Two residents joined local veterans to raise American flags in downtown Winters in honor of Memorial Day. After the morning effort, the group gathered for breakfast at Putah Creek Café before returning at the end of the day to retire the flags. The group included (l-r) Oscar Barraza, U.S. Army (Vietnam); Tim Hurst, civilian friend; Roy Jones, U.S. Army (Vietnam); Gail Wingard, U.S. Navy (Korea); Ray Boone, U.S. Air Force (Vietnam); Joe Bristow (civilian friend); Don Davis, U.S. Air Force (active); Winston Jamison, U.S. Marine Corps (Vietnam) Tom Sedlack, U.S. Air Force (Vietnam Era) and George Elrod, U.S. Army (Vietnam).
Read about the Winters Memorial Day event on Page A8.
Winters JUSD to serve free summer meals for youths
The Winters Joint Unified School District is participating in the Seamless Summer Option and will provide free meals to all children 18 and younger without charge.
Acceptance and participation requirements for the program and all activ-
ities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service.
Meals will be provided at the sites on Monday thru Friday from Monday, June 9 to Friday, July 25. The program is closed on June 19, July 4 and July 5.
All children 18 years of age and under can access free breakfast and lunch meals at no charge at the following loca-
tions: John Clayton, 200 Baker St.
• Breakfast 8:15 to 8:30 a.m.
• Lunch 11:15 to 11:30 a.m. Winters Middle School, 425 Anderson Ave.
• Breakfast 7:45 to 8:15 a.m.
• Lunch 11 a.m. to noon Winters High School, 101 Grant Ave.
• Breakfast 8:15 to 8:30 a.m.
• Lunch 10 to 10:15
a.m. For additional information, contact
Weather
Patty Jimenez, Director of Nutrition Services, at Winters Joint Unified School District, 909 West Grant Ave., call 530795-6100 Ext. 8004 or email pjimenez@wintersjusd.org. To file a complaint of discrimination, call 800-795-3272 or 202-720-6382 (TTY) or write to: USDA; Director, Office of Civil Rights; 1400 Independence Ave., SW; Washington, D.C. 20250-9410. Winters JUSD is an equal opportunity provider.
Trustees hear WMS FLEX update
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
Students and staff presented the outcomes from a student-led collaboration with the National Equity Project to create a Culture and Climate team and an update on the outcomes from the FLEX sched-
Fire Chief highlights year of growth, challenge
By Sonora Slater Express staff writer
From new firefighters joining the team to a growing number of medical calls, the Winters Fire Department has had a busy year. Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III presented the organization’s annual report during the city council meeting on May 6, highlighting his team’s accomplishments and challenges throughout 2024.
Call volume has notably increased over the past several years, with total calls in 2019 resting at 727, and that same metric in 2024 coming in at 1,171. In the past year, more than 300 of these were also overlapping calls, according to Snyder, which sometimes resulted in slower response times and higher stress for firefighters.
“This year, we responded to a record number of calls for service, highlighting the growing needs of our community and the dedication of our team,” Snyder wrote in his report. “I want to thank every member of our department for [their] tireless efforts and professionalism in meeting these demands.”
Snyder said that the majority of these calls were medical (around 700), but there were also calls for fires, fire alarms, service and other reasons.
ule at the May 15, Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting.
Assistant Superintendent Phoebe Girimonte was joined by student members of the design team, who presented their work to foster an inclusive, welcoming environment at the middle and high schools. The design team utilized the Liberatory Design model, a
Combating the rise in call volume has been difficult due to a lack of specific trends in the data — many of the medical calls have been related to extremely varied issues — but there are some things they’ve done to try and change this.
For one thing, the department has begun partnering with seniors in the community to do regular blood pressure and glucose checks during the weekly Meals on Wheels program at the Winters Community Center every Thursday. They’re also working to reduce the number of faulty fire alarms in the city.
Beyond that, the passage of the city Proposition 218 got the ball rolling on funding for three new full-time firefighter positions at Winters Fire, including two fire engineers and one firefighter.
The positions were officially approved by the council in March of this year, and the hiring process is currently underway. Snyder has previously said that this will help improve their response efficiency, as well as decrease the burnout of current staff and volunteers pushing their limits to answer the growing number of calls. And for the record, their turnaround time is already considered
human-centered approach that encourages participants to reflect on power, privilege, assumptions and biases, to center student experiences.
“The intent of the design team and these efforts is to strengthen our relationships with students and create more opportunities for them to share directly with us what
Courtesy photo
Public Safety Report
City of Winters Fire
May 14: 8:18 p.m., Chapman Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
~8:49 p.m., E. Baker Street/E. Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Police Report Log
May 14: 1:31 p.m., 1000th block of McArthur Avenue, Violation of Custody Decree
~11:15 a.m., 100th block of E. Baker Street, Hit and Run
May 16: 9:23 a.m., 400th block of Third Street, Towed Vehicle
~3:57 p.m., 10th block of Anderson Avenue, CPS Referral
May 17: 9:29 p.m., First block of E. Main Street, Miscellaneous Incident Report
May 19: 8:37 a.m., 1000th block of Taylor Street, Found Property
~2:20 p.m., 400th block of Russell Street, Stolen Plates
~11:09 p.m., 400th block of Edwards Street, Death Investigation
May 20: 3:15 p.m., 700th block of Hemenway Street, Petty Theft
View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www.cityofwinters.org/ 289/Report-Arrest-Log
FREE BASIC BIKE REPAIR USED BIKE SALES
Winters FFA celebrates year
By Jackson Bronson Winters FFA Reporter
On May 20, Winters FFA held its annual awards banquet to celebrate the past year and all that it brought. Students, parents and involved community members were all invited to share in an evening of festivities, awards, and a wonderful tri-tip and mac and cheese dinner provided in collaboration by Winters FFA and high school culinary teacher Chris Novello. Through their efforts in the FFA, students can earn certain “degrees” that showcase their involvement. First-year members who meet the requirements can earn their Greenhand
Degree, second-year members their Chapter Farmer Degree and third and fourthyear members their State Degrees. This year, close to 90 freshmen received their greenhand degree. On top of that, 13 Chapter Farmer Degrees were awarded, and the four individuals who earned their state degrees were recognized.
Winters FFA also gives out multiple awards to students deserving of recognition for their efforts throughout the year. The Academic Excellence award is given to the senior FFA member who held the highest cumulative GPA throughout their four years in high school.
Allison Aguiar, who
Please
Raffles: $10 tickets for 3 - $1,000 prizes, Other raffles
Entertainment: Music & Dancing by “Booths N Deats”, 6 to 9pm, Children’s Games
served as president for the Winters chapter as well as the Central Region, received the award. Aguiar also received the FFA Member of the Year for her above-and-beyond commitment to Winters FFA and the National FFA Organization as a whole. Other awards given out included the Star Greenhand Award to Sophia Lopez, the Star Chapter Farmer Award to Vanessa Gonzalez and the Blue and Gold Award to Jackson Bronson. Students were also recognized for attending conferences and competitions, their work on their Supervised Agricultural Experience projects,
See FFA, Page 5
Courtesy photo
The 2024–25 Winters FFA officer team, from left, Sentinel Jose Melendez, Reporter Jackson Bronson, Vice President Guadalupe Lopez, President Allison Aguiar, Student Advisor Eden Miller, Secretary Riley Hurst and Treasurer Vanessa Gonzalez after the FFA awards ceremony.
School district to launch multi-campus summer improvement projects
By Angela Underwood Express correspondent
The Winters Joint Unified School District will seek state funding for new construction and modernization.
The Board of Trustees received a facilities update from Ashley Del Rio, the new Van Pelt Construction Services program manager working with Winters JUSD, who broke down the district’s three major projects at the May 15 meeting.
Del Rio assured trustees that the Shirley Rominger Intermediate School’s roof replacement and HVAC system upgrades, the Winters Middle School kitchen renovation and modernization and Waggoner Elementary Transitional Kindergarten (TK) building are underway in different phases.
All Rominger projects, including shortterm, intermediate, and long-term modernization needs through 2028, total approximately $8.4 million.
“We are currently on schedule, and the contractor is ready to mobilize,” Del Rio said of the full roof replacement this summer and the retro-commissioning and development plans.
The WMS kitchen renovation is still in the design phase, according to Del Rio, who added, “We are working closely with a lot of the stakeholders in the district” on bal-
STUDENTS
Continued from Page 1
their day-to-day experiences are so that we can be more responsive and supportive,” Girimonte said.
Two student teams from Winters Middle School and Winters High School showcased their original design prototypes.
Middle school students presented a creative prototype inspired by a viral “ball pit” video, in which strangers enter a ball pit and answer questions designed to promote empathy and connection.
Sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students recreated the concept using an inflatable pool filled with balloons, each containing a randomized question. Participants, who came from diverse backgrounds were interviewed during the exercise. The group hopes to iterate upon their ball pit idea for next year. A new official
ancing the project’s functional needs and budget constraints.
Scope discussions include layout and food service efficiency, which will conclude by the beginning of June.
“Once submitted, we will continue to refine our planning and prepare bid documents to move forward on the next phase,” Del Rio said.
The Waggoner TK project “is progressing behind the scenes,” according to Del Rio, adding there is a current review of the construction pricing, “which includes a lot of bodies right now to ensure it aligns with the project scope and budget expectations.”
Trustees heard about the recent community meeting regarding landscape.
“It was a really collaborative process with really strong community engagement,” Del Rio said, adding teacher and staff input was also valuable. “We are excited with the direction and continued participation of our stakeholders.”
Cost efficiency and code compliance remain under review, Del Rio added. The board considered future funding opportunities from Kings Consulting Representative Rob Murray, who explained his firm “assists in maximizing state funding, particularly stretching those local bond programs out further by infusing state money into them.”
ball pit next semester and new interviewing strategies to make the experience easier for participants. In addition, students suggest integrating parent volunteers and using the activity as a conflict resolution tool.
Winters High School students provided information on their project as well — a club to discuss inequalities and other cultures in a safe group setting. The goal of the project was to increase awareness of what people are saying or thinking when it comes to other communities.
A student shared that they often hear subtle, racially insensitive remarks on campus — comments that may seem harmless to some but can be hurtful or misunderstood by others. While they believe most people don’t intend to be offensive, the student feels that ethnic studies could help increase awareness and understanding of
Murray told trustees that retroactive eligible projects could also be considered, and if reimbursement is approved, a restricted facilities fund could be created.
“But at that point, you can use it on any other projects you have underway through your current program,” Murray added.
The State School Facility Program (SFP), approved by voters in 1998, provides matching funds for school site construction and modernization. SFP’s historical funding varies annually, with the most recent total of $8.5 billion in 2024 through Proposition 2.
SFP opportunities include new construction, modernization, minimum essential facilities, seismic mitigation, facility hardship, charter school, and career technical education facilities grant program (CTEFP).
“The continuity of funding in this program is really key,” Murray said, adding that the district must apply regularly due to significant gaps of absent funding between 2016 and 2020. “All those people who got in line have gotten their money.”
Murray said Winters JUSD funding opportunities are in new construction and CTEFP, adding the “good news” is Winters is a rural district, financially set apart from urban and suburban.
“In my experience
these issues.
Along with the class, the team created social media pages and posted QR codes throughout the high school campus, directing students to the club’s Instagram page.
After the student presentations, Girimonte spoke on how, with the feedback from the design teams, the district plans to evaluate the student and family handbooks.
“Our goal was to move past the punitive consequences of using inappropriate language to shift to more educative responses, but also to increase adult responsibility for these incidents as they occur,” Girimonte said.
Trustee Everado Zaragoza praised the group for their efforts and outreach and hopes to hear more about them as their efforts continue into the next school year.
“I just wanted to tell you guys that your words and advocacy
with earlier rounds of this, there is less competition,” Murray said of the 50 percent matching grant funds.
“A lower score that wouldn’t have gotten funded in the other categories can get funded if it goes that way again.”
While it depends on who else applies, Murray said Winters’ funding opportunities are “very exciting,” specifically with new construction for transitional kindergarten rooms and career and technical training.
“It is a great time to have discovered this,” Murray said, noting the current 3.8 million available in state funding.
“You get the funding when they process things, but the wait is approximately three years; again, that line got really long in that decade when no bonds were passing,” Murray added.
Take, for instance, Waggoner renovations projected into 2027. Murray explained how the present quickly becomes the future.
“Though it isn’t now, it isn’t that far off, and you are going to have more money than you can ask for through this program coming back.
Murray said Kings Consulting is researching any modernization funding Winters JUSD may be eligible to receive, and Del Rio informed the board trustees she would return with project updates.
are very powerful, especially at the high school level, we usually see this at the college level. I’m very proud of you guys,” Zaragoza said.
WMS FLEX presentation
In addition to the culture presentation, WMS Principal Jose Bermudez provided an update on the FLEX schedule program at WMS. The schedule is designed to provide support and enrichment opportunities for students by helping struggling students catch up while allowing others to explore new interests.
Previously, the middle school operated on a rotation-based “wheel” system with limited elective options. Only about 30 percent of students accessed electives such as art, ceramics, band, or Spanish. The rest cycled through SEL (Social Emotional Learning), Environmental Education or
above average. According to the National Fire Protection Association, widely accepted performance objectives set dispatch-to-enroute time at 80 seconds, and enroute-to-onscene time at four minutes.
Snyder says Winters Fire has an average of 60 seconds for the first, and three minutes, and two seconds for the second.
Department accomplishments
Apart from a speedy dispatch time, Snyder also highlighted some of the department’s other accomplishments from the year.
On the financial side of things, this included several successful grant applications, including an Office of Traffic Safety grant for new vehicle extrication equipment, a tool otherwise known as “the jaws of life,” a Cal Fire grant for portable radios, and a four-year FEMA grant that funds a volunteer recruitment and retention coordinator position. This new position, currently filled by Aide Aguilera, is meant to help strengthen the volunteer ranks of the department, who play a key role in Winters’ fire suppression, search and rescue, and EMS services.
AVID classes.
This year, FLEX replaced the wheel with three nine-week rotation cycles, impacting roughly 60 students per grade. Though the original plan called for four rotations, the school opted for fewer cycles to allow time for data review and teacher preparation between rounds.
According to Bermudez, 75 percent of students who participated in FLEX exited their intervention classes after showing improvement and transitioned into other offerings.
“In some of these areas, it showed that students had great growth. And in some of the areas, some of the students who participated stayed a little bit stagnant, and some showed moderate growth,” Bermudez said.
These volunteers are highly trained, and this year, Snyder said multiple volunteers chose to complete optional training courses, making them better able to lighten the load of the paid staff. Fulltime staff is also continuously engaged in training.
“Firefighters are always students, and training is always ongoing,” Snyder said. “Collectively, our staff invested over 1,300 hours in advanced training during 2024, a remarkable achievement even in the face of record emergency call volumes.”
He continued to say that training improves effectiveness as well as safety, ensuring personnel are prepared for whatever they may face on the job.
Fire Captain Matt Schechla showed an especially deep commitment to professional development this year, as Snyder highlighted in his report, with Schechla being the first in Winters Fire history to complete the National Fire Academy Managing Officer Program, a selective designation that consisted of a review of 17 functional areas of his position.
“I am extremely proud of Matt, and he is a fine example of professional development to enhance his own expertise,” Snyder said.
Student feedback showed high engagement with the FLEX offerings. Middle schoolers particularly valued being with friends and having variety.
“For us, it was a learning opportunity.
Now we’re looking at the classes, seeing if it’s the most conducive environment,” Bermudez said.
“Because we’d be putting 25 of the best friends together. While it’s good for them, it might not be good for learning.”
The school plans to continue FLEX next year, with sessions taking place first thing in the morning and running for about 27 minutes. Staff will continue to review data and refine group placements based on student needs and teacher feedback.
95 Years Ago
May 30, 1930
Decoration of the graves of the Spanish American, Civil and the World War will be done under the auspices of the Winters Post, American Legion this morning.
Lester Scott was elected president of the Winters High School student body at an election of officers for the coming year, last Friday.
Juanita Thompson was named vice president, Betty Waggoner, secretary, and Adeline Meyer, treasurer.
Oiling the streets of Winters and possible paving of Grant Avenue will come up before the City Council Tuesday evening at the regular monthly meeting. Fifteen cars of early Winters apricots, plums and peaches have been shipped this week to Eastern markets by the California Fruit Exchange.
Herold and Niemann are among the first business houses to furnish benches for the golf course. They placed two on the course this week.
The 4-H Club enjoyed a party at the home of Mrs. Fred Barker Wednesday afternoon. It was the last meeting of the year.
80 Years Ago
June 1, 1945
The Winters High School Class of 1945, 18 girls and 10 boys, received diplomas
Years Ago
Dispatches from the Express archives.
last night in the gymnasium. Lucille Meagher and Lucille Ruggles, had honors of salutatorian and valedictorian.
Lt. and Mrs. Joe Dwight Griffin spent a weekend furlough with his relatives here and Mrs. Griffin’s parents in Sacramento. They left Wednesday, returning to Yuma, Arizona, where the Lieutenant is an instructor in aircraft.
The first local June wedding is scheduled Sunday, June 3, when Miss Vera Yarberry and S/1c Vernon C. Bruhn will pledge mutual vows. Warren, son of Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Johnston of Buckeye, celebrated his 12th birthday, Sunday, May 27, by going with his parents to “open house” at Suisun-Fairfield Air Base.
45 Years Ago
May 29, 1980
Tufts Ranch shipped out the first apricots of the season last week. Picking started Monday and hit the New York market on Wednesday, where Jumbos sold for $24.25 for a 15-pound box. Stan Tufts told the Express that 70-count
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Sydney Andrade, Staff Writer Logan Chrisp, Staff Writer Sonora Slater, Staff Writer David DeLeon, Advertising Sales Sara Edwards, Regional Advertising Director T. Burt McNaughton, Co-Publisher Taylor Buley, Publisher-at-Large Charles R. Wallace, Publisher Emeritus
YESTERYEAR
Picked
walk up to a horse, hand out, you could watch the horse relax and step forward to Roy for a neck rub. The same thing happened with people. Watching Roy laugh or talk to God at funerals left everyone around him relaxed and smiling. May God speed.
Obituary
Roy Ralph Irwin passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, surrounded by friends and family.
fruit sold at $23.25, 88-size at $22.25 and 96-size at $20.25 a box in New York.
A total of 70 seniors will receive their diplomas Friday night at high school graduation exercises on Dr. Sellers’ Field at 8 o’clock. The diplomas will be presented by Gary Pitek, a high school teacher. Principal Frank Pignataro will present the awards and scholarships. A new scholarship, the Jere Watkins Memorial Scholarship, will be presented by Germaine Hupe and Mrs. Jere Watkins. John Kammerer will announce the winner of the Douglas Baldridge Memorial Scholarship. Marie Borchard and Corinne Martinez, co-valedictorians, and salutatorian Michael Pisani will make speeches.
Dean’s Frostie is now open for business at the corner of Railroad and Grant Avenue. Chamber Ambassadors Mike Kimes and Norm Todd gave Doyle Pinkston, Phyllis Pinkston, Fay Haywood and Elizabeth Martin a complimentary membership in the Chamber and a potted plant from the Winters Nursery. Doyle Pinkston and his wife, Phyllis, purchased the Frostie from Jerry Wolever.
Born July 6, 1938, in New York City, Roy grew up in Michigan before his family moved to Winters in 1968. Over the following decades, he became a beloved icon of the town, and in 1995, he was celebrated as the Honorary Grand Marshal of the Youth Day Parade.
He was a lifelong member of the Pioneer Presbyterian Church in Winters and very proud of being made a deacon by Keith Knauf.
Pastor Keith always said, “God made Roy a deacon, I just made it official.”
Roy had a strong belief in the power of education and the importance of treating everyone with respect. As an inspirational speaker, he spread this message in local middle school classrooms, encouraging students to pursue their dreams and stand up to bullies.
Roy’s lifelong dream was to learn to train horses, a goal he joyfully and tenaciously pursued at the Filarsky family’s Red Tail Farm. In 2003, he proudly rode in the Youth Day Parade and gave roundpen training demonstrations at the Western States Horse Expo, sharing his love of animals and learning with others.
Roy is survived by his brother, Steve Irwin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Frank Irwin and Glenys Irwin.
The community is invited to a celebration of life for Roy at Pioneer Church on July 6 at 10 a.m. with a reception to follow.
Lake Berryessa water levels down
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa was down by 0.42 feet over the past week, decreasing to 7,884 acre-feet of water storage, according to Ken Emigh, with the Solano Irrigation District –Putah Diversion Office. On the morning of Tuesday, May 27, he reported that the lake elevation
was 438.70 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,526,832 acre-feet. The SID released 465 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 70 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 288 acre-feet of water per day.
by Charley Wallace
Courtesy photo
In this undated photo, Roy Irwin is shown working with Rowdy. Roy was called a horse whisperer. When he would
Roy Ralph Irwin
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Eventos hispanos
Ayuntamiento toma medidas sobre proyectos de carreteras y contrato de ingeniería
Por Sonora Slater Traducido por Carol Alfonso
En la primera reunión del Ayuntamiento de Winters, celebrada en Mayo, los miembros del Ayuntamiento tomaron medidas sobre proyectos de reparación de carreteras, distritos de colegios comunitarios y un contrato de ingeniería.
El primer punto de debate de la noche fue una lista de proyectos de reparación de carreteras para el año 2025-26, presentada por Eric Lucero, director de operaciones y mantenimiento de obras públicas. La lista se compiló con base en información sobre el estado de las carreteras obtenida mediante localizadores por satélite (GPS) e imágenes a nivel de calle, e incluye tramos de Apricot Avenue, Luis Place, Plum Place, Pear Place y Russell Street.
Los fondos provendrán de la ley SB 1, conocida como la Ley de Reparación y Responsabilidad de Carreteras del 2017, que otorga fondos anualmente a Winters y a otras ciudades para financiar mejoras y reparaciones en las calles de California. El público y el Ayuntamiento sugirieron otros puntos de la carretera que también necesitan mejoras, y Lucero les aseguró que muchos otros lugares están en la lista para el futuro, pero que han priorizado los próximos proyectos en función de los fondos disponibles. La moción fue aprobada por unanimidad. Una posible carta de apoyo del consejo a la ley SB 226, que crearía un proceso para la incorporación de Winters al distrito de Los Rios Community College o para la consolidación de to-
dos los colegios comunitarios del Condado Yolo en un nuevo distrito combinado, fue el siguiente punto de la agenda. La idea es que los estudiantes del Condado Yolo que tienen dificultades para acceder a Solano Community College en Vacaville debido a la poca frecuencia del transporte público entre ambas ciudades, o que cursan clases en varios distritos, tengan más facilidad para obtener créditos y posteriormente transferirlos a universidades cercanas de cuatro años.
La concejal Jesse Loren comentó que sabe que muchos jóvenes de Winters participan en la matrícula dual y que entiende la utilidad de contar con un distrito universitario más alineado con la zona en su conjunto. Loren, el alcalde pro tempore Bill Biasi y Vallecillo comentaron que asistieron a colegios comunitarios y que consideraban que eran un recurso educativo importante tanto para adolescentes como para adultos mayores que desean acceder a la educación. La moción fue aprobada por unanimidad.
Finalmente, el consejo votó sobre un contrato de servicios profesionales de tres años con la empresa de ingeniería Ponticello Enterprises. Lucero, quien presentó la resolución, explicó que la firma había sido seleccionada entre cuatro buenos solicitantes por una junta que, por unanimidad, eligió a Ponticello como su primera opción. Sin embargo, Loren señaló que el contrato del grupo fue rescindido anticipadamente por
la ciudad en el 2022 y que no apoyaría el acuerdo.
Cuando el concejal Richard Casavecchia le pidió que explicara sus preocupaciones, Loren se negó a hacer más comentarios.
Biasi afirmó que ya había tenido preguntas sobre Ponticello, pero que confiaría en el criterio del panel. Un representante de Ponticello presente afirmó que no prevé que se vuelva a producir una rescisión anticipada del contrato.
Loren y el alcalde Albert Vallecillo votaron en contra, mientras que Casavecchia, Biasi y la concejal Carol Scianna votaron a favor. La moción fue aprobada por 3 votos a favor y 2 en contra.
Próximos pasos para el Centro para Personas Mayores
Dado que la última solicitud de subvención de la ciudad para la construcción de un centro para personas mayores en Winters no tuvo éxito, el consejo se tomó un tiempo para debatir los próximos pasos.
“Llevamos demasiados años trabajando en esto y, lamentablemente, aún no ha funcionado,” dijo Biasi.
“Pero aún necesitamos un centro para personas mayores.”
Biasi añadió que cree que la ciudad debería seguir buscando oportunidades de subvención, pero también debería considerar permitir que las personas mayores utilicen el centro comunitario de forma gratuita mientras tanto. Loren sugirió modernizar uno de los edificios que la ciudad de Winters posee y alquila actualmente, y Casavecchia sugirió un centro comunitario y un centro para
personas mayores combinados. La residente Tina Lowden, miembro de la Fundación para Personas Mayores de Winters, comentó que, si bien un centro para personas mayores independiente es ideal, las personas mayores de la comunidad también se muestran receptivas al proyecto.
“La gente está de acuerdo con reinventar la idea; quizá sea en esa dirección,” dijo Lowden. “Pero nos gustaría tener una sección aparte en el centro comunitario, ya que somos un grupo muy active.” Lowden preguntó si se podría agilizar el proceso de reservas para el centro, dados los eventos frecuentes y constantes de la Fundación para Personas Mayores, y los miembros del consejo estuvieron de acuerdo, sugiriendo una reserva fija durante todo el año. Al final de la reunión, Vallecillo expresó su deseo de convocar una conversación comunitaria sobre la situación de las personas sin hogar. Tras una breve conversación, indicó que se reuniría con el administrador municipal, Jeremy Craig, para definir un plan sobre cómo debería ser esa conversación y qué esperan lograr con ella.
Proclamaciones
El consejo emitió tres proclamaciones en reconocimiento al Mes Nacional de la Bicicleta, al Mes de los Adultos Mayores y al Mes de la Concientización sobre la Salud Mental, respectivamente. Todas fueron aceptadas por miembros de la comunidad vinculados a los diversos premios.
El distrito escolar servirá comidas gratuitas a los alumnos este verano
Especial para el Express
El Distrito Escolar
Unificado Conjunto de Winters anunció hoy que estaran sirviendo comidas gratuitas a los estudiantes bajo la Opcion de Verano sin costo del 9 de Junio al 25 de Julio (cerrado Junio 19, 4 y5 de Julio). Todos los ninos menores de 18 anos pueden acceder al desayuno y almuerzo sin cargo en los siguientes lugares.
John Clayton, 200 Baker St.
• Desayuno 8:15 a 8:30
a.m.
• Almuerzo 11:15 a 11:30 a.m.
Winters Middle School, 425 Anderson Ave.
• Desayuno 7:45 a 8:15
a.m.
• Almuerzo 11 a.m.–
12 p.m.
Escuela Secundaria, Winters High School, 101 Grant Av.
• Desayuno 8:15 a 8:30
a.m.
• Almuerzo 10 a 10:15
a.m.
Para obtener información adicional, comuníquese con Patty
Jimenez, Directora de Servicios de Nutrición, Distrito Escolar Unificado Conjunto de Winters, 909 West Grant Ave., Winters CA 95694, 530-795-6100 ext. 8004 o pjimenez@ wintersjusd.org Para todos los demás programas de asistencia de nutrición del FNS, agencias estatales o locales y sus subreceptores, deben publicar la siguiente Declaración de No Discriminación: De acuerdo con la ley federal de derechos civiles y las normas y políticas de derechos civiles del Departamento de Agricultura de los Estados Unidos (USDA), esta entidad está prohibida de discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo (incluyendo identidad de género y orientación sexual), discapacidad, edad, o represalia o retorsión por actividades previas de derechos civiles. La información sobre el programa puede estar disponible en otros idi-
omas que no sean el inglés. Las personas con discapacidades que requieren medios alternos de comunicación para obtener la información del programa (por ejemplo, Braille, letra grande, cinta de audio, lenguaje de señas americano (ASL), etc.) deben comunicarse con la agencia local o estatal responsable de administrar el programa o con el Centro TARGET del USDA al 202-720-2600 (voz y TTY) o comuníquese con el USDA a través del Servicio Federal de Retransmisión al 800-877-8339. La carta debe contener el nombre del demandante, la dirección, el número de teléfono y una descripción escrita de
la acción discriminatoria alegada con suficiente detalle para informar al Subsecretario de Derechos Civiles (ASCR) sobre la naturaleza y fecha de una presunta violación de derechos civiles. El formulario AD-3027 completado o la carta debe presentarse a USDA por:
• Correo: U.S. Department of Agriculture; Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW; Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or • Fax: 833-256-1665 o 202-690-7442; o • Correo electrónico: program.intake@ usda.gov
Esta entidad es un proveedor que brinda igualdad de oportunidades.
La primera, para el Mes Nacional de la Bicicleta, fue aceptada por la Comisión de Acción Climática. Dijeron que están trabajando en la instalación de nuevos aparcabicicletas en la ciudad y exhortaron a los residentes a participar en los eventos ciclistas de este mes. La proclamación de la ciudad también animó a los residentes a unirse a la celebración viajando en bicicleta al trabajo o la escuela y abogando por infraestructura ciclista en la ciudad. La segunda proclamación se realizó con motivo del Mes de los Adultos Mayores.
“Los adultos mayores guían a nuestras generaciones más jóvenes y transmiten un amplio conocimiento cultural e histórico,” dice la proclamación. “Mejoran nuestras comunidades a través de las relaciones intergeneracionales, el servicio comunitario y la participación cívica. La ciudad de Winters debe garantizar que los adultos mayores cuenten con los recursos y los apoyos necesarios para seguir participando en sus comunidades.”
La tercera proclamación, presentada en reconocimiento al Mes Nacional de la Salud Mental, fue recogida por Jen Boschee-Danzer, Directora Ejecutiva de la Alianza Nacional sobre Enfermedades Mentales del Condado Yolo. “Casi todos nos vemos afectados por las enfermedades mentales de alguna manera, ya sea usted, un familiar o un amigo,” dijo Boschee-Danzer. “Nuestro mensaje es: no está solo.”
and their involvement in their ag classes.
Banquet attendees were able to listen to the retiring addresses of the four graduating senior members of the Winters FFA officer team. Allison Aguiar, Riley Hurst, Guadalupe Lopez and Eden
Miller have all been a huge part of the FFA since the start of their high school careers and have grown into incredibly strong leaders over that time. The impact they have had on their chapter, advisors, and community is clear to see as they finish their term as Winters FFA officers and head on to bigger and better things.
Senior News
How aging and dehydration are intertwined
Metro
Special to the Express
The human body is ever-changing. Though it’s not often so easy to detect the changes the body goes through, such alterations may become more noticeable with age.
One age-related change that’s easy to overlook is related to thirst. The Cleveland Clinic notes seniors typically do not feel as thirsty as they once did. That compels seniors to consume less fluids, which in turn makes them more vulnerable to dehydration.
Why is my risk for dehydration higher now than when I was younger?
Seniors may ask this question, and body composition changes that correspond to age
are often to blame. According to the Cleveland Clinic, seniors’ bodies do not demand water in the same way they did when they were younger. So people tend to drink less water as they age. Some also suffer from decreased kidney function that also compromises fluid levels in the body. These things mean many seniors have less water in their bodies than
they used to, which increases their risk for dehydration.
How serious is this threat?
The threat posed by dehydration is serious. In fact, the Cleveland Clinic notes that dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization among adults age 65 and older. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality also notes
that adults 65 and over have the highest hospital admission rates for dehydration of any group.
How do I know if I’m dehydrated?
As noted, aging adults do not typically feel as thirsty as they did when they were younger. That’s important to remember, as the Cleveland Clinic notes that thirst might actually be a sign of early dehydration.
The following are some additional physical signs of dehydration:
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or a loss of coordination
• Dry mouth and/or a dry cough
• Headache
• Muscle cramps, which can be caused by a loss of electrolytes through sweating
• Chills or heat intolerance
• Flushed skin These symptoms are notable in their own right, but some may make seniors vulnerable to additional issues. For instance, dizziness or a loss of coordination resulting from dehydration may make seniors more vulnerable to falls. Falls are a significant threat because they increase the likelihood of broken bones and other serious injuries, but a fall also can adversely affect mental health.
A fall that causes injury may lead seniors to withdraw from certain activities, including recreational sports or other physical activities often performed alongside fellow seniors. Withdrawing from such activities can lead to isolation and depression.
Avoid dehydration
The goods news is that hydrating is pretty easy, particularly when seniors are aware of their vulnerability to dehydration. The Cleveland Clinic urges seniors to consume sufficient fluids each day, even spicing up water with a fruit slice if necessary. In addition, seniors are urged to avoid caffeine, which can force more trips to the bathroom to urinate and thus lose fluid. Cucumbers, celery and, of course, watermelon also can be incorporated into seniors’ diets each day, as these foods are high in water content.
Dehydration poses a serious threat to seniors’ health. But that threat can be easily overcome when seniors make a concerted effort to stay hydrated each day.
Honoring seniors’ vital role in our communities
By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council
Since its inception, May has been the annual month for Older Americans Month recognition. Yet, some community members have chosen an earlier date of acknowledgment out of willful prejudice for subjective gain. Nonetheless, May is the official month of respect for Older Americans Month.
On July 14, 1965, 60 years ago, when the Older Americans Act (OAA) became law, it also established the Administration on Aging within the Department of Health, Education and Welfare, calling for the creation of State Units on Aging. In response to a concern for a lack of social service systems for older persons, Congress acted to improve the status of older adults by founding the OAA. Additionally, on July 30, 1965, Congress also enacted Medicare. In 1963 prior to the the Older Americans Month being established; millions of Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About
a third of those older Americans lived in poverty and there were just a few programs to meet their needs. Today, over 19 percent of the population are senior citizens.
Each May, the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM) is recognized and the 2025 theme, “Flip the Script of Aging”, focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging.
Passed into law in 1965, the Older Americans Act was part of President Johnson’s “Great Society” initiative with the goal of supporting older Americans to live at home and in the community with dignity and independence for as long as possible.
The OAA funds programs and services that enable senior citizens to enjoy a healthy, independent life and was the first federal-level initiative aimed at comprehensively addressing the need for community social service for senior citizens. The act supports a range
of essential home community-based services with particular attention to lower-income older adults, members of minority communities, those living in rural areas, people with limited English proficiency, and older adults.
Older Americans Month is a time for communities like the city of Winters, to acknowledge the contributions of past and current senior citizens gave to our country, including those who defended our society. Their time, experience, and talents enrich the lives of us all, particularly those who defended our country when they were asked.
Senior citizens are important because they also volunteer; in fact, many organizations would be hardpressed to function without their older volunteers. Seniors also give generously: they make more charitable donations per capita than any other age group. They play a key role in solving disputes and play an important part in our lives. Communities
WINTERS SENIOR FOUNDATION
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 from 1:00pm-4:00pm
LOCATION: Winters Community Center
COST: No Charge
BRING:
that embrace older adults are stronger and a better place to live and raise a family! By strengthening behaviors towards older adults that play a key role in the vitality of our neighborhoods, social networks, and daily lives, we all benefit. It’s equally critical that we learn how to understand the other person’s perspective and feelings. Communication can help older people feel valued as partners.
Older Americans Month is an opportunity for all of us to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with our communities to: • Connect with friends, family, and services that support participation.
• Created by engaging in activities that promote learning, health, and personal enrichment.
• Contribute time, talent, and life experience to benefit others. Please join the Winters Elder Day Council as we promote the benefits of connecting with others. Here are a few ways to participate:
• Share facts about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being.
• Promote resources that help senior citizens engage, like community events, social clubs, and volunteer opportunities.
• Encourage partners to host a connection-centric event or program focused on senior citizens mentoring youth, peer-topeer support, or similar efforts.
• Challenge professional and personal networks to prioritize meaningful social connections and share the benefits. Everyone benefits when every person participate. We at the Winters Elder Day Council encourage you to connect, create, and contribute to a stronger and more diverse community throughout the rest of 2025, and for the decades to come.
• Connecting senior citizens with local services, such as transportation, can help them overcome obstacles to achieving or maintaining meaningful relationships.
info@wintersseniorfoundation.org
Courtesy photo
Seniors typically do not feel as thirsty as they once did, which could result in consuming less fluids.
Winters honors fallen veterans in Memorial Day ceremony
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
American flags marked the graves of the fallen at Winters Cemetery on Monday as the community gathered to honor the 26 local veterans killed in action and the 468 veterans buried there. The Winters Cemetery District hosted its third annual Memorial Day ceremony since the COVID-19 pandemic halted the tradition in 2019.
Local veteran Rev. George Elrod opened the ceremony with an invocation and a lighthearted anecdote that underscored his deep connection to his military service.
“Joe noticed the way I was dressed, and he asked me if I would come dressed like this so you could all see the scar I got when I got shot in the leg in Vietnam,” Elrod said. “Now, all but the youngest of you know this is not a bullet wound. This is from knee replacement surgery. It is, however, the leg that was injured during a mortar attack in Vietnam for which I got my Purple Heart. So it’s kind of close.” Elrod concluded with a solemn reminder.
“We are here today because of the sacrifice that so many have made to bring us freedom. They gave up their lives so that we could live. We want to honor them today,” Elrod said.
Reflections on Memorial Day
The guest speaker was U.S. Air Force Col. John M. Klohr, who is the Commander, 60th Mission Support Group out of Travis Air Force Base.
“Thank you for taking part today as we reflect, remember and renew our faith and service to our nation, sacrifice for our way of life and a semblance of survival for those left to remember the men and women who gave everything for us,” Klohr said. “As a grateful nation, we pause to remind the entire world and perhaps the angels above that we remember, that we have not forgotten. And while words alone will always fall short, we are truly, eternally grateful for the lives given so we might live our lives in freedom.”
“I’m Colonel John Mark Klohr, an airman for over 32 years who was deployed to combat zones, a son of a Marine Vietnam veter-
an who served when more Marines paid the ultimate price than any other period during Vietnam, and I’m a proud American that loves this country and understands the duty of those like us who remain — the duty to live well, make a difference and prepare the next generation for the dark challenges they are certain to face.”
Klohr said that Memorial Day is not about thanking living service members.
“Let me be clear about today. Today can be difficult for many people, for many different reasons. I’ll add that it can even be awkward at times, as people grapple with what to say or how to act,” he said. “Today is not a day to thank a uniformed member or those who have served and now have a new role in life. Please save those thank yous for Armed Forces Day and Veterans Day.”
“Today belongs to those who gave their last full measure of devotion on our behalf, to the fallen in the line of duty,” Klohr continued. “Today is a day to embrace the families that continue on — our Gold Star families — who have a hole in their heart that will never heal. It’s for the quiet strength they show every day.”
“For those that haven’t served in uniform, or for those of us that have and returned from combat zones, survivor’s guilt can have a level of complexity, stress and remorse. It’s a heavy
burden with unanswered, haunting questions like, ‘Why me?’ or ‘Why not me?’” Klohr walked the audience through the origins of the holiday:
“Let me begin with the origin of Memorial Day,
which began in 1868 as Decoration Day, just three years after a bloody American Civil War where 600,000 Americans fought and died to preserve our Union. Think about that — 600,000 people died on battlefields
so the United States would remain just that — united.”
“In 1861, the U.S. had a population of just 31 million people. The loss of 600,000 people would be about 2% of that population. Today we have 350 million Americans. A similar sacrifice today would be 7 million lives — six times as many as we lost during the COVID pandemic.”
“Decoration Day became Memorial Day in 1971 and the simple, powerful act of decorating graves continues here in Winters for 500 sacred graves — a powerful way to say we remember.
We have not forgotten.”
Klohr shared a poignant story about an Air Force mother who lost her son in a motorcycle accident while he was on his way to report for duty.
“She took her time to speak while making us all promise a grieving mother one thing — not to mourn, but to live our lives. She said, ‘If you want to ride a motorcycle, ride a motorcycle. Don’t stop living. Don’t stop doing the things you enjoy. Once you do that, you are no longer living. So live. Ride motorcycles.’ I was stunned by such a beautifully strong and powerful message.”
“That message is the one that we all need to hear, that our fallen would want us to hear, and is how they would want us to live — boldly and unafraid, just as they would.”
In closing, Klohr urged everyone to carry the memory of the fallen forward.
“Be a damn good person. Live a good life. Live well and live boldly for them. They gave so much so we can live in freedom, make them proud and live a life worth decorating.”
Community tribute
Winters Girl Scouts from Troops 1225, 1933, and 2744 led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance and a singalong of “My Country, ’Tis of Thee.” Bruce Chapman provided patriotic music including “God Bless the USA,” “America the Beautiful” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The Service Veterans of Northern California Volunteer Honor Guard fired a 21-gun salute. Winters High School trumpeter Kevin Corrales concluded the ceremony with a stirring rendition of Taps.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
American flags marked the graves of the 26 local veterans killed in action and the 468 veterans buried at the Winters Cemetery.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Local veteran Rev. George Elrod talks about an injury he received during a mortar attack in Vietnam.
An update on Yolo County Animal Services and the Animal Services JPA was received by the Yolo County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday.
The board unanimously approved the delegation of authority to the director of Animal Services to accept restricted and unrestricted donations in alignment with the County’s Donations Acceptance Policy. The board also expressed interest in having an analysis done on the full range of alternative governance models for the Animal Services Joint Powers Agency.
Currently under construction is the YCAS’ “Clinic in a Can”. This spay/neuter clinic for owned animals and veterinary services clinic for shelter animals will replace the “Big Fix Rig”, an over 20-year-old semi-trailer that houses a small clinic.
In 2022, YCAS shifted from the Sheriff’s Office to the CAO’s Office. In 2024, it moved to the Department of Community Services.
Supervisor Lucas Frierchs asked where the best location for Animal Services to be is. CAO Mike Webb said while it’s too early to tell, the answer will come in time after the governance model analysis has been completed.
Alternative governance models include:
• Status quo - Govern-
ing Body: Yolo County; cities and UC Davis contract individually with Yolo County for animal services.
• JPA provides direct services - Governing Body: Yolo Animal Services Operational JPA; JPA is responsible for administering the entire animal services program, hiring employees, and providing services to the entire county; Cities, unincorporated areas, and UC Davis contract individually with JPA for animal services.
• JPA contracts with Yolo County for all services - Governing Body: Yolo Animal Services Operational JPA; JPA employees would likely include an executive director and support staff; JPA contracts with Yolo County to provide all animal services; Cities, unincorporated areas, and UC Davis contract individually with JPA for services.
• JPA contracts with a nonprofit for all services - Governing Body: Yolo Animal Services Operational JPA; JPA employees would likely include an executive director and support staff; JPA contracts with nonprofits to provide all animal services; Cities, unincorporated areas, and UC Davis contract individually with JPA for services.
• Hybrid operational JPA - Governing Body: Yolo Animal Services Operational JPA; Service providers could include county, nonprofits, private organizations, UCD, etc.; JPA contracts with non-
profit(s) for provision of some services (e.g., shelter operations, veterinary care); JPA contracts with county for provision of the remaining services (e.g., law enforcement, public safety); Cities, unincorporated areas, and UC Davis contract with JPA for services.
The analysis of these models will be done by the CAO’s office with buy-in from the JPA’s participating cities and UCD.
Vice Chair Sheila Allen and her colleagues were shocked to see that there was not a full house at the meeting as per usual when Animal Services is being discussed.
“To me, there is a certain amount of urgency to say let’s keep this going and there is some momentum to keep it going,” said Allen. “The community, the nonprofits have a key role to play in this.”
One role in which the community, nonprofits and perhaps grants will have to play a huge role is in the building of a new shelter. With the county in dire budget circumstances, there is simply not enough money for them to make this happen.
“It’s hard of us to even fundraise appropriately and effectively on a new shelter if we don’t have our house in order,” said Supervisor Angel Barajas, who represents the board on the JPA.
Farmworker housing
The board unani-
mously authorized the formation of an ad hoc subcommittee relating to the housing needs of local farmworkers. The subcommittee will consist of Supervisors Barajas and Frerichs.
Goals for the subcommittee include improving living conditions for farmworkers and low-income individuals, supporting public health and economic stability, enabling long-term community integration and sustainable development, as well as to leverage public/ private partnerships and funding sources.
Strategies will consist of expanding and rehabilitating mobile home parks, supporting self-help ownership projects and exploring community land trust models.
Fireworks, IMP, health
Also unanimously approved by the board was an update of the Fireworks Ordinance to the current regulatory standards and fire risks.
An informational-only update was given to the board on both the Integrated Management Project and Health Council 2024-25 Annual Report.
For the IMP, a project team of four UCD MBA students formulated recommendations and analyses to assist the county with insights regarding the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan’s metrics and
progress tracking. The team worked throughout a ten-week, academic quarter to deliver project outcomes. According to the report, key challenges for Yolo County to consider include systemic data collection, technology and resource constraints, as well as improving stakeholder engagement.
The Health Council
recommends expanding membership to add additional community organizations supporting health needs. It also is willing to serve in the role of an advisory body to the board in providing recommendations and solutions to health-related issues.
The Yolo County Board of Supervisors will next meet on June 3.
Solano County teen drowns at Lake Berryessa
Express staff
A 17-year-old Fairfield boy drowned Sunday afternoon at Lake Berryessa after reportedly stepping off a steep underwater ledge. Authorities say he did not know how to swim and was not wearing a life jacket.
The Napa County Sheriff’s Office received the emergency call shortly before 4:30 p.m. According to a published report from Lake Berryessa News, a witness saw the teen submerge and fail to resurface.
The teen was visiting the lake with two friends. Witnesses reported seeing him standing in waistdeep water before he accidentally stepped off a sharp underwater drop-off, the newspaper reported, citing a sheriff’s spokesman.
Emergency responders recovered the teen’s body at 4:54 p.m. near the shoreline in approximately 9 feet of water. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been released because he was a minor.
The Napa County Sheriff’s Office reminded the public that while Lake Berryessa is a popular recreation area, it contains sudden underwater drop-offs that can pose serious risks, especially to inexperienced swimmers.
Officials urged all swimmers — regardless of skill level — to wear life jackets while in or near the water. Free life jackets are available for public use at various locations around the lake.
Thursday, May 29
Winters High School Graduation Ceremony, 7–8 p.m., Dr. Seller's Field
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food
Sunday, June 1
Winters Sunday Farmers Market, 9 a.m.–1 p.m., Downtown Main Street
Tuesday, June 3
Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/
Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food
Library Services
Winters Library Public Hours (School in Session), Mon/ Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8–8 p.m., Fri: 8–5 p.m., Sat: 1-5 p.m. (Mask Only 1–3 p.m.)
Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library
Virtual English Conversation Group, Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m.
Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.
Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing
Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org
Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)
Ongoing
View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents
Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org
Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesday (September through May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn
Winters Museum public hours Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org
Winters Open Mic, third Saturday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Downtown Main Street.
Metaphysical Book Club, third Friday at 5 p.m., 212 Grant Ave., Sign up at dixiesbookclub@gmail.com, call 530-212-5026, or just drop in 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. Winters Spiritual Living Circle, last Wednesday at 5 p.m., 212 Grant Ave., Sign up traycee@outlook.com, call 760-688-6302, or just drop in Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com
Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org
Dance Fitness, - first/third Sundays February thru July, 8 to 9 a.m., Winters Community Library. No registration required.
Walking Meditation, third Sunday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Meet behind the Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings:
» St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m.
When Roy Irwin moved to Winters in 1968, few could have predicted the profound impact he would have on the town. At 30 years old, he had already endured a lifetime of hardship.
Institutionalized as a teenager due to his speech impediment and learning disability, Irwin was often overlooked and not expected to make anything of his life. But over the next five decades, Winters came to know Irwin as a symbol of kindness, perseverance, and empathy.
Roy Ralph Irwin passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, at the age of 86, surrounded by friends and family. His loss is deeply felt in Winters, where his presence was a constant — whether sipping coffee in Steady Eddy’s or sitting in a pew in Pioneer Church. Many remember Irwin fondly as a familiar figure walking through town, always ready with a smile, a warm hug, and a kind word.
Education for young people mattered deeply to Irwin because he had been denied that opportunity himself. Written off by his teachers as unable to learn, he proved them wrong by learning to
read and write at 50. He celebrated his accomplishment by reading Psalm 118:24 aloud at church: “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Another lifelong dream was to learn to train horses. In his 60s, he was mentored by local ranch owner Cheryl Filarsky. Irwin learned to work with Rowdy, a previously abused horse afraid of people. In the round pen, a specialized arena used to train horses on the ground Irwin’s gentle hands taught Rowdy that humans could be kind, while Rowdy built Irwin’s confidence and demonstrated wordless love.
“Horses never laugh at me or call me names,” Irwin often said.
After each training session, Irwin asked Filarsky, “Did I do all right?” Two years later, he performed a training demonstration at the Western States Horse Expo. After a flawless performance in the round pen in front of a crowd, Irwin confidently told her, “I did good.”
Irwin combined his love for horses and his passion for education when he became an inspirational speaker in local middle schools. Students watched a video of Irwin working with Rowdy, and then Irwin shared his story,
captivating his audience with his message.
“When I was your age, people said I couldn’t do anything,” Irwin told Woody Fridae’s class at Shirley Rominger Intermediate School. “Kids used to make fun of me and call me a retard. I was institutionalized because they thought I was stupid. And you know what? They didn’t even teach me to read or write or do numbers ... I learned to read when I was 50. Can you believe that? My teachers said I couldn’t do it when I was younger, but I
learned at the age of 50 ... So don’t let other kids put you down and tell you that you can’t do something. Because if I can do something at my old age, who knows what you can do. You can do anything. And be nice to one another, because words hurt. They hurt a lot more than you realize. Just remember to follow your dreams and do whatever you want.”
Irwin’s confidence as a public speaker grew, along with the impact of his words.
See LEGEND, Page 6
Courtesy photo
Local residents John and Erin Hasbrook, along with Marty and Theresa Mariani, traveled to New York City last month to ring the opening bell at the NASDAQ Stock Exchange in celebration of Tri Counties Bank’s (TriCo – TCBK) 50th anniversary. Both John Hasbrook and Marty Mariani serve on
Courtesy photo
Roy Irwin developed a special relationship with Rowdy, a previously abused horse afraid of people.
Courtesy photo
Roy Irwin had a dream to learn to train horses. In his 60s, he was mentored by local ranch owner Cheryl Filarsky.
Most homes unaffordable for $75K earners
standard lending criteria.
U.S. households earning $75,000 a year can only afford 21.2 percent of home listings as of March 2025 — up slightly from 20.8 percent a year prior and representing the biggest gain of any income group — demonstrating that the nation’s housing affordability gap persists, according to the National Association of Realtors and Realtor.com 2025 Housing Affordability & Supply report.
The report analyzes the shortage of affordable homes across different income levels in the current U.S. housing market. It provides a real-time, income-specific snapshot of housing affordability, examining what home buyers at various income levels can afford based on
For-sale housing inventory increased nearly 20 percent nationwide in March 2025 from one year earlier, and while this gain marks progress, it remains far from pre-pandemic conditions.
“The housing market is at a turning point,” said Nadia Evangelou, NAR senior economist and director of real estate research. “More homes are hitting the market, and it’s encouraging to see the greatest housing-supply gains among middle-income home buyers.”
While households earning $75,000 a year experienced a slight improvement in accessibility to home listings between March 2025 (21.2 percent) and March 2024 (20.8 percent), the largest gain of any in-
come group, they have less than half of the access to affordable homes than they had before the pandemic, when nearly 49 percent of listings were accessible. In a balanced housing market — where listings are aligned with what households at various income levels can afford — these home buyers would need access to 48.1 percent of listings. To reach that threshold, the market needs nearly 416,000 more listings priced at or below $255,000.
Households that earn $100,000 annually are in a similar situation. They can currently afford 37.1 percent of home listings, up slightly from 36.9 percent in March 2024. That is far below the 64.7 percent they could afford in 2019 and well below the 60.7 percent target for market balance. This group faces a shortage
of nearly 364,000 home listings priced under $340,000.
A household earning $50,000 annually can only afford 8.7 percent of home listings today, down from 9.4 percent one year ago. These low-income households represent one in three households, and in a balanced housing market, they should be able to afford to buy one in three listings. For balance, about 367,000 listings at a maximum price of $170,000 are vital.
Meanwhile, higher-income households have near-total access to the housing market. Home buyers earning $250,000 or more can afford at least 80 percent of home listings.
“Shoppers see more homes for sale today than one year ago, and encouragingly, many of these homes have been added at moderate-income price
points,” said Danielle Hale, Realtor.com chief economist. “But as this report shows, we still don’t have an abundance of homes that are affordable to low- and moderate-income households, and the progress that we’ve seen is not happening everywhere. It’s been concentrated in the Midwest and the South.” As of March 2025, 30 percent of the 100 largest metropolitan areas are classified as “Areas Getting Closer to Balance,” where the availability of affordable homes improved significantly over the past year and is relatively strong across income levels. Substantial progress has been made in markets that were previously considered unaffordable, with affordable home listings improving by more than 5 percent within the past year. These areas now have housing affordability gaps that are less than 10 percentage points below a balanced housing market.
Akron, Ohio; St. Lou-
is, Mo.; Youngstown, Ohio; and Pittsburgh, Pa., exhibit housing conditions that closely align with healthy supply benchmarks.
While they are not yet fully balanced, Raleigh, N.C.; Des Moines, Iowa; Grand Rapids, Mich.; Columbia, SC; and Columbus, Ohio, made substantial progress in increasing the availability of affordable homes.
“For many first-time home buyers, navigating the current housing market still feels like window shopping,” added Evangelou. “Listing prices don’t match first-time home buyers’ budgets. If the promising trend of building smaller homes continues, that could be a meaningful step toward easing the housing affordability gap for more buyers.”
A sizable slice (44 percent) of the 100-largest metropolitan areas is classified as “Areas Stuck in the Middle,” where housing supply and
See HOMES, Page 7
and
(530) 795-4531 *
Thank you for supporting FFA
This past year and all that it entailed for Winters FFA could not have been possible without our chapter’s loyal supporters. All that we do is thanks to the community members who are right by our side every step of the way. Winters FFA would like to issue one more huge thank you to the following individuals: Mary Whitworth Baichtal, Dan Dulinsky, Cari Kiefer, Elliot Herrera, Jill Aguiar, Mr. Justin Young, Rody Boonchouy, Ms. Mognis, Ms. Marcella, Ms. Roper, Kim Galabasa, Cynthia Garcia, Henry Bullfrog Bees, Lynn Martindale, Pat and Chris Calvert, Joe Armstrong, TS&L Seed, Karla Garcia, Andrea Coker, Ernie Roncoroni, Liz Coman, Natalie Herrera, Jenny Herrera, Luis Herrera, Autumn Alvarado, Mr. Baker, Ms. Mann, Alejandrino Barrera, the Winters Fire Department, Ms. Ellison, Mr. Novello, Justin Rominger, Bruce Rominger, Dan Martinez, Dennis Mariani, Corrin Armstong, Thaddius Barsotti, Kristen Trott, Elliot Herrera and many more.
JACKSON BRONSON Winters FFA reporter
Letters Policy
The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. Letters contribute to community discussion. Express Letters to the Editor guidelines: Letters should not exceed 350 words. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. We accept “thank you” letters naming local individuals and businesses only. Non-local names will be edited out. “Thank you” notices containing non-local individuals or businesses must be published as paid advertising to: ads@wintersexpress.com.
We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity or clarity, or to reject any letter. Letters must be legibly signed by the writer. We reserve the right to determine legitimacy.
Mail letters to: The Winters Express, PO Box 520, Winters, CA 95694, submit online at https://tinyurl.com/syzevywd or visit wintersexpress.com.
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20),
Aries, this week your dreams might be a tool for gaining insight on what you want to accomplish. Although dreams can’t predict the future, they may reveal some of your subconscious desires.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21),
Follow your instincts this week, Taurus, even if you’re more prone to reason than whimsy. Let the chips fall where they may and go with the flow.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21),
This week can be all about feeding your mind, Gemini. Walk around a bookstore and pick up the first book that catches your eye, regardless of its subject matter.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22),
Something may be worrying you lately, Cancer, but you can’t exactly put your finger on it. Talk about your feelings with others as another person may have a different perspective.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23),
Leo, seize an opportunity to pursue the things that you want most of all. Use this week to map out a plan and then get started on all of the steps before you reach your goal.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22),
Check out ways that you can advance your career or education this week. The energy around you is favoring growth, so now is the time to take advantage and learn a new skill.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23),
Others trust your opinions because your intuition tends to be spot on, Libra. When a friend comes to you this week asking for some advice, you will not hesitate.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22),
Use your creativity to make things happen this week, Scorpio. This may not produce a finished product, but it could be about an innovative way to approach a task or problem.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21),
Figure out some new ways to expand your horizons this week, Sagittarius. Identify means to personal growth, including educational opportunities.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20), Capricorn, it is important to step out of your routine every so often to increase your knowledge and expand your horizons. This is one of those weeks to do so.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18), Are you satisfied with your career, Aquarius? If you have been mulling a career change, this could be the week to start moving your chess pieces around.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20), Pisces, don’t worry too much about the changes that lie ahead this week. You have a more adaptable nature than you might realize. As changes come your way, embrace them.
Express Yourself
From constables to chiefs in Winters’ police history
The last month has been a fascinating journey through the pages of our past. Digging into the archives of the Winters Express and Winters Advocate has been like opening a time capsule — layer by layer, story by story, watching our town evolve over the past 150 years.
As we’ve explored the history of public safety in Winters in this week’s sesquicentennial special edition, we’ve celebrated the fire chiefs who’ve protected our community, and it only feels right to now honor those who have worn the badge on the other side of that responsibility — our police chiefs.
Although the list of Winters police chiefs came in just after our special edition had gone to press, their legacy deserves the same spotlight. After all, public safety is not one person or one department — it’s a commitment, a continuum of people stepping forward to serve with
courage, professionalism, and a deep love for the community.
Our Winters chiefs of police according to the records available at Winters PD.
Chief Miller told the Express that a lot of historical information was not consistently recorded over the years, and some information is missing from the below list of police chiefs since 1923):
1. George R. Sidwell, COP 1923-1938
2. G. A. Crowder, appointed COP 1938 (resigned Oct. 1, 1948)
3. Ben Couch, appointed COP from October 1948 to July 1, 1951
4. Gunnard Johnson, appointed temporary Chief of Police June 30, 1951
5. Thomas Earl Washabaugh, appointed COP Oct. 7, 1951 (retired Feb. 28, 1968)
6. Richard A. Washabaugh, appointed COP Mar. 1, 1968 (resigned Dec. 31, 1976)
7. William A. Lane, appointed COP 1977 (resigned in August 1980). Mike Paul was appointed Acting
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-27
Chief.
8. Steven C. Godden, appointed COP Sept. 22, 1980 (retired Oct. 31, 2004)
9. Bruce Muramoto, appointed COP Nov. 8, 2004 (retired in 2011)
11. Joseph Kreins, appointed interim COP from Jan. 1, 2016 to July 24, 2016)
12. John P. Miller, appointed COP on July 25, 2016
From George Sidwell, who served as chief as early as 1923, to our current Chief John P. Miller, each person on this list has contributed to a living history of law enforcement in our small town. They have responded to emergencies, navigated societal changes, faced tragic moments, and
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WINTERS, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS FOR MAINTENANCE IN THE EXISTING CITY OF WINTERS CITYWIDE MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT, FOR FY 2025-26, AND SETTING THE TIME AND PLACE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING THEREON
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Winters, California has previously formed a street lighting and landscaping district pursuant to the terms and provisions of the “Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972”, being Division 15, Part 2 of the Streets and Highways Code of the State of California, Article XIII D of the California Constitution, and the Proposition 218 Omnibus Implementation Act (commencing with California Government Code Section 53750) (collectively the “Law”), in what is known and designated as City of Winters City-Wide Maintenance Assessment District (“District”); and,
WHEREAS, on April 15, 2025, the District adopted Resolution 2025-17, initiating proceedings for the District’s annual levy, and ordering the preparation of the Engineer’s Report for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 annual levy of assessments; and WHEREAS, at this time there has been presented and approved by this City Council by Resolution 2025-26, an Engineer’s Report (the “Report”) as required by law, and this City Council desires to move forth with the proceedings for the annual levy for the District.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Winters, California,
SECTION 1. The above recitals are all true and correct.
SECTION 2. The Report regarding the Fiscal Year 2025-26 annual levy for the District describes in full detail the improvements for the District, the boundaries of the District, and the proposed assessments upon assessable lots and parcels of land within the District and said Report has been previously approved and is filed in the Office of the City Clerk.
SECTION 3. The public interest and convenience require, and it is the intention of this City Council to order, the annual assessment levy for the City of Winters CityWide Maintenance Assessment District, as set forth and described in the Report, and further it is determined to be in the best public interest and convenience to levy and collect annual assessments to pay the costs and expenses of said maintenance of improvements as estimated in said Report. The District is located generally within the City of Winters, with the boundaries described in Exhibit A hereto and as more particularly described in the Report.
SECTION 4. The assessments levied and collected shall be for the maintenance of certain landscaping improvements in the District, as set forth in the Report on file with the City Clerk, referenced and so incorporated herein. The assessments for the District are not proposed to increase above amounts imposed for Fiscal Year 2024-25.
SECTION 5. After the public hearing called pursuant to Section 9 below, the Yolo County Auditor-Controller shall enter on the Assessment Roll the amount of the assessments and shall collect said assessments at the same time and in the same manner as County taxes are collected. After collection, the net amount of the assessments, after the deduction of any compensation due to the County for collection, shall be paid to the Treasurer of the City of Winters for purposes of paying for the costs and expenses of said District.
SECTION 6. That all monies collected shall be deposited in a special fund known as: “SPECIAL FUND CITY-WIDE MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT.” Payment shall be made of said fund only for the purpose provided for in this Resolution, and to expedite the operation, maintenance and servicing of the landscaping improvements, the City Council may transfer into said special fund, from any available source, such funds as it may deem necessary to expedite the proceedings. Any funds shall be repaid out of the proceeds of the assessments provided for in this Resolution.
SECTION 7. The improvements within the District include: the maintenance and operation of and the furnishing of services and materials for landscaping improvements, irrigation and drainage systems, street lighting and associated appurtenances. The Report as previously approved and on file with the City Clerk, provides a full and complete description of all improvements and any or all substantial changes to the improvements within the District. Said improvements is, in the opinion of this City Council, of direct special benefit to the properties within the boundaries of the District, and this City Council makes the costs and expenses of said improvements chargeable upon the properties within the District, and to be further assessed to pay the costs and expenses thereof. Said District shall include each and every parcel of land within the boundaries of said District, as shown within the Report, as approved by this City Council and on file in the Office of the City Clerk, and so designated by the name of the District.
SECTION 8. Any public properties, as defined in the Law, which are included within the boundaries of the District, shall be subject to any assessment to be made under these proceedings to cover any of the costs and expenses of said improvements and maintenance work.
SECTION 9. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING IS SCHEDULED FOR 6:30 P.M. ON JUNE 17, 2025, DURING THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE WINTERS CITY COUNCIL, WINTERS, CALIFORNIA,
adapted to the relentless tide of new technology — all while holding firm to the core mission to protect and serve.
Chief Miller put it best when he said, “I hope we will leave them a legacy that we lived a life that mattered doing something that mattered.” That sentiment encapsulates not just his leadership, but the quiet determination that has defined the department for nearly a century. And it’s that legacy that today’s officers are carrying forward — one call, one community moment at a time.
This year, the Winters Police Department introduced a new anniversary badge, a striking tribute to its roots. The
See CHIEFS, Page 5
REGARDING THE ANNUAL LEVY FOR THE DISTRICT, THE EXTENT OF THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENTS WITHIN THE DISTRICT, AND ANY OTHER MATTERS CONTAINED WITHIN THIS RESOLUTION. ANY PERSONS WHO WISH TO OBJECT TO THE PROCEEDINGS FOR THE ANNUAL LEVY SHOULD FILE A WRITTEN PROTEST WITH THE CITY CLERK PRIOR TO THE TIME SET AND SCHEDULED FOR SAID PUBLIC HEARING.
SECTION 10. That the City Clerk is directed to take all actions necessary to provide notice of the public hearing described in Section 9 above, in accordance with Streets and Highways Code section 22626(a).
SECTION 11. That this Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption.
SECTION 12. For information relating to the proceedings, protest procedure, and documentation and/or information of a procedural or technical nature, contact: Finance Department, City of Winters, 318 1st Street, Winters, CA 95694, (530) 795-4910.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Winters, California, at a regular meeting thereof held this 20th day of May 2025.
AYES: Council Members Casavecchia, Loren, Scianna, Mayor Pro Tem Biasi, Mayor Vallecillo
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAINED: None
ATTEST:
EXHIBIT A
BOUNDARY OF DISTRICT CITY OF WINTERS CITY-WIDE MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
Courtesy photo
In 1968, at his retirement, Chief Thomas Earl Washabaugh handed keys over to new Police Chief Richard A. Washabaugh.
Express Yourself
What makes Winters, Winters?
Some people worry about how many houses are being built in Winters. I worry that we will lose our compassion for our fellow Wintersites. I don’t think size makes you a better or worse city, it is how you treat each other and those less fortunate. How do we acclimate new citizens to small town thinking?
Winters has always felt safe to me and I’ve watched as the town has accepted those vulnerable to society’s bullies. Those like Roy Irwin, who passed away last week, a sweet man, always with a big smile on his face. I think Roy felt safe in Winters and I think the people of Winters felt protective of Roy.
I remember Jan Neil’s elderly mother walking down Main Street to have a drink at the Buckhorn and
thinking that she couldn’t do that in Sacramento. Mary Rolston was an active senior who liked to throw herself birthday parties. She would pick a theme and pack the Buckhorn with family and friends. She lived downtown so it wasn’t much of a walk for her to enjoy a daily glass of wine. Winters looked out for Clara Sager, who was famous for living outside her home on Russell Street with her cats. When the health department told her she had to clean up her mess, a call went out for help. So many people showed up that it only took a couple of days
Introducing Daniel Lares
Meet Daniel Lares. He is the Picasso of Abbey Street and he doesn’t even know it. I happened to drive by his home at just the right time to see him sculpting the hedges in his front yard. I had to stop and meet him to see what makes him tick. There were living sculptures everywhere, a topiary delight. He gave me a warm greeting and I found that he even resembled Picasso. I had a million
questions that he was eager to answer. He was warm, honest, and very intelligent. I liked him instantly. In a matter of minutes, our conversation turned to his house and he was eager to show.
Daniel is 91 years old, born in Zapotiltic, Jalisco, Mexico, in January 1934. In his youth, Bonnie and Clyde, and John Dillinger were brought to justice. Alcatraz first opened its doors and the world saw the rise of the Nazis. In 1951, at the age of 17, he arrived in the U.S. to work in the Imperial Valley. In 1965 he met his wife, Martha. Together they had four children and seven grandchildren.
Daniel worked for the Romingers and eventually Teichert Construction. They settled down in Winters and paid $5,800 for the house on Abbey Street. Daniel says it took a lot of effort and time to turn the home into such a
to get her place back to a livable condition. That included a new roof and sewer line. Everyone watched out for Sue Sanders, even as her mind was slipping away. She lived alone longer than her doctors believed she could, thanks to the people of Winters. One fall and she ended up in an assisted living facility in Sacramento.
When Tom, who hasn’t lived in Winters for that long, had a birthday party recently, I was surprised by all of his new friends that came to wish him a happy birthday, and his sister, too. I think Tom told me that he is 53 so he has been
around long enough to see the other side of people’s attitude toward people with disabilities. I think Tom feels safe in Winters, too.
I am sure that everyone has a list of people that Winters has accepted, just as they are, without trying to make a big deal of their quirkiness or differences. We do have our share of oddballs and misfits who seem to fit right in with the rest of us. It makes Winters a better place to live and work.
So, if you are worried about the population of Winters, turn your thoughts to what you think makes Winters, Winters. Think about Roy Irwin and I’ll bet it puts a smile on your face.
Our unofficial slogan: Winters, the land of fruits and nuts.
Have a good week.
beautiful work of art. His home is lovely, inside and out.
Daniel retired in 1996 so he has plenty of time to work his magic around home. The next time you drive down Abbey Street just look for a Picasso-looking man working at his living
sculptures, so stop, introduce yourself, and enjoy his beautiful yard. You can’t miss it, because it is that unique.
His favorite place to eat is at home and if he could have dinner with anyone that ever lived, it would be his family.
CHIEFS
Continued from Page 4
design echoes the Town Constable badge from the late 1800s to early 1900s, notably worn by Constable Gilbert Crowder in the 1930s. Crowder, a man who later became chief of police in 1938, retired a decade later, having helped shape the earliest version of the department we know today.
Crowder’s original badge bore a handstamped Masonic emblem — the Seal of Solomon, also known as the Shield of David — a personal touch that reminds us how service was, and still is, deeply personal. Back then, it wasn’t unusual for lawmen to add such symbols to their badges, a quiet nod to their values and affiliations. Today, that tradition lives on not through personal engravings, but through the shared emblem of the anniversary badge — a symbol that honors every officer who came before.
When I first sat down with Chief Miller when I stepped into the editor role, I wanted him to know something that felt important to say out loud. The years 2019 and 2020 were tumultuous times for police departments
across the country. And as a journalist, I understood the weight of covering public safety through an objective lens, no matter the situation.
But I also come from a lived experience. Before we moved to. Winters, I grew up in a neighborhood in South Vallejo where driveby shootings were a weekly occurrence. My respect for public safety is grounded in gratitude, not in hostility. I told him that I aim to report on local happenings honestly, and with the same care and fairness I would want if someone were writing about me.
As we reflect on the long line of police chiefs — from Sidwell to Chief Miller — it’s clear that Winters has never been just a spot on the map. It’s a place where leaders have grown, where legacy is earned, and where public service is deeply interwoven with community pride.
To the past and present members of the Winters Police Department, thank you. Your stories — both remembered and still unfolding — matter. And to our readers, may we always remember that behind each badge is not just authority, but humanity, heart and history.
Courtesy photo
Meet Daniel Lares
Winters AYSO fall soccer registration now open
Volunteer coaches, referees needed
Special to the Express
Early Bird registration is now open for the Winters AYSO Region 436 Fall 2025–26 soccer season, which runs from Aug. 1, through July 31, 2026. The AYSO board is also seeking volunteer coaches and referees to help ensure a successful season.
Players can be registered online at wintersayso.org.
In addition, the board is hosting an in-person registration event on Monday, June 9, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Hooby’s Brewing. Weather permitting, registration will take place outdoors; if temperatures are extreme, it will move inside.
Families who are adding new players must submit the participating child’s birth certificate and a photo online in one of the approved listed formats. The photo should be a clear current headshot of the participating child. Photos are required for the player’s identification badge if the team advances to any tournaments at the end of the season.
The youngest division is SchoolYard - Coed (5U) for children who turn four years old in 2025 to six years old. Divisions go up by age through 16/19U for boys and girls.
This year’s registration timelines are:
• Early Bird pricing is now
LEGEND Continued from Page 1
During one classroom visit, two students began quietly laughing at his speech. Rather than getting flustered, as he would have in earlier years, Irwin spoke calmly.
“I come to classrooms to talk because I hope that what I have to say will help you. School is hard, and it can be tough to keep trying. I want to encourage all of you to continue your studies and do the best that you can. But not everyone will hear what I have to say, and that’s their loss. But if just one person listens and learns something, then I consider it worthwhile and a success,” he told students.
Irwin paused and made eye contact with the boys. “I’m not getting paid to be here. So if you don’t want to listen, there’s the door.”
through through June 15
• Regular registration is from June 16 through June 30
• Late registration starts July 1, until all teams are filled
After July 1, full divisions will have players placed on the waitlist, waitlisted players will only be added to teams if a space opens up or there are enough for a full team including volunteers for that team.
The division registration fees are detailed on the Winters AYSO registration page at www.wintersayso. org. Winters AYSO registration fees do not include the National AYSO fee of $25 per player.
Uniforms are not included with registration. Players who previously played will use the same uniform kits for this season. Players who are new to AYSO, who need a new uniform or who are playing 14U for the first time will need to order uniforms online. Ordering details are available on the Registration page on the Winters AYSO website.
Alissa Clark, Winters AYSO Regional Commissioner, said they are looking for community members and families to take on volunteer roles including coaches and assistant coaches, referees and serving on the board.
Volunteers will receive free training through AYSO. The board is looking to provide training events locally, as well as provide information about upcoming AYSO training and cer-
tification opportunities.
New soccer program
The Winters AYSO board is excited to announce plans to launch the EPIC program this fall, expanding access to soccer for athletes with disabilities. Formerly known as the VIP Program, EPIC — short for Everyone Plays In our Community — continues AYSO’s mission to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for players of all abilities. With the help of volunteer buddies, athletes re-
He pointed at the exit. “But either way, I want it quiet so everyone can listen without interruption.” The boys were silent for the rest
of his speech. Irwin’s faith in God was quiet but powerful. He wasn’t an outspoken evangelical, but in every classroom
season.” Her hard work paid off at the Division III Championships on May 16, where Passantino placed first in both events.
ceive the encouragement and assistance they need to fully participate and thrive on the field. Originally established in 1991, the program’s recent rebrand reinforces AYSO’s commitment to making the beautiful game accessible to all. More information about the Winters EPIC program will be shared once program details are finalized.
Individuals who have questions about registration or who would like to learn more about volunteering should contact Win-
visit, he included one line about God.
“I want you to know that Jesus loves you, and I love you,” Irwin said. “People can be mean to you, but don’t let them tell you what you can do. I never thought I could work with the horses or do roundpen training. But if you put your mind to something, you can do it. Don’t let people put you down or make you feel like you’re worthless.”
Irwin’s absence will be felt throughout Winters, but his message lives on in the book Breaking Expectations, which tells his story. Irwin shattered the early expectations that he would lead an unremarkable life, instead rising to become one of Winters’s most cherished and inspiring residents.
ters AYSO by messaging through the Facebook Page or by email at wintersayso@ gmail.com.
Capstone event, save the date Winters High School senior Violet Tuel is organizing the inaugural AYSO Youth Soccer Fest as part of her Senior Capstone Project. The community is invited to save the date for this exciting event, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 23, from 4 to 7 p.m. Additional details will be announced as plans are finalized.
Baseball falls to Durham in final
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Saturday, May 24, the Winters High School varsity baseball team faced off against Durham High School for the NSCIF Division 4 Section Championship title.
Boston Jones started the Warriors off on the mound, striking out 11 batters, giving up only three hits and four runs over six innings, walking only one.
His performance on the mound left the score at 5–4 going into the seventh inning. Unfortunately, Durham came to play and pulled ahead in
the seventh inning, leaving everything they had on the field, scoring nine runs with a final score of 13–5.
Jordan Calvert led the Warriors at bat going 1 for 4 at bat with a double RBI.
Derrick Collins, Lane Brown, Sebastian Rodriguez and Miles Mariani each collected one hit for the Warriors. Despite the final result not being what the Warriors had hoped for, or anticipated, they went undefeated throughout the entire league season, which consisted of 13 games.
Express file photo
Early Bird registration is open for the Winters AYSO Fall Core program.
Courtesy photo
Roy Irwin was known for his love of horses and his kindnature in handling them. Here, he rides on Raindance on the ranch.
Arts & Entertainment
Duck Derby is back on June 8
Special to the Express Winters’ most quacktastic tradition is making a splash once again! The 11th Annual Duck Derby returns to Putah Creek on Sunday, June 8, and you’re invited to join the fun as hundreds of bright yellow rubber ducks race their hearts out for glory — and some great prizes.
This beloved event is the main fundraiser for Winters Youth Day, and it’s more than just a race — it’s a full-on community celebration. Families, friends, and duck enthusiasts of all ages gather to watch the cheerful chaos as flocks of rubber racers bob and weave their way downstream toward victory.
What’s at stake? Cash prizes for the first three ducks to cross the finish line. Plus, the last duck out of the water, the “Lucky Duck,” wins a flock of 12 ducks in next year’s race.
Last year’s Lucky Duck winner, Rody Boonchouy, will be back in 2025 with a full flock ready to take the creek by storm. Will this year’s Lucky Duck be yours?
How to join the fun
Volunteers from the Youth Day Committee and the Kiwanis Club of Winters will be there to help you adopt a duck in person at the Rotary Gazebo between 11 and 11:30 a.m. on race day.
Or adopt online at https://bit.ly/
Ducks2025
Family activities will be set up before the race, so come early to play, mingle, and get your duck ready for action!
Ducks hit the water at noon, and winners will be announced right after the race.
More ducky fun
This year, the Winters Youth Day committee will hide baby ducks around downtown. The Duck Hunt will begin on Saturday, June 7 after 3 p.m. If you find a baby duck, bring it to the Duckling Recovery Station at the Duck Derby on June 8 to redeem it for a fun prize or treat.
Help make sure everyone has fun and only take one baby duck per person. Prizes are limited, treats will be provided throughout the event.
Mark your calendar, gather your flock, and come cheer on your favorite duck in this joyful, splashy, family-friendly tradition that brings the whole Winters community together.
Ronstadt Revolution rocks Opera House
Special to the Express
Get ready to sing, sway, and celebrate the legacy of a music icon. Ronstadt Revolution — Northern California’s premier tribute to 11-time Grammy Award winner Linda Ronstadt — takes the stage at the Winters Opera House as part of the Winter Live Music Series on Friday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Fronted by powerhouse vocalist and acclaimed stage per-
former Natalie Amaya, Ronstadt Revolution features a band of veteran musicians who have shared stages with legends like Elvis Presley, Sheryl Crow, Alvaro Torres and Tina Turner.
Audiences can expect an electrifying musical journey through Ronstadt’s expansive catalog — from her groundbreaking hits of the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s to her celebrated Spanish-language albums of the ’90s. Whether
you’re a longtime fan or discovering her music for the first time, this tribute promises a night of nostalgia, energy, and unforgettable performances.
As The East Bay Times raves, “If you’re a Linda Ronstadt fan, you’ll love Ronstadt Revolution.”
For tickets, visit https://bit.ly/RonstadtRevWintersLive. Learn more about at www.ronstadtrevolution.com.
Get ready for plenty of retro vibes and Americana inspired music as According to Bazooka takes the stage at the
According to Bazooka heads to Gazebo
Special to the Express
Get ready to sway to the rhythm of timeless tunes and infectious melodies as According to Bazooka brings its signature blend of retro Americana sound to the Rotary Park Gazebo in Winters on Thursday, June 5, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Hailing from Northern California’s Sacramento Valley, According to Bazooka delivers a one-of-a-kind musical experience. Their genre-blurring sound fuses rock, folk, jazz, country, blues, pop, and zydeco into what they call retro-pop-roadhouse-bistro. It’s the
Continued from Page 2
demand are misaligned but not at crisis levels. Some markets made small but meaningful gains in one year – adding a modest number of affordable listings – but gains have not been substantial enough to shift the market.
Seattle, Wash. and Washington, D.C. experienced moderate increases in the share of homes considered affordable over the past year, with an average rise of 4 percentage points. While that marks progress, both cities still face some of the largest affordability gaps in the country, requiring households to earn
kind of music that stirs nostalgia while feeling fresh and new — ideal for a summer evening under the open sky.
With original songs that draw inspiration from everyday life, A2B crafts music that’s as thoughtful as it is toe-tapping. Their shows are filled with catchy melodies, rich vocal harmonies, and a quirky mix of instruments including accordion, upright bass, violin, classic keyboards, and even bouzouki — an homage to the band’s eclectic roots and namesake.
Featuring members Don Johnston, Jamie Knapp, René Martuc-
more than $150,000 a year just to afford half the homes on the market. In contrast, Austin, Texas; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Denver, Colo., made substantial progress, boosting the share of affordable listings by an average of 20 percentage points. Notably, San Francisco, Calif. has also seen very significant improvement, with the supply of affordable listings surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
“Even in high-cost areas like San Francisco, we’re witnessing real progress,” explained Evangelou.
“While the housing market remains far from balanced, current for-sale home listings better align with home buyers’
ci, and Richard Urbino, the group is known for its vibrant chemistry and authentic storytelling. Whether it’s a jazzy riff or a rockand-roll groove, each tune invites the audience to sing along and smile at life’s shared absurdities.
More than just a concert, an evening with According to Bazooka is a journey through the soundscape of American roots music — seasoned with California charm and retro flair. So grab a picnic blanket, bring the family, and settle in for a lively night of music, laughter, and community.
incomes compared to pre-COVID-19 levels — a clear reminder that improvement is possible.”
Twenty-six percent of the 100-largest metro areas are classified as “Areas Falling Further Behind,” where the gap from a balanced housing market continues to widen, worsening housing affordability. In these metropolitan areas, the availability of affordable listings has either declined over the past year or remains more than 20 percentage points below what is considered a balanced housing market, highlighting a troubling trend in housing accessibility.
Despite being home to millions and some of the strongest local economies, Los Angeles, Calif.; Oxnard, Calif.; San Diego, Calif.; New York, N.Y.; and Spokane, Wash. are among the furthest from housing-supply balance. Even with improvement since last year, these areas continue to face the most severe shortages of affordable home listings.
From a state perspective, Iowa, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and West Virginia lead the nation in offering balanced housing market conditions. In most of these states, a household earning $75,000 — close to the national median — can afford more than 45 percent of the for-sale home listings. Although they are improving with additional inventory and moving in the right direction, Montana, Idaho, California, Massachusetts and Hawaii still need a plentiful supply of affordable home listings. Delaware, Utah, Colorado, Florida and Arizona showed the most improvement with significant yearover-year gains in housing affordability. Only the District of Columbia improved affordability compared to pre-pandemic levels.
HOMES
Rotary Park Gazebo on June 5.
Courtesy photo Express file photo
Rubber ducks race down Putah Creek toward the finish line in the annual Duck Derby.
Losing Streak
@ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Jelly�sh Method/ Love Letter/ Odder/ Eclypso/ Losing Streak
@ 8pm Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Tai Chi Classes for Beginners @ 8:50am
Tantra
94% connection rate! Meet singles & ignite connections through fun, chemistry-building games! Yoga Studio, 1694 Union Street, San Francisco. help@ tantrany.com
Tantra Speed Date®Sacramento! Meet Singles Speed Dating @ 5:30pm / $45-$140 Join the speed dating revolution with a 94% connection rate! Meet singles & ignite connections through fun, chemistry-building games! Yoga Shala Sacramento, 2030 H Street, Sacramento. help@ tantrany.com
Greg in Good Company (Solo) @ Gather Dogpatch Wine Lounge @ 7:30pm Gather Wine Lounge - Dogpatch, 2490 3rd St, San Francisco
Gavin Prophet at The Press Club @ 7:30pm The Press Club, 2030 P St, Sacra‐mento
Zephyr @ 8pm The Green Room So‐cial Club, 251 Main St, Plac‐erville
Comedy Allstars - in the Callback Bar @ 9:15pm Punch Line Sacramento Callback Bar, Sacramento
Build a Bouquet Workshop @ 11am / $25 Create your unique expression of the season at The HIVE’s Build a Bouquet workshop! The HIVE Tast‐ing Room + Kitchen, 1221 Harter Avenue, Woodland. thehive@zspe cialtyfood.com, 530-668-0660
Deborah Winters @ 1:30pm Fior d'Italia, 2237 Mason St, San Francisco
Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra and Chorus @ 2pm Palace of
Beginning tai chi classes offered at eh Woodland Community & Senior Center Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
Dance Fitness Classes at Woodland Senior Center @ 10:15am Low-impact aerobic exercise choreographed to contemporary music. Super fun! Woodland Com‐munity & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
Balloon Museum | Emotion
Air - Art you can feel @ 12pm Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
Vagabond Empire: 100 Days of Music on Ellis
@ 12pm Boeddeker Parklet, 353 Ellis St., San Francisco
Balloon Museum | Emotion
Air - Art you can feel @ 12:15pm Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
Balloon Museum | Emotion Air - Art you can feel @ 12:30pm Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco
Children's Dance Classes
After School at the Davis
Arts Center @ 4pm Tina Fitness offers children's Dance classes after school at the Davis Arts Center. Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com
Carter Vail & Slow Coast @ The Independent @ 7:30pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco
Wiz Khalifa @ 8pm Ace of Spades, 1417 R Street, Sacramento
Beginning + Intermediate
Tai Chi
@ 10am Tai chi classes for beginning and intermediate practitioners at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�t ness68@gmail.com
Quick Pickles Class @ 6pm Join us for a fun hands-on classon the basics of quick pickling. Leave with your own jar of pickled radishes! Fair�eld Cordelia Library, 5050 Business Center Drive, Fair‐�eld. Ldetomaso@ solanocounty.com
Bridging the Years with Music - A concert by DHS Symphonic Band and Yolo Community Band - June 10 @ 7pm Davis Senior High School Symphonic Band and Yolo Community Band will share the stage for a free concert at the Richard Brunelle Performance Hall. Richard Brunelle Perfor‐mance Hall, 315 West 14th Street, Davis. yolocommu nityband@gmail.com
Dave Ricketts Music: Dave Ricketts & Friends at The Sea Star @ 7pm The Sea Star, 2289 3rd St, San Francisco
Alex Ramon "Magic" @ 7:30pm The Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, Stateline
Daniel Saint Black @ 8pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco
Phillip Greenlief: animals & giraffes with special guests david boyce, evelyn davis, anne walsh junior, zachary james watkins @ 8pm Center for New Music, 55 Taylor St, San Francisco
Sunday Jun 8th
11th Annual Duck Derby @ 11am Winters Putah Creek Nature Park, 201 Railroad Avenue, Winters. info@wintersyouthday.com
The
Body
gmail.com Matthew Balling:
Mic @ Lenise's
6pm
Mic
Lenises CAFE, 3150 Jefferson Blvd, West Sacramento World Series of Comedy @ 7pm / $18 Jun 11th - Jun 12th The World Series of Comedy is North America's largest touring comedy festival. The WSOC pro‐duces 13 events per year in cities across the country, culminating in the year-end Finals, The Main Event. Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlim ited@gmail.com, 916-446-8128
UltraBomb @ 7pm Harlow's, 2708 J St, Sacramento
Pictoria Vark x Jacob Miller @ Kilowatt
@ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Maggie Gently @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Jenks
@ 8pm Harlow's, 2708 J St, Sacramento
Beginning + Intermediate Tai Chi @ 10am Tai chi classes for beginners and intermediates at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
The Cires: Cole valley night market 2025 @ 4pm La Boulangerie de San Francisco, Cole Valley, 1000 Cole St, San Francisco
Valencia LIVE! | June 12th
@ 5pm See you in the streets for Valencia LIVE! A FREE, all-ages monthly neighborhood celebration spot‐lighting local businesses, live mu‐sic, and art. On Valencia Street be‐tween 16th and 19th Streets—in the Valencia Street & 16th Street, San Francisco. maro@in tothestreetssf.com, 415-226-9289
Majik Ninja Entertainment: Suga Free wsg G-Mo Skee
Comedian Eric Schwartz! @ 7:30pm Blu Nightclub @ Bally's Lake Tahoe, 55 US-50, Stateline
Ramon "Magic"
7:30pm
Cabaret at Caesars Republic Lake
at the DCC Live Second Friday Free Noon Concert Series at the Davis Community Church. Davis Community Church, Davis. lu annhiggs@gmail.com, 916-6008872
Decades In @ 3rd 'N Army @ 3:30pm 3rd & Army, San Francisco
2nd Friday ArtAbout & Night Market at the Pence Gallery @ 6pm Visit the Pence for our free art reception & pop-up Night Market! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370
World Series of Comedy @ 7pm / $29 Jun 13th - Jun 14th
The World Series of Comedy is North America's largest touring comedy festival. The WSOC pro‐duces 13 events per year in cities across the country, culminating in the year-end Finals, The Main Event. Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlim ited@gmail.com, 916-446-8128
Cosmic QT: Kimmortal, Bobby Sanchez, Window @ 7pm Bindlestiff Studio, 185 6th St, San Francisco
Comedian Eric Schwartz! @ 8pm Blu Nightclub @ Bally's Lake Tahoe, 55 US-50, Stateline
Sonny & the Sunsets @ 8:30pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street, San Francisco
World Series of Comedy @ 9:30pm / $29 Jun 13th - Jun 14th
The World Series of Comedy is North America's
One small town, Countless big decisions
150 years of progress, grit and shared
Diverse
By chance, I had the honor of accepting a proclamation recognizing the 150th anniversary of Winters’ first municipal election during the city council meeting on Tuesday, May 20.
In the weeks leading up to that moment, I found myself deep in the archives — reading old editions of the Winters Advocate and the Winters Express, uncovering long-forgotten civic records and rediscovering the legacy of the town I’ve called home.
As someone who grew up in Winters and returned to witness its evolution, I’m continually reminded that I am still learning about this place. About the people who lived here before me. About the decisions — messy, bold and visionary — that shaped our path. This journey through history has shown me that Winters is more than a charming agricultural town — it’s a celebration of diverse and differing perspectives, each generation offering its voice, values and vision. It’s in these varied expressions that we find opportunities for growth, empathy and connection. These stories, even when they challenge us, help us grow — not just as individuals, but as a town. They remind us to lead with heart, to listen more, and to aim higher in our decisions for the people, by the people.
Winters has always been defined by its strong sense of community. From its
earliest days as a railroad stop surrounded by peach orchards, to its present-day role as a destination town, our resilience and adaptability have carried us through. Through city milestones, civic debates and reinventions, one thing remains clear — our small town has made countless big decisions and continues to evolve because of them.
Whether it’s creating zoning ordinances, founding a fire department or navigating redevelopment plans, progress in Winters has always required recognizing the need for change and having the courage to act. Local leaders and engaged citizens have consistently stepped up — not just to suggest improvements, but to see them through, from idea to execution.
As I pored over the archives, I saw how history circles back. Many of the same themes — land use, energy, community identity — have reoccurred for decades. In 1979, residents were already debating
growth in the Walnut neighborhood. Ironically, that’s where my story in Winters began.
Reading through every front page from 1922 in search of a mention of the Fortnightly Club (which I found in the fall issues), I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the layers of history that lie just beneath the surface of our everyday lives.
As I sifted through the archives, one theme kept surfacing: history tends to spotlight the men—the ones with titles, signatures, and proclamations. But tucked between the headlines and buried in the quieter corners of the record, I found something far more exhilarating: Winters women stepping boldly into roles that history didn’t always make room for. They challenged expectations, stuck their necks out, and got the impossible done.
What may have begun with organizing tea parties and church picnics quickly grew into civic leadership. Over time, women in Winters shaped public dialogue, drove policy, and championed causes that steered the town through moments of growth and transformation. They weren’t just behind the scenes — they were often leading the charge, rewriting the rules as they went.
This final installment of the sesquicentennial series aims to spotlight the people who envisioned this town, honor the women and
men who carried that vision forward, and celebrate the city staff and public safety teams who continue to build on that foundation.
Our police and fire departments — established long before they became formal agencies — hold legacies of service, bravery, and community care. The stories in their records speak to the challenges Winters has faced, and the spirit that carried us through.
And like any town with history, we must also reckon with the harder truths — from exclusionary chapters like the internment of Japanese American families and the hatred and cruelty shown during World War II to moments of division and change. But even in those uncomfortable places, we
vision
find opportunities for accountability and renewal. It’s how a small town continues to grow. We have been brave enough to look back honestly and acknowledge where we got it wrong—and audacious enough to own it, learn from it, and make meaningful changes as we move forward together.
As the 2025 proclamation so beautifully puts it:
“The City Council encourages all residents and visitors to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future full of promise and opportunity.”
Here’s to 150 years of Winters as an incorporated city — and to a future shaped by the many voices, stories and actions of its people.
—Crystal Apilado, Winters Express Editor-in-Chief
Express file photo
Crystal Apilado, Winters Express Editor-in-Chief
Sonora Slater/Winters Express Winters City Council members approved a proclamation honoring the the 150th anniversary of the first municipal election of the city of Winters at the May 20 city council meeting.
By Angela Underwood Winters Express
The Winter’s government has 150 years of tales.
Within three miles, exponential growth in the last century fueled a strong political system. Ever-changing regulations and legislation fueled former and current government officials, including City Manager Jeremy Craig and former Winters mayor and Historical Society board member Woody Fridae, to always stay on top of their game.
Yes, Winters’ history can be found in the book Winters: A Heritage of Horticulture, A Harmony of Purpose by Joann Leach Larkey, but nothing compares to hearing about the firsthand knowledge of city officials who detail the 1897 municipal incorporation.
“Before Winters was Buckeye, which is northeast about 3 miles,” Fridae said. “It didn’t have a clear jurisprudence for ownership.”
Craig said there were estimates that the population in Winters was around 523 in 1880.
“At that time, cities were just beginning the movement to modern form with the addition of services beyond just a town constable and a few clerks,” Craig said, noting the difference 150 years can make. “Today, our team navigates an array of rules and regulations that would have been unthinkable back then, and we serve a population of over 7,600.”
Long before the quaint generational community, Winters was considered a prime plot of land for one railroad developer, Andrew Stevenson.
“He wanted to build the line from Vacaville up to Capay Valley,” Fridae said.
“We were known for having some of the best peaches and apricots in the world, and they were ready a couple of weeks before everybody else, but if that product couldn’t get to market, it just died on the vine.”
Enter Theodore Winters, who owned some land on the north and the south of Putah Creek.
“Stevenson contracted Winters to buy 40 acres to build a train station,” Fridae said, adding the estimated sale was $5K. “Part of the deal was that he named the town and filed a plot map, and the ownership history was recorded.”
Winters became so popular that Buckeye locals coveted a piece within the three miles, placing homes on skids or trailers to relocate their residence. After City Hall was formed in 1916, the town began structurally shaping.
“Public works, roads, water and wastewater, and community development for city development “weren’t even concepts until the 1920s and onward, according to Craig.
Fridae’s tenure on the city council from 1988 to 1992 included working on
“We’ve
tal reports, and it was a big deal,” Fridae said. “It was a huge plan, and it took two years to write.”
According to Fridae, what was supposed to be a 20-year general plan from 1990-2010 remains, noting that “we’re still operating on that same general plan
Rob Coman, Historical Society of Winters
the general plan, an extensive map of municipal growth. The former council member counts it as one of the pivotal points in local government history.
“There were many public hearings, environmen-
now, some 15 years after.”
Following came the California Redevelopment Plan, another monumental moment in state government and Winters’ bureaucracy.
“You identified a blight-
ed area of town, you looked at the tax base, and then you came up with a plan that would revitalize that part of town,” Fridae said.
“We identified the downtown business area and some of the surrounding areas in the district.”
Government officials wanted to keep Winters unique, so they only allowed antique lighting and brickwork downtown and created outdoor seating.
The first traffic light was installed, and officials offered businesses a 50-50 facelift match of $25K “to fit the character of the town.”
“You build it, and they will come,” Fridae said.
“Once we went through those redevelopment plans, the downtown became very attractive, and businesses started to spring up.”
Historical Society of Winters treasurer Rob Coman recalled the redevelop-
ment, noting government officials and the city manager had a vision for downtown that was “very instrumental in making it the boutique destination town we are right now.”
“I think it made a huge difference because during the late 60s, 70s, and 80s, this town was dying, because there were no jobs, no industry, and there weren’t visitors,” Coman said. “We’ve always been an agricultural town, and so we’ve seen many changes for different economic reasons.”
While the League of California Cities and the city attorney keep Craig “abreast of any major changes that require compliance,” officials also must adhere to election laws.
“The size of the city and how we vote have changed
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Woody Fridae shows a photo of the Wolfskill brothers during a Winters history tour for Express staff at the Berryessa Gap Vineyard winery.
Rewind & Revisit
Dispatches from the Express archives.
City named
after
business man Theodore Winters
Reprinted from the May 22, 1975, Centennial Edition published by the Winters Express Winters Express
Theodore Winters, for whom the city of Winters was named was described in an early issue of the Winters Advocate in 1876 as a “capitalist”.
The town was given the name of Winters after Mr. Winters donated 40 acres of land to the Vacaville and Clear Lake Railroad to start a town. D.P. Edwards also gave the town 40 acres.
At the time, in 1875, the railroad was having financial trouble in extending the railroad north to Putah Creek, and Winters, along with others, gave money to the railroad to help pay the cost of putting the bridge across Putah Creek.
Winters was born in Illinois on Sept. 14, 1823, where his father, John David Winters, had developed a stage line and freight business in Illinois.
In 1848, Theodore’s father and brothers, John D. Jr. and Joseph and daughter Harriet, headed for California via the Oregon Trail and left Theodore to dispose of the family business. Theodore, who had married in 1847 to Sarah Marshall, stayed on in Illinois until the spring of 1849.
He then brought his wife and small son, George, to California where they joined the rest of the family at Forest City, situated on the American River.
There, the Winters family did some mining, some farming, but mostly hauling freight to the gold fields. When gold strikes occurred in Nevada, the Winters father and sons began hauling freight from Placerville and into the Carson Valley.
Tragedy
In 1852, Mrs. Sarah Winters returned to Illinois to visit her parents, making the trip both ways by ship around the horn. She arrived back in San Francisco, but on Jan. 3, 1853, while traveling by boat back to Sacramento, the vessel she was on, the “Comanche” collided with another steamer, the “J. Bragdon” and sank in a few minutes. George who was 5, was saved, but Mrs. Winters, and 2-year old Helen were drowned.
On March 21, 1860, Mr. Winters, who was then 37, married Margaret Martin, who was then 15.
In the 1850s, the Winters family became wealthy, both from their freighting business and from interests they held in the Comstock Lode. Their freight line in Nevada was called “The Winters Express.”
In 1857, Brigham Young, leader of the Church of Latter Day Saints, called for all of his followers to return to Salt Lake City.
Mr. Winters, seeing an opportunity to buy land from the Mormons, cheap, bought a square mile of land of choice land in the Washoe Valley in Nevada from Jacob Rose for $50 and a team of oxen. He bought additional Mormon property in the valley until he had 1280 acres there.
He expanded his holdings until ten years later, he owned more than 18,000 acres in California and Nevada, including about 1300 acres he bought from the Wolfskills on both sides of Putah Creek here and in Sacramento where Executive Airport is now located.
Racehorses
About 1860 Winters began to interest himself in horse racing, with a race track built in Carson Valley.
In 1864, while he was on a trip east to perfect the title to some of his lands, he stopped off in St. Louis to watch a horse race and bought his most famous race horse “Norfolk,” from Mr. R. A. Alexander, owner of the Woodburn stud farm, in Kentucky.
Winters had his horse shipped to California via Panama, and no horse was able to outrun the stallion. Winters credited with introducing thoroughbred horses to the west, and the
See THEODORE, Page 5
John Reid Wolfskill, the area’s earliest American settler, 1842
Reprinted from the May 22, 1975, Centennial Edition published by the Winters Express
Winters Express
The following article consists of excerpts from “John Reid of Wolfskill, The Pioneer of Solano County,” by Brooks C. Sackett. “Remember, Youth, as you pass by, As you are now so once was I; As I am now so you must be, Prepare for death and eternity.”
These cheerless words, etched in stone, are the legend left by John Reid Wolfskill, the pioneer of Solano County. He was the first English speaking man to settle in the area around what is now Winters. There, he worked, prospered, raised a large family, and died. Born in 1804, John Reid Wolfskill was one of five brothers, all of whom eventually left their birthplace in Madison County, Kentucky to come west.
William, the eldest, was the first to come to California. He arrive in the southwest in 1821 while the region was still held and administered by the Mexican government. He spent ten years trapping in the New Mexico area, where in 1828 he was made a Mexican citizen. Eventually, he moved west to Los Angeles, opening the Santa Fe Trail to California in the process.
William Wolfskill eventually turned away from trapping and from 1838 on devoted himself wholly to the vineyards in southern California which were to make him rich and famous. Vines and fruit trees were his primary interests. He relied on mission varieties initially an experimented with these and other types. In 1857, he became the first man to plant and grow oranges commercially in California.
Marrying into an influential Mexican family in 1841, he became prominent in southern California society and public life.
John Wolfskill arrived in Los Angeles in Feb. 1838. He worked for his brother for two years, then he took the advice of a friend, Juan Jose Warner, and headed north to seek a place of his own. He first stopped at Sonoma to ask General Mariano Vallejo’s permission to scout the area for a suitable place to settle. The General allowed him to look over the territory, but made it clear that under no circumstances would the land be granted.
Again on the advice of Warner, John Wolfskill scouted the area around what is today Winters. It was there, along the banks of Putah Creek that Wolfskill saw what he considered to be the best land for settlement. The area was slightly higher than the surrounding valley floor and the constant source of water provided by the creek a crucial factor to any agricultural was plentiful. Wolfskill relied on the presence of wild oats as an indication of soil fertility and water distribution.
Mark West, a friend of Wolfskills living
in Sonoma, asked Vallejo to reconsider the possibility of a grant. He refused. In 1841, Jacob P. Leese, the son-in-law of the general also intervened on Wolfskill’s behalf. If was finally agreed that a grant of four square Mexican league’s, over 17,750 acres, would be approved by Vallejo, clearing the way for a grant by the Mexican governor of California.
On May 24, 1842, the grant was made by Governor Juan Bautista de Alvarado to William Wolfskill, a naturalized Mexican citizen. In that same year John Wolfskill
the creek. Most of these projects were carried out by Wolfskill with the help of a few indigenous people who still inhabited the area. (A small pox epidemic had decimated the native population in 1837-39). Various American and Mexican adventurers who happened through the region also helped him occasionally.
Until 1849, the property was in William Wolfskill’s name. In that year, one half of the property was transferred into John’s name. His portion was the section on the south side of the creek, in what is now
“During the more than 50 years that John D. Wolfskill lived in the Winters area, his concentration on different types of crops and products shifted.”
headed out from Los Angeles with a herd of cattle, oxen, and a few horses for the property that he was later to describe as “... four leagues of the finest land in the world.”
Once on the property, named Rancho de Los Putos, John Wolfskill put his livestock out to graze and constructed a small shack out of mud and reeds. This served as his home for the first few years. Along with grazing cattle, Wolfskill also planted and tended fruit trees, barley, corn, beans, and vines. For the first three years water was hauled by bucket from
Solano County.
Legal problems with the land grant when California became part of the United States, but in 1854, upon the petition of William Wolfskill, the grant was confirmed by the Board of Commissioners appointed to settle private land claims in the State of California. During the more than 50 years that John D. Wolfskill lived in the Winters area, his concentration on different types of crops and products shifted. In the days before the gold rush of 1849, his main emphasis was on fruits, vegetables
and livestock. When the gold rush started he was among the first purveyors of fresh fruit. By the time the mania for gold had subsided, enough of the original gold seekers and others had settled permanently in greater bay and valley areas to provide a good, steady market for Wolfskill’s produce. His ranch continued to meet the demand for fruits and vegetables in the Sacramento and San Francisco markets for the next four decades. Although there is no data on profits the estimated value of his holdings grew phenomenally. According to the U.S. Agricultural Census Schedule for 1850, Wolfskill’s total assets were valued at $5,000. By 1870, the estimate was $190,000. For transportation, Wolfskill had the insight to goods to Sacramento. Later, he hauled his produce to Suisun City and there put it on boats for San Francisco. With the connection in 1869 of the Vaca Valley and Clear Lake Railroad to Elmira, four and one-half miles away, fruit from the Winters area could be shipped to the East Coast for sale by commission. Up to his death in 1897, John Wolfskill continued to grow crops of many varieties. His emphasis was heavy on wheat in the 1870’s but he eventually returned to the orchard and vine products. He had figs, olives, oranges, apricots, black walnuts, Muscat
Courtesy photo
John Reid Wolfskill
See WOLFSKILL, Page 5
Courtesy photo
Theodore Winters
contests between Norfolk and Lodi, a horse owned by Judge Charles Bryan, are legendary. The climate at Carson Valley proves to be severe in the winter months, so in 1865, he bought 1300 acres of land here from Malthus Wolfskill including 700 acres in Yolo County and 600 in Solano. He constructed race tracks on both sides of Putah Creek, and he not only had the mild climate here, but was close to the race tracks in Sacramento and the Bay Area. He continued to commute between his ranches in the Carson Valley and his holdings in this area, and the proposed construction of a railroad north from Vacaville would
vines, Eastern Shellbark hickory nuts, pecans, French Madeira nuts, peaches, plums, apples, lemons, limes, pomegranates, almonds, persimmons, and melons of many varieties.
It is difficult to determine sources for these crops. There are references to olive and vine cuttings and figs and blood oranges from the Mission San Francisco Solano. Other reports credit shipments from Kentucky and Los Angeles as sources of seeds and products for the Wolfskill ranch.
John Wolfskill’s initial success in the area was to inspire his brothers, Malthus Wolfskill, born in Howard County Missouri, in 1810. Crossing the plains with his family by ox teams, he reached his brother John’s ranch in October of that year. He set- tled in the Winters bridge. In 1865 he sold his holdings to Theodore Winters, founder of the town of Winters. The next year
benefit him, not only in shipping agricultural products, but also in moving his horses to race tracks. This prompted him to offer land to the railroad, along with substantial money to build the bridge across Putah Creek. In 1877, he sold his holdings on the Solano side of the creek to William Baker, and built a home on the Yolo County property, about one and a half miles east of Winters. The Winters Advocate reported in 1878 that he built a grandstand at his race track here to seat 1,100 people. From 1865 to 1890 were the hey-days of Winters’ racing stables. Many famous horses were born and raised in his stables here. Those colts that didn’t possess all of the desired traits
he moved to Suisun. In 1852, Sarchel Wolfskill brought his wife and son to the Winters area to farm alongside his brothers. With 1200 acres of land, they prospered through a career in agriculture. They lived in John Wolfskill’s house until 1874, when they built their own home. In 1858, Milton Wolfskill came to California with his wife. The house they built is still standing about seven miles west of Winters. Though obviously prominent, and a motive force for his brothers, John Wolfskill seemed unconcerned with publicity or prestige. According to his grand-daughter, he was a man without pretensions. His friends were usually other farmers or people with strong interests in the land. Not often in the public eye, he was content to graft new varieties, to experiment with new methods of pest control or irrigation, or in his later years, to read farm journals. For social ritual and entertainment, he re-
were shipped to his Nevada ranch where they were broken for riding or teaming.
Politics
In 1890, Theodore Winters ran for governor of Nevada, on the Democratic ticket and sold all of his property here, both to help finance his campaign for governor and also to move his horses. to Nevada where his opponent couldn’t claim that he was a “carpetbagger.” He was soundly beaten in the election that fall.
The political race was the turning point in Winters fortunes. The campaign left him heavily in debt, and he had to sell some of his Nevada property.
His 17-year-old daughter Maggie, died of jaundice in San Francisco in 1897. Mrs. Winters, who had borne ten children, seemed to lose all
stricted himself to visiting county and state agricultural fairs, and he frequently participated in exhibitions of farm products and on occasion, won. He was fascinated by gadgets and brought some back with him from each fair that he attended.
Reportedly a generous man, he provided a small school for the children of laborers in the 1880’s and he and his wife, Susan, the daughter of Major Stephen Cooper, made calls on the poor and the sick bringing with them good wishes and baskets of vegetables, fruits and smoked meats.
One of the most famous homes in the area was built in 1892 when the earthquake destroyed the Wolfskill home. Appropriately referred to as the “Wolfskill Mansion,” the new building was a two-story structure built around a large central fountain and a spacious patio area. A hand painted mural was on the walls of the den, and the entire house was furnished with oriental rugs
percent came back afterwards, so it was a big change,” Lopez said.
while “making way for new developments in the community that meet the standards.”
a lot over the years,”
Craig said. “From a single polling place to now voting by mail, from walking door to door to mailers and internet advertising, the city is fortunate that the campaigns remain civil among many who care deeply for the community and want to see it succeed.”
There was a time when that was not the case, according to Winters Historical Society President Gloria Lopez, who said the internment of the Japanese community in 1942 had “a large effect on the diversity of our local area,” and the government.
“We think maybe there are 100 families, 300 people here of the Japanese community, all forced to leave because of World War II, and then maybe 15
Craig details many significant changes in Winters, starting with the creation of the fire department in 1902, the opening of city hall in 1916, and the swearing-in of the first police chief in 1937. By 1964, the first zoning documents controlling homebuilding were drawn.
“A strong local government is essential to provide the high quality of life we enjoy in the city of Winters,” Craig said. “The city team makes sure your wastewater gets treated when you flush your toilet; that you have safe, clean drinking water; that the community is secure and that emergency services respond quickly during medical or fire emergencies.”
The team also maintains family parks
interest, in life after Maggie’s death and died in San Francisco on May 30, 1898.
Financial problems continued to plague Theodore, and he lost a series of water rights cases which didn’t help. At a sale of broodmares at the Nevada State Fair in 1899, none of the Winters horses brought more than $95.
Theodore Winters died at his home in the Carson Valley on Aug. 3, 1906. One of his daughters, Neva Winters Sauer, kept the Winters Ranch until her death in Sept. 1953.
The wills of Theodore and Margaret Winters were not probated until after the death of Neva Sauer, and in order to begin settling the estate, the ranch was sold to E. W. Scripps II, prominent newspaper chain mag-
and carved oak fur niture. The wall pan eling was made from the wood and bark of walnut and oak trees on the property itself. This home was later destroyed by fire.
At the age of eighty, when his short bi ographical statement was taken by a friend, John Wolfskill said that he preferred the quiet life of the coun try to the life of “ex citement of the busi ness man.”
“A strong local government also provides a place for residents to reach out for assistance, such as firsttime homebuyer or affordable or senior housing.”
Craig explains through all Winters government changes, regulations rule.
“Each year, the city team reviews the latest legislation from the state and federal governments to determine its impacts on the city,” Craig said. “Often, this legislation may create new requirements for the city that need to be followed.”
No matter the rule or regulation, after 150 years, Winters has and will remain a three-mile slice of California heaven for locals and visitors alike.
nate. Theodore Winters had twelve children, two by his first wife, and ten by his second. The children from his first marriage were George and Helen and by his second wife were Frankie, Nettie, Mark, Nellie, Lou, Neva, Maggie, Archie, Theodora, and an infant that lived just a short time.
Note: This article was written in 1975 using information from the Winters Advocate, 1876. Since then, according to the book “Winters: A Heritage of Horticulture, A Harmony of Purpose,” by Joann Leach Larkey, Yolo County records have been found that indicate Winters was paid $5,000 by the Vaca Valley Railroad Company for his land, to build the railroad and town of Winters.
After his death his daughter Francis took over the property and operated it with the help of her second husband, Lawrence Wilson. In 1934, when she died, she left approximately one hundred and seven acres of the grant to the Department of Pomology of the University of California, Davis, with the understanding that the property was to be used as an experimental horticulture station and the line of
olive trees planted by Wolfskill in 1861 1861 was to remain standing. In 1936, the ownership of the property was transferred and since then has been operated by the Davis campus.
The accomplishments of the experimentation are impressive. Work there has resulted in the development, naming, and release for
commercial orchard use of five new cling peach varieties, six new plum varieties, a new almond variety and several new strawberry varieties. Experiments are also continuing in olive, walnut and fig varieties and tests are being conducted to determine the effects of chemical thinning procedures used on apricots.
We offer the best of all worlds. We have the best customer service and most inexpensive prices in the area. We are happy that we opened in Winters and are pleased to be part of this community.
Annette and Will
HISTORY
Courtesy photo
In 1911, the Winters Railroad Depot was a lively hub as after the train was introduced. It was built at the end of Abbey Street where the Mariani Nut Co. parking lot and warehouses are now.
File photo
This is the Wolfskill house, which was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1892. The original house was destroyed.
Reflecting on historic milestones, the road ahead Winters Police honor generations of service
By Sonora Slater Winters Express
This year, the Winters Police Department, alongside the city of Winters, is celebrating 150 years since the first municipal election, which took place on May 22, 1875. In recognition of this milestone, the department has authorized a special anniversary badge to be worn by personnel throughout the year, based on the design of the Winters Constable badge from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Peace officers, including constables, marshals, and nightwatchmen, as well as patrolmen and police officers, have all worked to keep the city safe over the past century and a half, and the badge is meant to honor their public service.
The badge was specifically designed around one worn by Constable Gilbert Crowder in the 1930s before he was appointed Chief of Police sometime in the 40s. Crowder’s badge had a six-pointed star known as the Seal of Solomon hand stamped in the middle. This personalization was common in those days among members of the Freemasons, a social group for men often associated with the idea of self-improvement.
Police chiefs
In total, there have been 10 police chiefs in the history of the city of Winters, includ-
ing Chief Earl Washabaugh, who served in the 1930s, Chief Steve Godden, who served from 1980-2004, Chief Bruce Muramoto, who served from 2004-2011, Chief Joseph Kriens, who has served as interim Police Chief, Chief Sergio Gutierrez, who served from 2011-2015, and Chief John P. Miller, who is the current police chief and has served since 2016.
Unfortunately, the names of some of the other chiefs have been lost to time due to the re-issuing of badge numbers. However, Miller said he has begun only issuing badge numbers once and recording them on an ongoing badge list to better memorialize each officer moving forward.
150 years of policing
Much of the history of the police department throughout the past 150 years is fairly scattered throughout archived editions of the Winters Express, but there are some more well-known stories of notable officers who dedicated their lives to protecting Winters.
One of these was included in the centennial edition of the Winters Express, and can now be read on the Winters Police Department website: the story of City Marshal William Preston Rice, who was killed in the line of duty on Oct. 18, 1912.
Marshal Rice was responding to a call
about an intoxicated man waving a gun in the street — a man whom he had successfully talked to and calmed down on previous occasions — when he was shot in the chest and killed by the intoxicated man. He left behind a wife, Alice Chadwick, and a 14-month-old son, Harry Rice.
Since then, his name has been added to the Yolo County Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial in Woodland, the California Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial in Sacramento, and the National Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial in Washington, DC. He is the only known Winters Police Officer to have been killed in the line-ofduty.
Winters PD in 50 years
Today, the Winters Police Department, along with the city as a whole, is facing some difficulty with recruitment and retention efforts, and hiring and retaining qualified officers will likely continue to be a focus of the coming years. But looking forward,
Miller said he’s hopeful that 50 years from now, the department will have continued their lengthy legacy of public service in a way that they and the citizens of Winters can be proud of.
“In 50 years, the fundamental mission of the Winters Police Department will remain the same,” Miller said.
“To provide service to our community, uphold the Constitution, and deter crime and disorder through impartial service to the law.” Technology, of course, may have changed — just as it’s safe to say that body cameras and other
Courtesy photo
The new anniversary badge (left) and the Constable badge worn by Gilbert Crowder in the 1930s (right). Crowder became Chief of Police in the 1940s and retired in 1948. The anniversary badge was issued in January.
From the desk of Chief Miller
The city of Winters was founded in 1875 and was served by both City Marshalls and Town Constables for many years.
The City Marshall was appointed by the local municipal court and primarily acted as the bailiff for court proceedings and served warrants issued by the court. The Town Constable was elected by the community and was responsible for maintaining order and providing local law enforcement. The City Marshall and Town Constable often worked together to safeguard the community.
The Office of Chief of Police was established by ordinance on Dec. 24, 1937. Officers were employed to enforce laws while Night Watchmen looked after the city while citizens slept.
The Winters Police Department is staffed with 11 full-time police officers including the Chief of Police, three Sergeants, and seven Of-
policing tools that are common today would’ve sounded impossible in the earliest days of the Winters Police Department, the next five decades may involve a rapid transformation of standard technology.
Even over the past 10 years, the Winters Police Department has added new patrol cars to their fleet, including a DUI enforcement vehicle in 2022, and — although perhaps more of an old-fashioned move — implemented a bike patrol in the city for the first time in 2017.
“They will look back wondering how we did the job with the antiquated tools we had and probably make
ficers. They are supported by one Administrative Coordinator and two Community Services Officers. The Administrative Coordinator is shared with the Fire Department and supervises all office functions including purchasing and managing the budget for both Departments. The Community Services Officers conduct records processing, data entry, evidence handling, code enforcement, community engagement, among many other additional support functions.
In 2017, the Winters Police Department redrafted its Mission, Vison, and Core Principals statement to clarify and direct the future of the department. Further, we have become a modern police department in terms of use of technology including records management system, less lethal alternatives, and body and vehicle cameras as well as training.
fun of the ‘old fashioned’ uniforms and equipment that we consider to be cutting edge today,” Miller said.
The past several years have also seen a notable increase in community engagement as a focus of the department, including events centered around public safety like National Night Out, the Public Safety Festival, and Shop With a Cop, participation in Youth Day and other city-wide festivals, and initiatives like a Trauma and Grief Support program and a Cadet program for youth.
Another notable moment for the department came with the hiring of its first female sergeant in 2018. With her hiring,
Sergeant Kelly McCoy became the highest-ranked female police officer in the department’s history. This remains true today, although the department has now had several female officers at other ranks.
The changes and challenges to come in the years ahead are hard to predict. But on the trail of a 150year legacy of policing, Miller said he believes the department can and will stick to its mission statement as a guiding light as it continuously determines its next steps.
“I hope we will leave them a legacy that we lived a life that mattered, doing something that mattered,” Miller said. “And that they are beholden to that legacy.”
been our customers since we first opened in 1939.
We will continue to try to bring you quality products at competitive prices and give you friendly, efficient service.
− John Lorenzo
For 150 years, many courageous men and women have provided for the safety of the residents and visitors of
One example was City Marshall William Preston “Dick” Rice, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on Oct. 18, 1912. To honor and
pay homage to those men and women, the Winters Police Department designed and adopted a 150th anniversary commemorative badge modeled after the Winters Town Constable badge of the late 1800’s.
& Espresso Bar
Stop by Berryessa Sporting Goods for all your fishing and outdoor needs. We serve as a sporting and quick-stop retail shop and gas station. You can also order from the Daily Grind menu, serving a variety of hot and cold drinks including coffee,
Winters.
—John P. Miller, Winters Police Chief
John P. Miller, Chief of Police Winters Police Department
Courtesy photo
Rewind & Revisit
Dispatches from the Express archives.
Reprinted from the Oct. 25, 1912, edition of the Winters Express
At the noon hour on Friday James W. Chapman in passing down the street near the cannery in his automobile noticed Jacinto Vaca, a Mexican, parading up and down the street talking in a maudlin manner and flourishing a shot gun in a threatening manner. Mr. Chapman, knowing the man, and tearing that he would do some one harm, came down Main Street and found Constable Andrews and City Marshal Rice and notified them of what he had seen. The two officers accompanied him back to the scene. Seemingly not to realize that there was any great danger, the three men proceeded to the place without even a revolver in the possession of etiher. No doubt Marshal Rice thought such a precaution unnecessary as on two or three occasions before he had pacified this same man who had molested the peace of his family and neighbors. Vaca saw them coming and at once found refuge in his home. Marshal Rice went to the front porch and began to talk to Vaca, who stood on the inside of the house holding the gun in his hands, and plead with him to come out, assuring him that all he wanted was to talk the matter over with him. Both
KILLED WITHOUT WARNING.
Chapman and Andrews thought that possibly while Vaca was talking with Rice they might enter the rear of the house and close in on him and capture him without any harm being done, but while they were maneuvering to do this all of a sudden, and without warning, Vaca fired the fatal shot, shooting the Marshal through the heart. The shot being so accurate that it dispels the idea that he was so drunk that he did not know what he was doing. But a very short time before this he had been in the postoffice where he had secured a money order, and at which time he showed no serious effects of drinking.
After firing the fatal shot Vaca stepped out in the street and “broke” his gun to reload it and probably kill both Chapman and Andrew. Mr. Chapman noticed this, and in a flash, noted the time and distance, and made a rush for Vaca, catching him just as he was closing his gun. Mr. Chapman grappled the crazed man and in a short time threw him to the ground where he was handcuffed and tied, but not until after Chapman had been severely scratched about the face. By this time a crowd began to gather and a testing of quick justice soon spread. The assassin was hurried to the city jail and this place was at once placed under
guard. For a while it looked as though noting could prevent a “hanging bee.” There was not a person present whose nerves were not strained-the crime was so cold-blooded, the victim was so good. The more the crime was discussed, the more demand for swift justice. The feeling got so intense that a rope, with a hangman’s knot, was thrown over a telegraph pole in front of the city jail; a crowbar and other utensils generally used in liberating a prisoner against his will were to be seen near by. Then it was that the more conservatives advised to let the law take its course. But this advice was hard for some to take, from the fact that every day they read of pardons and paroles for some of those who have committed the most heinous crimes.
WILLIAM PRESTON RICE
William Preston Rice, familiarly known as “Dick” Rice, was a native of California, having been born in Santa Barbara. At the time of his death he was 41 years, 6 months and 1 day old.
About 26 years ago he moved with his parents to Winters where he has continuously resided since.
About six years ago he was married to Miss Alice Chadwick, one of the most popular and charming ladies of this vicinity, and to
them one child was born, a son, who is now fourteen months old.
During the residence of Mr. Rice in Winters he has followed various oc- cupations. About six months ago he was appointed as City Marshal by the Board of Town Trustees. No better selection could have possibly been made. As an officer he was fearless; as to the many trifling controversies that would arise he was a peacemaker. In fact on more than one occasion he had befriend the man who assassinated him. There was no more popular man in the community than was Dick Rice. He had every qualification that goes to make an honorable, upright citizen. He had that peculiar and winning way about him that one could not know him but to love and respect him. Dick Rice was a household word with every family in Winters. He was charitable to a fault; he always looked at the bright side of every proposition; his advice was more sought than any other man in the community; he was conscientious; it seemed as though he was sought as a go-between to settle most all troubles and disputes, and he has often remarked that he would rather settle all cases out of court than in court. But Dick is no more, he has gone to that great beyond from whence no mortal returns. His memory
will be cherished by those who knew him. May he rest in peace. Mr. Rice leaves to mourn their loss an aged mother “Grandma” Rice, a loving wife, Mrs. Alice Rice and their infant son; two sisters, Mrs. Lottie Roberts of Modesto and Mrs. Otto Chisholm, of Washington; three brothers, J. E. and George Rice of Winters and Albert Rice of Montana.
THE FUNERAL
The funeral of Mr. Rice which was held on Sunday afternoon was the largest and one of the most solemn ever held in this vicinity. All manner of business was suspended and almost the entire population turned out to pay their last sad respects.
The burial ceremony was conducted by the Woodmen of the World, assisted by Knights of Pythias and Odd Fellows, of which orders the deceased was an honored member. The service at the house was conducted by the Rev. Dr. Culton. He was assisted by a choir composed of Mrs. Errington, Mrs. Sinclair, C. M. Cole and Lee Humphrey, who appropriately rendered, “There will be no Dark Valley” and “Sometime we will Understand.”
The floral offerings were profuse and elaborate, the room in which the remains rested being banked to the ceiling with offerings.
As the city of Winters celebrates its 150th anniversary, The Winters Express is proud to honor the legacy we've shared with this community since 1884. For over 140 years, we've been Winters’ trusted local newspaper — reporting on city government, schools, sports, and the stories that shape our town. From milestones and memories to challenges and triumphs, we’ve stood as a watchdog, a voice, and a record keeper for generations. Here’s to 150 years of community — and to continuing the
Rewind & Revisit
Dispatches from the Express archives.
Bettie Sinclair was first city councilwoman
Reprinted from the May 22, 1975, Centennial Edition published by the Winters Express
By Susanne Rockwell Winters Express
Mrs. Bettie Sinclair was the first woman to serve on the Winters city council, being elected to that position in the 1920s. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Venable Morris, who were among the founders of Winters. Mr. Morris was the manager of the Buckeye Grangers’ Warehouse Association from 1875 until his death in 1893, Mrs. Sinclair ran the warehouses from 1904 until about 1920 when the association was dissolved and the property sold to
Ed Hart.
She was married to Charles Sinclair in 1892 and he died in 1899, leaving her two small daughters to rear. The daughters are Mrs. Nannie Niemann of Winters and Mrs. Arthur Brainerd.
A devout Baptist, she was active in church and community affairs and passed away in 1951.
Miss Emma saves town
Reprinted from the May 22, 1975, Centennial Edition published by the Winters Express
By Susanne Rockwell Winters Express
One of the few Winters Express “extras” was issued on Saturday, October 17, 1897, after an early morning fire which threatened to burn down the town was finally squelched.
The fire, which began in the barn behind Willis’ tin shop on First Street next to the Masonic Hall, destroyed over $20,000 worth of merchandise, buildings and Masonic Lodge furniture, wedding presents and books.
There was a heroine involved in the dramatic fire, Miss Emma Lechleiter, 17, the daughter of the man who owned the waterworks company in town. She was aroused by the clamoring fire bell which succeeded in bringing the whole town to the scene of the blaze.
Miss Emma and her mother, once they heard the bells, immediately started a fire to build up steam to run the pump and had the steam ready within just 13 minutes. Her father unfortunately was out of town.
However, as the Express drolly said, “Nobody seemed to think of the fire hose that the town possessed somewhere, and which serves the purpose of allowing the people to say “yes” when the insurance agent asks if there is any fire apparatus, while to extinguish such a conflagration with buckets or even stay its spread to the entire business part of the town seemed a hopeless task.”
By the time someone finally thought of the fire hose, the fire had enveloped four buildings and spread to the steeple of the Methodist Church, one block away.
The Express continued, “As usual,
Despite opposition, city incorporates
Reprinted from the Winters Incorporation Centennial Edition, 1998 published by the Winters Express
Voters Decide by a Good Majority
Winters Express
• No contest for the offices
• No illegal vote cast and only one challenge- The regular ticket was easily elected-Quick counting of returns.
The momentous day for incorporation of the town of Winters came Tuesday and went to the satisfaction of the promoters of the proposition. The polls were opened at sunrise with the following board: Judges, G.W. Hemenway and D.O. Judy; inspectors, J.W. Lamme and T.E. McFall; clerks, W.P. Fassett and Charles Sinclair; ballot clerks, J.H. Yaxley and R.L. Day. As quick as the polls were ready, R. Morrison, who was called to Woodland to serve on the jury, deposited his ballot, and in ten minutes half that many more ballots went into the box.
All day long the voters dropped in leisurely, very little excitement being raised and no trouble occurred over
election matters. Two voters who registered too late desired to cast their ballots, and one was challenged because of non-residence and his vote refused.
A few people seemed to think the board unjustified in their decision, but if they had taken the time to study the law they could easily see that nothing else could have been done.
A Supreme Court decision plainly holds that the residence of a working man unmarried and without a permanent home has residence where he is employed and this case fit the decision exactly. The judges, being appointed by the supervisors and sworn to obey the law, could have made no other decision.
To the credit of working men coming under this rule it is said that they re- mained away from the polls.
Promptly, upon closing the polls at five o’clock the counting of the ballots began, and in about two hours it was finished the result being as follows:
Trustees
L.A. Danner, 116; J.Jeans, 118; Z. T. Magill, 116; A. A. Prescott, 121; Henry Seaman, 114.
For clerk, W.A Gregory, 105.
For treasurer, M.O. Wyatt, 102. For marshal, G.H. Anderson, 98 and William Burrows, 28. Messrs. Henderson, McFall, W.P. Fassett and Fenley had one vote each for trustee and F.W. Wilson four; W.P. Womack received two for marshal. One voter remembered Z.T. Magill for trustee, and after stamping his cross after the doctor’s name, quit. The first ballot taken from the box was entirely blank, the voter having wet the end of the stamp with his tongue only, and it having not been used before left only a damp spot that dried away.
Quite a number of ballots were simply voted against incorporation, a very consistent act, for if the voter was opposed to the proposition had no use for town officers. Perhaps two thirds of the votes against incorporation were for a full municipal ticket.
Some young men thought they were doing a smart trick when they substituted Chinese names for those on the ticket, but if they have any regard for the opinions of their fellow citizens, they are sorry they exhibited their asinine qualities so prominently. Hoodlumism never pays.
when water is needed more than anything else, the pump declined to start, and being situated twenty feet down a dark shaft, it was not a pleasant job to go down and doctor itbut Miss Emma saw there was no other way and she bravely climbed down the ladder and set the pump going.”
Just as in an old-fashioned melodrama, calamity followed mishap. Firemen reported that there was still no water pressure, so the self-reliant young lady hurried to the scene of the fire, at First and Main Streets, and discovered a rock in the nozzle of the fire hose.
And, once Miss Emma dislodged the rock the pump would still not feed the hose, since someone else had turned the pumping stream into the tanks instead of directly through the mains and the hose. There was not even enough force to spray the water up one story.
Meanwhile the fire was sending flying embers to the roofs of Danner’s paint shop and Bertholet’s laundry building, which the firefighters doused with wet blankets and sacks. There was just enough pressure in the hoses to keep the bucket brigade busy filling the buckets. Finally, the early morning disaster crew confined the fire and saved the town from its spreading up the row of wooden buildings to Judy Brothers big livery stable where the main business center was.
The Express editor surmised that the fire spread from the barn (where a tramp had perhaps been sleeping and had accidently ignited the building with a stray match or cigarette butt) to the rear of Rummelsburg’s store which
See EMMA, Page 12
Winters City Hall origins
Express staff
Close to downtown Winters stands a stately edifice that has anchored the town’s civic life for over a century: Winters City Hall. Its symmetrical façade, elegant Classical Revival details, and commanding presence reflect not only architectural ambition but also the resilience and determination of a small town committed to its future.
The story of Winters City Hall begins not with grandeur but with grit — and grim conditions. By 1903, the county jail in Winters was in such deplorable shape that local leaders knew action was imperative. A decision was made to erect a new building that would house not only the jail but also public offices. A parcel of land was purchased, and aspirations were high—but the funds were not. For over a decade, the project stalled as the town grappled with the financial realities of such an undertaking. It wasn’t until 1916 that the long-delayed vision finally materialized. To bring it to life, the city turned to one of California’s most esteemed architects of the era, William H. Weeks. Known for his prolific portfolio of public buildings and elegant command of form and function, Weeks also designed the First Christian Church in Winters. His plans for the new municipal building were ambitious — so ambitious, in fact, that the city purchased two additional lots from local benefactor Alex Ritchie to accommodate the full structure.
Weeks’ design integrated a multitude of public functions under one roof: the city hall, jail, fire department, courtrooms, jury room, library, city
“The story of Winters City Hall begins not with grandeur but with grit — and grim conditions.”
attorney’s office, and the town clerk’s office. The two-story building was envisioned as a civic hub—and it quickly became one. The courtroom doubled as a community gathering space, hosting events by the Winters Band, the American Legion, and the Fortnightly Club, which still meets there today and has even refurbished the building’s kitchen.
Constructed by L. T. Bergren and Son of San Francisco for a bid of $10,272, the building’s total investment, including land, came to $20,000. The cost was covered by a combination of sources: a local bond issue, a donation from the Women’s Improvement Club, and financial support from Yolo County, which contributed in exchange for housing a branch library and jail within the structure.
The dedication ceremony, held in October 1916, was a celebration befitting the building’s significance. Alongside the afternoon formalities at City Hall, townspeople gathered that evening at the Opera House — then located above what is now the Vasey Bros. store — for a banquet and program to mark the occasion. At the helm of city government at the time were Mayor R. L. Niemann and councilmembers G. L. Barnes, T. H. Fenley, D. O. Judy, and E. B. Kemper. W. S. Womack served as city clerk, and L. F. Davisson as city attorney.
More than a century later, Winters City Hall remains a functional monument to the town’s civic pride. Its Classical Revival architecture — with pilasters, decorative detailing, and a dignified pedimented entry — reflects the early 20th-century belief in public architecture as a form of public service.
City Council now
The Winters City Council is a five-member elected body with staggered four-year terms, ensuring continuity as two or three seats are contested every two years. Each member, including the mayor, earns a monthly salary of $300.
Regular meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, both in person at City Hall and via Zoom, with special meetings scheduled as needed. The mayor serves as the council’s official spokesperson. As the city’s legislative authority, the Council sets policies, approves budgets, determines fees, and makes land use decisions, all within state and federal legal frameworks. Any changes to city taxes require voter approval.
Several commissions also meet at City Hall, helping shape local policy and engage the community. The Natural Resources Commission advises on environmental sustainability; the Planning Commission oversees land use and development proposals; the Climate Action Commission focuses on reducing emissions and improving climate resilience; and the Hispanic Advisory Committee promotes outreach and integration of Winters’ Spanish-speaking community.
Courtesy photo
Winters City Hall was built in 1916. It has since been renovated multiple times over the yeras.
Courtesy photo Bettie Sinclair
Forged by flames: The Winters Fire Department stands as a pillar of century-long community
By Abigail Hofland Winters Express
Twenty-three years after the founding of Winters, the community recognized a need for coordinated fire protection. What began as a humble volunteer effort in 1898 has since become the Winters Fire Department, whose mission is “to protect life, safety, property, and the environment.”
For more than a century, firefighters have accomplished these goals through emergency response, fire prevention, fire training, and public education programs. Here’s a look at how fire protection in Winters has taken shape over the years.
The early years
Before there was a Winters Fire Department, there was a Hook and Ladder and Hose Company, established in April 1898. That summer, the city’s board of trustees passed an ordinance to create an official fire department.
During World War I, the protection of grain crops and foothill grazing lands became a priority.
The fledgling fire department benefited by consequence, with improvements including a hand-pulled cart rigged with a chemical tank to help fight fires in the city, a trailer rigged with chemicals to fight grain fires, and a 500-gallon-per-minute American La France engine.
The following decade, in early 1926,
the Winters Fire Protection District was formed under the Yolo County Special District law, and the city contracted with this district until 15 years ago, when the roles switched.
Fire protection for the city, by the city
In 2010, The district relinquished its assets to the city of Winters, which took over responsibility for administration, staff, equipment, and facilities. With that came an expanded fire protection region. The city is now responsible for all 93 square miles of the district as well as approximately 4 miles in the city. On the staffing and financial side, it cleaned a few things up.
“It brought housekeeping closer because we had the team under one umbrella,” said Art Mendoza, a retired Winters Fire captain.
For the first seven years after the department’s restructuring, the Winters Fire Department shared administration with the Dixon Fire Department. Following this phase, three captains served as interim chiefs in four-month stints, mentored by chiefs from Dixon. In early 2019, the City Manager appointed Brad L. Lopez to serve as first chief for the newly structured city of Winters Fire Department.
He was succeeded by the department’s current chief, Jack S. Snyder III. A complete list of depart-
ment chiefs through the years is as follows:
• T.H. Finley April 26, 1898 – May 2, 1902
• M. Warden, May 1902 – March 1912
• A.P. Cramer, March 1912 – October 1912
• A. McArthur, October 1912 – October 1934
• R. Ruggles, October 1934 – December 1934
• Francis (Pat) McGarr, January 1935 –July 1968
• Vernon C. Bruhn, July 1968 – Feb. 1987
• David G. Kidder, Feb. 1978 to November 2000
• Scott F. Dozier, November 2001 – 2011
• Dixon Fire Department, Admin 20122017
• Brad L. Lopez, January 2018 - April 2018
• Matthew Schechla, May 2018 - August 2018
• Art Mendoza, September 2018 - December 2018.
• Brad L. Lopez, March 2019- August 21, 2022
• Jack S. Snyder III, present
In addition to fire calls, Snyder says his team is on the scene for incidents ranging from water and hiking rescues to accident response.
“Medical calls are the highest volume right now,” he said, accounting for 70 to 80 percent of the department’s call volume. The core suppression force Current and past staff members point to one group of people as the force behind effective fire suppression in Winters — volunteers.
Mendoza, who re-
tired in April 2023 after three decades of serving the Winters community in fire protection, remembers the 1980s when
here,” Snyder agreed. Thanks to a FEMA grant in 2023, the department was able to bring on Recruitment and Retention coor-
“When you are on a call, you would not know the difference between our volunteer and career staff.”
Jack S. Snyder III, fire chief
the department was mostly composed of volunteers.
“Without the volunteers, the department wouldn’t have survived this long,” he said.
“The volunteers are our bread and butter
dinator Aide Aguilera, who Snyder says has significantly bolstered the volunteer program over the past two years.
With a volunteer application process open year-round and a training process on-
going, the department currently takes on four or five volunteers at a time. Their training is thorough.
“When you are on a call, you would not know the difference between our volunteer and career staff,” Snyder said.
What’s more, the extra hands have meant relief for a staff team accustomed to long working hours.
“We’ve been able to bring on enough volunteers to reduce our overtime to almost nothing,” Snyder said. An indispensable backbone
The interplay between volunteers and
and praised each of his
in Winters.
Fire Captain Jesus Marquez says all of the firefighters are problem solvers.
“No day is the same,” he said. With each call comes a problem to solve, and the firefighters are always prepared to solve it. Regarding what drew him to firefighting, he remarked, “I really enjoyed the aspect of helping your community but also making a difference in it.”
Fire Engineer Aaron Mendoza has a long heritage of fire protection, which was both caught and taught by his father, Art Mendoza. “All my family is here, so I have that close tie,” the younger Mendoza said. “The community gave me so much, and now I have the chance to give back.”
The elder Mendoza echoed his son’s enthusiasm.
“We always worked because we wanted to,” Art Mendoza said, and he credited Snyder and past chiefs for their excellent leadership.
“They’ll find ways to make sure everyone is equipped with the right tools,” he said.
Kindling the next generation of firefighters
Since the turn of the millennium, the Winters Fire Department has grown in a new direction: student fire education. What started in the early 2000s as a favor for a high school counselor turned into a full-fledged cadet training program for high schoolers.
Marquez says recruitment is not the goal, but it is often an outcome. This
year, for example, four out of seven students in the program expressed an interest in volunteering beyond it.
“We’re teaching not only firefighting skills but also life skills,” he said.
From CPR training and certification to basic equipment use and the importance of accountability, cadets in the department-funded program graduate equipped with the basics of fire protection and community service.
Aguilera is a graduate herself.
“Going through the cadet program opened my eyes to something exciting, and I wanted to be a part of it,” she said.
Noteworthy fire and emergency events
From the first major fire in July 1901, during which the water company owner’s daughter saved the day with a steam water pump and bucket brigades, to more recent fires such as the Braye Fire in 2007 and the Wragg Fire in 2014, local fire events through the decades have shaped the fire department’s response and training protocols.
Current staff reflected on a few memorable incidents during their service, including the May 2014 recovery of two construction workers at the building site of a bridge connecting Solano and Yolo counties. The Winters Fire Department was responsible for recovering the bodies using both high and low-angle rescue efforts.
Snyder said the LNU Lightning Complex Fire in August 2020 especially hit home for the Winters Fire Department.
“It was something that was a rude awakening, not only for the department but also the community in terms of wildfire preparation,” Snyder said.
The firefighters agreed that the community was fortunate not to have lost more structures in this event.
“We’ve had a lot of fires that have been big, but we haven’t lost many structures on the Yolo county side,” Art Mendoza said. Fighting for the future
From the 1980s until recently, the department staff model consisted of a chief, three captains, and an engineer, with a recruitment coordinator added to the team in 2023. Since last year’s passing of Prop 218, which designated funds to the fire department acquired through property tax assessments, the team plans to add two more engineers and a firefighter to the staff lineup.
Paralleling the Spirit of Winters, the Winters Fire Department has a spirit of its own: Service, Professionalism, Integrity, Respect, Innovation and Trust. As the team continues to operate under this value set, Snyder says the department will remain focused on recruiting, training and retaining.
hands.
“The biggest thing for us is, regardless of growth and change, our volunteers are
needed across the board,” Snyder said. “Without them we wouldn’t be able to provide the level of service that we have.”
Art Mendoza knows he left the department in good
“I see the same dedication from when I was there,” he said. “They know what their mission is, and they love it. I live in Winters, and I feel safe.”
Courtesy photo
Volunteer firefighters engage in low-angle rescue training.
Credit
Winters firefighters engage in a rescue demonstration as part of the Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall program.
From the desk of Chief Snyder
As Fire Chief of the Winters Fire Department, it is both an honor and a privilege to reflect on our department’s legacy and to articulate the vision that will guide us into the future. Over the past 25 years, the Winters Fire Department has exemplified resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast commitment to safeguarding our community.
The history of our department is deeply rooted in the values of service, innovation, and community engagement. Established over a century ago, our organization began as a volunteer-driven force, reflective of the communal spirit of Winters. Over the last quarter-century, we have transitioned into a hybrid model of professional and volunteer personnel, an evolution driven by the growing complexity of public safety needs and the dynamic expansion of our city.
This period has been marked by transformative growth. Investments in cutting-edge firefighting apparatus, advanced communica-
tion systems, and state-of-the-art facilities have significantly enhanced our operational capacity. Our personnel are the cornerstone of this evolution, supported by comprehensive training programs that prepare them to address an array of challenges, from structural fires to wildland-urban interface incidents and emergency medical services.
Interagency collaboration has also emerged as a pillar of our operational strategy. Strengthening partnerships with regional and state agencies has fostered a robust mutual aid framework, enabling a unified response to largescale emergencies. This cooperative spirit reflects our commitment to shared responsibility in public safety.
As we look to the future, our focus is on sustainability, innovation, and community-centered growth.
Tused to store oil and similar goods. The big oil tanks exploded during the fire which spread the fire even further. Since the buildings were built with iron and tin construction materials, they soon became like furnaces, impossible to enter. The upper story of the Masonic Lodge caught fire before the lower story so that no one could save the lodge records.
Firefighters had to climb more than 50 feet up on ladders to the top of the Methodist Church cupola at the base of the tall steeple. A rope pulley was devised to haul the water buckets up to the firefighters
Strategic initiatives include the integration of environmentally responsible practices, leveraging emerging technologies such as predictive analytics and autonomous systems, and enhancing community risk reduction efforts through education and outreach.
with about 30 helpers below hoisting the buckets up. Other men climbed up the belfry from the inside of the church to the steeple and began to knock off the flaming shingles.
The Express mentions that, “Some peculiar people show up at fires. Dozens of men stood around with their hands in their pockets and never offered to help anybody. Some who did help actually had the effrontery during the day to ask Charles Binning to pay for their services.”
Among the losses listed were Rummelsburg’s wedding presents which the newlywed merchant had placed in storage “Preparatory to housekeeping” according to the Express.
Altogether, the merchant, who lost his building and stock, was insured only $8,300 and lost an estimated $12,000.
The Express sidenotes: “About the most surprised man was J. F. Moler. When walking up the street from helping carry something out of reach of the fire, somebody said, “Put that fire out of your hat.’ Moler took off his hat and found the crown of it completely burned out, and he hadn’t been aware of any conflagration in his vicinity either. It was a new $3 head gear.”
Miss Emma, the heroine of the fire disaster was awarded $6.60 for wood at the waterworks and in recognition for her services at the pump.
hese priorities align with our overarching mission to deliver exceptional service with integrity and professionalism.
protect. Together, we will continue to ensure a safe and resilient future for the city of Winters.
to satisfy the need of our
The Winters Fire Department’s
legacy is built on the dedication of those who have served before us and the trust of the community we are privileged to
—Jack S. Snyder III, Winters Fire Chief
Jack S. Snyder III, Fire Chief Winters Fire Department
