to Allen, who said the two agencies are considering partnering “to make sure that everybody eligible for services can get them.”

The discussion will continue on May 22 at the virtual meeting open to all members of the public.

“This Town Hall is an opportunity for residents in the Greater Winters area to engage in this vital conversation and provide their input,” Frerichs said.

realmente queremos ver. Habla de la capacidad del personal para girar cuando sea necesario,” dijo el presidente de la junta, Joedy Michael. “Ha sido un trabajo de amor y un proceso de varios años ponerlo en marcha, así que gracias a todos por hacerlo. Woodland Community College y Yuba Community District han sido campeones del Condado Yolo por nuestras escuelas secundarias y opciones de inscripción dual, y

ask residents about the broad connectivity throughout the Winters area including where sidewalks may abruptly end, where bike paths need to be expanded “to help inform a larger overall walking/biking plan for Winters area.”

Residents can learn more about the effort, get updates on the planning process or submit feedback online at https://bit.ly/ YATC_EN.

“It’s a hard conversation, and people don’t always want to talk about what happens when they’re not around anymore,” Allen said.

A virtual meeting via Zoom is scheduled for Wednesday, May 22, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Residents should register to attend at https://bit.ly/44mPTuS.

The virtual Zoom town hall meeting will have American Sign Language and Spanish interpretation available.

me encanta que sean socios,” dijo la administradora Carrie Green.

Los fideicomisarios aprobaron por unanimidad celebrar el acuerdo de CCAP. El siguiente paso es que la junta directiva de Yuba lo apruebe.

CalRecycle grant will help fund County compost facility expansion

Yolo County Central Landfill (YCCL) and Northern Recycling LLC announced the receipt of a $10 million grant from CalRecycle to significantly expand their state-of-the-art compost facility.

The original facility, inaugurated in 2022, reached its capacity of 182,000 tons per year within its first year of operation. This expansion project will increase the facility’s capacity by about 50,000-60,000 tons per year, supporting Yolo County’s sustainability and waste management goals.

The grant, part of California’s Organics Grant Program under the California Climate Investments initiative, is projected to divert an additional 600,000 tons of organic waste from landfills over the next decade, effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 114,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalents (MTCO2e) during that period.

“Yolo County continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to our sustainability goals,” said Lucas Frerichs, chair of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors. “Innovation in our operations at our publicly-owned landfill is consistently one of the bright spots in reducing Yolo County’s

overall greenhouse gas emissions.”

“We are grateful for the strong support from the Board of Supervisors which has led to the county’s Sustainability and Climate Action policies being embedded within our landfill operations, resulting in more recycling options for residents and an increase in the useful life of the landfill by an additional 43 years,” added Gerardo Pinedo, Yolo County’s Chief Administrative Officer.

Once complete, the expansion project will enhance Yolo County’s capacity to manage organic waste sustainably, supporting the circular economic model promoted by CalRecycle. The increased composting capacity allows for further diversion of green waste by Yolo County, regional businesses and residents. State-mandated programs require that food waste such as coffee grounds, melon rinds, table scraps, and foodsoiled paper napkins and towels be placed in compost bins. This not only diverts substantial amounts of organic waste from landfills but also produces valuable compost, a vital resource for soil health and carbon sequestration in agriculture.

Northern Recycling LLC, in partner-

ship with YCCL, intends to expand Yolo County’s covered aerated static pile composting facility, utilizing grant funds to implement stateof-the-art composting infrastructure. This will include composting aeration systems, working pads and equipment for screening and sorting food and green material.

“This grant reflects our ongoing commitment to creating green jobs and reducing climate pollution through innovative waste management solutions,” stated Leslie Lindbo, Director of the Yolo County Department of Community Services.

“The expansion of our composting facility will not only benefit our environment but also contribute to the creation of new, permanent jobs in our community.”

The grant awarded to Northern Recycling LLC and YCCL is part of a broader initiative by CalRecycle to invest $130 million across California in organics infrastructure projects, fostering economic growth while combatting climate change. For more information about the Yolo County Central Landfill and the Yolo County Department of Community Services’ Integrated Waste Management Division, visit www. YoloCounty.org.

Anthony Duran

Anthony Duran, a Winters High School senior, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Duran has been a key player on the varsity baseball team since he was pulled up as a freshman. In the playoff game against Pierce, Duran went one for three with three RBIs and two stolen bases. “Since his return to the team Anthony’s production has been unmatched,” said head coach Austin Calvert. “It seems like any time we have runners in scoring position, he finds a way to get them in. It is just really quality stuff.”

Nohea Goforth/Courtesy photo

Winters High School varsity baseball athletes celebrate their win over the Bears.

Express staff

Express staff

Impact of seasonal pollen on eye wellness

By Angela Underwood

Express correspondent

Allergy season is not what it used to be, especially for eyes.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports climate change affects allergy season, causing further irritation.

“Our changing climate has caused shifts in precipitation patterns, more frost-free days, warmer seasonal air temperatures, and more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere,” the CDC reports.

Seeing is believing and “feeling” with allergy season, according to Winters Eyecare

Dr. Edward Andersen, a University of California at Berkeley School of Optometry graduate.

and technology specific to the eye when it comes to diagnosing, according to Andersen.

“They are the best healthcare providers when you have problems with your eyes,” Andersen added.

Along with looking into the soul, eyes detect internal health problems, including diabetes and hypertension, according to Andersen, who said that is another reason to see an eye specialist.

He said the best way to reduce the effects of allergies is to avoid allergens or pollens.

• Check local pollen levels on local news sites or online.

• Do not touch your eyes when you go outside, and wash your hands immediately when going inside.

• Shower after being outside to remove pollen from body and hair.

• Change your clothes after being outside.

• Keep windows closed during pollen season.

• Use high-efficiency filters in your home HVAC system.

“Pollens and allergens are in higher concentrations during spring, and the eyes are directly exposed to them,” Andersen said, adding sinuses and respiratory passages have less exposure to pollen.

“Allergy season is upon us as our environment begins to come to life.”

Two of the most significant climate change effects include the amount of pollen and the length of its season.

“Some of these changes in pollen due to climate change could have major impacts on human health, such as increasing individuals’ exposure to pollen and their risk of having allergy and asthma symptoms,” the CDC reports. Eye doctors have training, equipment

“Reduce the amount of time outside, especially when conditions are windy,” Andersen said.

The CDC suggests several ways to protect the eyes from pollen this season, including:

Benefits of vitamin D, avoid sun damage

Spring and summer are times of the year when the great outdoor beckons more strongly than it does in fall and winter. Temperate climates and abundant sunshine encourage people to leave their homes and bask in the warm rays of the sun.

Spending time outdoors is good for mental health and it’s a natural way for people to get adequate vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin. The National Institutes of Health say exposure to sunshine for five to 30 minutes a day, most days a week is optimal to make vitamin D.

A large percentage of the population is deficient in vitamin D. The NIH says there are many studies correlating vitamin D insufficiency with increased risk of numerous chronic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, myocardial infarctions, and brittle bones. However, sun exposu re to make vitamin D needs to occur without sunscreen for maximum impact. That begs the question of just how safe it may be to spend time outdoors without sun

protection, and what are the risks of doing so? Also, do the risks of vitamin D deficiency outrank those involving sun exposure and cancer causation?

It’s a conundrum, to be sure.

The good news is that most people can safely enjoy the sun and obtain vitamin D.Here are some tips and safety precautions.

• Keep in mind that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Therefore, if you must spend time in the sun, do so outside of this time period.

• Promptly apply sunscreen. After a short period of unprotected sunshine of no more than 30 minutes, put on sunblock right

away. Also, reapply as indicated on the packaging depending on activity. Harvard Health says that sunscreen cannot block all UV rays, and even usage of sunblock will not staunch all vitamin D production.

• The National Cancer Institute suggests using an SPF of at least 15, but some doctors recommend SPF 30.

• Ultraviolet radiation is the number one cause of skin cancer Utilize wide-brimmed hats, sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent cumulative sun exposure, which can lead to basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.

• Keep in mind that episodes of severe sunburns, usually be-

fore age 18, can raise the risk of developing melanoma. Children should be just as mindful of sun exposure as adults.

• It is challenging to define what “too much sun” actually is, says the European Code Against Cancer Strength of the sun (UV index), skin type and the strength of sunscreen all merit consideration

• A person with very fair skin exposed to an ultraviolet index

• Take allergy medications as prescribed “There is a wide range of over-thecounter, non-prescribed products, including oral medication and eye drops, but if symptoms don’t improve, see an eye doctor or allergy specialist,” Andersen said.

of 6, which is easily reached at noon in summer, can suffer sunburn in as little as 10 to 15 minutes. It’s a fine line to balance healthy sun exposure to obtain vitamin D and avoiding sun damage to the skin. But it’s best that people walk that tightrope with sun safety in mind. It’s worth taking the extra steps to prepare for a day out in the sun.

File photo Take steps to help reduce the exposure to pollen

Wednesday, May 15

Winters Middle School Open House, 6 p.m., Winters Middle School

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, May 16

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

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, May 17

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

Sunday, May 19

Winters Farmers Market

9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market

Monday, May 13

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

Tuesday, May 21

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

Tuesday, May 21 and Wednesday, May 22 WTC "Romeo and Juliet" Auditions, 7 –9 p.m., Winters Opera House (13 Main St.), winterstheatre.org

Upcoming Events

Saturday, May 25

Winters Middle School E-Waste Drive, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Winters Middle School, 425 Anderson Ave. 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

WTC Presents "12 Angry Jurors," May 17-19: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m./Sunday at 2 p.m., Historic Winters Opera House, winterstheatre.org

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., 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

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.

School district honors 2024 Hall of Fame inductees

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

On April 25, Win-

ters Joint Unified School District inducted five individuals (one of them in memorial) do its Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

Superintendent Rody Boonchouy welcomed honorees (past and present), their family and friends, current and former staff members and the community. Boonchouy said honoring the special people is one of Winters JUSD’s traditions, which is also a celebration of the community and the contributions made for students.

“It’s a tradition that underscores the magic of this town, which includes its history, its diversity, its identity, its kindness and its generosity,” Boonchouy said. “These are a reflection of the people, the strength of the relationships between everyone, and a culture of collaboration.”

Boonchouy recognized past honorees starting with the inaugural class in 2018. Attendees cheered for those in attendance and gave respectful moments for those who have since passed.

The first recognition of the evening was Russ Lester as the Distinguished Service Inductee.

Lester served on the Winters JUSD Board of Trustees school board for 20 years and volunteered to serve as an interim superintendent after then-superintendent Mike Roberts’ sudden passing.

For over 25 years, Lester has hosted Kindergarten and first-grade students at his family-owned Dixon Ridge Farms, where they engaged in hands-on educational, informational and interactive field trips.

“Students and adults learned to sort walnuts, watch and feel the shaker, learn about the life cycle of walnuts, including the importance of worms in the soil, and also enjoyed a fun hayride,” Boonchouy said.

Lester was also recognized for multiple efforts to support students financially, and educationally through Waggoner Elementary School’s Farm Day event, and for serving on the Winters Agriculture

Department’s Advisory Council.

Lester joins his daughter, Jenny Lester-Moffitt (a Class of 2023 inductee) as one of two father-daughter duos in the Hall of Fame.

Assistant Superintendent Phoebe Girimonte spoke in honor of WHS art teacher Kate Humphrey. Humphrey was recognized in memorium as an Employee Inductee. She died 2022.

“A creative spirit and exceptional educator, Kate began teaching art at Winters High School in 2007. Her classroom was a wellspring for imagination and a sanctuary for students seeking acceptance and encouragement,” Girimonte said. “Today, her contributions are abundant and apparent in the WHS art program and the many youths she educated during her career.”

Humphrey’s husband Mark Beason accepted the award and thanked the community for all of the love and care they have for both Humphrey and her family.

Boonchouy recognized Everardo Arellano as the other Employee Inductee.

Arellano was hired in 1988 and was proficient in plumbing, carpentry, masonry and electrical work to construction, concrete and mechanical work, HVAC, custodial work and more. He led the maintenance department from 2012 to 2015.

“Everardo was very skilled and, in his eyes, there wasn’t anything that wasn’t reparable. If it was

broken, it could be repaired, and he was very efficient and successful in his endeavors,” Boonchouy said.

Former colleagues Mary Jo Rodolfa and Pam Scheeline both shared heart-warming memories of Arellano’s dedication and hard work to help keep the schools functioning during his tenure at Winters JUSD.

Girimonte recognized Barbara Thomas as the alumna inductee.

Thomas is a WHS Class of 1955 graduate and was an active member of the Girls Athletic Association, band, chorus, Spanish Club, and California Scholarship Federation. As a parent, she was active in multiple organizations to support her children’s extra-curricular activities as well as serving the community.

“Mrs. Thomas is an active community leader and has always been one of the first people at someone’s door with a hot dish after a death or illness in a family,” Girimonte said.

Boonchouy recog-

nized Cecilia Aguiar-Curry as the other alumna inductee. Aguiar is a WHS Class of 1972 graduate and was involved in sports, student government, band and choir, yearbook, and various organizations during her years in Winters JUSD including Girls Athletic Association, California Scholarship Federation, Youth Day Council, 4-H and Brownies.

After graduating from San Jose State University, Aguiar-Curry returned to Winters where she became active in the local community and as a regional leader. She first served on the planning commission and was then elected to the City Council, eventually serving as the first female mayor of Winters. In November 2016, she was elected to the State Assembly to represent the 4th District and is the Assembly Majority Leader after serving as Speaker Pro Tempore. She joins her father, Joe Aguiar (Class of 2023 inductee) as the other father-daughter duo in the Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame Class of 2024 includes Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, Barbara Thomas, Russ Lester and Everardo Arellano. Crystal Apilado/ Winters Epress

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Mark Beason thanked the community and accepted the award for his wife Kate Humphrey as Employee honoree.

Tips for first-time home buyers

Special to the Express

Real estate has garnered considerable attention since 2020, and for good reason. Though speculators and real estate professionals may point to a number of variables that have affected the market for homes in recent years, the pandemic certainly was among those factors. Real estate prices and mortgage interest rates increased significantly during the pandemic and have remained well above pre-pandemic levels ever since.

The spike in home prices and interest rates has had a significant impact on young home buyers, some of whom feel as though their dream of home ownership may never be realized. And data from the National As-

sociation of Realtors indicates the median age of home buyers is now significantly higher than it was two decades ago. In 2023, the median age of buyers was 49, which marked an increase of 10 years compared to the average buyer age 20 years ago.

First-time home buyers may face a more challenging real estate market than they would have encountered just a half decade ago. The following three tips can help such buyers successfully navigate the market as they look to purchase their first home.

1.Expect to move quickly. Inventory remains very low, which means buyers are in heated competition for the few homes that are on the market. In late

2023, NAR data indicated the rate of home sales were the lowest they had been in 13 years, so buyers will likely need to move quickly and make an offer if they see a home they like, as chances are the property won’t be on the market too long before it’s sold. In fact, the NAR noted that homes spent an average of just 23 days on the market in October 2023.

2.Apply for mortgage preapproval. The competitive nature of the market for buyers means it’s in their best interests to arrange financing prior to beginning their home search. A mortgage preapproval can be a competitive advantage, as it indicates to sellers that buyers won’t be denied a mortgage or lack financing after making an offer. The financial experts at NerdWallet note that buyers will

be asked to provide details about their employment, income, debt, and financial accounts when applying for mortgage preapproval. Gather this information and clear up any issues, such as credit disputes or delinquent accounts, prior to applying for

preapproval.

3. Set a realistic budget and expect to offer over asking price.

A financial planner and/or real estate professional can help first-time buyers determine how much they should be spending on a home. In the current market, buyers should know that they will likely need to pay more than asking price for a home. For example, the NAR reports that 28 per-

cent of homes sold for above list price in October 2023. With that in mind, first-time buyers may do well to look for homes that are under budget in anticipation of offering more than list price after seeing a property. The real estate market remains competitive for buyers. Firsttime buyers can utilize three strategies to increase their chances of realizing their dream of home ownership.

File photo

These three tips can help buyers successfully navigate the market as they look to purchase their first home.

Express Yourself

Would

you

like to be a farmer?

Farming always looks so easy, like running a weekly newspaper.

I’ve always thought about being a farmer, but land is expensive and there are long days during harvest time.

A few years ago a friend and I bought a half-acre “ranch” just outside of town. It had five different types of fruit trees, about 25 total. I liked the apricots, peaches and nectarines, but the birds like the cherries best. The five apricot trees produced every other year. I wondered what farmers did in the year the trees didn’t produce? We sold the ranch after we decided it was too expensive to build a house and we didn’t want to live in the country. Growing up in Winters, almost everyone worked during the summer break, helping to cut apricots and peaches, or when you were old enough, to drive trucks to pick up and deliver the crops. We got out of school in May so we could work the apricot crop. The prune farmers wanted school to start in September so we could finish shaking the prunes onto tarps and getting them delivered to the dryers. Look around today and you will be hard-

pressed to find an apricot orchard or an acre of peaches. Walnuts became the money crop and farmers had a good run, but times change and walnuts appear to be on the way out. And, with child labor laws, it is hard to hire kids under 18.

The question is what to plant next? You can’t just pick a crop and hope for the best. Trees take years before they produce a crop. I’ve noticed a lot of pistachios being planted, but will there be a demand for little green nuts when all of the trees mature?

We drive to Ripon about once a month and it isn’t hard to see the change in Central Valley crops. There are miles and miles of grape vines and fewer and fewer walnut trees. There are still packing sheds around Modesto, while most, if not all of ours have closed down. For newcomers in town, there used to be packing sheds all along Railroad Avenue. Most have burned down, but a few remain. The biggest is now a distillery while the smallest is a brewpub. Across from my brother’s prune orchard on the

See QUICK, Page 6

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) Aries, this is a great week for transformation. Be careful where you direct your attention, as what you do will have lasting effects. Choose your plans wisely.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) Use this week’s powerful energy to strip away all of the unnecessary static in your life right now. It is doing more harm than good. Open yourself up to new opportunities, Taurus.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) Gemini, there is a lot of stuff going on around you, and you need to sort through the noise to determine your priorities. Things will start to become more clear this week.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22) You are in a great position to make some lasting and strong impressions on others, Cancer. Focus on group work, as this will showcase how well you work with others.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) Leo, you do not know which direction to go in this week, and that is perfectly fine. Try out different options and figure out what fits best. This will require some trial and error.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) Virgo, you have a tremendous amount of power at your disposal this week. Use all of it wisely and thoughtfully. Others will be strongly affected by your presence.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) A conflict in your life that you may feel is beyond your control may crop up at the worst time, Libra. Use this as a learning opportunity on how to cope under pressure.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) Scorpio, you have the power to produce a powerful outcome, even if it seems that forces are working against you. Do not give up; in fact, double down your efforts.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) Sagittarius, take things with a grain of salt if people seem insensitive to your feelings this week. You don’t know what others have going on in their lives.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) Nothing can stop you when you put a lot of gusto behind your efforts, Capricorn. Just be mindful of who you might affect if you take things with a little too much ambition.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) Aquarius, are you getting the sense that something is going on around you that you’re simply not a part of? Maybe your exclusive invitation is just waiting in the wings. Be patient.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) Pisces, stand up for what you want, even if means that you are taking a different stance than others. You don’t have to please everyone in every endeavor.

Express Yourself

Homage to moms

By Ramon Altamirano

Special to the Express

I find myself celebrating very few holidays as time goes on. But Mother’s Day is different for me.

As I drive home after getting a few things for my wife on Mother’s Day, it hits me like a torrent of emotions.

Mother’s Day makes me think about my own mother — A beautiful lady with heavy sorrows.

Barely 15 when I was born — Never had a chance for a carefree childhood.

But this story is about others. Ones we know that never experienced motherhood that wanted to.

Aunt Debbie was a sweetheart. Loved everyone and everyone loved her back. Mar-

ried my ex-brother-inlaw. Always loved having children around, and baking cookies during the holidays. Aunt Debbie had medical challenges and sadly passed away at 58. I never had the opportunity to thank her for being sweet and her love for my children. You may know some family members that did not have children. My sisters, Maria and Lily did not have children. So Mother’s Day for me is a holiday that lingers beyond the actual day. I think about my mom constantly as I am sure many of you think about your mothers as well. At anytime during the year I encourage you to call your mom or talk to them in spirit.

Memorial Day flags, service

Winters Cemetery District is seeking volunteers on Friday, May 24, to help place the 498 flags on all Veterans’ graves. Please report to the center building at 9 a.m. SHARP with a screwdriver (the tool…not the drink) for your instructions. Please don’t be late! Call Sheila, WCD Manager, at 530-795-2475 with any questions.

The WCD is inviting the community to participate in our Memorial Day Service commencing at 1:30 p.m. on May 27, We will honor the 26 Veterans who were Killed In Action, as well as the remaining 472 Veterans

buried here. All Veterans and their spouses or partners are invited and encouraged to sit in the special seating to the right of the podium under the canopy.

JOE BRISTOW Winters Cemetery District

I love my teacher

My school had teacher appreciation week. I think my teacher Mrs. Lester is the best. I asked her if I could be in her class next year, but she said she didn’t know. It’s OK. Thank you, Mrs. Lester for being the best teacher in the world.

P.S. I hope you teach a combo class again next year.

ELLA COOPER Waggoner

Legal Advertising

TITLE ORDER NO. 2311354CAD TRUSTEE SALE NO. 23-002 Reference: 32769 / SLO Rentals

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED

3/27/2020 UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On June 04, 2024 at 12:45pm, Red Shield Servicing, Inc. as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust, Recorded on 7/31/2020 as Document no. 2020-0024202 Book xxx Page xxx Of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Yolo County, California, executed by: SLO Rentals, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company will under and pursuant to said Deed of Trust sell at public auction for cash or Cashier's Check, drawn on a state or national bank, a state or federal credit union, or a state or federal savings and loan association, domiciled in the State of California, AT THE REAR (NORTH) ENTRANCE TO THE CITY HALL BUILDING: 1110 WEST CAPITOL AVENUE WEST SACRAMENTO, CA 95691 all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California, describing the land therein: Parcel A: Parcel(s) A and B, as shown on that certain map entitled "Final Map of Subdivision No. 5066-Olive Grove Phase 1 ", in the City of Winters, County of Yolo, State of California, filed in the office of the Yolo County Recorder on July 20, 2018 of Maps at pages 76-78 Yolo County Records. Parcel B: Lot(s) 4 and 5, as shown on that certain map entitled "Final Map of Subdivision No. 5066-0live Grove Phase 1", in the City of Winters, County of Yolo, State of California, filed in the office of the Yolo County Recorder on July 20, 2018 in Book 2018 of Maps at Pages 76-78 Yolo County Records. APN: 003-391-006, 003-392-023, 003-392-021, 003-392-022 The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 720 & 722 Hemenway Street, Winters, CA 95694 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $1,015,506.00 It is possible that at the time of sale, the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. DATE: April 29, 2024 RED SHIELD SERVICING, INC 9141 Elk Grove Boulevard Elk Grove, California 95624 (916)485-5753. By: Tabitha J. Cissney, Trustee Sale Officer. (TS# 23-002 SDI-30076) 5/8, 5/15, 5/22 #72311

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on May 21, 2024, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") City Council to consider an Ordinance amending Sections 17.04.140, 17.205.010, 17.205.020, and 17.205.030 of the Winters Municipal Code and adding Section 17.205.040 to the Winters Municipal Code regarding cannabis cultivation for personal use. The proposed Ordinance establishes regulations for cannabis cultivation for personal use, including provisions for outdoor and indoor cultivation. At the public hearing, the City Council shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed Ordinance. At any time prior to the public hearing, any person may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed Ordinance. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to dave.dowswell@cityofwinters.org. In addition, the staff report will be available on the City’s website on 05/24/24

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in these hearings, please contact Deputy City Clerk Sterling Thomas at (530) 795-4910, ext. 101. Please make your request as early as possible and at least one-full business day before the start of the hearing. The City does not transcribe its hearings. If you wish to obtain a verbatim record of the proceedings, you must arrange for attendance by a court reporter or for some other means of recordation. Such arrangements will be at your sole expense.

If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, the challenge may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council prior to the public hearing. Availability of Documents: Copies of the Staff Report will be available on the City’s website www.cityofwinters.org

For more information regarding this project, please contact David Dowswell, Contract Planner, at (530)794-6718 or at dave.dowswell@cityofwinters.org

5/15/24 #72481

Request For Proposals

Project Owner: City of Winters

Project: SENIOR CENTER DESIGN SERVICES (PROJECT NO. 004-24)

Location of Work: 137 East Baker Street., Winters, CA 95694 as shown in Attachment 1-Site

Location Map and Photos of the Contract Documents.

Date Release: May 2, 2024

Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference: Winters City Hall - Downstairs Conference Room, 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694 on May 15, 2024 at 2:00 pm Pacific Time.

Final Questions Due: May 22, 2024 at 2:00 pm Pacific Time.

Bid Due Date: June 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm Pacific Time. The City is looking for a qualified design firm that specializes in Senior/Community Center Facility and/or Commercial Projects. The current scope of work includes a preliminary evaluation of the project as well as subsequent Schematic Design, Site Layout, Design Development, Construction Documents, Cost Estimating, and Construction Administration services. Design is anticipated to commence in mid-late June 2024 and Site Plans are expected to be completed by August 2024. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2025.

Submittal Guidelines

Respondents are required to provide five (5) copies of the proposal. Additional information, in the form of resumes, brochures, etc., may be submitted as appendices. Submit the proposal to the Public Works Director of Operations & Maintenance, Eric Lucero, at 318 First St., Winters, CA 95694. Proposals must be received by no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, June 3, 2024 The City will review the information provided and one or more firms will be chosen to provide a more detailed proposal for the services and/or participate in an oral presentation/interview session.

Location to pick up bid information: Bidders are required to review the contract documents for more complete information regarding the Project and submission of bids. The full set of contract documents is available electronically via the City of Winters website at www.cityofwinters.org/bidsand-rfps or by contacting Eric Lucero at (530) 681-1529. Bi d Security: Each bid shall be accompanied by cash, a certified or cashier’s check, or bid bond secured from a surety company satisfactory to the City, the amount of which shall not be less than ten percent (10%) of the submitted total bid price, made payable to City of Winters as bid security. For further information, contact Eric Lucero at eric.lucero@cityofwinters.org or (530) 681-1529. 5/8, 5/15 #72414

Public Safety Report

City of Winters

Fire

The Winters Fire Log will return soon. Check for updates at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.

Police Arrest Log

May 3: Waters, Daniel Joseph (Age 22); Charges: DUI, Reckless Driving, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~McNeil, Charlie Ross (Age 64); Charges: Four Woodland PD Warrants, Driving with a suspended license for DUI, Expired Registration; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail ~Wickham, Robert Alan (Age 62); Charges: DUI,

Refusal to take a chemical test, Obstruct/Resist Peace Officer; Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear

May 4: Campos Osorto, Allen Ruben (Age 35); Charges: Southgate PD Warrant, Driving without a License, Expired Registration; Disposition: Released on Notice to Appear ~Gonzalez, Jose Arturo (Age 42); Charges: Assault with a firearm on a person, Criminal Threats, Child Abuse w/possible great bodily injury, Exhibiting concealed firearm in public, Obstruct/ resisting peace officer; Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO WINTERS MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 17.98 REGARDING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on May 28, 2024, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider recommending to the City Council adoption of possible amendments to Chapter 17.98, Accessory Dwelling Units, of the Winters Municipal Code to comply with the amended provisions of Government Code Sections 66310–66342 governing Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units. The proposed ordinance is not a project within the meaning of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3), of the State of California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines because the proposed ordinance is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects causing a significant effect on the environment, and this project does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.

The purpose of the public hearing will be to provide citizens an opportunity to make their comments on the proposed project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694 to davedowswell@cityofwinters.org. In addition, the staff report will be available on the City’s website on May 23, 2024.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in these hearings, please contact Deputy City Clerk Sterling Thomas at (530) 795-4910, ext. 101. Please make your request as early as possible and at least one-full business day before the start of the hearing.

The City does not transcribe its hearings. If you wish to obtain a verbatim record of the proceedings, you must arrange for attendance by a court reporter or for some other means of recordation. Such arrangements will be at your sole expense.

If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, the challenge may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission prior to the public hearing.

Availability of Documents: Copies of the Staff Report will be available on the City’s website www.cityofwinters.org

For more information regarding this project, please contact David Dowswell, Contract Planner at (530)794-6718.

5/15/24 #72480

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on May 21, 2024, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") City Council to consider 1) the introduction and waiving of the first reading of an Ordinance Rezoning a 6.01 acre site located

the south side of East Grant Avenue between East Main

035)from Neighborhood Commercial (C-1) to

Development Overlay permitting owner-occupied and rental

pursuant to Government Code 65583.2(I) for developments in which twenty (20) percent or more of the units are affordable to lower income households thereby allowing an increased density from 1 to 10 units per acre to 11 to 20 units per acre, allowing additional commercial uses and permitting multifamily housing to be located at ground level; and 2) adoption of a Resolution amending the General Plan land use designation from Neighborhood Commercial (NC) to Central Business District (CBD) for the same property in the City as described above. The adoption of the aforementioned ordinance and resolution are both Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061.b.3 of the CEQA Guidelines, because adoption of the ordinance amending the Winters Municipal Code to rezone the subject property and adoption of the resolution amending the General Plan are covered by the general r ule that CEQA applies only to projects causing a significant effect on the environment, and this project does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.

At the public hearing, the City Council shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed Ordinance and Resolution. At any time prior to the public hearing, any person may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to dave.dowswell@cityofwinters.org. In addition, the staff report will be available on the City’s website on 05/24/24

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in these hearings, please contact Deputy City Clerk Sterling Thomas at (530) 795-4910, ext. 101. Please make your request as early as possible and at least one-full business day before the start of the hearing. The City does not transcribe its hearings. If you wish to obtain a verbatim record of the proceedings, you must arrange for attendance by a court reporter or for some other means of recordation. Such arrangements will be at your sole expense.

If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, the challenge may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council prior to the public hearing.

Availability of Documents: Copies of the Staff Report will be available on the City’s website www.cityofwinters.org

For more information regarding this project, please contact David Dowswell, Contract Planner, at (530) 794-6718 or at dave.dowswell@cityofwinters.org 5/15/24 #72482

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

Winters,

Winters

student

See SLUG, Page 3

Lake Berryessa water levels down

The water level of Lake Berryessa went down during the past week by 0.19 feet, with a decrease in the storage of 3,579 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, May 14, the lake level was 439.48 feet above sea level, with storage computed at 1,541,489 acre-feet of water. Evaporation on the lake averaged 245 acre-feet of water per day. The SID is diverting 385 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 50 cubic feet per second flowing at the Diversion Dam.

145 Years Ago

May 17, 1879

(From the files of The Winters Advocate)

John Ish has gone to Berryessa Valley to put Mr. Bottorff’s harvesting machinery in order for the coming season.

Mr. Thissell, of Pleasant Valley, shipped two boxes of apricots to San Francisco on Thursday — the first of the season.

The palace-car, “Sacramento,” containing some of the C.P. magnates, went up the road yesterday morning.

County script has dropped to 90 cents — that is the Bank of Woodland only offers that much. We believe there are private parties paying more than this, however.

Two new saloons have been opened in Winters preparatory to the summer campaign, one by Jos. Murray in the room formerly occupied by Clark’s law office, and another in the Winters Hotel. Eight saloons ought to keep the inhabitants from getting very dry.

While in Woodland last week we stepped into the office of DePue & Co., and were shown some of the drawings from which lithographic views are being made for insertion in the Historical Atlas of Yolo County. These views are per-

FILED

fect gems, and show that this firm employ none but the best artists.

One of the finest fields of wheat in Yolo county is that of the Hill Bros., situated just northeast of town. It is the Club variety sown on summer-fallowed land, and looks as though it would yield fifty bushels to the acre.

130 Years Ago

May 19, 1894

We have had the so-called industrial army, or rather a branch of it, with us this week. The men came here, as they claimed hunting work, but we have yet to hear of their having applied in person to those who are credited with having work to give. Constable Womack was selected to go to the leader of the industrials and ask that he and his men leave here, as their presence was a burden upon the town, which could ill be borne at this time. The leaders agreed to leave if the citizens would give them $5 with which to get their supper and breakfast. This was done and Wednesday morning the army left, but only went as far as the Wolfskill warehouse in Solano county. There, the men went into camp until evening. A guard was then left with the baggage and 81 men

FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20240303 4/4/2024 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business MCARAVY RANCH

Physical Address: 30130 COUNTY ROAD 5, DUNNIGAN CA 95937

Mailing Address: 606 19TH ST, PACIFIC GROVE CA 93950

Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential

Address, State, and Zip: LINDA K DETTLING, 606 19TH ST, PACIFIC GROVE CA 93950

Business Classification: INDIVIDUAL

Date of Business: 3/1/2024 /s/ LINDA K DETTLING Title of Officer Signing: OWNER

I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal. Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo

Published MAY 15, 22, 29, JUNE 5, 2024 #72560

Letters Policy

The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. Letters contribute to community discussion. Express Letters to the Editor guidelines: Letters should not exceed 350 words. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. We accept “thank you” letters naming local individuals and businesses only. Non-local names will be edited out. “Thank you” notices containing non-local individuals or businesses must be published as paid advertising to: ads@wintersexpress.com. We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity or clarity, or to reject any letter. Letters must be legibly signed by the writer. We reserve the right to determine legitimacy.

Mail letters to: The Winters Express, PO Box 520, Winters, CA

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

started on the march through Pleasant valley. At. F.W. Wilson’s they picked up a Jap and made him go along. At various other places they picked up Japs and Chinese and when they arrived in Vacaville, Thursday morning, they had about 40 of them in charge.

The officers and citizens of Vacaville immediately organized and put the whole army under arrest, and 75 men started with them to Suisun. The army by this action has placed itself outside of the pale of sympathy of every law abiding, fair-minded man, and should receive the full penalty of the law for its transgressions.

Work was begun Tuesday morning on the new shed for the Earl Fruit Company Vacaville carpenters have the contract for building the shed.

Mrs. Johnston of Berryessa valley, mother of the Johnston Bros. and F.E. Johnston the Napa lawyer, celebrated her 79th birthday anniversary on Friday

of last week. Her sons were all with her that day

95 Years Ago

May 17, 1929

T.H. Fenley celebrated his 71st birthday anniversary Sunday. He was the honor guest at a family dinner held at at Winters Hotel where he resides.

Union School will have its graduation exercises at the school house on Thursday night, May 23. The three graduates are Elizabeth Guthrie, Helen Ruth Gilliam and John Fredericks. Winter-Haven Dairy and Ice Cream Parlors opened Saturday. All the kiddies were treated to cones on opening day. It is in the Bertholet Building. Mermod Bros. are proprietors.

L.A. Islip, secretary of Winters Exchange Club, leaves for Pasadena Sunday to attend the State Cdonvention of Exchange as delegate from the Winters club.

The eighth grade pupils of the grammar school enjoyed a swim

Legal Advertising

at Crowder’s yesterday afternoon. Grammar school closes today for the summer vacation period.

Carl Holmes came up from San Francisco where he is attending Heald’s Engineering school, to spend the week-end with relatives.

Misses Patty Baker, Genevie Dexter, Margaret Joerger, Glenna Sanders, all students at U.C., are at their respective homes for the summer vacation.

The Winters Canning Company has filed a petition asking for authority to change its name to the Geo. N. Edwards Investment Co.

Mrs. Everett Sidwell visited in Vacaville this week with her parents Mr. and Mrs. Fred Belz.

80 Years Ago

May 19, 1944

John T. Rogers of Davis won in the supervisor contest in this district defeating Supervisor R.C. Cassel in the three Winters precincts by 34 votes and in the Davis district by 47 votes.

Two Winters boys who are members of the 24th division, St. Sgt. Ted Dunnagan and Tony Garcia of the Medical Corps, saw action for the first time in the capture of Hollandia Dutch New Guinea.

Lt. Charles Graf has been awarded an air

medal and oak leaf cluster for meritorious performance as navigator aboard a Flying Fortress. Graf is “somewhere in England.”

Richard Rominger has won the valedictorian honors this year at the high school, having maintained a high scholastic record throughout the four years. Sara Lopez, salutatorian, is also class president.

Al Fortna, head of the Yolo County Farm Labor Association reported about 100 Mexican Nationals were scheduled to arrive on the 23rd and 24th, and would be available for Winters employers.

Miss Jean Stith was dinner host Friday night in her home on west Abbay street, preceding the Junior Prom at the High School. Hostess’ guests were Misses Jean Hoskins, Marian Palmer, Beverly Merchant, and Messrs. John Griffin and Ted Eaton.

Tent space is filling rapidly at the Labor Camp as the harvest approaches, and new families are arriving daily. According to the camp clerk, there was a population of 44 families, 182, in the aggregate, Saturday, April 29.The labor cottages adjoining have all been occupied all winter, and their population is not included in tent platform figures.

The Winters Joint Unified School District's proposed 2024-2025 Local Control and Accountability Plan and budget will be available for public inspection at https://www.wintersjusd.org/ and at the District Office, 200 Baker Street, Winters, CA 95694, beginning on June 3rd, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. A public hearing will be held on the proposed 2024-2025 Local Control and Accountability Plan and budget on June 6th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the District Office, 909 West Grant Ave., Winters, CA 95694. 5/15/24 #72492

Waggoner Elementary School teachers and administration implemented a Transitional Kindergarten (TK) curriculum pilot during the 2023-24 school year. The curriculum pilot team conducted a collaborative review on April 9, 2024 and unanimously recommended Frog Street for California Curriculum (PublisherFrog Street) for adoption. The Winters JUSD Board of Trustees considered these instructional materials on April 18, 2024 (information only). These materials are on display for public review at the Winters Joint Unified School District office, located at 200 Baker Street, Winters, CA, through June 5, 2024. The Board will take action on the recommendation to adopt the curriculum on June 6, 2024. 5/1, 8, 15, 22, 29 #72167 LEGAL NOTICE

AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal. Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo Published APRIL 24, MAY 1, 8, 15, 2024 #71977

Stay updated on all the local news and happenings. Get a Winters Express print and digital subscription combo for $30.

A thought-provoking look at human nature in ‘12 Angry Jurors’

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

In a society where “othering” is blatant, and facts and opinions are muddled together, the Winters Theatre Company’s production of “12 Angry Jurors” is not only relevant but points out that things have not changed over time since the original 1954 teleplay it is based on was first written.

The original teleplay, “12 Angry Men” by Reginald Rose, was adapted for the 1957 movie production starring Henry Fonda and Lee J. Cobb and is the base for “12 Angry Jurors” also written by Rose and directed by WTC’s Rodney Orosco.

The narrative features 12 jurors deliberating the guilt or innocence of a teen from the slums of New York who is accused of murdering his father. With the first vote, 11 jurors think he’s guilty and willing to do anything to end deliberations so they can go home. However, one juror has doubts, and jurors sort through the facts and high emotions to debate whether or not

there is a reasonable doubt present in the case until eventually the tally is flipped and a lone juror stands firm with a guilty vote. The cast brought their all to the production and gave a powerful and moving performance. Although the original was written in the 1950s amid the start of the American civil rights movement, the story and feelings portrayed could have easily been a representation of current events.

With a nod to women’s representation under the leadership of Cameron Toney as Juror No. 1 to the calm efforts of Chris Taloff as Juror No. 4 to help ground the conversations, a tremendous nod goes to Janene Whitesell who portrayed Juror No. 8 (the role played by Henry Fonda in the 1957 movie.)

Whitesell kept a level head during high-emotional outbursts, courageously stood firm as the lone “No” vote at the beginning, and asked the questions not asked in the trial. She also fearlessly engaged jurors in the re-enactments

of case scenarios to spotlight facts and took advantage of the right to disagree in the process of democracy. Another nod goes to Spencer Alexander, who portrayed Juror No. 3 (the role played by Lee J. Cobb in 1957) and Luke Michaels as Juror No. 10, who provided the friction and rather ugly side of human behaviors.

Alexander expressed the emotion and anger of his character that made you want to hate him. He gave the audience a

QUICK

Continued from Page 3

Horseshoe is a new olive orchard. I also noticed a new olive orchard on Highway 128 just outside of town. I can’t imagine rolling

SENIORS’ MURAL TOUR & LUNCH

climactic cliff-hanger at the end of Act 2 where in a fit of combative rage he went after Whitesell proclaiming “I’m going to kill you” — flipping the narrative from earlier about how a witness claimed to hear the young man on trial of saying the same thing.

From Alexander’s seething, red-faced bouts of anger and his interruption of other jurors to his meltdown as the lone “guilty” vote, I was left torn between a strong dislike

of the character and almost feeling sorry for him by the end of the play.

Michaels relentlessly tried to convince other jurors that “them” people are always up to no good because that’s just how “they” are. Kudos to Bridget O’Flaherty (Juror No. 5) for embracing the emotions of a character who grew up in the slums and Shane Robert (Juror No. 11) a “foreigner” who immigrated to the United States.

O’Flaherty and

the dice on a crop 5 or more years from now. I was thinking that we might see more grapes being planted, but how much wine can we drink? If farmers can find a processor we might be seeing more tomatoes growing where they took out the walnut orchards. The price that farmers receive for walnuts is now under their production cost, mainly because there are too many acres of walnuts in the world.

REPORT Continued from Page 4

Robert had enough of being “othered” by Michaels and spoke out, with other jurors following suit later in the play.

A lineup of other characters brought in bits of comedy and relatable situations to cut through the high emotions. The performance on Saturday, May 11, was remarkable and I encourage the community to check it out.

For Winters High School graduates, a special acknowledgment to Germain Hupe who portrayed Juror No. 9. She left me with shivers down my spine with her looks of disappointment and firm, direct statements like, “It’s difficult to stand alone…” I never wanted to be on the receiving end of her disappointment and her performance of shooting looks toward Alexander confirmed that I still do not want to be on it.

WTC’s “12 Angry Jurors” has one more weekend of performances at the Historic Winters Opera House. The doors open at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 17, and Saturday, May 18, and at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. Tickets are available online at

atre.org.

I do question why walnuts are still so expensive in the store.

p.m., Wolfskill Street/First Street, Vehicle Tow May 6: 8:02 a.m., Second Street/Edwards Street, Traffic Colli-

If you were a farmer, what would you do? I would think it is a good time to retire. A classmate, Howard, said it best. “We live poor and die rich.” Have a good week.

sion

~11:50 a.m., 100th block of E. Grant Avenue, Traffic Collision ~7:32 p.m., 10th block of E. Grant Avenue, Audible Alarm For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.

Christian Molina/Courtesy photo

(Center) Spencer Alexander (Juror No. 3) lashes out at Janene Whitesell (Juror No. 8).

(Left) Luke Michaels (Juror No. 10) steps in to hold him back in his fit of rage.