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Stroke awareness for seniors News, Page 2
New homes, new beginnings for Yolo youth Features, Page 1
Volume 142, Number 50 — Locally-owned since 1884
The hometown paper of A.E. Danzero
Winters, Yolo County, California, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
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Winters Middle School music students River Mayes, Webby Williams and Kira Olmos have earned spots in the 2025-26 California All-State Honor Choir and Band. They perform on Jan. 17 in Sacramento.
Logan Chrisp/Winters Express
Jose Diaz, owner of Ample Electric, and members of his Winters-based team celebrate being named the 2025 Business of the Year.
Winters students reach Ample Electric named All-State Music honors 2025 Business of the Year By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
EXPRESS
Three Winters Middle School students will showcase their talents on a statewide stage after being selected for the 2025-26 California All-State Honor Choir and Band. Over 800 auditions were submitted for the Junior High Honor Choirs and more than 900 for the Junior High Honor Bands this year. After careful review by panels of judges, only the most exceptional musicians were invited to perform. Winters Middle School
music students Webby Williams (choral), Kira Olmos (choral), and River Mayes (instrumental) earned spots in this elite group. “This is an enormous achievement, and we’d like to give our biggest congratulations to them,” said Winters Middle School music teacher Matthew Loya. The performances will take place at Sacramento’s Memorial Auditorium, 1515 J St., on Saturday, Jan. 17. The Junior High Choirs will perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the Junior High Bands will perform at 5 p.m. Admission is free.
The power of music For River Mayes, an eighth-grader in Advanced Band, this
marks a return to All-State after participating last year. “I got in last year and thought I had a good chance to get in again, especially considering I am much more skilled currently,” he said. Mayes added that the experience makes him “a much better musician, learning from others” and has given him “a passion that I can actually put to use.” Eighth-grader Webby Williams, who sings in Advanced Choir, described choir as “my love, my life, and my lady.” She said earning a spot in All-State “gives more purpose to the hours I have spent practicing and training for
See MUSIC, Page 4
Index Features ........................ B-1
We at he r Date
Rain
High
Low
Jan. 07
.00
63˚
46˚
Jan. 08
.00
66˚
36˚
Jan. 09
.00
57˚
45˚
Jan. 10
.00
61˚
32˚
Eventos hispanos ....... A-5
Jan. 11
.00
61˚
33˚
Jan. 12
.00
63˚
31˚
Opinion ......................... B-1
Jan. 13
.00
63˚
31˚
Real Estate ................... B-2
Rain for week: 0.00 in. Season’s total: 13.51 in. Last sn. to date: 9.55 in.
Classifieds ................... B-4 Community .................. A-2
Sports ........................... B-5
Winters rainfall season began 7/1/25. Weather readings are taken at 9 a.m. daily by local weatherman Joe Bristow.
By Logan Chrisp
Express staff writer The Winters District Chamber of Commerce has honored Ample Electric as the 2025 Business of the Year. The award, one of four given out by the chamber during the annual Toast of Winters festivities, recognizes businesses that serve as role models, providing contributions to the Winters community that extend beyond the services they offer to
their customers. Owner Jose Diaz purchased Ample Electric in 2009, when it was a small operation with just two people working out of a garage on Baker Street. Sixteen years later, the company has grown into a major electrical and civil contractor. Ample’s footprint now extends from San Francisco to Fresno, all while remaining rooted in Winters. At the peak of operations, Ample
Electric employs around 120 people between its Winters and newly opened Sacramento offices. Even with both locations, Diaz and his team sometimes struggle to find space for all their employees. Despite the growth, Diaz has kept Ample Electric firmly planted in the Winters community. Diaz moved to Winters with his family in the early 1990s, trading big-city life for
See BUSINESS, Page 4
Marovich honored as Senior Citizen of the Year By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent If you had canoed down Putah Creek in 2000, it would have felt “like canoeing through a landfill,” said Rich Marovich, the first Putah Creek Streamkeeper and the 2025 Senior Citizen of the Year Award honoree. Each year, the award — part of the Winters District Chamber of Commerce’s Toast of Winters community awards — is presented to a Winters resident who has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life in the community. The health and well-being of Winters’ environment contribute to life in ways that can’t be measured, and this year’s awardee played a central role in that improvement. Before Marovich’s tenure, Putah
See MAROVICH, Page 5
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Rich Marovich, the first Putah Creek Streamkeeper and 2026 Senior Citizen of the Year, has spent more than two decades restoring and protecting Putah Creek and its habitat.
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A2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Community Local man arrested after New 2026 laws affect law early-morning standoff enforcement, firearms Express staff Winters police arrested a local man early Sunday after he allegedly assaulted an officer and barricaded himself inside a residence following a reported prowling incident, authorities said. The incident began around 4:18 a.m. Jan. 11, when police responded to a report of a prowler in the backyard of a home in the 300 block of Hillview Lane, according to a Winters Police Department social media post. The reporting party said an unknown man fled into a neighboring property after being confronted. An officer responding to the scene attempted to contact a man matching the description. The individual, later identified as Miguel Angel Solano, 31, of Winters, allegedly refused to comply with commands and
punched the officer several times before fleeing into the garage of a nearby residence. Winters police requested assistance from the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office, Woodland Police Department and the California Highway Patrol. Fire and emergency medical services were also dispatched to stand by for any potential medical emergencies, Police Chief John P. Miller said. Using a public-address system, officers ordered occupants of the residence to exit. Four residents complied and told officers the suspect was their son. They also reported that an 11-year-old child was asleep inside the home. Police said Solano exited the residence multiple times but continued to refuse commands. Officers deployed a K-9 and
a less-lethal pepper ball projectile, but Solano fled back into the house and barricaded himself in the attic. During the incident, officers learned Solano had apparently tampered with a gas line in the garage, Miller said. As a precaution, the Winters Fire Department shut off gas service to the home to minimize any potential risk to the public. Because Solano had been identified, the alleged crime was felony resisting arrest, and family members said they did not feel threatened by his presence, officers decided to disengage and seek an arrest warrant, police said. Officers returned to the area later that morning, made contact with Solano and arrested him after a brief struggle, according to police. One officer sustained
See STANDOFF, Page 4
Lunch gathering looks at ‘Seniors and Strokes’ Express staff Meals on Wheels Yolo County’s Café Yolo Social Dining will host a “Seniors and Strokes” lunchand-learn on Thursday, Jan. 22, at the Winters Community Center. Tom Hoag, manager of the Woodland Community Stroke Support Group, will present on recognizing and responding to strokes, including ways to reduce risk. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. and is free for diners age 60 and older. Reservations are required
at least 24 hours in advance by emailing welcome@mowyolo.org or calling 530-662-7035. The presentation starts at 1 p.m. Café Yolo Social Dining provides food, friendship, and fun every Thursday in Winters, with weekly programs at four other Yolo County locations. For more information and a full schedule, visit mowyolo.org/nutrition-access/cafe-yolo-social-dining-2 and mowyolo.org/nutritionaccess/engagement.
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By Angela Underwood Express correspondent As California rolls out new laws in 2026, several pieces of legislation could affect local law enforcement practices and firearms regulations in Winters. Police Chief John P. Miller provided a breakdown of how these changes — from officer identification requirements to stricter gun storage rules — may influence public safety and law enforcement operations in the community. The following laws pertain to California law enforcement, beginning with SB 627, which makes it a crime for a law enforcement officer to wear a mask or facial covering while performing their duties. “The law affects local peace officers as well as federal agents,” Miller said. “Officers could face civil penalties for false arrest or imprisonment of an individual if they are wearing a face covering.” Furthermore, the chief noted that the CPCA supported AB 250 and opposed SB 627, as publicized, since it was “aimed at ICE.” “State legislation does not have jurisdiction, and municipal law enforcement does not have the authority to enforce,” Miller said, adding that President Trump’s Administration presently challenges that law.
Like the other bills, SB 805 is based on law enforcement, requiring California officers who are not wearing a uniform to visibly display identification that includes their agency and either name or badge number. “The law also makes it a misdemeanor to impersonate a law enforcement officer,” Miller said, adding, “A bill aimed at undercover/plain clothes federal law enforcement (ICE), but as mentioned above, no local jurisdiction.” The Winters PD uniform policy requires wearing a “staff” uniform, including a polo shirt with an embroidered badge, name and rank, or, if in plain clothes and not undercover, displaying a badge. The last two laws deal with firearms, beginning with SB 53, which “toughens gun laws by requiring firearms stored in the home to be locked up in a safe or other secure device when not immediately being handled.” Miller said the new legislation closes a loophole that allowed unsecured storage if the gun owner did not expect children to be present. “Not complying could result in a misdemeanor or felony,” Miller said. The police chief said SB 53 strengthens the current law intended to prevent children or
Yolo County residents are invited to learn the basics of fruit tree care during a free, interactive class led by UC Master Gardener Bonnie Berman on Saturday, Jan. 31. The class will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency Bauer Building in Woodland and is open to the public. Presented by HHSA, the class will cover fruit tree pruning, common fruit tree pests and methods for controlling them, as well as tips to help extend the lifespan of fruit trees. Winter is an ideal time for fruit tree maintenance to support healthy growth and productivity. The class is part of HHSA’s ongoing effort to provide educational opportunities that promote healthy
eating and active lifestyles. Pre-registration is required by Friday, Jan. 30. To register, contact Nick Gazda at Nick.Gazda@YoloCounty.gov or call 530-666-8429. The Bauer Building is located at 137 N. Cottonwood St. in Woodland, next to the HHSA Hanna and Herber Bauer Memorial Community Garden. Due to weather considerations, the class will be held indoors in the Walker and Thompson conference rooms. A free, informal garden and orchard tour with a question-and-answer discussion will follow the class, weather permitting. HHSA offers free community garden classes throughout the year. More information about upcoming garden activities and classes is available at www.YoloCounty. gov/garden.
WMS choirs to sing National Anthem at River Cats game
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other prohibited persons from accessing firearms, but the bill goes further by specifying details. “If a child or prohibited person is not reasonably likely to have access, firearms have to be secured if not ‘readily controlled,’” Miller explained, laying out the guidelines, including that a person or other authorized user is carrying the firearm on their person. “And the person or other lawful authorized user is within close enough proximity to the firearm to readily prevent unauthorized users from gaining access to the firearm,” Miller said of the bill already facing potential legal challenges. The police chief especially noted that the Winters Police Department offers gun locks free of charge. Lastly, AB 1127 prohibits the sale of Glock handguns that come with a trigger bar, making it easier to convert them into fully automatic weapons using a simple switch. “The law, which takes effect in July, does not affect current owners of Glock pistols,” Miller said, adding the bill prohibits the sale of certain weapons, specifically Glock/Glock clone pistols, due to their unique cruciform trigger bar.
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Winters Joint Unified School District middle school choirs will perform the National Anthem at the Sacramento River Cats game on Friday, April 10. Get tickets for students, parents, family, and friends at rivercatsgroups.com/wintersjusd. At least 100 tickets must be sold through the official link for the performance to take place. The school district encourages families and community members to share the link and support the students during this special event.
Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — A3
Express staff The water level of Lake Berryessa increased by 1.4 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 23,688 acrefeet of water storage, according to Eric Johnson, Operations at Solano Irrigation District – Putah Diversion Office. On the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 13, he reported that the lake elevation was 436.34 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,482,871 acre-feet. The SID released 50 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 40 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 52 acre-feet of water per day.
File photo
Obituary Craig Alan Jiminez
Winters Police Officer Albert Ramos looked nervous on his first week on the job in 1997. He looked more relaxed when he retired as a sergeant in December of 2025. Winters has been lucky with its police force for most of its 150 year history, thanks in part to officers like Albert. He will still be riding around town, just not in a vehicle with lights on top.
August 13, 1965 – December 17, 2025 Craig Alan Jiminez passed away at the age of 60 on Dec. 17, 2025. He served his country through the US Navy from 1990–1996. While he was in school at Mare Island, he met his future wife, Patti. Upon discharge, he entered the Napa Valley Police Academy and was hired by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department. In 2004, he went to the contract City of Lafayette. In May of 2006, he lateraled to the Fairfield Police Department and retired in 2018. He served in patrol, detective, firearms instructor, and as a SWAT team member. Upon retirement from Fairfield, he went to work for Sacramento County as a Security Officer. He was an avid IronMan triathlete, participating in many half and full races. If you’d let him, he’d enthusiastically tell you about his training and racing. He traveled to
~5:18 a.m., Apricot Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Public Safety Report City of Winters Courtesy graphic
Arizona to participate and did a few locally. Craig’s joy was speaking of his love for his family — his wife and four daughters. He was also a proud grandfather of four — three girls and one boy. Craig is survived by his wife of 30 years, Patti; four daughters, Nicole Harris (Colby), Kaytie Martell, Francine Burridge (Jeremy) and Julianna Jiminez, plus his four grandchildren. Internment was private at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California. A Celebration of Life will be Jan. 16, 2026, at Fairfield by Marriott, located at 702 Matsumoto Ln. in Winters, California, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.
Join us at the next Express Coffeehouse Chat! Friday, March 21 at 8 a.m. at Steady Eddy’s Coffee House Meet local leaders to ask questions or let them know about what you think is important in the Winters community.
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Fire Jan. 1: 1:12 a.m., Fredericks Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~10:20 a.m., E. Abbey Street/ First Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~9:38 p.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Jan. 2: 12:13 a.m., Walnut Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~10:58 a.m., First Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~12:41 p.m., Matsumoto Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
130 Years Ago January 18, 1896
The stockholders of the Winters Fruit Exchange met in regular annual session last Saturday afternoon, and elected the following directors for the coming year: William Sims, president; J.B. Griffin, A.B. Ish, A.L. Stinson, William Brinck, George North (secretary), and W.B. Sutliff. J.W. Woods has moved his blacksmith shop from the Lechleiter building to the building recently vacated by A.R. Bruhn on the corner of Railroad Avenue and Edwards Street. Rev. Downie has had a street lamp put up at the Baptist church corner. It is a great improvement and its light will prove a boon to pedestrians passing that corner at night. Sackett Bros. report 10 inches of rain for the storm at their
Jan. 3: 11:37 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~8:38 p.m., E. BakerStreet, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Jan. 4: 8:06 a.m., Edwards Street, Carbon Monoxide Alarm Jan. 5: 11:38 a.m., Second Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~11:36 p.m., County Road 31/ County Road 89, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Jan. 6: 12:39 a.m., Buckeye Road and County Road 31, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~5:04 a.m., E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Crystal Apilado, Editor-in-Chief Sydney Andrade, Staff Writer Logan Chrisp, Staff Writer Sonora Slater, Staff Writer David DeLeon, Advertising Sales T. Burt McNaughton, COO Charles R. Wallace, Publisher Emeritus
Police Report Log
Jan. 1: 8 p.m., 700th block of Railroad Avenue, Burglary ~1:54 p.m., Railroad Avenue/ Edwards Street, Towed Vehicle ~3:20 p.m., 200th block of Rosa Avenue, Battery Jan. 2: 10:50 a.m., 400th block of First Street, Death Investigation Jan. 4: 3 p.m., 100th block of Grant Avenue, Found Property Jan. 5: 5:30 p.m., Main Street/ Railroad Avenue, Hit and Run
View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www.cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log
Dispatches from the Express archives.
place. The fall as registered at the railroad depot is 5.97 for the storm and 9.88 for the season.
95 Years Ago January 16, 1931
James W. Pleasants, 63, lifelong resident of the Winters district and the son of the late W. J. Pleasants, after whom Pleasants Valley was named, died early Sunday morning at his home two miles south of town. Miss Thelma Little and Mrs. Robert Haze are planning the organization of a girls town basketball team. Mr. and Mrs. Elwood Sackett of Berkeley
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Years Ago
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Lake Berryessa water levels up
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were recent guests at the J.R. Griffin home. Wilfred Bigelow returned to Berkeley on Monday to take up U.C. work there. W.O. Russell accompanied his daughter, Miss Charlotte to Berkeley Saturday so she would be on hand to register for spring semester work Monday.
45 Years Ago January 15, 1981
Janet Johnston has received her invitation to the inaugural festivities surrounding the swearing in of Ronald Reagan as President of the United States on January 20. She has been invited to a concert and the inaugural ball, as well as the swearing-in ceremonies. Bit by bit, the unfinished portions of
the Winters Community Center are being completed, members of the building fund committee were told on Tuesday by design chairman Cecil Padilla. Padilla reported that private contractor Mel Norman and a crew of CETA workers under the direction of Winters Public Works coordinator Adrian Acebedo would be completing the plumbing work on the kitchen. Winters Junior High School now has a set of goal posts. They were installed on the athletic field by the school district’s maintenance staff during the vacation break. Matt Kimes is assisting in the operation with equipment from Kimes Hardware. This Friday night at 7 p.m., the boys varsity basketball team takes time out from its Butte View League schedule to host the faculty team. The faculty is out to avenge its 10686 loss from last year. Members on the faculty team include Jack Delbar, Dave Reynolds, Tom Crisp, Jeff Ingles, Paul Mariuzza, Herschel Whitley, Frank Pignataro and Augustine Sandoval.
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A4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Regional News Yolo DA’s bid to disqualify Dominguez trial judge denied By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media A Yolo Superior Court judge has denied allegations of bias by Yolo County prosecutors who sought to disqualify him from the second trial for accused Davis killer Carlos Reales Dominguez, and an outside judge who reviewed the challenge rejected the prosecution’s bid. In an order filed Monday, Sutter Superior Court Judge John Hinely said that, based on his review of court documents, “a reasonable person aware of the facts could not reasonably entertain a doubt that Judge (Samuel) McAdam would be biased in this matter. Accordingly, the people’s challenge … is denied.” Dominguez, the former UC Davis student accused of stabbing three people — killing David Breaux and Karim Abou Najm, and crit-
BUSINESS Continued from Page 1 farming roots that already ran deep in his family. He graduated from Winters High School in 2005 and has called the town home ever since. “Winters has been good to us,” Diaz said. “It’s a little gem. It’s hard to explain what Winters is like.” Geography also plays a role in Ample Electric’s location. Winters offers Diaz’s team a strategic hub roughly 40 minutes from both Sacramento and the Bay Area, ideal for servicing the Bay without being in it. Even more important, Diaz said, is the local talent pipeline. The company has successfully recruited many Winters High School graduates, some straight out of school and others after a few years in the workforce. “We have many graduates from Winters High School here,” Diaz said. “They either went to college or joined the apprenticeship program, and they’ve been fantastic team members.” Ample Electric has long participated in Winters High School’s career fair, often bringing union representatives to explain what working for a union shop entails. The company’s relationship with the city and school extends beyond recruiting. Each year, Diaz and his team help organize a charity golf tourna-
ically injuring Kimberlee Guillory — in Davis during the spring of 2023, returns to court Thursday to set a date for his second trial. His first trial last year ended in a mistrial after the jury acquitted him of first-degree murder but deadlocked on the remaining charges, including second-degree murder and attempted murder. Dominguez admitted to the stabbings but pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, contending that his untreated schizophrenia put him in a state of active psychosis. The mistrial precluded the trial from reaching a scheduled sanity phase to determine whether Dominguez understood his crimes were legally or morally wrong. The Yolo County District Attorney’s Office sought McAdam’s ouster from the case in December, alleging in a lengthy motion that the
ment that raises funds for local programs, including athletics, FFA and graduating classes. The tournament regularly sells out, and Diaz emphasized that 100% of the proceeds go back into the community. “It’s very transparent,” he said. “People trust how it’s run, and
judge repeatedly demonstrated bias against the deputy district attorneys who tried Dominguez the first time around. In the motion, Chief Deputy District Attorney Melinda Aiello said McAdam hampered Dominguez’s prosecutors by excluding or criticizing evidence they’ve sought to introduce, limiting their cross-examination of court-appointed experts, denying requests for trial delays to prepare their case and chastising them at sidebar discussions within earshot of jurors and courtroom spectators, among other alleged slights. “The People have given every benefit of doubt. However now, the cumulative effect of Judge McAdam’s conduct has demonstrated a clear and unmistakable bias,” Aiello wrote. “For the reasons so stated, the People respectfully re-
said. “It brings us joy to see that tree; it brings us joy to see our athletic program do so well.” Behind the scenes, Ample Electric operates at a scale that rivals much larger firms. Last year alone, the company logged roughly 300,000 work hours and drove more
“We have many graduates from Winters High School here. They either went to college or joined the apprenticeship program, and they’ve been fantastic team members.” Jose Diaz, Ample Electric owner the community really gets behind it.” During the holidays, Ample Electric and Diaz showcase their charitable side by donating labor and materials to light the Christmas tree in Rotary Park. The project, completed in partnership with Winters High School AG and FFA teacher Donnie Whitworth, required significant time and effort, all donated. Ample Electric also supports local sports. The company recently partnered with another business to purchase new uniforms for the Winters soccer team and has long supported the football program. “We don’t have to do it. But we’re grateful for the opportunities this community has provided us,” Diaz
than 770,000 miles across its fleet— enough to circle the Earth dozens of times. Despite the scope of its operations, Diaz said safety and quality remain non-negotiable priorities. “We had zero recordable safety incidents last year,” he said. “We
STANDOFF Continued from Page 2 minor injuries but did not require medical treatment. Solano was medically evaluated and booked into the Yolo County Jail on suspicion of felony resisting arrest. Due to limited staffing, Winters police said they were unable to provide real-time updates on social media during the incident. Resi-
quest that Judge McAdam be disqualified from this case and that the case be reassigned to an impartial judge.” McAdam fired back in a 48-page verified answer filed a week later, disputing that he has “engaged in conduct a reasonable person would perceive as an appearance of bias.” “I have made lawful court decisions and have exercised reasonable control of the proceedings. The parties have received fair hearings,” McAdam wrote. “I have an open mind as to all matters in this case, especially because this matter is to be set for retrial. I ask the reviewing court to find that the People have not met its burden and that I am not disqualified from this case.” In accordance with the state Code of Civil Procedure, the California Judicial Council appointed
double-check and triple-check everything we do… we are very fair and very good at what we do, and that goes a long way.” That pride, Diaz said, is what defines Ample Electric more than anything else. “We’re just a smaller local shop that’s proud to be here and try to be part of Winters,” he said. “It’s a lot of good, hardworking people who want to do good for themselves. Everybody tries hard, and everybody takes a lot of pride in what we do. It’s the brand we’ve created.” The 2025 award winners Ample Electric (Business of the Year), The Guerrilla Gardeners (Theodore Winters Award), Rich Marovich (Senior Citizen of the Year) and Gloria Lopez (Citizen of the Year) will be honored at the Toast of Winters on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Winters Community Center. Tickets are available at Eventbrite or bit.ly/ toast25tickets. dents in the affected area were notified through the Everbridge emergency notification system. Winters PD encourages residents to register for emergency notifications at www. alertyolo.org. Residents who are registered but did not receive an alert during the incident can verify their contact information or contact the Yolo County Office of Emergency Services at oes@yolocounty. gov or calling 2-1-1.
Hinely, the Sutter County judge, to conduct an impartial review of the DA’s challenge. In his 16-page decision, Hinely repeatedly noted that despite their multiple examples of alleged judicial bias, “the People provided no legal authority that Judge McAdam’s ruling constituted legal error and sought no appellate review.” “The evidence presented by the People does not establish objective bias or prejudice against them,” Hinely wrote. “It merely shows the People’s disagreement with Judge McAdam’s interpretation of, and application of, law to the facts of the underlying case.” Aiello, the chief deputy district attorney, declined to comment on Hinely’s ruling or whether her office would pursue a further review of the issue.
MUSIC Continued from Page 1 this.” Williams also credited Loya for creating “a community in advanced choir that allows everyone to be themselves and try without fear of failing.” Seventh-grader Kira Olmos, also in Advanced Choir, said she auditioned because she “wanted to experience something bigger” and improve her singing. “I feel amazing to be selected for AllState! I feel very proud of myself, especially since singing in front of people can be stressful,” she said. Olmos said encouragement from her family, friends and Loya was instrumental to her success. All three students stressed the dedication required to prepare for All-State auditions. Williams described the process
LAWS Continued from Page 2 “However, it should be noted that it is already a felony to possess a switch and another felony to convert a weapon to a fully automatic state, and federal crimes,” Miller said,
“Their hard work, passion, and commitment have earned them this extraordinary honor.” Matthew Loya, music teacher as “painstakingly hard, and incredibly frustrating,” while Mayes noted that Winters’ small school system didn’t limit his ability to compete at a high level. Olmos said the program also offers “a chance to make amazing friends.” “These students represent the very best of Winters Middle School music,” Loya said. “Their hard work, passion, and commitment have earned them this extraordinary honor.” also noting that this bill also faces legal challenges.
Editor’s Note: This article is the second in a multi-part series examining new California laws taking effect in 2026 and their potential impact on residents.
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Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — A5
Eventos hispanos Distribución de alimentos en Winters se traslada temporalmente al estacionamiento del edificio de capacitación de PG&E Por Crystal Apilado Traducido por Carol Alfonso El Banco de Alimentos de Yolo Food Bank está cambiando temporalmente la ubicación de su distribución de alimentos de fin de semana en Winters. Las distribuciones de los Sábados continuarán comenzando a las 11 a.m., pero durante Enero y Febrero, se llevarán a cabo en la Academia de capacitación de Seguridad del Gas de Pacific Gas & Electric Co., ubicada en 1 PG&E Way. Whitney Grunwald, gerente de programas del Yolo Food Bank, indicó que el cambio de ubicación estará vigente desde el Sábado 10 de Enero hasta el Sábado 28 de Febrero. Las distribuciones de los Sábados regresarán al estacionamiento de estudiantes de la Escuela Winters High el 1 de Marzo. El cambio se realizó para dar cabida a las familias de baloncesto juvenil de Winters, que utilizan el estacionamiento de estudiantes para sus programas deportivos los Sábados.
Detalles de la distribución en Winters Las distribuciones en las instalaciones de PG&E son solo para vehículos. Los asistentes deben ingresar por la entrada más alejada de PG&E Way, girando a la izquierda hacia el estacionamiento. Los vehículos
MAROVICH Continued from Page 1 Creek “had been neglected for decades.” “Putah Creek had been mined for gravel, there were 14 abandoned cars in the creek when I started, there was a lot of dumping… the vegetation was all dormant, and you could see all the trash through the dormant trees,” he said. “It seemed like it was everywhere.” The creek’s restoration required thousands of hours of planning, labor, and fundraising, resulting in the natural splendor residents enjoy today. Yet, if you asked Marovich — who has likely done more to restore and protect Putah Creek than anyone else — he would credit the community rather than himself. “Well, it’s truly not about me. It never has been about me; it’s about what we can collectively achieve,” he said. “(Restoring Putah Creek) wasn’t just my idea. I came to the community and said, ‘We did these physical and biological assessments, we identified all these problems, what do you think we should do about it?’” Marovich traced his conservation journey back to childhood, raising butterflies and exploring creeks in Palo Alto. “My first science project as a kid was rearing Monarch butterflies,” he said. “I’d collect milkweed for them every day.” He remembered a
serán dirigidos a dos filas que se fusionarán en una sola para la recogida de alimentos. Se les pide a los conductores que permanezcan en sus vehículos y sigan las instrucciones de los voluntarios. La salida es girando a la derecha desde el estacionamiento hacia el punto de acceso más cercano a Grant Avenue. Hay un mapa del sitio de distribución de PG&E disponible en yolofoodbank.org/find-food. Se realiza una distribución de alimentos adicional en Winters el primer y tercer jueves de cada mes a las 10 a.m. en RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St. Esta es una distribución a pie, y los participantes son responsables de transportar sus artículos. En Enero, esta distribución se realizará solo el Jueves 15 de Enero.
Distribuciones cercanas al oeste de la Interestatal 505 Esparto: Primer y tercer Jueves, 9:30 a.m., RISE, Inc., 17317 Fremont St. Solo a pie. Madison: Segundo y cuarto Lunes, 4 p.m., Madison Community Committee Food Closet, 28963 Main St. Solo a pie. Guinda: Segundo y cuarto Lunes, 9:30 a.m., Guinda Grande Hall, 16787 Forest Ave. Solo para vehículos; los asistentes deben permanecer en sus vehículos y seguir las instrucciones de
planter in front of a church that attracted every kind of butterfly, moth, and bee. “It was probably no bigger than 50 by 10,” he said. Marovich’s fascination extended to local habitats and animals. “I grew up in Palo Alto, where most of our creeks were cement-lined, but there would still be these phenomenal hatches of toads… I’d go down there with friends, collect them by the
Gráfico cortes
Un mapa muestra el flujo de tráfico, las rutas de entrada y salida para la distribución temporal de alimentos de Yolo Food Bank los Sábados en la Academia de Seguridad del Gas de PG&E en Winters. los voluntarios. Una lista completa de los puntos de distribución de alimentos del Condado Yolo, junto con el calendario de Enero del 2026, está disponible en inglés y español en yolofoodbank. org/find-food.
Reciba actualizaciones Los residentes pueden
flowing waterway, the Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee created the position of Streamkeeper and offered it to Marovich. “Putah Creek was a chance to put some conservation ideas into practice,” he said. “I had mostly been working a desk job… I wasn’t doing handson restoration, so that was the opportunity the job provided.” Marovich noted that his work at the
registrarse en FreshText, un servicio gratuito de Yolo Food Bank que envía recordatorios de distribución y avisos de cancelación por mensaje de texto el día anterior a cada evento. Para inscribirse, envíe por mensaje de texto la palabra clave correspondiente a su comunidad al 888-777: • Winters: “Almond”
“If I had the opportunity to do some restoration work and could raise grant money, they were all for it. The Water Agency never said no to these funding opportunities.” Over his tenure, Marovich secured more than $15 million in grants to reduce the creek’s neglect. Where the salmon count excited the team at about 70 in 2004, recent runs have exceeded 2,000, thanks to restored
“Restoring habitats for salmon and rare birds was where I wanted to focus, and we’ve had stunning success beyond anything imagined before the Putah Creek Accords were signed.” Rich Marovich bucket, and bring them home.” This early stewardship grew into a lifelong passion. “Then I got interested in growing plants. We had a community garden in Palo Alto, and I found a lifelong interest in propagating plants,” Marovich said. In 1988, he began a 30-year career with the California Environmental Protection Agency, protecting federal and state-listed animal species from habitat loss. In 2000, he had an opportunity to work on restoration plans for Putah Creek. As part of the Putah Creek Accords, which aimed to make the creek a perennially
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California EPA had focused on pesticide reduction, but he saw a bigger issue: habitat loss. “Restoring habitats for salmon and rare birds was where I wanted to focus, and we’ve had stunning success beyond anything imagined before the Putah Creek Accords were signed,” he said. He credited several organizations for making this success possible, including Solano County Water Agency, UC Davis, and particularly the Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee, which he described as “very indulgent” of his work.
spawning habitats. “I think everyone was caught up in the vision of doing something about this neglected creek,” he said. Marovich also praised the Winters community itself for making the work possible. “Winters is a marvelous community,” he said. “I feel more at home in Winters than maybe any place I’ve ever lived. The community pulls together and solves problems. They always achieve more than would be expected for a small town, from local sports teams to the high school robotics
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• Capay Valley: “Walnut” • Davis: “Tomato” Sacramento, • West Clarksburg: “Grape” • Woodland: “Olive” • North Yolo: “Rice” Para obtener más información sobre Yolo Food Bank o para conocer las oportunidades de voluntariado, visite yolofoodbank. org.
team competing nationally.” He noted the local Rotary Club’s role in supporting his work. “What makes Rotary — and Winters — special is when people step up to meet local needs. Rotary has been a vehicle, in parallel with the Lower Putah Creek Coordinating Committee, enabling all this work. But it’s always been driven by community involvement, dialogue, and pursuing shared interests,” he said. Since retiring from Cal EPA in 2018 and from Streamkeeper in 2022, Marovich has continued restoration work, now focusing on Monarch butterflies. “In addition to writing grant proposals for Solano County Water Agency, I worked with Solano RCD (Resource Conservation District) on recovering Monarch butterflies, growing nectar plants and milkweed, starting with a small grant from the Rotary Club of Winters,” he said. His efforts have
already borne fruit. “Over the last year, I grew more than 5,000 plants for Monarchs. We now aim to plant as many as willing landowners allow, creating way stations to support butterflies along their migration and provide for caterpillars.” Marovich expressed hope for Winters’ future, crediting the community’s openness and willingness to work together. “Being open to what emerges from group wisdom is perhaps the key to success more than anything else,” he said. He concluded by downplaying his own role in the creek’s restoration. “It’s through no brilliance of my own. Everything I’ve done has been borrowed from other people and their ideas. It’s been an honor to be part of this process, and what we achieved was through the dedication of many, especially the community itself, who decided they wanted better.”
A6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Arts & Entertainment Library announces January programs The Winters Community Library will offer a wide range of free programs for children, teens and adults throughout January, including movies, crafts, games, educational workshops and wellness activities. All-ages programs begin Friday, Jan. 23, with a Y2K Hits Movie Matinee from 2 to 4 p.m. The family-friendly event will feature a screening of Enchanted (2007), rated PG, with popcorn provided. A free Clothing Swap will be held Saturday, Jan. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring gently used clothing and take home new-tothem items. Donation items may be dropped off beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20, during library open hours. The library will celebrate National Puzzle Day on Wednesday, Jan. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. with Puzzle Day, featuring jigsaw puzzles, crosswords and
optional timed puzzle competitions for all ages. Child and family programs include Bilingual Storytime, held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., featuring stories and songs in two languages for children ages 5 and younger and their caregivers. Tummy Time will be held Friday, Jan. 16, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., providing a welcoming space for infants and their caretakers. Foam mats will be available, and expectant parents are welcome to attend. Teen programs include Game Space on Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 3:30 p.m., offering a social gaming environment for ages 10 to 18, and DIY Carabiner Keychains on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 1:30 p.m., where teens can design and decorate their own keychains. Adult programs include Technology Tuesday and Thursday, offered from 2 to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays
and Thursdays. The library provides free 30-minute technology help sessions by appointment for phones, laptops, tablets, e-readers and 3D printer assistance. Manos Creativas y Activas, a Spanish-language adult crafting program, will be held Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 6 p.m., featuring hands-on activities and healthy snacks. Start with Calm yoga class will be offered on Saturday, Jan. 24, at 9 a.m. The beginner-friendly vinyasa sessions conclude with a sound bath savasana. Participants should bring their own yoga mats. Adult Crafternoon will be held Monday, Jan. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m., welcoming crafters of all skill levels, while Casual Cribbage will take place Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m., with new players encouraged to attend. Additional details and event updates are available at yolocountylibrary.org/events.
Native American artist and composer to give art talk at UC Davis By Michael G. French Special to the Express Raven Chacon, a composer, performer and installation artist born at Fort Defiance, Navajo Nation, will give a talk as part of The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residencies in the Maria Manetti Shrem Art Studio Program at UC Davis on Thursday, Feb. 5, in the Anne E. Pitzer Center. The lecture begins at 4:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Doors open at 4 p.m. A recording artist over the span of 24 years, Chacon has appeared on more than 80 releases on national and international labels. He has exhibited, performed, or had works performed at LACMA, The Whitney Biennial, Borealis Festival, SITE Santa Fe, Swiss Institute Contemporary Art New York, and more. As an educator, Chacon is the senior
Composer, musician and artist Raven Chacon in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in February 2025. Ramsay de Give/ Courtesy photo
composer mentor for the Native American Composer Apprentice Project. In 2022, he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize in Music for his composition “Voiceless Mass,” and in 2023 he was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship. Chacon is the Winter Quarter spotlight artist in The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residencies. His artist talk is made possible with additional support from the Department of Music’s William E. Valente Endowment. On Friday, Feb. 6,
the Gorman Museum of Native American Art will host a student ensemble from the Department of Music performing Chacon’s “American Ledger No. 1” in the Gorman courtyard. The piece is about 20 minutes and begins at 4 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the performance will be held in the Ann E. Pitzer Center. The events are organized by The California Studio: Manetti Shrem Artist Residences in the Maria Manetti Shrem Art Studio Program.
Railway Museum hosts wildflower seeding event Special to the Express The Western Railway Museum will invite the public to help kick off another spring wildflower season with a hands-on train track wildflower seeding event on Saturday, Jan. 17. The annual event includes a Wildflower Seed Ball Workshop followed by a historic train ride during which participants will spread wildflower seeds along the museum’s Solano County rail lines. Organizers say the effort helps promote a vibrant spring bloom that draws visitors from across Northern California. Two workshop sessions are scheduled for Jan. 17, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Each session is followed by a train ride to distribute the seed balls along the tracks. Additional
activi-
ties will be featured throughout the day. The Fairfield-Suisun City Visual Arts Association will present floral-inspired art displays, and Sustainable Solano will offer an educational presentation focused on sustainability and native plants. The workshop and train rides will take place at the Western Railway Museum, 5848 State Highway 12,
Suisun City. Tickets and additional information about the workshops and train rides are available at the Western Railway Museum website at wrm.org. The Western Railway Museum is located in the Solano County countryside and is known for its historic rail collection, educational programs and seasonal events.
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The Adrian West Band will perform at The Melon Ball listening room at Watermelon Music in West Davis on Saturday, Jan. 31.
Adrian West Band heads to Melon Ball Special to the Express The Oakland-based Adrian West Band will perform a concert at The Melon Ball listening room at Watermelon Music in West Davis on Saturday, Jan. 31, at 7:30 p.m. The group is a sixpiece band with talented jazz pianist Michael Echaniz on the Steinway Grand Piano. As is their custom, they’ll play a mix of original acoustic rock, plus some covers and a few jazz tunes. The band will include two vocalists, acoustic guitar, electric violin, alto sax, upright bass, drums & live looping. Light refreshments will be
served, but BYOB is also allowed. Adrian West describes the band’s original material as “Paul Simon meets Talking Heads.” He takes delight in setting thoughtful lyrics to joyful music. His subject matter might veer a tad dark at times, but the underlying music is uplifting, giving the listener a richly layered experience. Joining West and Echaniz are Amy Obenski, vocals and percussion; Chris Haag, alto sax; Aaron Germain, upright bass; and Shawn Tennie, drums. Whether he’s telling a story about a
skinny-dipping episode gone awry or grappling with some major challenge facing humanity, his lyrics are infused with equal parts hope, realism and whimsy. The Melon Ball at Watermelon Music is at 1970 Lake Blvd., Suite 1. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the music starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20, available for purchase in advance at the Watermelon Music website (www.watermelonmusic.com) under Upcoming Events, or at the door. Students with a student ID are $15 (door only), and children younger than 12 are $8 (door only).
Teens gear up for Poetry Out Loud competition, workshops Special to the Express High school students across Yolo County are invited to step into the spotlight in January as Beats Lyrics Leaders launches a dynamic Poetry Out Loud workshop series, culminating in the YOLO County Poetry Out Loud competition from 3 to 4 p.m. Jan. 31, at the YoloArts Barn Gallery, 508 Gibson Road in Woodland. This free series is designed to help students sharpen their craft in poetry performance and prepare to compete with confidence on the county stage. Open exclusively to high school students, the workshop series will focus on building skills in interpretation, tone, flow, cadence, rhythm, presence and character, giving young performers the tools they need to bring classic and contemporary poems to life. Participants will have the opportunity to meet every Thursday in January from 6:30–7:30 p.m via Zoom. (Jan. 15, 22 and 29) for focused, high-energy sessions, followed by a live practice rehearsal on Jan. 30 and the countywide Poetry Out Loud competition on Jan. 31. Beats Lyrics Leaders, in partnership with YoloArts and the
national Poetry Out Loud program, will guide students through selecting and mastering three poems from the official Poetry Out Loud anthology, helping them develop strong public speaking skills, stage presence, and a deeper connection to language. By the end of the series, students will be fully prepped with three polished recitations and ready to represent their schools and communities in competition at one of Yolo County’s premier arts venues. Students can sign up to participate and receive all event details by completing the online form at https://forms.gle/1STKno6mj4bk9tFg7. Yolo County families, educators and local residents are encouraged to come out to the YoloArts Barn on Jan. 31 to cheer on local youths as they showcase their voices, courage and creativity. The first-place winner will receive $200; second place, $100; and third place, $50. Additionally, the winner will have the opportunity to compete on a state level and receive an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. For information, reach out to JRoss@BeatsLyricsLeaders.com.
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Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — B1
FEATURES
Local housing affordability
Wrestlers make gains
A taste of comfort in every bite
HOMES, Page 2
SPORTS Page 5
FOOD Page 6
Thursday, January 15 Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK or www.wintersjusd.org Thursdays Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, January 15 only first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food
Make It Happen for Yolo County volunteers help transition-age youths move furniture into a new apartment.
Friday, January 16 Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House Library Event: Game Space (Ages 9–17), 3:30 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Library Event: Manos Activas y Creativas (Ages 18 and older), 6 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Saturday, January 17 Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution, Saturdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, PG&E Gas Safety Academy parking lot, 1 PG&E Way, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food Monday, January 19 Library Event: Adult Crafternoon, 4 p.m., Winters Community Library, for adults 18 years and older, details online at yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Tuesday, January 20 Library Event: Infant Tummy Time, 1 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/
Library Services
Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m. Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library Virtual English Conversation Group, Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request. Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing
Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)
Ongoing
View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September thru May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 W. Main St. Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org Saved & Sober program, Thursdays, 7p.m., The Rock Church West, 201 Main St. Winters Open Mic, third Thursday, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.), Visit wintersopenmic.org 12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org Dance Fitness, - first/third Sundays February thru July, 8 to 9 a.m., Winters Community Library. No registration required. 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.
Courtesy photo
Make It Happen helps youths build first homes Nonprofit helps transition-age youths begin independent living By Angela Underwood Express correspondent Moving into a new home is exciting unless you are a young adult and have nothing to put in it; then it is daunting. But not with Make It Happen for Yolo County in their corner. The Davis-based nonprofit serves under-resourced transition-age youths in Yolo County as they move into a new place. “Since our founding in 2014, Make It Happen for Yolo County has helped hundreds of transition-age youths establish their first home,” Cathi Schmidt, executive director, said in a threepart series on the nonprofit. MIH assists youths from 16 years of age to young adults at 24 who are exiting foster care, the juvenile jus-
tice system, or being rehomed after living on the street. The idea began with co-founder and Board President Jan Judson. After several years of volunteering with California Youth Connection and the UC Davis Guardian Scholars Program, Judson observed the lack of resources available to help young adults furnish their first homes. The organization initially operated with a single storage unit in Davis and relied exclusively on donated household items from the community. In the first year, MIH assisted 12 clients. “Awareness of furniture poverty grew, and demand for services increased,” Schmidt said. “MIH secured funding to replace donations with new items for kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms, while continuing to receive gently used furniture from the Yolo County community.” MIH’s entirely volunteer-run organization became so successful that in 2023, the group secured
funding to hire Cathi Schmidt. “In 2025, we helped 68 clients and now utilize six storage units,” Schmidt said. “Since our founding, we have served 363 young adults, with the number of clients increasing each year in response to demonstrated need.” Schmidt said a majority of referrals are for youths over the age of 18, a predominantly underserved and vulnerable population, who have very limited, if any, familial support. “They are forced to grow up quickly due to their life circumstances and placement options,” Schmidt said. No support most often means fewer belongings, according to the executive director, who notes that clients are ready to move into a new place, owning only clothes. Board Secretary and Social Worker Erica Jimenez said most programs will assist the young adult in locating independent living housing, but they do not provide the financial means to
purchase items such as a sofa or even basic cooking or cleaning products. “If they are offered a stipend, it is typically only enough to cover the cost of rent,” Jimenez said. Jimenez detailed that while some housing options include household goods with the residence, young adults are charged for the items, leaving them with debt before even moving into their apartment. “Our program is unique, as the young adults come to our storage units with a wish list of items that they would like from what we have available, Schmidt said. “MIH also has a van available to transport their items to their residence in Yolo County.” Client testimony confirms the life-changing difference MIH makes. “I just wanted to say a huge thank you for taking the time to go through our wish list and get us what we need for a smooth move-in,” one young
See HOMES, Page 5
Are we going to police the world, or just the Americas?
I
don’t like to write about national politics, but I’m out of ideas this week, so I’ll just ramble to fill up my space. It is no secret that I don’t like President Trump, but if he says he is going to do something, he is going to do it. I may not like what he does, but I’m not surprised when he does it because he campaigned on changing things up. His domestic policies are a mess, and now he is threatening our NATO partners. Canada doesn’t want to be the 51st state and neither does Greenland, but who knows what President Trump will say, or do, after he wakes up and wants to see his name on the news. During his first try at being president, he bragged about not starting any wars, but now he is threatening everyone on the planet. I’m not sure I would have raided Venezuela and arrested their president, but he did. Now he is threatening Colombia, Cuba and Mexico. I don’t think that will help him get the Nobel Peace Prize that he so desperately wants.
He promised to end the war in Ukraine in his first week in office, but Russia doesn’t seem to want to stop bombing civilians until they own all of Ukraine. The rest of Europe needs to step up and find a solution to stop the killings in Ukraine. The war is in their backyard, and who knows whom Russia will invade next? Maybe I’m not paying attention, but I haven’t heard about any more local raids by ICE agents. His promise to only deport criminals turned out to be untrue, but he told us he was going to deport more illegals than anyone is history, and he is working hard at keeping his promise. Congress needs to come up with a real solution to our immigration problem, including a path to citizenship for those already in our country. When you have armed officers on the street, mixed with
angry protesters, it was only a matter of time until someone got shot. I do think that sometimes officers shoot too quickly, but I try not to judge, because there is no way that I would ever be a police officer. Someone will have to decide if the officer’s involvement in the shootings was justified, but it is rare that anyone is ever held accountable.
I
’ll admit that I don’t mind President Trump attacking drug boats on open water. I do wonder what is happening to the fish and wildlife when all those drugs hit the water? When we complain about all of the drugs coming into our country, we have to remember that we are supplying the demand. These are exciting times, and only time will tell if President Trump’s strategies will work before his second term is up in three years. If not, the next president will be inheriting a real mess. Did I mention that I need a vacation? Try to stay calm and have a good week.
B2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
How much home can you afford in Yolo County? Special to the Express By the third quarter of 2025, the tide seemingly began to turn in a housing market that had been marked by limited inventory since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. According to market indicators from Redfin, the National Association of Realtors and Homes for Heroes, housing inventory nationally increased by approximately 9.4 percent year-over-year, while price growth began to slow. The median existing home price in the United States reached $435,300 in June 2025, a modest 2 percent increase from the previous year. Price reductions also became more common compared to 2024, signaling a cooling in some segments of the market. While affordability concerns persist, these shifts have encouraged many prospective buyers to re-enter the market after several years on the sidelines. For those considering homeownership in Yolo County, understanding how much home one can realistically afford is more important than ever — particularly as local prices continue to exceed national aver-
Courtesy photo
Homebuyers weigh affordability and community appeal while searching for their next home in Yolo County. ages.
The Yolo County housing picture Yolo County remains one of the more expensive housing markets in the Sacramento Valley region. Median home prices countywide continue to hover in the low-$600,000 range, well above the national median. Meanwhile, the county’s median household income sits just under $100,000, creating a noticeable gap between earnings and the cost of purchasing a typical home. That gap means many buyers rely on dual incomes, larger down payments, or long-term financing
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strategies to make homeownership attainable. While inventory has improved modestly compared to the tightest pandemic-era conditions, supply remains constrained — particularly in established communities with limited new construction. Compared with surrounding counties, Yolo sits in the middle of the regional affordability spectrum. Sacramento County generally offers lower home prices, while Napa County remains significantly more expensive. Solano County varies widely by community, with some areas comparable to Yolo and others exceeding it. This regional positioning continues to make Yolo County attractive to buyers seeking a balance between cost, location, and lifestyle.
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Most experts recommend combining lender guidelines with an honest assessment of personal finances when determining how much home one can afford. Lenders closely examine a borrower’s debt-toincome ratio (DTI), which compares total monthly debt payments to gross monthly income. A lower DTI generally improves approval odds and access to better loan terms. Many lenders also use the 28/36 rule as a benchmark. Under this guideline, no more than 28 percent of gross monthly income should go toward housing expenses, while total monthly debt should not exceed 36 percent. For example, a household earning $120,000 annually should
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Fabulous Winters Ranch Home built in 2016, sprawling one story home with an extra wide lot, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, formal living room and dining room, office or den, 3 car garage with tons of storage cabinets. Great room style family room and kitchen, fantastic covered patio with ceiling fans, built-in BBQ fully landscaped with low maintenance vegetation. List price $750,000.
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Walk to Downtown Winters! Charming 3BD/2BA with open floor plan, fruit-filled backyard, and garage with drive-through potential. Great location, ready for your modern touch! $515,000.
SOLD! 8621 OLIVE SCHOOL LANE, WINTERS Enjoy breathtaking views from the deck of this beautifully updated home. Features include an open floor plan, modern kitchen, cozy fireplace, indoor laundry, and two upgraded bathrooms. Garage has a workout area or fits two cars. Property includes two outbuildings, fruit trees, and a small vineyard. A must-see! $1,150,000.
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aim to keep housing costs around $2,800 per month, with total debt payments under $3,600. Another common rule of thumb suggests buying a home priced at three to five times annual household income. In Yolo County, where median prices approach or exceed six times the median household income, many buyers must either stretch this guideline or adjust expectations by targeting different communities or home sizes.
Beyond the purchase price Interest rates and down payments play a major role in affordability. Higher rates reduce purchasing power, while larger down payments can lower monthly payments and eliminate private mortgage insurance. A 20 percent down payment is often recommended, but in Yolo County that can translate into a six-figure upfront investment. Buyers should also factor in ongoing expenses such as property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and future repairs. Affordability is not just about qualifying for a loan — it’s about maintaining financial stability over the long term.
Community differences within Yolo County Where a buyer chooses to live within Yolo County can significantly affect affordability. Winters consistently ranks among the higher-priced communities in the county, driven by strong demand for its smalltown character, historic downtown, and
proximity to Davis and Solano County. Home prices in Winters often align with or exceed countywide averages, requiring careful budgeting and planning. Esparto generally offers lower entry prices than Winters and many other parts of Yolo County, making it one of the more attainable options for homeownership. However, its smaller market can result in greater price variability depending on available inventory. Davis remains the county’s most expensive housing market, with prices fueled by limited supply and strong demand tied to UC Davis. Woodland often serves as a middle ground, offering a wider range of price points due to its larger housing stock and new construction activity. Together, these community differences highlight the importance of looking beyond countywide averages when deciding how much home one can afford. There is no single formula that determines how much home a buyer can afford. Income, debt, interest rates, down payment size, lifestyle priorities, and community preferences all factor into the decision. In Yolo County — and particularly in communities like Winters and Esparto — affordability is as much about planning and perspective as it is about price. As the housing market continues to evolve, buyers who understand both the financial guidelines and the local landscape will be better positioned to make confident, sustainable homeownership decisions.
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RECIPIENT OF THE YOLO COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS MASTERS CLUB SINCE 2012 FOR RENT. 3 beds, 1 bath. Super clean. Offered at $2,400. Call Chad for details (530) 219-7670 OUTSTANDING LOCATION. Great spot off the beaten path to build your dream home. Just out side of Winters heading towards Davis. 56+ acres of mature Hartley walnuts. Recently Refurbished ag well. Offered at $1,099,000. Call for private showing. OUTSTANDING LOCATION. Corner lot tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. 4 beds, 2 baths. A little under 2400 square feet. Single story with inground pool. Very nicely kept home with AMAZING curb appeal. Offered at $799,000. Call for details. 43 ACRES ALONG HIGHWAY 128. Across from Pleasure Cove resort area. Call Chad for details. Offered at $195,000. 7.7 ACRES OF HOWARD WALNUTS between Winters and Vacaville. Plenty of room to build that dream Home. Ag well and irrigation system is in. Call for details. Offered at $489,000.
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Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — B3
Sho Local
The tragic killing of Renee Good
S
he’d just dropped off her sixyear-old child for school. Her last words, as far as we know, were “That’s fine, dude. I don’t hate you.” Seconds later, three bullets fired at close range blew away her face. And the first words from ICE agent Jonathan Ross, after he killed her? “F--king B--ch.” What did I see happen? We hear at least one ICE agent tell her to get out of the car, while another agent told her to move her car out of there. Agent Ross was slowly walking around the front of her car, a violation of standard procedure for any law enforcement agent. And he was filming her on his cell phone, another violation of law enforcement policy. She backed up to get around Agent Ross. As Agent Ross walked toward the left side of her car, she turned the wheel hard to the right, as you can see clearly on one video, and began to drive by him. As she turns to the right and accelerates,
Agent Ross fires his weapon three times at point-blank range. Her car continued down the street — it’s very common for the leg of a suddenly dead driver to straighten and continue to press the gas pedal. It does not appear that her car ever touched him. Agent Ross fired at least two shots from the side of her car, with his left leg and foot, closest to her car, at least 12 inches clear of the car.
I
f she hit him with any part of her car, it could only have been a tiny graze, perhaps the edge of his pants. Note that Agent Ross did not fall, did not stumble, he didn’t even flinch. He just quickly pocketed his phone and pulled out his gun, took two quick steps to his right, and fired. After shooting her, he did not in any way indicate that he had been hit or injured. He simply walked away, chatted with a couple of other agents, hopped into an unmarked car and drove away.
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See POINT, Page 4
Horoscopes ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) Minor obstacles are in your path, Aries. It’s easy to get frustrated right now. Once you clear the hurdles it will be smoother sailing before long. Remain patient. TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) You treasure family and friends, Taurus. This week calls for an important decision that could affect them all. It may be challenging, but you will make the right call. GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) Gemini, you may have to reset your priorities, as new information has come to the surface. Prioritize responsibilities so major issues are taken care of first. CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22) Unavoidable situations may cross your path this week, Cancer. It is important that you stay the course. Committing to tackling things head-on is the most productive approach. LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) It may be tempting to shirk your responsibilities right now, Leo. Resist that temptation. Keep your head down and keep on working. It will soon prove worth it. VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) Virgo, be confident and listen to your instincts, Libra. Do so before taking on any important tasks that might turn up in the days or weeks to come. A surprise might be around the corner. LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) Your energy will remain high this week, Libra, enabling you to come up with some innovative ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options. SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) The conditions are right for finishing an important task, Scorpio. You will be able to come up with wonderful ideas that have true staying power. Pursue your options. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) Sagittarius, you have been working hard lately and this may result in an overactive and tired mind. You should factor in a break so you can recharge your body and spirit. CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) Focus on keeping your cool even if that proves difficult, Capricorn. Be the bigger person in all of your interactions. You have a strong ability to control of your emotions. AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) Aquarius, you may feel uneasy or worried for unknown reasons. Trust your gut in this instance and steer clear of trouble should it try to get in your way this week. PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) Family tops your list of priorities right now, Pisces. You are likely to spend considerable time with loved ones in the days to come. Relish in all the opportunities to connect.
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B4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
POINT Continued from Page 5 There is absolutely NO evidence that he was injured. After this needless death of Renee Good, did our federal leaders suggest caution, calmness, patience, compassion, grief or advise us to wait for a complete investigation? Did they say we must work to see that this never happens again? No. Nothing like that at all. The response from our Government leaders was vicious, punitive and full of anger and lies. President Trump said that Renee Good was “obviously a professional paid radical liberal agitator …. “disorderly, obstructing, resisting, who violently, willfully, and viciously ran over the ICE agent.” He also said that “the ICE agent was badly injured, and needEstate Sale Sat 1/17 10am - 3pm 178 Berryessa Dr, Napa CA (Lake Berryessa) Furn, Lamps, Sm Kitchen Appliances, SS Refrig, Chest Freezer, All Kind of Household Items, Antique Bell & Maytag Wash Mach, Outdoor Water Fountains & Decorative Statues, Shop Machinery, Lrg Amts of Tools, Garden Tools, Gas Powered Golf Cart & so much more.
“There’s just no evidence she was a domestic terrorist, or a paid liberal radical, or was trying to run over Agent Ross.” ed hospitalization,” which was clearly false. Vice President Vance said that Agent Ross “deserves a debt of gratitude”, and that “Americans should thank Ross, as this guy actually did a very, very important job for the USA, …. saving his colleagues from a crime against America by the far left lunatic fringe.” Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Director, called Renee
Good a “domestic terrorist,” who had “weaponized her vehicle” to attack ICE agents. Noem almost seemed to celebrate that Renee Good had been shot in the face. So who was Renee Good? She was a devout Christian mother of three and an award-winning poet. And she was not paid by anyone to be there. There’s just no evidence she was a domestic terrorist, or a paid liberal rad-
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251006 12/5/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: COLDSTONE CREAMERY #24409 Physical Address: 835 RUSSELL BLVD STE 190, DAVIS CA 95616 Mailing Address: 3809 EL CENTRO RD, SACRAMENTO CA 95834 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. FROZEN GALAXY LLC, 3809 EL CENTRO RD, SACRAMENTO CA 95834 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Starting Date of Business: N/A /S/ GURJIT DHILLON If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: MANAGING OFFICER 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #85938
ical, or was trying to run over Agent Ross. None. ICE Agents are NOT police officers. ICE agents have only the very limited power and jurisdiction to arrest non-citizens, either with a valid warrant or with reasonable and probable cause. Their vests say POLICE simply to in-
timidate and mislead the public. An ICE Agent does not have legal authority to order you out of your car. An ICE Agent does not have authority to force open your car door. And an ICE Agent does not have legal authority to forcefully pull you out of your car. Yes, it is true that police offi-
cers (and sheriffs, and the highway patrol), DO have the authority to stop your car, to order you out of your car, and the authority to forcefully remove you from your car, if you refuse to get out. But ICE agents are NOT police officers!) And remember, no law
See POINT, Page 5
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on January 27, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider a Planned Development Permit & Design Review application proposing a new concrete prestress casting yard and office/warehouse remodel and addition. The project site is located 27890 and 27990 County Road 90. The project will encompass two legal parcels (APNs 038-050072-000 which is approximately 21.84 acres) and (APN 038-050-073-000 which is approximately 7.45 acres). The larger northern parcel is currently developed with a single-family residence which is planned for demolition as part of the project and is currently surrounded by multiple acres of orchards. The second southern parcel is currently developed with a 22,200 square foot warehouse which is occupied by an air conditioning service office and includes a shop and yard. Both parcels are zoned M-1 (Light Industrial District) and have a land use designation of “Light Industrial” pursuant to the City of Winters General Plan, 1992. The subject acreage was given a Planned Development Overlay Zone in 1999 via Ordinance No. 99-01, which allows applicants to propose a mixture of uses allowed within the M-1 and M-2 Zoning Districts under one Planned Development Permit if certain conditions are met. The applicant has provided a new traffic impact study to reflect current and proposed traffic conditions. The project is tentatively relying on a 1998 Negative Declaration adopted for Prezoning 98-11, the Teichert Annexation, and the planned development permit for a satellite ready-mix facility, including a batch plant and office/shop and which analyzed all potentially significant environmental impacts, if any that would result from the project, and therefore, no subsequent EIR or Negative Declaration is required. This project was continued from a Special Planning Commission Meeting which was held on December 17, 2025. At the public hearing of the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed project, planned development permit and design review standards. The Planning Commission is tasked with providing a recommendation for ultimate approval or denial to the City of Winters City Council at a subsequent public hearing to be set for a future date. 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 1st Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetingsand/or https://www.cityofwinters.org/189/Planning-Commission at least 72 hours before the hearing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed project, please contact Kelly Mumper, Contract Planner at (530) 795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. 1/14/26 #86590
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 p.m. on February 3, 2026, 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 a tentative map application from Apricot Avenue Winters, LLC)to divide two legal parcels zoned R-2 (6,000 sq. ft. avg. min.) and identified as Assessor’s Parcel Number (APN) 003-391-006 and consisting of 1.42 acres and APN 003-392-023 consisting of 2.09 acres, into 16 individual lots. The City Council will also consider approval of an Affordable Housing Plan (AHP) for the project. The proposed tentative subdivision map is similar to the one previously prepared for the project known as Olive Grove Phase 1 & 2, which was previously evaluated for potential environmental impacts and a Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared that analyzed the entire tentative subdivision map acreage proposed; therefore, no further environmental review is required. This project and (AFP) were unanimously recommended for approval to the City Council by the Planning Commission at a Special Planning Commission Meeting which was held on November 19, 2025.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on January 27, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider a Conditional Use Permit to potentially allow a Stationary Food Truck (Rocki’s Chicken) in the downtown-B (D-B) Zoning District. The subject parcel is located at 106 Main Street and is 100 feet southwest from the intersection of Main Street and 1 st Street in Downtown Winters and is assigned assessors’ parcel number is 003-202-004.
At the public hearing of the City Council, the City Council shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed project, tentative map and the AHP. 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 1st Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings at least 24 hours before the hearing. Any challenge to the decision of this project, pursuant to Government Code 65009, may be limited to issues raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City or Winters at or prior to the public hearing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed project, please contact Kelly Mumper, Contract Planner at (530) 795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. 1/14/26 #86592
The Winters Municipal Code, Title 17, Section 17.58, defines “Stationary Food Vendor” as a commercial use that would be allowed in the D-B Zoning District by first securing a Conditional Use Permit through the Planning Commission. The proposed project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15311 of the (CEQA) Guidelines. This project was continued from a Special Planning Commission Meeting which was held on December 17, 2025. At the public hearing of the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed project, conditional use permit and design review standards. 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 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings at least 72 hours before the hearing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed project, please contact Kelly Mumper, Contract Planner at (530) 795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. 1/14/26 #86592 FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251016 12/9/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: ZENTERRA SPA Physical Address: 8 ABBEY ST, WINTERS CA 95694 Mailing Address: PO BOX 1098, WINTERS CA 95694 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1.ZENTERRA SPA, PO BOX 1098, WINTERS CA 95694 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Starting Date of Business: 12/19/2019 /S/ SHEREAN MAYNARD If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: PRESIDENT 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #864
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251072 12/30/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: PRECISE PETITIONS Physical Address: 1231 ROJO STREET, WINTERS CA 95694 Mailing Address: PO BOX 893, WINTERS CA 95694 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1.SHARON ELIZABETH VIGIL, PO BOX 893, WINTERS CA 95694 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: INDIVIDUAL Starting Date of Business: N/A /S/ SHARON VIGIL If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86492
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251043 12/17/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: JEN'S COOKIE COTTAGE Physical Address: 527 COLLEGE ST, WOODLAND CA 95695 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. JENIFER SUE MILLER, 527 COLLEGE ST, WOODLAND CA 95695 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: INDIVIDUAL Starting Date of Business: 8/1/2025 /S/ JENIFER S. MILLER f Corporation or LLC - 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86379
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251002 12/4/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: A CLASS TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL Physical Address: 38630 WEST KENTUCKY AVE, WOODLAND CA 95696 Mailing Address: 2529 ORTIZ AVE, WOODLAND CA 95776 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. A CLASS TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL, 2529 ORTIZ AVE, WOODLAND CA 95776 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: CORPORATION Starting Date of Business: 5/17/2016 /S/ RISHIRAJ SINGH SIDHU If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: CEO 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86140
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251004 12/5/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: DAVIS HARDWOOD & CARPET Physical Address: 436 COLLEGE ST, WOODLAND CA 95695 Mailing Address: 1826 IMPERIAL AVE, DAVIS CA 95616 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. CLAUDIA DIANE PEARSON, 1826 IMPERIALAVE, DAVIS CA 95616 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: INDIVIDUAL Starting Date of Business: 1/23/2016 /S/ CLAUDIA D. PEARSON If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #85960
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251054 12/23/2025 Business is located in CA County Fictitious Business: CARR CONSULTING SERVICES Physical Address: 2055 TRINITY WAY, WEST SACRAMENTO CA 95691 Mailing Address: PO BOX 188825, SACRAMENTO CA 95818 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. NICOLE CARR, PO BOX 188825, SACRAMENTO CA 95818 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: INDIVIDUAL Starting Date of Business: 1/19/2025 /S/ NICOLE CARR If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86491
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251050 12/22/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: LLOYD TRUCKING Physical Address: 305 VALLE VISTA WAY, WOODLAND CA 95695 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1.JASON SCOTT LLOYD, 305 VALLE VISTA WAY, WOODLAND CA 95695 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: INDIVIDUAL Starting Date of Business: 2/1/2025 /S/ JASON LLOYD If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: OWNER/OPERATOR 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86567
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251058 12/24/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: AMPLE SERVICE Physical Address: 853 WALNUT AVE, WEST SACRAMENTO CA 95691 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. Z SECURITY MANAGEMENT INC, 853 WALNUT AVE, WEST SACRAMENTO CA 95691 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: CORPORATION Starting Date of Business: 12/2/2024 /S/ GURMIT SINGH If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: SECRETARY 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86403
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20251048 12/19/2025 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: CONSUMERS GUIDE Physical Address: 130 W. COURT, SUITE 5, WOODLAND CA 95695 Mailing Address: Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. CONSUMERS GUIDE. 130 W. COURT STREET, SUITE 5, WOODLAND CA 95695 BUSINESS CLASSIFICATION: CORPORATION Starting Date of Business: 1/1/2014 /S/ AMANDA WALLACE If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: CEO 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 JANUARY 14, 21, 28, FEBRUARY 4, 2026 #86404
Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026 — B5
Sports Warriors’ defense powers three league wins Express staff The Winters High School varsity girls basketball team used a mix of strong defense and key offensive performances to start league play with three consecutive wins. The Warriors opened league play Jan. 6 at home against East Nicolaus High School, winning 35–22. Maci Dodic scored 22 points, while Mia Mariani added 8 to the scoreboard. “Our first league game of the season turned out to be a really good one for us,”
said head coach Ivan Dodic. “We played extremely well as a team and really disrupted East Nicolaus with our pressure defense, making it extremely difficult for them to score.” Mariani, returning from a significant ankle injury that sidelined her most of the preseason, contributed on both ends of the court, while Lilli Borchard “was a menace on defense, really locking down East Nicolaus’ best player,” Coach Dodic said. Three days later, Winters
traveled to Paradise High School for a 41–31 victory. Maci Dodic scored 15 points and Skyler Neal added 13. Coach Dodic praised Neal’s strong post presence. “Skyler has improved dramatically as the season has progressed with the help of Coach Zach Davis. Having a strong post presence is a rarity in our league and will really allow us to be more creative and dynamic on the offensive end,” he said. “Maci also had an outstanding game, not only with 15 points but
being an absolute menace on defense.” The Warriors returned home Jan. 12 to face Pierce High School, securing a 38– 33 win. Maci Dodic scored 12 points, and Reece Barbosa added 9 to the total. Coach Dodic noted that Winters struggled early but rebounded in the second half. “Reece had a breakout game shooting-wise, scoring all nine of her points in the second half, which was critical for us to get the win and hopefully will give her
momentum for the rest of the season,” he said. Maci Dodic held Pierce’s top scorer to four points, helping Winters outscore the visitors 23–12 in the second half. Neal continued to provide a strong post presence, and Coach Dodic noted the team will focus on getting her more touches moving forward. Winters has now started league play 3–0, showing a mix of defensive intensity and offensive contributions from multiple players.
Warrior girls wrestlers make gains at Napa Valley Classic By Hawk Selleck Express sports correspondent
O
ver the weekend, the girls of the Winters High School wrestling team, at both junior varsity and varsity levels, competed in the Napa Valley Girls Classic at American Canyon High School. Four competitors from Winters participated, all showing improvement from previous matches. Fernanda Blanco Delgado wrestled in two matches, both losses. Her first match was against Mia Garcia from Chico High School, ending in a 3–0 fall at 1:09. The second match was against Jenna Patzer from Vacaville High School, which also ended in a 3–0 fall at 0:07.
HOMES Continued from Page 1 adult who received MIH support said about a new studio apartment. “We are so happy with our little home.” A client’s probation officer detailed just how much MIH gives, specifically to one young man he helped move in. “He was very particular about setting up his items,” the probation officer said. “He was very happy and humbled that all of this stuff belongs to him.” It is that kind of impact that motivates MIH more. “In 2026, we will focus on deepening our impact, strengthening our foundation, and expanding our reach to ensure long-term sustainability and meaningful outcomes for the youth we serve,” Schmidt said. The executive director detailed five strategic objectives
Hayleigh Gomez wrestled three matches, finishing with a 1–2 record. Two losses came against Cecilia Chatman from Pittsburg High School, 3–0 fall at 0:34, and Jordan Yeoman from Benicia High School, 12-3 fall at 3:42. Her win was against Sophia Santillan from Central Catholic High School, ending 16–13 by decision. Lily Waldrop competed in two matches, both losses. The first loss was to Alexanna Herbelin from
for this year, beginning with an “intentional outreach to rural communities such as Winters, Yolo, and Esparto, ensuring that geography is not a barrier to access or opportunity.” Next, Schmidt said MIH seeks to increase the number of young people supported from 68 in 2025 to 72 in 2026 “while maintaining the quality, care, and individualized attention that define our work.” Creating three new volunteer roles to cultivate the MIH mission is on the list, Schmidt said, adding that long-term financial sustainability is also a goal, achieved by forging meaningful partnerships with local corporate sponsors. Lastly, Schmidt said MIH will strengthen the organization’s infrastructure by developing and implementing back-office systems, policies, and tools that ensure
compliance, enhance efficiency, and support thoughtful, sustainable growth. Along with some long-term goals, Schmidt said the group is kicking off the year with its annual Paint for a Purpose fundraising event. “Our goal is to fill all 60 seats, raise awareness throughout the community, and reach our $7,000 fundraising target,” Schmidt said. The Feb. 7 event invites guests to sip wine, enjoy curated bites, and tap into their creative side alongside fellow supporters, according to the executive director. “All while learning more about the impact their donation has on the youth we serve in Yolo County,” Schmidt said of the $75 ticket prices. To reserve a seat for the 3rd Annual Paint for a Purpose Fundraiser, contact Schmidt at 650-7596242 or visit the Make It Happen for Yolo
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Berkeley High School, 3–0 at 0:49, and the second was against Addisyn Prudhel from Central Valley High School, also 3–0 at 0:43. Vidali Ceja also finished with a 1–2 record. Her first loss was to Madalyn Hitchcock from Spanish Springs High School, 7–0 fall at 0:39, and the second was against Mackenzie Cauthen from Concord High School, 7–0 fall at 1:52. Her win came against Raquel Tamacino, 8–0 fall at 2:10. “They are all showing improvement from match to match, and we are in the stretch to get ready for the league tournament,” said head coach Fernando Goncalves. Winters will host a match night
on Wednesday, Jan. 14, which will also be Senior Night for the team. The wrestling team celebrates six seniors: Fernanda Blanco Delgado, Amir Jihad, Cameron DelRio, Eliud Suarez, Hayleigh Gomez and Lupita Herrera. The match starts at 4 p.m. in the school gymnasium for anyone who wants to watch. On Saturday, the varsity boys will compete in the Corning Boys Invitational at Corning High School, while the girls at both levels will compete in the Ed Zuckerman Classic at Willows High School. Thank you, and go Warriors! —Hawk Selleck is a senior at Winters High School. He’s a sports enthusiast and participates in the school band, and many other things on campus. He enjoys music, baseball, and track and field.
Courtesy photo
Attendees get creative at the 2025 Paint for a Purpose fundraiser, benefiting Make It Happen for Yolo County programs that support transition-age youth starting independent living. Tickets for this year’s event are available now at www.mihyolo.org. County website at www.mihyolo.org. This is the first article in a multi-part se-
ries examining Make It Happen Yolo County. The next installment will explore the orga-
POINT Continued from Page 4 enforcement officers, none whatsoever, including ICE Agents, are allowed to fire a gun at a vehicle moving away. None. That conduct is illegal. So we have a woman caught between screaming, heavily armed ICE agents, some telling her to leave, some telling her to exit her car. One agent violates regulations and protocol, walking in front of her car, ignores the rules again by filming her on his cell phone, and then, without warning, breaks the law by shooting
nization’s programs, services and resource connections for youths and families.
three times as her car is moving away. And our federal leaders say we should thank him.I no longer recognize the country I live in. The active and immediate federal government decision to crush any State investigation is chilling. And their attempt to rewrite the story and cover up a deadly act by a federal agent is what I might have expected from Russia, North Korea, or 1930s Germany. We now have a federal government that celebrates the use of violent, illegal power and which no longer even pretends to seek the truth.
REALTY WORLD-CAMELOT WINTERS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Ava Muir Vickrey Ava Muir Vickrey, a Winters High School senior, is the Realty World – Camelot Winters’ Athlete of the Week. Muir Vickrey continues to set the pace for the Warriors’ varsity girls soccer team, emerging as a consistent offensive leader and a key force in the attack. “Ava has been a consistent goalscoring threat, just coming off a hat trick vs Wood, she has led our attack in finishing chances to help us build our lead over our opponents. Getting her in good moments to finish our attack has been due to her constant movement and tenacity to get into good positions to finish our attack,” said varsity girls soccer head coach Alex Monsalve.
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B6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, January 14, 2026
A pork roast worth smothering in gravy
W
e meal plan in our house. Which means that before I ever open a cookbook, I open the deep freezer to see what needs to be used up before our next meat delivery. This week’s discovery? Two roasts quietly waiting for their moment. I started browsing slow-cooker recipes and landed on one for a sweet-and-tangy pork roast. A quick scan of the ingredients revealed a can of condensed French onion soup and a full cup of ketchup. I’m not opposed to either — both have earned their place in my pantry — but if I can make something with what I already have on hand, I’m usually going to do that instead. So I did what I tend to do — I borrowed a little from two different recipes, pulled a ketchup substitute from my own recipe files, and started tinkering away in the kitchen. What emerged is what I’m calling Slow-Braised Pork with Tangy Pan Gravy. This slow-cooker pork roast is built on a deeply caramelized onion base, finished with a savory, toma-
to-enhanced gravy that’s rich without being too sweet. It’s the kind of meal that feels familiar, comforting and dependable — perfect for busy days when you want dinner to take care of itself but don’t mind going the extra mile to prep it. And let’s talk about that gravy. It’s rich, savory and tangy in all the right ways. The kind of gravy that makes you start eyeing everything on your plate as a potential delivery system. Smother the pork. Drag your fork through it. Dip pieces of a bread roll to sop up all of the flavor. Enjoy the full comfort-food experience. The recipe starts with a homemade onion base and a tangy tomato sauce, which meld together as the pork slowly braises. You can make it in the slow cooker or in a Dutch oven on the stovetop — either way, it’s become a fast
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favorite in our house. I also added butter, garlic powder and apple cider vinegar — because none of the three recipes I consulted called for them, and I firmly believe they were wrong not to. I cooked mine in the slow cooker, and by midafternoon the house had that unmistakable cozy aroma of a roast gently simmering away in gravy. The kind of smell that makes you feel like dinner is already taking care of you. We served ours with rice and roasted broccoli, but mashed potatoes and carrots would be right at home here, too. Really, any side that deserves to be smothered in a rich, tangy gravy is welcome at the table. If you’d rather skip a few steps, you can absolutely substitute a can of condensed French onion soup and a cup of ketchup for the homemade components. I won’t judge you for it. But I will boldly say this — my version is worth the extra effort. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you think — and what changes you make to call it your own.
Slow-braised Pork with Tangy Pan Gravy Serves 6 to 8
Ingredients For the onion base: 3 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon olive oil
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Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Slow-braised pork roast soaks up a savory, tangy gravy — comfort food at its best.
2 to 3 medium onions, thinly chopped into small wedges 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon onion powder 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1/8 teaspoon celery seed 1/8 teaspoon paprika Salt and black pepper, to taste 1 cup beef broth For the tomato mixture: 1/3 cup tomato paste 2/3 cup hot water 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon sugar or monk fruit, to taste For the roast: 3–4 pound pork roast Salt and black pepper Olive oil, for searing To finish the sauce: 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For thickening 1/4 cup cold water 1/4 cup cornstarch
Putting it together Melt the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and deeply caramelized, about 15 to 20 minutes. Take your time
here — this step builds the flavor foundation. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, celery seed, paprika, salt and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to lightly toast the spices. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to form a thick paste, cooking another minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to keep the mixture smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and cohesive. Remove from heat. In a bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, hot water, apple cider vinegar and sugar or monk fruit. Set aside to let the flavors blend. Season the pork roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until well browned, about 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a platter. Give the tomato mixture a final stir, then add it to the onion base along with the remaining ½ cup of water, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Whisk until fully combined.
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Pour about 1 cup of the sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the pork roast on top, fat side up, then pour the remaining sauce over the roast. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily pulls apart. Whisk the cold water and cornstarch together, then stir into the slow cooker. Turn the heat to High and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the sauce thickens into a rich gravy. Note: I took the roast out to cook the gravy because it was already done. We let it rest while the gravy cooked and then sliced it. Serve the gravy spooned generously over the pork. This pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, garlic rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Local pairings
I
f you’re looking to round out the meal with something equally easygoing, this pork roast pairs beautifully with a simple, refreshing cocktail—or a glass of local wine. This easy, refreshing cocktail is a natural companion to a rich, savory pork roast. The gentle spice of ginger and a squeeze of fresh lime brighten each bite, cutting through the tangy gravy without competing with it. Made with Patio29’s Twin Mischief Rum, it’s lightly sweet, a little spicy, and just playful enough to keep the meal feeling balanced. Need a non-alcoholic version? Simply leave out the rum and enjoy it as a ginger-lime fizz.
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Ingredients 2 ounces Patio29 Twin Mischief Rum 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice Ginger beer, to top Lime wheel, for garnish
Putting it together Build over ice in a tall glass, top with ginger beer, and garnish with a lime wheel.
If wine is more your jam, there are some excellent local options that shine alongside this dish. From Berryessa Gap Vineyards, I’d reach for the Barbera. If you’re leaning white, their Albariño is a good match.. From Turkovich Family Wines, the Tempranillo is a standout pairing. Prefer white? Their Viognier will balance the tang.