Last month, Officer Nicholas Morgan joined the Winters Police Department, after previously serving with the Concord and Novato Police Departments. He was sworn in during the Sept. 2 city council meeting and has been at work in the community ever since, apart from a brief break due to injury.
Morgan has earned multiple public safety awards throughout his time as a police officer, including a Lifesaving Award and a Mothers Against Drunk Driving Award. In Winters, the responsibilities of his job change to some degree dayto-day, based on the needs of the community.
say hello. My goal is to be approachable and someone our residents can count on and trust.”
“Responding to calls for service, patrolling neighborhoods and local businesses, and getting to know the people who live and work here,” Morgan said, explaining what a typical day on the clock looks like. “I really enjoy being out in the community, whether it’s lending a hand when someone needs help, addressing concerns, or just stopping to
He said that his first several weeks of getting to know the department and the community have gone well, and that he’s looking forward to meeting more residents over time.
council meeting, Police Chief John P. Miller introduced Morgan, noting that he’d already begun integrating with the team, learning about their department and offering suggestions for how to improve line-level processes.
“Officer Morgan is passionate about law enforcement and motivated by a genuine desire to make a positive impact,” Miller said.
“Everyone here at the Winters Police Department has been incredibly welcoming, and it’s clear how much this department values teamwork and community connection,” Morgan said. “I’m still learning my way around, but I’ve already seen how much pride people take in Winters and how strong the sense of community is here.”
At the Sept. 2 city
Outside of work, Morgan enjoys motorcycle riding, traveling, and spending time with his family.
Miller noted that Morgan is also bicycle patrol and motorcycle trained, which means that he may be able to help the department get more use out of their electric motorcycles.
Weather
Grants boost safety for Winters firefighters
By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent
Roundtable connects Yolo farmers, Supervisors on water well concerns
On Monday, Oct. 27, two of the Yolo County Supervisors met with local farmers in the third annual Western Yolo Ag Roundtable.
Supervisor Lucas Frerichs of District 2 and Angel Barajas of District 5 held similar meetings in 2023 and 2024, and this roundtable was called with the same goal of encouraging open communication between the Supervisors and members of the agricultural community, and to address certain concerns brought forth by the community.
In a joint statement released by the Supervisors, the pair described the event as having “provided a space for open dialogue, updates from county leaders, and continued efforts to strengthen relationships with local farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural industry.”
This year, the roundtable focused on a specific issue, specifi-
cally the county’s temporary well moratorium.
As part of ongoing statewide efforts to combat drought, in August of this year, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance No. 1576 enacting a 45-day moratorium on approving new agricultural water well permits in certain so-called “Focus Areas” of Yolo County.
According to the ordinance, “the approval of additional well permits for agricultural uses without any additional review of conversions to perennial crops on agriculturally-zoned properties within the Focus Areas defined herein would result in a threat to public health, safety, or welfare” in Yolo County.
Then on Oct. 10, the Board of Supervisors voted to extend the moratorium, “for a period not to exceed an additional 10 months and 15 days,” according to the Yolo
See ROUNDTABLE, Page 7
Local News Briefs
Express staff
Replace unreliable electric car chargers
City Manager Jeremy Craig reported Friday that the city’s electric car chargers across from City Hall and at Rotary Park have been unreliable. Public works staff have been repairing the chargers for several months, only to see them break again. The city plans to replace them with a new, more reliable company. Installation of the new chargers is expected shortly
after the first of the year. Library announces holiday hours
The Winters Community Library will follow adjusted hours during Thanksgiving week. The library will be open: • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24; Wednesday, Nov. 26; and Monday, Dec.
• 12 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25 • 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29
The library will be closed Thursday, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28.
Courtesy photo
Officer Nicholas Morgan was sworn in at the Sept. 2 Winters City Council meeting. He is the newest officer at the Winters Police Department.
Regional News
Callison announces candidacy for Assembly District 11
Winters native, U.S. Army veteran enters 2026 race as independent
Special to the Express
Jenny Leilani Callison, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime public servant, has announced her candidacy for California Assembly District 11, which includes portions of Contra Costa, Sacramento and Solano counties.
Callison was born and raised in Winters and said her campaign will focus on issues such as economic development, education and community safety. She is running as an independent candidate.
Callison earned degrees in public policy and English and has 14 years of experience in state government, including serving as chief consultant for the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.
In addition to her legislative work, she has volunteered as a youth sports coach and previously served in the U.S. Army as a 14T Patriot missile launching station operator and maintainer.
Her heritage includes Native Hawaiian, Native American,
British and Irish ancestry. Callison said her family roots in the region and her experi-
ences as a mother and veteran influence her priorities as a candidate.
“California State Assembly District 11 is my birthplace and my home,” Callison
said. “I was born in Fairfield and attended school in Dixon. My first job was at KFC. After my service in the U.S. Army, I graduated from Solano Community College and Sacramento State. I love that my family, friends and faith are rooted here. As a mother of two children, I understand the importance of a thriving community.”
The election for State Assembly District 11 will be held in 2026.
More information about Callison’s campaign and upcoming events is available at callison2026.com or on social media at Jenny Leilani Callison for State Assembly.
Yolo Community Foundation gives $30K to address food insecurity
Special to the Express
The Yolo Community Foundation has announced a $25,000 donation to the Yolo Food Bank’s Food First initiative and a $5,000 donation to Meals on Wheels Yolo County.
These donations are in response to substantial food insecurity in Yolo County, in light of interrupted federal funding. The Yolo Community Foundation invites local community members to join it in supporting the incredible nonprofits that are responding to food insecurity in Yolo County.
In Yolo County, 27,000 individuals rely on CalFresh benefits to help put food on the table. As federal
changes to SNAP/CalFresh continue to unfold, many families remain uncertain about their access to consistent nutrition. That’s why the Yolo Food Bank, its nonprofit network, and collaboration among county leaders, nonprofits, and caring residents are more essential than ever.
Through the new Food First initiative, the Yolo Food Bank and Yolo County are working hand in hand with local nonprofits, grocery retailers, farmers, and volunteers to ensure that no one in our community is left behind.
“We are seeing anywhere from a 20 to 30 percent increase in the food insecure community members at-
tending our distributions and contacting nonprofits throughout the region. This situation has been so stressful for our neighbors, and the Yolo County community is responding — they are leaning in to help,” said Karen Baker, Yolo Food Bank executive director.
This week, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors approved $225,000 in one-time tobacco settlement funds to provide immediate food security relief and authorized an agreement with Yolo Food Bank to deliver this critical support. In just a few days, the local community has rallied to raise another $150,000. The Yolo Community Foundation’s
partners at the Sacramento Region Community Foundation have committed $100,000 towards efforts in the Sacramento Region. Many individual donors have also contributed.
“Thanks to this $5,000 donation from Yolo Community Foundation, Meals on Wheels Yolo County will be able to provide temporary relief for the more than 217 seniors awaiting meals on our quickly expanding waitlist. At a time when the population of older adults is growing rapidly, a combination of constricted government funding for MOW Yolo and the uncertainties of food assistance interruptions for these individuals have created an ‘imperfect’
storm of anxiety and deprivation for these vulnerable seniors,” said Joy Cohan, Meals on Wheels Yolo County executive director.
The Yolo Community Foundation invites all community members to join in this effort. Learn more about and give to the Yolo Food Bank’s Food First initiative at yolofoodbank. org/foodfirst. To research the many local nonprofits that address food insecurity, please visit www.bigdayofgiving.org/yolocounty. Click “See Yolo Causes” to filter by mission category, like Food, Agriculture, & Nutrition or Human Services.
Courtesy photo
Winters native and U.S. Army veteran Jenny Leilani Callison announces her candidacy for California’s 11th Assembly District, which includes portions of Contra Costa, Sacramento and Solano counties.
STEAC holiday program launches in Winters
Express staff
Families in Winters will have a chance to experience some holiday cheer this December thanks to a new initiative from Yolo County nonprofits STEAC and RISE, Inc.
For the first time, the STEAC Holiday Program, which has supported Davis families for 58 years, is expanding to Winters. The program pairs anonymous gift-givers with households in need, allowing donors to shop for each family member’s wishlist and provide grocery support.
“Every year, the community comes together in Davis to brighten the holidays for more than 500 families, residents and seniors,” said Hana King, STEAC food program coordinator. “We’re thrilled to bring this opportunity to Winters families and engage local residents in the spirit of giving.”
Households interested in receiving gifts can submit a wishlist valued between $30 and $40 per member. Gift-givers select a household tier based on
size and receive a matched family’s wishlist, with no personal information shared between parties. Participants are also encouraged to include a grocery gift card valued $20 to $40, depending on household size.
Gift drop-offs are scheduled for mid-December at Pioneer Church in Winters, with details provided to registered donors.
Individuals, families, clubs, and organizations can register to give online at STEAC’s website. For more information, contact King at hking@steac.org or call 530-758-8435.
Those interested in receiving gifts can contact RISE at 530-794-6000 to learn about eligibility and apply. Space is limited.
Beyond the holiday season, STEAC says the program helps raise funds for ongoing services, including support for rent, utilities, and food for Yolo County residents struggling year-round.
Donations can be sent to STEAC at 1712 Picasso Ave., Unit D, Davis, CA 95618, or contributed online at www.steac.org.
Winters Library hosts November events
Express staff
The Winters Community Library invites residents to participate in a variety of programs and special free events throughout November. Events are open to different age groups and skill levels.
Game Space | Espacio de videojuegos
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., Margaret Parsons Room – Full Room
Teens and tweens can challenge friends, meet new gaming buddies, and level up their gaming experience at the library. A variety of video games will be available.
Audience: Ages 9–17
Hand Turkeys | Pavos de manitas
Friday, Nov. 21, 3 to 5 p.m., Margaret Parsons Room – Full Room
Celebrate Thanksgiving with the classic tradition of crafting hand turkeys.
This nostalgic activity is fun for all ages.
Audience: All ages
Crochet Class | Clase de ganchillo
Friday, Nov. 21, 4 to 6 p.m., Winters Community Library
All skill levels are welcome to join this guided crochet class or bring ongoing projects to work on.
Audience: Age 18 and older
Start with Calm: Yoga at the Library
Sunday, Nov. 23, 8 a.m., Margaret Parsons Room – Full Room
Winters Education Foundation announces 2025 mini-grants
By Diane Cary
Special to the Express
Winters Education Foundation is pleased to announce that, through the generosity of local donors, they have awarded 16 mini-grants to teachers in Winters schools for enrichment activities and materials. The grants range up to $2,000 each and total more than $15,500.
Thanks to these grants, kindergarten students will make clay creations with a visiting artist, students in grades 6-8 will create a mosaic mural for their school, and high school students will be able to record tracks in a music production studio. The grants will support several field trips: second graders will explore the UC Davis student farm, fourth graders will go to the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma, and fifth graders will visit the Exploratorium in San Francisco. Other grants will fund classroom materials and build school libraries.
“One of the best things about Winters is how this community shows up for our kids. Each year the Winters Educational Foundation steps up in a big way through teacher mini-grants — helping bring field trips to life, add art and science projects to
classrooms, and give students hands-on experiences they’ll never forget,” said Rody Boonchouy, Winters Joint Unified School District Superintendent.
Winters Education Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organiza-
Ease into Vinyasa yoga and find your calm with this all-levels class, ending with a sound bath savasana. Bring your own yoga mat and dress comfortably.
Audience: Age 18 and older
Manos Activas y Creativas
Tuesday, Nov. 25, 6 to 8 p.m., Winters Community Library
This Spanish-language program is designed for adults to enjoy crafting activities and healthy snacks.
Audience: Age 18 and older
For more information, contact Winters Community Library at 530-795-4955, visit the Yolo County Library website at yolocountylibrary.org (see the Events calendar for Winters), or connect on Facebook at facebook.com/yolocountylibrary.org.
tion whose mission is to ensure continued educational excellence and equal educational opportunities for every child in a Winters public school classroom.
WEF invites everyone to be part of building stronger schools for all Winters students. When planning your year-end donations, please consider supporting the Winters Education Foundation. To learn more or to donate, visit mywef.org and click on the donation link.
The Winters Volunteer Firefighter Association will host its annual Shrimp Feed Dinner on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at the Winters Fire Department — Station 26.
The event begins at 5 p.m. with cocktails and other beverages, followed by dinner at 6 p.m.
The annual shrimp feed is the association’s largest fundraiser of the year, helping support vital community programs and equipment needs.
Funds raised will directly benefit initiatives such as the Gifts for Kids program, the Fire Explorers youth program, and training and equipment for volunteer firefighters.
“This event is not just a meal — it’s a community celebra-
tion,” said event organizer and volunteer firefighter Mario Botello. “These funds help our programs like Gifts for Kids and our Fire Explorers, and support the training and equipment needs for our volunteers. We’re a proud combination department, and volunteers make up 80 percent of our staff.”
According to Botello, only three sponsor tables remain available. Ticket prices range from $20 to $75, with details available online at events. eventgroove.com/ event/Winters-Volunteer-Firefighters-Association-Annual-118062 or bit.ly/ shrimpfeed26.
Organizers are also seeking raffle prize donations from individuals and businesses. Donations are tax-deductible and may be coordinated by emailing thagy511@ yahoo.com or calling 530-207-9932.
“This is a special event where you can meet and interact with the men and women who serve your community,” Botello said. “The Shrimp Feed is our biggest event of the year and the best way to kick off the new year.”
Support your local volunteer firefighters and enjoy a night of great food, fun, and community spirit at the Winters Fire Department.
Courtesy photo
Fourth-grade students from Shirley Rominger Intermediate School pan for gold while learning about California history at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, on a field trip supported by a Winters Education Foundation mini-grant.
Truckee, a 5-year-old chocolate Labrador retriever, was happy to be back home after being lost for more than six months. Truckee was in the back of the family pickup when it was stolen from Main Street on February 21. The thief reported that Truckee jumped out of the vehicle near Fresno. He was found by a couple in Del Rey, about 100 miles south of Merced. The ID tag on Truckee’s collar provided information about his owners, the Martinez family. Truckee returned home on Aug. 30 to his family, from left, Ryan, Joe, Shelly and Brett. There was a rumor that Joe was in the doghouse until Truckee returned.
Public Safety Report
Oct. 29: 9:30 a.m., Grant Avenue, Smoke or odor removal
~11:42 a.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
Nov. 4: 3:57 p.m., 10th block of Abbey Street, Hit and Run View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log
Lake Berryessa water levels low YESTERYEAR
Picked by Charley Wallace File
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa decreased by 0.08 feet over the past week, resulting in 1,377 acre-feet of water storage, according to Cristian Tejeda, Solano Irrigation District – Putah Diversion Office. On the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 11, he reported that the lake elevation was 429.05 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,350,759 acre-feet. The SID released 20 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 125 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 50 acre-feet of water per day. For more information about services from the Solano Irrigation District or to view the latest updates, visit https:// www.sidwater.org.
130 Years Ago
November 16, 1895
A social was given at the home of William Brinck on Tuesday evening last which was highly enjoyed by all who participated. Those who attended were Misses Grace and Susie Dunton, Maggie and Sarah Mitchell, Lula and Bertha Wyatt, Priscilla Hall, Estella Thorp, Mary and Carrie Womack, Mary Reisback, Messrs. S. L. Riner, Lacy Neal, Ralph Mitchell, Will Emery, Frank Mills, C. E. Wyatt, Calvin Robinson, James Day, William Brinck and Willie Brinck. Walter Hemenway and Edgar Stephenson returned last Saturday from a seven-week camping and hunting trip in Mendocino County. We thank them for a supply of jerked venison.
I. O. Jacks has purchased Owen Sweeney’s place in the William Baker subdivision of the Rancho Rio de los Putos, paying therefor $3,500.
W. S. Humphrey has rented his place in the Wolfskill tract to George Greenstreet and has moved with his family to town. He will occupy one of the Wyatt cottages oppo-
Years Ago
Dispatches from the Express archives.
site the schoolhouse.
Someone borrowed a tub and wash board from Mrs. Martin without first getting her permission to take them. She would like to have them returned at once.
95 Years Ago
November 14, 1930
Rev. Nichols, new pastor of the Methodist Church was the principal speaker at Monday’s meeting of the Exchange Club. The program committee was E. E. f Baker, H. G. Boyce and Roy Ish, Mr. Baker introducing the speaker.
Mrs. R. A. Wells was hostess to two groups of 1 ladies at her home this week. One group of 30 were entertained at a bridge luncheon Tuesday and another party of 36 were guests Thursday.
R. B. Bigelow left this morning for Berkeley. He will return this evening accompanied by his daughter, Mrs. Bruck who will remain over Thanksgiving.
Winters defeated the Vacaville high school team on Friday, November 8 by a score of 39 to 7. Elmore Pearse played his usual heavy and consistent game at quarterback.
J. J. Rice has pulled out his Muir peach orchard in the Wolfskill district, planted by David Hemenway about 30 years ago.
45 Years Ago
November 13, 1980
Rev. Melvin Sellers officiated at the funeral services last Thursday for Dr. J.R. Sellers, 64, who died on November 2. Pallbearers were Frank A. Ramos, Joe R. Ogando, Manuel Tortosa, Malcolm Mahoney, Edward Carbahal and John Kammerer.
Jon Hammond, head solar designer and founder of the Winters-based Living Systems organization, is one of four key figures in a proposed new, unnamed town to be built three miles south of Winters, between Wolfskill Road and Allendale Road on the west side of I-505. The town would be, according to its developers, a model solar and pedestrian-oriented community designed to provide maximum amenities with a minimum use of energy and other resources.
Joe Raines Griffin, A.G. Proctor, R. G. Larson, W G. Stephens and A. T. Spencer, five members of the board of directors of the Fliers Club were reelected at the meeting Monday night to serve another six months. Reports from Miss Patty Baker are that she is getting along nicely and expectations are that with a possible slight restriction of left arm movement will return to normal health.
photo
Eventos hispanos
Fallido intento de robo en escuelas, sospechoso bajo custodia
Redacción del Express
Traducido por Carol Alfonso Funcionarios del Departamento de Policía de Winters confirmaron que Christopher Dante Britton, de 34 años, de Fairfield, fue arrestado el 4 de Noviembre en relación con intentos de robo en recintos escolares de Winters y el uso fraudulento de tarjetas de crédito robadas en toda el Área de la Bahía. El Departamento de Policía de Walnut Creek detuvo a Britton después de que la policía de Winters y varias agencias policiales del Área de la Bahía emitieran un boletín de búsqueda. Britton fue ingresado en el Centro de Detención Principal del Condado Contra Costa con seis órdenes de arresto por delitos graves y una por delito menor. Las autoridades dijeron que el modus operandi de Britton consistía en entrar en los recintos escolares mientras las clases estaban en curso, buscando aulas abiertas y desocupadas, y robando los bolsos del personal. Las tarjetas de crédito robadas se utilizaban posteriormente
GRANTS
Continued from Page 1
category of risk as asbestos and tobacco. But it’s also, at least for now, an inevitable byproduct of fire engines. So this project will utilize modern technology to address the hazard in a new way — by removing emissions at their source.
Essentially, this means that a sealed hose will be attached to each fire engine’s tailpipe — where exhaust emerges — while it’s parked inside the apparatus bay, in order to carry the contaminated air to where it can be safely vented outside.
“The installation represents more than a facility upgrade — it is a reflection of the department’s broader cultural shift toward firefighter wellness,” Snyder said about the station improvement. “Firefighters dedicate their lives to protecting the public, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they have a safe and healthy work environment.” This project, which utilizes $95,092.62 in grant funding, will mark a major step towards firefighter safety in Winters, but it’s not the only change the team has made in recent years with the goal of reducing cancer risk for their department.
Current cancer-re-
de forma fraudulenta. Anteriormente fue arrestado el 25 de Abril por el Departamento del Sheriff del Condado Marin por delitos similares en los condados de Marin, Alameda y Contra Costa.
Gracias a la vigilancia del personal de la Escuela Primaria Waggoner Elementary y la Escuela Intermedia Shirley Rominger Intermediate, Britton fue visto el 24 de Octubre, pero abandono el recinto antes de cometer ningún robo. La policía de Winters ha solicitado a la Fiscalía del Condado Yolo que presente cargos por intento de robo con agravantes.
Detalles del incidente
Según la policía de Winters, los agentes fueron enviados por primera vez a la Escuela Primaria Waggoner Elementary aproximadamente a las 12:20 p.m. del 24 de Octubre después de que el personal informara de una persona sospechosa en el recinto. Inicialmente, el personal creyó que se trataba de un trabajador de la construcción, pero luego determinaron que no lo era. El sujeto abandonó el
recinto antes de que llegaran los agentes. Unos 20 minutos después, el personal de la Escuela Intermedia Shirley Rominger Intermediate informó de la presencia del mismo individuo fuera de su recinto, alegando que
Un padre que es agente de la ley en otra jurisdicción reconoció posteriormente al sospechoso por informes de robos similares y proporcionó información de identificación a la policía de Winters el 29 de Octubre.
“Agradecemos la vigilancia de nuestro personal, las familias y las fuerzas del orden que nos ayudan a mantener entornos de aprendizaje seguros.”
Rody Boonchouy, superintendente
era un repartidor que buscaba unas llaves perdidas. Los agentes realizaron búsquedas en los alrededores de ambas escuelas, pero no lo encontraron. El sospechoso fue descrito como un hombre negro, de aproximadamente 35 años, que vestía una sudadera y pantalones deportivos negros y conducía un Jeep negro de modelo y matrícula desconocidos.
“The installation represents more than a facility upgrade — it is a reflection of the department’s broader cultural shift toward firefighter wellness.”
Jack Snyder, fire chief
duction strategies include post-incident gear contamination and regular laundering of protective clothing. Some of these smaller safety measures were implemented or improved upon in response to Winters Fire Captain Matt Schechla’s research as part of another FEMA-led program into methods to reduce cancer risk among firefighters in regards to decontamination protocols and common practices.
Snyder says the addition of the exhaust capture system will build upon these efforts, creating an even stronger defense against toxic exposure.
Research, leadership drive safety improvements
Part of these ongoing safety improvements is informed by research from Schechla, who in November 2024 became one of only 27 Californians to graduate from the National Fire Academy’s Managing Officer Program, which has
produced just over 600 graduates nationwide. The program combines leadership training, data analysis, and practical management skills for fire service officers, and requires students to complete a capstone project that applies what they’ve learned to real-world challenges.
For his project, Schechla conducted an in-depth review
Respuesta delsuperintendente
El superintendente del Distrito Escolar Unificado Winters JUSD, Rody Boonchouy, dijo que el distrito está reforzando las medidas de seguridad en todo el distrito. “El personal escolar respondió con prontitud y de manera apropiada, y la policía de Winters brindó
of the department’s protective gear, decontamination protocols, and everyday practices, producing a detailed report with recommendations to reduce occupational cancer risks. One of the most striking findings was that cancer is now the leading cause of death for firefighters across the United States. Working closely with Chief Snyder, Schechla identified practical changes in training, gear handling, and daily routines that could better protect the team while remaining realistic within budget and operational demands. His work builds on existing strategies like post-incident gear decontamination and regular laundering of
Join us at the next Express Coffeehouse Chat!
Friday, Nov. 21 at 8 a.m. at Steady Eddy’s Coffee House
Meet local leaders to ask questions or let them know about what you think is important in the Winters community.
apoyo inmediato duran-
te toda la situación,” dijo Boonchouy. “Agradecemos la vigilancia de nuestro personal, las familias y las fuerzas del orden que nos ayudan a mantener entornos de aprendizaje seguros.” Las medidas de seguridad previstas incluyen mantener las puertas de las aulas cerradas con llave durante todo el horario escolar, instalar videovigilancia en la Escuela Primaria Waggoner Elementary, revisar los puntos de acceso alrededor de los recintos y actualizar los procedimientos de registro de visitantes. Se insta a las familias a registrarse en la oficina principal, usar credenciales de visitante, evitar abrir las puertas laterales a otras personas e informar cualquier actividad sospechosa al personal escolar o a la policía de Winters al 530-795-4561. La policía de Winters solicita a cualquier persona que tenga información adicional que se comunique con el departamento al 530795-2261 o envíe un correo electrónico a tips.winters@ winterspolice.org.
protective clothing, reinforcing the department’s broader commitment to firefighter wellness.
The other grant that the department recently received, a $6,825 Cal Fire Volunteer Fire Capacity Grant, will similarly be used to enhance firefighter safety with the purchase of new, modernized personal protective equipment. The grant covers half of the cost of the equipment, with the rest being sourced from the fire department’s safety equipment budget.
“Protective equipment is more than a uniform,” Snyder
said. “It is a critical barrier between our personnel and the hazards they face.” This equipment includes hydration packs, protective pants, shirts, and hoods, and headlamps.
“Our volunteers represent the best of public service — dedicated individuals who respond at all hours to protect their neighbors,” Snyder said in relation to the importance of the grant.
“Ensuring they have the safest and most effective protective equipment is not only a moral responsibility but a reflection of our community’s values.”
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Agricultural News
Yolo Land Trust awarded
Special to the Express
The Yolo Land Trust announced this week the award of $2.3 million to permanently protect 800 acres of farmland on four family-owned farms in Yolo County.
YLT is a local nonprofit organization whose mission is to conserve farmland across Yolo County by strategically aligning efforts with key state funding opportunities.
This funding will allow YLT to partner with four landowners to purchase agricultural conservation easements on their farms. This investment strengthens Yolo County’s agricultural economy, protects irreplaceable soils, supports wildlife habitat, improves climate resilience, and ensures that farmland remains farmland forever.
Funding for these projects is made possible through the California Strategic Growth Council’s Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program, administered by the Department of Conservation.
The SALC Program protects farmland at risk of development and is part of California Climate Investments, which directs Cap-and-Trade dollars to projects that reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen local economies, and improve public health and the environment.
In this funding round, SALC awarded $128 million statewide to support 39 conservation easements, eight fee-title acquisitions, and four planning grants that will protect more than 40,000 acres in 24 counties.
Among the most fertile and productive in California, Yolo County farmland faces increasing pressure from development, water scarcity and a changing climate. Grants like SALC are essential to slowing farmland loss and sustaining local agriculture.
For YLT, these funds move the organization from mission to action, allowing ideas to become conservation easements that permanently protect the farmland that feeds local communities.
Each of the four farms carries unique conservation values and aligns with regional conservation priorities. In Winters, a 479acre fifth-generation rotational row-crop farm will protect prime soils, support agricultural practices that benefit land, air and water, and reinforce coordinated land use planning, while a nearby 156-acre Frenchprune orchard maintains
both working and natural lands.
In Esparto, an 87-acre almond orchard provides biodiversity benefits, supports pollinators, sequesters carbon and contributes to local and regional food security.
Lastly, in West Davis, and in partnership with the city of Davis, a 79-acre rotational row-crop farm practices climate-smart farming, protects a wildlife corridor, and connects with nearby conserved lands, magnifying ecological benefits across the landscape. Together, these projects conserve water resources, clean air, healthy soils,
wildlife habitat, and the scenic open space characteristics that define Yolo County’s sense of place.
“We are thrilled to receive these grants,” said YLT executive director John Currey, “which will allow us to work with four farm families to protect their farms forever. Each of these farmers brings deep connections to the land and are passionate about permanently protecting the agriculture and enhancing the natural environment on their farms. We appreciate the Department of Conservation and the Strategic Growth Council’s support of farmland protection.
The SALC Program is a key part of YLT’s strategy to increase the amount of farmland conservation in Yolo County.”
When these four farms are conserved, Yolo Land Trust will have completed 35 grant-funded conservation easements, and this set of projects marks seven farms conserved through SALC in the program’s tenyear history. To date, YLT has conserved 13,037 acres in Yolo County on 78 farms utilizing diverse funding strategies – either through land donations, grant funding, or direct purchase to satisfy Yolo County’s mitigation requirements.
This preservation of important farmland would not be possible without the support of YLT’s donors, partners, and advocates. The financial resources needed to prepare the projects came directly from our donors; their support is key to this success. Every contribution strengthens our shared commitment to protecting local farmland for generations. YLT looks forward to sharing updates as each of the four farms becomes conserved forever over the next year.
Join YLT’s newsletter to stay connected at TheYoloLandTrust.org/newsletter-signup.
Cilantro trial tests herbicide to fight aggressive weed
By Rob McCarthy California Farm Bureau
The spread of an aggressive weed that thrives in coastal conditions has put a damper on an otherwise phenomenal period for California cilantro growers.
Yellow nutsedge is found in the major cilantro-growing regions of the state, including Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Monterey counties, according to University of California Cooperative Extension vegetable farm adviser Oleg Daugovish in Ventura County. He calls it one of the worst weeds in the world.
Nutsedge thrives in warm coastal areas such as King City in Monterey County. Because there is no herbicide labeled for use against nutsedge in cilantro, growers have few options aside from not planting the herb in areas with heavy nutsedge populations, Daugovish said.
“Nutsedge competes for water, nutrients and can block out sunlight if it’s not removed before it spreads out in cilantro,” he said. “The only way to get rid of nutsedge currently is to pull it out by hand, which is cost-prohibitive in cilantro.”
With the cost of water, fertilizer and labor on the rise, cilantro growers in Ventura County approached Daugovish about doing an herbicide trial on the herb, which has expanded in acreage and value since 2020. He was wrapping up the two-year trial in October and said he expects to have data to report sometime this fall.
The goal is to submit data on Dual Magnum to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation so that the preemergent herbicide is registered for use in cilantro, Daugovish said.
First- and second-year applications of Dual Magnum at the same rates on cilantro right after planting showed promising weed control results, he said. He ran the trial at the University of California Hansen Agricultural Research and Extension Center and at a grower field. Syngenta, which makes the herbicide, provided in-kind support, he said.
Ventura County leads the state in cilantro production, with 4,907 acres in 2024. Monterey County came in second with 3,090 acres. The crop was valued at nearly $35.2 million in Ventura County and more than $40.1 million in Monterey County last year, according to county crop reports.
“Without a good herbicide program, the weeding costs have become a huge issue,” Ventura County grower Edgar Terry said. “I know that Oleg is working on some herbicides for cilantro, and I hope he can get them approved by the state.”
Harvesting cilantro is slowed if nutsedge gets into the plants, Daugovish said, as harvest crews must cut around the weed to keep it out of the crop. Nutsedge shoots “become mixed within cilantro canopy and are very difficult and expensive to sort out,” he added.
The total cost to produce cilantro in 2025 at a yield of 1,200 cartons per acre is estimated at $7,316 per acre, according to the most recent UC cost analysis. The report, released in August, estimated grower profit at $3,480 per acre if the crop price
to nearly 9.2 tons per acre in Ventura County. The winter yields in Riverside County reach between 30 and 35 tons per acre, according to UC figures. Boskovich Family Farms in Oxnard relies on cultural prac-
tices in the summer to avoid nutsedge and two soil-borne diseases in the fusarium family, according to farm production manager Bryson Daniel. The grower, shipper, and packer move its cilantro production to Lompoc in Santa Barbara County in the summer. Daniel said the company avoids fields where nutsedge and fusarium are present. “You just try to stay away from those areas,” he said.
disease management. Other production costs included labor, energy use, weed management and harvest.
Per-acre yields along the coast are lower than in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County, crop figures show. The average yield in Monterey County in 2024 was almost 6.2 tons per acre. That’s compared
We
to be able to provide the residents of Dixon and surrounding areas more senior living options.
Courtesy photo
The state Department of Conservation awarded the Yolo Land Trust $2.3 million to permanently conserve 800 acres of farmland in Yolo County.
County website.
Along with the extension, the updated ordinance narrowed the moratorium to, “just new agricultural well permits located within the Focus Area boundaries established by YSGA (Yolo Subbasin Groundwater Agency),” as well as, “clarify(ing) that the hardship exemption may include an economic or health and safety hardship and does not need to meet a higher ‘taking’ threshold.”
Chris Turkovich, a local farmer with Turkovich Family Wines, was in attendance at the roundtable and described the concerns of local farmers going into the meeting.
According to Turkovich, farmers were primarily concerned with existing wells, rather than new ones.
“People expected that, if a moratorium went in, it would be on new ag wells going in,” Turkovich said, “but there was no carve out or exemption for replacement.”
“That means that if you’re in the area and you have a problem with your existing well, you can’t go in and get it fixed or redrilled, which is really potentially dangerous.”
The original ordinance did make a carve-out for what are
Continued from Page One
this mechanism would be too difficult and time-consuming to be of use on farms.
The process of acquiring a hardship exemption, according to Turkovich, requires applying, the approval of the county, the Planning Commission, and potentially the Board of Supervisors.
“So it’s a multi-week, month-long process, so in any emergency situation you don’t have a couple months to wait around,” Turkovich said. “So that’s the major pressing issue.”
This delay could present a big problem for farms that rely on wells, as any issues with a well that can’t be readily fixed can quickly spell disaster.
Many farmers were worried that, “if you have a well problem, it goes down at the wrong time and you’re not able to prepare that, and say you have a permanent crop like an orchard or vineyard, you could lose not just that year’s crop, you could lose it going forward, and be extremely expensive, maybe catastrophic,” Turkovich said. “So that’s what most people who were there were in opposition of.”
At the roundtable, the Supervisors sought to discuss these concerns with the agricultural community. According to the Supervisors’ statement, the roundtable allowed for
monitoring, and the balance between agricultural needs and long-term water sustainability.”
The statement also noted that, “participants emphasized the importance of accurate, up-to-date data and collaboration among the County, the YSGA, and local landowners,” and that, “while concerns were raised about the moratorium’s impacts and data reliability, there was broad agreement on the need to protect groundwater resources, streamline replacement well processes, and ensure sustainable water management for Yolo County’s agricultural future.”
expressed appreciation for the forum that these agricultural roundtables provide county officials and local farmers.
Turkovich described the meetings as “really good when they’re handled as a roundtable going both directions,” and noted that it is “very beneficial that the two supervisors that represent Western Yolo County are doing this collaboratively.”
“Many of us in the farming community run between the Supervisor’s districts, so it’s not an isolated problem in one district,” and that, “it helps us not have to have two separate meetings…so I hope they continue it,”
In their joint statement, the Supervisors both enunciated the importance of these roundtables.
“Yolo County’s agriculture community is essential to the success of our region,” Supervisor Lucas Frerichs wrote. “These roundtable events provide an opportunity to engage in dialogue with agricultural stakeholders and ensure their voice continues to be part of the county’s decision-making process.” Supervisor Angel Barajas agreed, continuing, “These roundtables are an important opportunity to hear directly from our agricultural community. I appreciate the partnership of my colleague Supervisor Frerichs and the valuable input from our farmers, Farm Bureau, and county staff.
Together, we’re identifying real issues and working toward practical solutions that
support Yolo County’s agricultural future.”
Following the roundtable, a follow-up meeting on Nov. 4 amended some of the details of the moratorium to reflect community feedback, including a replacement exemption. In a further statement provided by Frerichs, “the adjustments made to the Ag Well moratorium in the Focus Areas is a direct response to the feedback we received from local farmers. The replacement well exemption balances the interests of minimizing disruptions to current agricultural operations while ensuring there is a pause in permitting new agricultural wells that would result in greater demands on groundwater resources during the moratorium.”
The Winters Senior Foundation (WSF) is gearing up for its annual Santa Bag program conducted each year in early December. The program is designed to provide seniors who live in Winters with a helping hand during the holiday season.
For the past several years as the program grew, WSF reached out to the community for volunteers to purchase and deliver holiday bags filled with an assortment of practical household items to one or more recipients. This year we plan on delivering Santa Bags to 60 or more seniors and we are looking for at least 20 volunteers to assist us.
As in the past, WSF will reimburse volunteers for the cost of the items incurred – this year up to $80.00 per recipient. The giving of these holiday gifts brings joy to both the recipient and volunteer.
If you would be interested in becoming a volunteer this year, please let us know by emailing jerry@wintersseniorfoundation.org or calling me at 530-794-6067. If you are not able to volunteer, donations are always accepted.
Jerry Lowden Winters Senior
Fifteen volunteers for the Winters Senior Foundation hand painted 65 bags to be used for their annual Christmas Secret Santa Bag project. The WSF will be reaching out to the community seeking volunteers who would be interested in assisting with the distribution of the bags. Details
interested is shown in the nearby advertisement for the program.
Credit
Yolo County Supervisors Angel Barajas (District 5), Lucas Frerichs (District 2) and Yolo County Administrator Mike Webb speak to regional farmers and ranchers at the third annual Western Yolo Ag Roundtable on Oct. 27 in the Winters City Hall conference room.
Hearty sheet pan parmesan garlic chicken dinner
You can’t go wrong with chicken and broccoli when dinnertime rolls around. This classic combo works across countless cuisines and flavor profiles — especially when the broccoli is roasted just right.
On a cool, rainy evening, sheet pan parmesan garlic chicken brought both warmth and comfort to our table. The smoky paprika in the seasoning mix added depth, while the creamy garlic parmesan sauce tied everything together. Roasted onions and new potatoes soaked up those same seasonings, creating layers of flavor in every bite. When it comes to broccoli, bigger is better. Cut the florets slightly larger than bite-size so they stay tender-crisp in the oven rather than drying out. For a brighter, greener finish, add the broccoli halfway through baking. A quick toss in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt give it golden edges and great flavor.
When I made this dish, I used a mix of chicken thighs, breasts and wings — an easy way for
my family to choose their favorite cuts. I arranged the veggies around the edges of the pan, placed the chicken in the center, and tucked in a few whole garlic cloves for extra flavor. By the end of dinner, the plates were spotless. That night, I served the chicken and vegetables with a simple side of pasta tossed in roasted garlic butter sauce — the perfect finishing touch to a cozy, home-cooked meal.
Sheet Pan
Parmesan Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
Garlic parmesan sauce:
½ cup unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chicken and vegetables: 2 pounds chicken piec-
es (thighs, breasts or wings)
1 teaspoon each: salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning and onion powder
2 teaspoons each: garlic powder and smoked paprika
1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
24 ounces new potatoes, quartered
1 onion, chopped into small wedges
Olive oil
Putting it together
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and saute 1 to 2 minutes, until fragrant. Reduce heat to low and whisk in mayonnaise, cream, lemon juice and onion powder until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool slightly.
In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning and onion powder. For less of
a punch: use 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Set the spice mix aside.
Wash and quarter the potatoes. Slice the onion into wedges and chop broccoli into large florets. Place prepared veggies in a bowl. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle a tablespoon of the spice blend and toss to coat.
Arrange vegetables around the edges of the pan.
In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with the remaining spice blend. Add enough garlic parmesan sauce to coat well. Toss until evenly covered. Place the chicken in the center of the pan.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 185 degrees Fahrenheit internally and potatoes are tender. Keep an eye on the vegetables. Finish it off by spooning
pan juices over the chicken before serving and enjoy the mix of smoky, garlicky and savory flavors that make this sheet-pan dinner a family favorite.
Local pairings
For this dish, the wine pairing picks are easy. My picks would be Berryessa Gap Vineyards’ Tempranillo, which has just enough body and spice to complement the smoky paprika and roasted potatoes without overpowering the chicken. For a white wine, I would go with Turkovich Family Wines’ Viognier. Its bright, floral notes and hint of stone fruit balance the richness of the sauce and bring out the sweetness of the roasted onions and broccoli. Either bottle would make this cozy
sheet-pan dinner feel like a special evening at home. If you’d rather sip than swirl, I would pair this dish with a whiskey lemonade using Patio29 Spirits Co. Straight Bourbon. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes play nicely with the smoky paprika and roasted potatoes, while the lemonade keeps things bright and refreshing alongside the rich garlic-Parmesan sauce. Make it at home
In an ice-filled glass, combine 2 ounces of Patio29 Straight Bourbon with 4 ounces of lemonade. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon slice or sprig of rosemary. It’s simple, local, and just right for sipping while that sheet pan finishes roasting in the oven.
Thanksgiving wines to please every preference
By Jeremy Craig Special to the Express
Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, and — let’s be honest — a little wine to help you through the marathon meal. But with so many dishes, flavors, and spices on the table, finding your wine can be difficult. Tra-
ditional fare, such as turkey, cranberry, and casseroles all call for different approaches to your wine choices. So how do you find wines that keep everyone happy? Here are a few picks to make your Thanksgiving a little brighter.
With so many rich foods, skip heavy, high-alcohol wines.
Think light, cool climate styles to keep complement the meal and not compete with it. We want fresh and not heavy; save those for your steak dinners.
The ultimate cheat sheet: sparkling wine
You can’t go wrong starting — or ending — the day with bubbles. Sparkling wine, Cham-
pagne, or Prosecco all offer crisp acidity and lower alcohol, which cut through buttery, rich, or fried dishes. Locally, both Turkovich and Berryessa Gap offer Blanc de Blancs — sparkling wines made entirely from Chardonnay. They’re festive, refreshing, and will pair with everything from appetizers to dessert.
White wine hero: Albariño
If you haven’t tried Albariño, Thanksgiving is the perfect occasion. This Spanish grape delivers light texture, citrus and floral notes, and a hint of salinity that will work so well with turkey, roasted vegetables, and even mashed potatoes. It’s also great on its own, making it a crowd-pleasing option before or after dinner.
Classic red: Pinot Noir
The overwhelming favorite choice of red wine for the holiday table is Pinot Noir. Its cherry, pomegranate, and strawberry flavors pairs well with turkey and classic sides. Medium acidity and lower alcohol keep it refreshing across a long meal. Look for cooler-climate styles from the Sonoma Coast or Ber-
ryessa Gap’s Anderson Valley bottling locally.
Hidden gem: Grenache
My personal favorite Thanksgiving red, Grenache, offers dried berry and rose petal aromas, with red currant and a faint hint of pepper on the palate. It’s affordable, easy-drinking, and very food-friendly. Just be warned — Grenache tends to disappear quickly once opened! Turkovich makes an excellent local version that’s perfect for gatherings, so you might want to grab an extra bottle or two.
More options to explore
If you like Chardonnay, reach for one that’s lightly oaked — it will balance creamy sides or casseroles without feeling heavy. For those
who like a heartier red, try a GSM blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre), which offers richness while staying smooth. Don’t forget about Rosé, either. A dry Rosé with a little weight — like those from France’s Tavel region or our local wineries — can pair well with turkey and cranberry sauce.
A few pairing tips
When in doubt, focus on balance. Think good acidity and lower alcohol to complement a wide range of foods. Avoid overly tannic reds, which can clash with Thanksgiving flavors. The best approach? Open a few different bottles and let everyone explore what they enjoy. Most importantly — be present Thanksgiving is about family. Wine brings people together, sparks conversation, and creates memories. Make a few thoughtful choices, open them all, and share generously. Whether it’s bubbles, white, or red, the right wine will add to the gratitude and good company around your table. And if you’re lucky, there might still be a glass left for you when it’s time for dessert.
Parmesan garlic chicken, roasted on a sheet pan with broccoli, onions and new potatoes, makes a comforting all-in-one dinner with flavorful results.
Crystal Apilado/ Winters Express
Courtesy photo
Choosing the right wine can elevate any meal—these tips help you pair flavors with confidence.
FEATURES
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
Saturday, November 15
Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Saturdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue
Monday, November 17
Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/187/Natural-Resources-Commission
Tuesday, November 18
Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/
Upcoming Events
Friday, November 21
Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House
Tuesday, November 22
Winters Planning Commission Meeting, Canceled
Library Services
Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session)
Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library Virtual English Conversation Group, Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org
Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.
Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library
All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org
Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)
Ongoing
View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents
Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org
Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September thru May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 W. Main St.
Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org
Saved & Sober program Thursdays, 7p.m., The Rock Church West, 201 Main St. Winters Open Mic, third Thursday, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.), Visit wintersopenmic.org
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.
Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com
Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org
Dance Fitness, - first/third Sundays February thru July, 8 to 9 a.m., Winters Community Library. No registration required.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings:
» St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m.
Nearly every day this summer on his drives out to visit the plant nursery, Rich Marovich saw a monarch butterfly — something that, in his experience, hasn’t happened for decades.
“It’s thrilling to see the monarchs coming back,” Marovich said.
The iconic black and orange insect was once the most populous butterfly in the western United States, but their population has suffered a 99.9 percent decline in California since the 1980s due to a combination of factors ranging from pesticides to habitat loss.
In recent years though, there’s some evidence that the resilient migrating butterfly is beginning to bounce back — in part because of a movement across the country aimed at planting butterfly “waystations,” essentially a curated garden of flowering plants to help the small creatures refuel as they complete their three-year migration from Canada to Mexico. And with the help of a grant from Rotary International, members of the Rotary Club of Winters are doing their part to participate in providing re-
Express staff
Community members from across Yolo County gathered Oct. 22 at the Veterans Memorial Theater in Woodland to celebrate the impact of local volunteers at the Yolo Community Foundation’s Yolo Philanthropy Awards.
This year, 38 local nonprofits joined together to recognize volunteers and donors whose generosity of time, talent, and resources strengthens the community—including six outstanding residents of Winters.
YCF posted a video honoring all 2025 Philanthropy Award honorees on its YouTube channel at https://bit.ly/4p2fDFX. Rob Comen
The Friends of the Yolo County Archives recognized Rob Comen, its first communications director, as a critical contributor to expanding the nonprofit’s digital
spite to weary monarch butterflies, with the hopes of planting 150 mini gardens throughout the region over the next two years in honor of the city’s 150th anniversary celebration.
“It wasn’t too hard to convince the club,” Marovich, who led the charge on the idea, said. “They were enamored by it like me.”
The grant, which was a joint effort with the Davis Sunrise
presence. A dedicated fundraiser, Comen manages the annual Big Day of Giving, generating 20 to 30 percent of the organization’s yearly donations.
“Rob may prefer to work quietly behind the scenes, but we are honored to sing his praises at this year’s Philanthropy Awards,” said Anastasia Panagakos, president of the Friends of the Yolo County Archives.
Don Palm
Don Palm has served on the Winters Education Foundation board for more than eight years. Retired from Sacramento City College, where he was dean of the Davis Center, Palm brings a background in higher education, strong writing and organizational skills, and a willingness to volunteer at events.
“He has served as our treasurer and liaison to the school district,” said Mary Jo
Rotary Club, contributed more than $2,000 to the project. With it, Marovich and a team of volunteers have begun planting 10-by-10 gardens, combining milkweed plants to feed caterpillars and a variety of shrubs, trees, and other flowering plants with staggered blooming seasons to provide year-round nectar for adult butterflies, as well as shelter from wind. The plants selected are also mainly drought-resistant perennials, keeping maintenance needs low. Although the gardens are small, Marovich says they can make a surprisingly big difference — one milkweed planting project near Lake Solano by local resource conservation districts documented more than 200 monarch caterpillars in the very first year of the project, providing food and homes to the delicate butterflies as their population grew.
“The milkweeds were munched to the ground,” Marovich recalled. “But when it’s one of your favorite butterflies that’s eating your garden, you’re not too upset.”
When Marovich was a child,
Rodolfa, WEF board member. “Don embodies all the characteristics of an outstanding volunteer.”
Palm has helped write grants benefiting Winters students, review and organize historical financial documents, and connect WEF with the Winters Joint Unified School District. Rodolfa said his dedication and analytical thinking have been invaluable as WEF grows its visibility in the community.
Vicki Tufts Jacobs
Vicki Tufts Jacobs has spent countless hours volunteering as president of the Winters Farm to School Board, working to strengthen connections between local growers and students.
“Vicki’s work is a testament to how one person’s dedication can transform both the school system and an entire community,” said trustee Emily McNamara. Cathy Olson, a
board member, added that Tufts Jacobs has been instrumental in guiding and growing the Garden Club program and ensuring students have access to farm-direct fruits, nuts, and vegetables — especially during winter months. “She is a wonderful role model for community involvement and inspires others to give back in meaningful ways,” Olson said.
Susan von Geldern
The Historical Society of Winters and the Winters Museum recognized Susan von Geldern for her dedicated volunteer work.
“Susan, you are an inspiration to all. You have made the Winters Museum a better place to visit,” said volunteer Liz Coman.
Nancy Button Young
Winters Participation Gallery for the Arts honored Nancy Button Young for her commitment to the
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Rich Marovich, Davis Sunrise Rotary Club member Frances McChesney, Rotary Club of Winters President Kelli Villanueva hold a grant check presented by Rotary International district 5160 governor Joy Alaidarous.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Rich Marovich brought a sampling of some of the flowers and plants being used in the waystations to a Rotary Club of Winters meeting.
Housing affordability inches up in third quarter
California Association of Realtors
to the Express
Cooling market competition and an increase in available housing helped moderate home prices and allowed more Californians to buy homes in the third quarter of 2025, the California Association of Realtors said Nov. 6.
Seventeen percent of the state’s homebuyers could afford to purchase a median-priced, existing single-family home in California in third-quarter 2025, up from 15 percent in the second quarter of 2025 and up from 16 percent in the third quarter of 2024, according to CAR’s Traditional Housing Affordability Index (HAI). Housing affordability in California stayed near its all-time low and continued to be a challenge for both buyers
and sellers. The third-quarter 2025 figure is less than a third of the affordability index peak of 56 percent in the third quarter of 2012. CAR’s HAI measures the percentage of all households that can afford to purchase a median-priced single-family home in California. CAR also reports affordability indices for regions and select counties within the state. The index is considered the most fundamental measure of housing well-being for home buyers in the state. The effective mortgage interest rate declined for the second consecutive quarter, nearly reversing the growth experienced over the last year. The average effective interest rate receded to 6.67 percent in third-quarter 2025 from the previous quarter (6.90 percent)
and slightly above a year ago (6.63 percent).
Mortgage rates had oscillated through the first half of the year amid tariff-induced uncertainty, but have reached the lowest level in a year, despite
a mild bounce back after the Federal Reserve’s October decision to cut its benchmark rate by 25 basis points to 3.75 percent from 4.00 percent. The Fed is prepared to cut rates further
in response to a cooling labor market, but elevated tariff rates will likely put upward pressure on inflation, which could prevent the U.S. central bank from easing its monetary policy too quickly. As such, while borrowing costs may remain lower in the short term, interest rates could fluctuate in the months ahead, creating a complex backdrop for wouldbe buyers when contemplating their home purchase timing or financing strategies.
The statewide median home price moderated in the third quarter of 2025 as market competition eased and housing supply improved, leading to slower price growth.
Although mortgage rates edged down during the quarter, borrowing costs remained near record highs. The monthly payment for a median-priced home, including taxes and insurance, fell 3.8 percent from the previous quarter but was still 1.3 percent higher than a year earlier, reflecting a slight yearover-year increase in the effective mortgage rate. A minimum annual income of $223,600 was needed to qualify for the purchase of a $887,380 statewide median-priced, existing single-family home in the third quarter of 2025. The monthly
See HOMES, Page 5
Express Yourself
Cars of the future are already here
My permanent tenant and I went to Tem-
pe, Arizona, to visit our granddaughter two weeks ago. It was called parents’ weekend at Arizona State University, so I’m not sure why we (grandparents) were there, but I go where I’m told.
I’ve been reading about airport delays and flight cancellations, so I was a little worried about flying while the government is shut down.
We breezed through Sacramento International Airport, and the flight was uneventful.
Tempe is only about five miles from Phoenix, and when we walked out of the airport, there was a line of cabs waiting for us.
$25 and 15 minutes later, we were at our hotel.
Times have changed since I went to college.
Jenna’s apartment looked more like a luxury hotel. There was a large weight room, an impressive pool, and the apartment had four bedrooms and four bathrooms.
The living room was small, but it had a nice kitchen with all of the appliances to make college life easy. It even had a washer and dryer. In my day, there would have been at
least eight of us living there; now everyone has their own room and bathroom.
The next day, we sat through a slide show and orientation for parents and future Arizona State students. After the presentation, I was sold on ASU as the best college in the United States. Did I mention that there are over 80,000 students enrolled at ASU When I attended Cal Poly, there were only 8,500 of us.
Jenna is a tour guide, so Sherri, myself, Laura and Rance, all booked a college tour during one of her shifts. There were maybe 10 parents and their children on the tour and Jenna led us around, pointing out different departments, sports facilities, multiple workout rooms and dining facilities. Did I mention that ASU is huge?
My average steps per day are just under 4,000. After walking around campus, a stroll around town, and back to her apartment for a free happy hour, I had logged over 20,000 steps. There would have been more, but we took the local electric train to lunch. The fare for
See QUICK, Page 7
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)
Insecurity may be sparking some hesitation, Aries. The key to coping is figuring out why you are feeling this way. Is it a trust issue or lack of recognition?
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)
Taurus, creative pursuits may hold your interest this week. Even if you lean more towards the practical, an artistic streak flows through you as well.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)
Working with others may prove challenging this week, Gemini. You may be too focused on a singular task. If this is the case, keep to yourself if you can.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)
The week’s planetary influences could increase your sensitivity to everything right now, Cancer. You might feel a little more sentimental or even weepy.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)
Leo, obsessive thinking may be something you need to consider this week. There’s a fine line between determination and obsession, so consider your fixations and how to fix them.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)
It can be easy to confuse impulsivity with spontaneity, Virgo. But one requires more thought than the other. Think through everything before acting if you want to play it safe.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)
It might be time to take a more measured approach to solving a difficult problem, Libra. If you’ve made several attempts with no success, it could be time to dig in.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)
Scorpio, tap into your creativity to unblock your emotions this week. This can be a powerful tool in your arsenal. Creativity is a big part of you.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)
You may get to focus on fun this week, Sagittarius. Look into your social calendar and seek ways to liven things up a little.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)
Everyone can use some time alone every once in a while, Capricorn. But it’s important to socialize as well. Look to Aquarius to help you find balance.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)
Certain situations require a little more focus than they otherwise might, Aquarius. Bear down and do your best to block out distractions.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)
Don’t pick yourself to pieces this week, Pisces. Criticizing yourself will get you nowhere. You have a lot to offer and others recognize the value of your input.
Letters
Enhancing security at schools
The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority. Following the recent incident involving an unauthorized visitor at Waggoner Elementary and an attempted entry at Rominger Intermediate, our staff responded quickly and appropriately, and we are grateful for their vigilance. Since the incident, the district has taken steps to strengthen campus security, including securing the Baker Street gate at Waggoner, installing cameras, and purchasing lock blocks for all classrooms districtwide. Principals met this week to review and refine visitor access procedures to ensure a
balance between safety and a welcoming school environment. In the coming months, the district will also conduct comprehensive training in the Standard Response Protocol to support consistent preparedness across all schools.
RODY BOONCHOUY,
ED.D. Superintendent, WinterS Joint unified School diStrict
Lousy infrastructure
It is absurd for Supervisor Lucas Frerichs to consider the road projects between Winters and Davis as accomplishments. These quick-fix projects were poorly executed, decreased public safety and are already deteriorating.
Letters Policy
The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. 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. Submit online at https://tinyurl.com/ syzevywd or visit wintersexpress.com.
West Russell and RD 31 drain poorly with rainfall accumulating near centerline, increasing hydroplaning hazards and lowering visibility. Pavement cracks (tomorrow’s potholes) occurred within months of completion and many steep shoulder drop-offs present hazards to cyclists.
The county also needlessly covered nearly new pavement in front of the Indian Health center. Thankfully, the Caltrans IG has agreed to investigate what the supervisor has seen at https://www.youtube. com/playlist?list=PLRvyx7myzXiyKe5k_19uTUOkA5xBeRHN9.
In Davis, his legacy is numerous faded crosswalks and road markings (Anderson, West Covell — away from affluent areas) that needed attention when he
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NOTICE OF LIEN SALE
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was mayor. See the ground truth at https://youtu.be/ w37nwKynxPE. There is plenty of accomplishments he can point to — infrastructure is not one of them. The same low-bidder and zero quality control means one thing: poor stewardship of scare tax dollars. Yolo County should do its citizens a favor and outsource future projects to Solano County. There, both leaders and engineers focus on excellence and safety, not lipstick on a pig.
MARK WILSON WinterS
Support the WMS Turkey Trot
The annual Winters Middle School Turkey Trot is just around the corner, and we’re asking for the community’s help to make it a fun and successful event for our students.
We’re collecting prizes to reward our runners and walkers — please consider donating one or more items from our list. Donations can be dropped off at the WMS main office by Wednesday, Nov. 19. We’re also looking for 30 volunteers to help route participants along the course and to toss color on the runners during the event. Volunteer hours are from 1:30 to 3 p.m. If you’re able to volunteer, please email me at jbermudez@wintersjusd. org. To view the donation list or to sign up for items, visit https://bit.ly/ 2025wmsturkey.
Thank you for supporting our students and helping keep this fun school tradition going strong.
JOSE BERMUDEZ WinterS Middle School principal
Jesse Salinas County Clerk/Recorder State of California County of Yolo OCTOBER 29, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19, 2025 #84802
NOTICE OF LIEN SALE
Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716 Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code Section 535 the undersigned StorQuest Express Self Storage/Ramco St of West Sacramento will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Jason Washington Joseph Almarez, Treasure Floyd, Ilya Bliznyuk Mary Stanley Sara Pack Mirasol Flores Jennifer Hubbard Property to be sold: Misc Items Auctioneer Company: www storagetreasures com The Sale will end at 10:00 AM, November 20th, 2025 Goods must be paid in CASH at site and removed at completion of sale Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party 3005 Ramco St West Sacramento CA 95691 (916)241-8600 11/5, 11/12/25 CNS-3981354# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #84953
Express Yourself
Volunteers needed for inclusive soccer program
This past Sunday, I spoke with Winters High School senior Gavin Pisani, who is organizing volunteers for the first year of the EPIC soccer program here in Winters for his Senior Capstone Project.
The EPIC program (Everyone Plays In our Community) is organized by Winters AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization), and helps to provide athletes ages 4 and up to adults who have disabilities additional support to participate and learn soccer. This is the first time ever that Winters has hosted the EPIC program here, as other towns like Davis, Concord, etc, have been hosting it prior.
“We just finished our third week of practice, and the purpose of us doing all this every week is so that the players are able to build up familiarity. Since there’s many of these players who don’t want to be pushed outside their comfort zone, it allows them to get used to it, and be more open to learning,” Pisani explained.
“The buddies are the people who help assist them and help try to cater to their needs so that they’re able to learn the sport in a comfortable way that is tailored to what they really need in comparison to what a standard system would be.”
Gavin Pisani, Buddy recruiter
During practices, which run on Sundays from 2 to 3 p.m., athletes learn the fundamentals of soccer, like basic footwork, passing, striking, and much more, but in an adapted soccer experience.
“What we try to do as a program is to teach them and to hope that we get them comfortable enough to try and do a scrimmage match with the other players on the team. It’s all
about the pacing. We don’t want to introduce a new topic without them being familiar and comfortable with everything that’s happened prior. It’s a very gradual thing, nothing is forced,” Pisani said.
Each player is paired up with a Buddy, volunteers who help the players learn the sport and make sure that they are welcome and comfortable in the program.
“The issue we’ve been facing is actually getting individuals to be a part of the program,” Pisani said. “Ideally, we want every player to have one or two buddies. The buddies are the people who help assist them and help try to
MONARCH
Continued from Page 1
he said he remembers raising monarc caterpillars, and checking every hour to see if they had shed their cocoons and become butterflies. It was one of his first science projects. A few decades and a degree in plant science and nursery management later, the butterfly enthusiast is happy to be able to use his talents in growing and propagating plants to give back to the species and help them flourish in California.
“Rotary has seven areas of focus, and the environment is just one of them,” Marovich said.
HOMES
Continued from Page 2
payment, including taxes and insurance (PITI) on a 30-year, fixed-rate loan, would be $5,590, assuming a 20 percent down payment and an effective composite interest rate of 6.67 percent.
The statewide median price of existing single-family homes in California fell 2.0 percent in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the previous quarter, reflecting a cooling in market competition. However, on a year-over-year basis, home prices rebounded — rising 0.8
“There are many avenues of community support [that] give people a chance to use their individual talents and make the world a better place. Plant propagation is what I know, so it’s very fulfilling for me to be able to use my talents in that way.”
And Marovich wants to empower the community to use what they have to make a change, too — there are a myriad of ways to get involved with the waystation project, from hosting a waystation in your garden, to helping install gardens, learning how to propagate native plants, and more.
“Someone had to count the 200 caterpillars at
percent after posting the first decline in eight quarters earlier this year — as easing mortgage rates encouraged more buyers to return to the market. With the market transitioning into the off-season, home prices are expected to moderate further as seasonal factors kick in. If lower mortgage rates materialize in the months ahead and economic uncertainties subside, housing affordability could see some slight improvement in the next couple of quarters. More California households (27 percent) could afford a typical condo/town-
Fishing Access 1,” Marovich pointed out.
This kind of community support, Marovich says, is the key to success for environmental change. His proof? The return of chinook salmon to Putah Creek several years ago, after decades without the native species.
“I was the first streamkeeper of Putah Creek, and we didn’t have salmon,” Marovich said. “Now we do. And with that, we weren’t just healing a creek, we were healing a community. As a community, everything begins as an idea and we will make that to become a reality. If we will the monarchs to come back and act upon that, I think they will.”
home in third-quarter 2025, rising from 25 percent both in second-quarter 2025 and in third-quarter 2024. An annual income of $163,600 was required to make the monthly payment of $4,090 on the $649,990 median-priced condo/ townhome in the third quarter of 2025. Compared with California, more than one-third (36 percent) of the nation’s households could afford to purchase a $426,800 median-priced home, which required a minimum annual income of $107,600 to make monthly payments of $2,690. Nationwide, affordability edged
AWARDS
cater to their needs so that they’re able to learn the sport in a comfortable way that is tailored to what they really need in comparison to what a standard system would be.”
After high school, Pisani looks to go to
Buddy volunteers team up with players in the Winters AYSO EPIC program to help them build soccer skills and confidence. Each player is paired with at least two buddies to create lasting connections and keep things consistent if one can’t make a session.
Continued from Page 1
organization’s mission. A valued board member, Young volunteers for events, manages gallery activities, and contributes her artwork to fundraisers. She has also designed notecards featuring murals sponsored by the gallery and has been a major donor on the Big Day of Giving.
“She expresses creative ideas and lends us her artistry,” said Liz Coman, WPG chair. “Through her time, talent, and generosity, Nancy has helped ensure our organization continues to grow as a vital part of the community.”
Carol McMaster Stone
For 20 years, Carol McMas-
up from 35 percent in both the second quarter of 2025 and a year ago.
Local affordability trends: Yolo and Solano Counties
Home affordability in Yolo and Solano counties held relatively steady in the third quarter of 2025, reflecting statewide trends of modest price adjustments and slightly improved borrowing conditions. According to the CAR Traditional Housing Affordability Index, 25 percent of Yolo County households could afford to purchase a median-priced, single-fam-
a community college, then transfer to Sacramento State. He is currently unsure about his major.
If you want to be a buddy and help the EPIC program, buddies can register and complete a volunteer application form (any buddies under 18 must be registered as a youth volunteer by their parents). Anyone ages 14 and up can volunteer by contacting wintersepicsoccer@gmail.com or by going to wintersayso.org. The fall season will run until Nov. 30, with a Spring season starting in late February/March.
—Hawk Selleck is a senior at Winters High School. He’s a sports enthusiast and participates in the school band, and many other things on campus. He enjoys music, baseball, and track and field.
ter Stone has been at the heart of Winters Youth Day, coordinating vendors, activities, maps, and permits behind the scenes.
“Her dedication has made a lasting impact. Thanks to her commitment, Youth Day continues as a joyful celebration of youth and community spirit,” said board member Crystal Apilado.
McMasters Stone stepped up as the Winters Youth Day president following the death of longtime chair Mike Sebastian. Apilado said she jumped in feet first and led the team through the challenges, as well as welcoming innovative changes to the processes to make things run more seamlessly.
For more information, visit yolocf.org.
ily home during the third quarter—up from 22 percent in the previous quarter and slightly higher than 24 percent a year earlier. The median home price in Yolo County was $620,000, with an estimated monthly payment of $3,900 including taxes and insurance. A minimum annual income of $156,000 was needed to qualify for such a purchase. In neighboring Solano County, affordability edged down slightly to 26 percent in the third quarter, compared with 27 percent in the second quarter and unchanged from 26 percent a year ago.
The median-priced home in Solano County was $606,000, carrying an estimated monthly payment of $3,820. Buyers needed an annual household income of at least $152,800 to qualify. While both counties remain more affordable than many parts of California, affordability levels continue to underscore the challenge of homeownership across much of the state. Even with easing mortgage rates and increased housing availability, high home prices and elevated borrowing costs continue to put pressure on household budgets.
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Winters High School senior Gavin Pisani is taking the lead to recruit volunteers to serve as Buddies in the Winters AYSO’s inagural season of EPIC (Everyone Plays In our Community). the EPIC program provides an adaptive soccer experience for people ages 4 through adults who have disabilities.
Sports
Warriors win back-to-back SVL titles with victory over Pierce
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Friday, Nov. 7, the Winters High School varsity football team won its second straight Sacramento Valley League (SVL) Championship, defeating the previously undefeated Pierce High School by a final score of 38–10.
The victory capped off another dominant league season for the Warriors, who now hold back-to-back titles and the top seed in the NSCIF Division IV Playoffs.
“It was pretty special to see our kids save their best game for the biggest game. We’re never the biggest, strongest, or fastest team, but we play with so much heart and passion that we are fun to watch,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward.
Pierce came out ready to play, knowing that they were undefeated, known for their physical style of play, often controlling the line of scrimmage and tempo of the game. The War-
riors reminded the Pierce Bears early on in the game that they were, in fact, the team to beat, taking a huge 24–3 halftime lead and forcing the Bears out of their usual game plan.
“Pierce had only given up 17 or more points once all year, so for us to do that in the first quarter was huge. We forced them to play our game instead of the other way around,” said Ward.
Senior quarterback Lane Brown was unstoppable, posting career highs with 25 carries for 206 yards.
“Lane is special. We needed every one of those yards. He’s grown so much this year and has become a nightmare for opposing teams,” said Ward
Nate Apodaca also had a game-changing night on offense, adding 11 carries for 66 yards, serving as both a reliable rusher and a key blocking back, while EJ Cruz continued to shine as a double threat with 78 total yards and both a rushing and receiving touchdown.
Luke Felsen also earned 28 receiving yards, adding to
the 379 total yards the Warriors earned on the field.
While the Warriors had an amazing game offensively, it was their defense once again that set the tone.
“We’ve ridden our defense all year, and Friday was no different. Our defensive line controlled the line of scrimmage, and our linebackers were all over the field,” said Ward.
Jayden Blackburn led the Warriors with 14 tackles and four tackles for loss, while Anthony Matamoros Mayes recorded 8 tackles and a sack. Ricky Garcia and Apodaca combined for
14 tackles, four tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles, keeping the previously high-powered Pierce offense in check.
Anthony Garcia, Aidan Baylor and Jake Woods also made a huge impact on the defensive side of the ball with a combined 19 tackles and a fumble recovery for Woods.
With the SVL Championship secured, the Winters High School varsity football team, now 9–1, turns its attention to the postseason playoffs. The Warriors will host Williams High School in the opening round of the
NSCIF Division IV Playoffs this Friday, Nov. 14, at 7 p.m. at Dr. Sellers Football Field.
Ward expressed deep gratitude for the community’s continued support.
“We had so many people make the trip to Pierce to support us, it almost felt like a home game. To celebrate the league championship with our family and friends was pretty special. We’ll have home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, and we’re hoping the community continues to show up and cheer us on,” said Ward.
Winters cheer squad takes third place after score correction
By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer
On Saturday, Nov. 8, the Winters High School Cheer squad took to the road bright and early to compete in its second competition ever.
It was an early morning and a long day of anticipation for the WHS cheer team at the Roseville JAMZ competition on Saturday. The athletes were up before sunrise, meeting at 5:30 a.m. for team hair and makeup. Their routine was strong, clean, and full of spirit, but when
Main Street, Suite C • Winters, CA
team rankings were announced later that afternoon, the team was left stunned to hear they’d placed fifth out of seven.
“We were shocked! The routine felt solid, and something just didn’t add up,” said coach Sterling Davis.
After returning
home, the coaching staff reviewed the detailed scores and quickly noticed a potential error. Determined to ensure the results reflected the team’s true performance, coaches Rachael Calvery and Makayla Branco made the hour-long drive back to Roseville to contest the results.
Luckily, their persistence paid off. Judges confirmed there had been a major input error, and once corrected, WHS’s true placement was revealed as third place in the division.
“It was such a mix of emotions…disappointment, confusion, and then total relief and pride. These athletes earned that placement with their hard work, energy, and teamwork,” said Davis.
The WHS cheer squad delivered an amazing performance on the mat and the members’ hard work, heart and determination truly paid off.
In addition to their outstanding accomplishment at JAMZ, the squad continues to set the tone every Friday night. Their sideline cheering and halftime show keep the crowd engaged and energized no matter what the score is. They boost morale and ignite the crowd, making the stands come alive. The girls put in hours of work each and every week to ensure that their sideline chants, stunts and halftime performances are top-notch and are a huge part of why Friday night is so special.
Courtesy photo
Winters cheer coaches Makayla Branco, Sterling Davis and Rachael Calvery hold up the third-place sign following their contestation of the results.
The Winters varsity football team celebrates its second straight Sacramento Valley League championship after defeating previously unbeaten Pierce.
KS Winters Photography/ Courtesy photo
Arts & Entertainment
Yolo Bird Alliance offers November birding events
Special to the Express
The Yolo Bird Alliance is inviting the public to enjoy two November events celebrating birds, science and community — a field trip to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area on Nov. 16 and a public lecture exploring how birds survived one of Earth’s greatest extinction events on Nov. 19.
The nonprofit organization, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, is dedicated to fostering appreciation of birds and conservation in Yolo County. More information about both events is available at yolobirdalliance.org or facebook.com/YoloBirdAlliance.
Sunday,
Nov. 16 – “The Big Sit!” at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area
The Yolo Bird Alliance, Yolo Basin Foundation and Birdwatching Club at UC Davis will co-host a relaxed day of birding at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area. Instead of racing across miles of territory, participants in a Big Sit! stay in one spot and record as many species as possible from a single location.
The event will take place at Parking Lot C, in the heart of prime marsh habitat—ideal for spotting geese, ducks, rails, sparrows, herons and shorebirds. The Big Sit! begins at 8 a.m. and concludes at 1 p.m.
This family-friendly event is free, accessible and open to everyone—no prior birding experience is needed. Visitors may come and go throughout the morning. Binoculars and spotting scopes will be available to borrow, and representatives from each organization will be on hand to discuss local birds, wetlands and conservation.
Portable restrooms will be available nearby. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, scopes and curiosity. The rest of the auto tour loop will remain open for exploration; please stay in designated public areas and avoid blocking roadways, as hunting season may increase traffic.
In case of heavy rain or flooding closures, visit the Yolo Bird Alliance website or Facebook page for updates, or contact Zane Pickus at yolobirdalliance@
gmail.com.
Wednesday, Nov. 19 –
Lecture: “Birds Through the End – Cretaceous Mass Extinction”
Sixty-six million years ago, an asteroid struck Earth and wiped out more than 75 percent of all life. Remarkably, birds were among the few dinosaurs
to survive. In this presentation, Dr. Christopher Torres will explore how birds endured the mass extinction and evolved into today’s most diverse group of terrestrial vertebrates.
Torres will share the latest research on why birds alone among dinosaurs survived, why modern bird lineages vary so dramatically in diversity, and what their
Winters Holiday Home Tour supports seniors
Special to the Express
The magic of the holidays comes to life in Winters this month with the first-ever Winters Holiday Home Tour, presented by the Winters Collective and benefiting Meals on Wheels Yolo County.
Guests are invited to experience the warmth and wonder of the season by touring some of Winters’ most beautifully decorated homes. Each stop will feature unique holiday décor, creative inspiration, and a welcoming festive spirit — offering a joyful way to kick off the holidays while giving back to an important local cause.
The tour runs on Friday, Nov. 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“This event is truly about community — neighbors opening their doors, sharing their creativity, and coming together to support something bigger than ourselves,” said Meika Ogando, owner of Winters Collective. “The Holiday Home Tour celebrates the beauty and generosity that make Winters such a special place, and every ticket helps ensure that local seniors continue to receive the care and connection they deserve through Meals on Wheels Yolo.”
seniors was 50 cents for 45 minutes.
Our grandson, Brett, who wants to attend ASU next year, flew in the next day to see the campus and attend the ASU–Houston football game. You would have thought you were at a pro football game. The stadium holds over 53,000 people and it was packed. Unfortunately, the game didn’t go well for the Sun Devils.
While I was there, I gave the great Winters athlete, Joe Young, a call. He played at ASU and stayed in the area. He was mostly a fifthgrade teacher, served in the Air National Guard, and built a nice life for himself and his family. Both of his girls went to ASU He was in the WHS class of 1963 and looks like he could suit up and play if they called his number. We had a few
This time of year can be especially challenging for MOW Yolo as they work to meet the needs of all the seniors who rely on their meals and friendly visits. About 125 seniors in Winters count on these deliveries, and with a growing waitlist across the county, every ticket purchased for the Holiday Home Tour helps ensure that local seniors continue to receive the meals and support they need to live safely and independently at home.
“In the midst of diminished governmental funding and current uncertainties with food assistance programs, MOW Yolo's waitlist for meals now is approaching 220 seniors, as we struggle fiscally to continue to nourish all 1,200 older adults — including more than 100 in Winters — whom we serve presently," said Joy Cohan, MOW Yolo executive director. “MOW Yolo has been rooted in community since its inception 50 years ago, and the generosity of the Winters Holiday Home Tour organizers to pair a festival seasonal event with the pressing need to support senior food security is so appreciated. Additionally, we're grateful to the homeowners hosting tours for their unique contributions to MOW Yolo's mission at a tender time
beers, and he showed me around town, pointing out where he had lived when he went to school, back in the day. He told me that there were only 15,000 students when he got there. Sherri had visited Jenna before, so she knew the routine to get back to the airport. She told me we were taking a Waymo. I had seen these self-driving cars all over Tempe. It is a little disconcerting to see a car go by with no one behind the wheel. She used her phone to order the Waymo. We waited the 6 minutes until it showed up in front of the hotel to pick us up and Sherri pointed out the SW on the rooftop sign so we knew it was our ride. She pushed a button on her phone to unlock the doors and not knowing how to open the trunk, I put our luggage in one of the back seats. I got into the front passenger
of year.”
Tickets are on sale now at winterscollective.com. Proceeds directly benefit MOW Yolo, which delivers nutritious meals and vital social connections to seniors across the county.
The Winters Collective, a locally owned mercantile shop in the heart of downtown, celebrates the creativity of local artisans and makers with a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, home décor, and handcrafted goods.
Organizations that are interested in sponsoring the event should contact Ogando at meika@winterscollective.com.
Since the 1970s, MOW Yolo has provided freshly prepared, ready-to-eat meals to older adults who can no longer shop or cook for themselves. By 2028, the organization aims to serve up to 1,800 food-insecure seniors — nearly 500 percent growth since 2022. Community events and partnerships like this one help make that vision possible.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this inaugural celebration of community, creativity, and compassion. Tickets are limited — get yours today and help spread the holiday spirit throughout Winters and beyond.
seat and watched as the electric Jaguar told us what to expect and off we went. It never sped, going exactly the speed limit, stayed off the freeway and even merged into traffic at the airport before dropping us off at our gate. It was a little strange sitting there watching the steering wheel turn, blinkers go on and as we waited for the stoplight to turn
green, I wondered if it could see the car across the street with its left blinker on. Sure enough, it turned in front of the other turning car without a problem.
I’m not a very good backseat driver and I realized that Waymo is a much better driver than a lot of my friends. Also, no conversation with the driver and no tipping. Have a good week.
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evolutionary history can teach us about resilience and extinction in the modern world.
The lecture will take place during the Yolo Bird Alliance’s monthly meeting at the Davis Senior Center, 646 A St., Davis, from 7 to 8:50 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.
In-person attendees are invited to stay for informal mingling after the Q&A. Online attendance is also available via Zoom; register at yolobirdalliance.org/ events.
About the speaker
Dr. Christopher Torres is an avian paleontologist and evolutionary morphologist whose work focuses on extinction and survivorship dynamics, the evolution of beak function, and evolutionary “losses,” such as the loss of flight or sensory systems. His research covers early pre-modern birds, ratites and their flying relatives, rails and flamingos—his personal favorites. Torres is an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of the Pacific.
Seuss-tacular fun awaits on DMTC stage
Special to the Express Davis Musical Theatre Company Young Performers’ Theatre is excited to present a musical beloved by children, “Seussical Jr.,” opening Saturday, Nov. 15, and playing through Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Jean Henderson Performing Arts Center, 607 Pena Dr., No. 10, Davis.
The Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos and his friend Jojo from a world of naysayers and dangers, while also protecting an egg that’s been left in his care by the carefree Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community are challenged and emerge triumphant.
This exciting cast features Amelia Teramoto as the Cat in the Hat, Lila Reinhart as Jojo, Alex Richmond as Horton the Elephant, Natalie Cao as Gertrude McFuzz, Harper Kidd as Mayzie LaBird, Emma Nason as Sour Kangaroo, Sylvia Eskildsen as Young Kangaroo, Sebastian Muench as Mr. Mayor and Aubrey Padilla as Mrs. Mayor. Montana Monce is the musical director and Megan Richmond is the choreographer of this fantastic production.
“Seussical Jr.” plays on Saturdays at 2 p.m. on Nov. 15, 22, 29, and Dec. 6. There is a Friday show on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. and a Sunday show at 2 p.m. on Dec. 7. All performances are at the Jean Henderson Performing Arts Center, 607 Pena Drive in Davis.
Tickets are $10 for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online at dmtc.org or by calling 530-756-3682 (there is a $2 facility fee per ticket).
Courtesy photo
A Cretaceous Period bird called Vegavis iaai dives for fish in the shallow ocean off the coast of the Antarctic peninsula in an illustration by paleontologist, author and artist Mark Witton.
Bored Lord @ 10pm f8, 1192 Folsom St, San Francisco
DaniLeigh @ 10pm Temple SF, 540 Howard St, San Francisco
Stand Up Comedy Show @ 8pm / $28 Stand Up Comedy Show in Cameron Park Friday, November 21st, 2025 8pm. Tickets $28. Serving $5 beer and wine all night. The Stage at Burke Junc‐tion, 3300 Coach Lane, Cameron Park. stageat burke@gmail.com
Nancy Lee - Live Comedy @ 9:30pm / $29 Nov 21st - Nov 22nd Nancy Lee has toured the country with her comedy entertaining a wide spectrum of folks from Los Angeles to Little Rock, AR! Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacra‐mento. laughsunlimited@ gmail.com, 916-446-8128
Tsunami.wav: John Mackk with Tsunami @ Origin SF (18+) @ 10pm Origin, 1538 Fillmore St, San Fran‐cisco
Winters Holiday Home Tour @ 11am / $35 Step inside Winters’ most beautifully decorated homes, �lled with festive décor and holiday inspira‐tion, while supporting a great cause—Meals on Wheels Yolo County. A perfect seasonal kickoff! Winters
Saturday at the Patio @ 4pm Join Cloud Forest Cafe on the patio this fall on Saturdays for live music! Cloud Forest Cafe, 222 D Street, Davis
EVERYBODY, an Immersive Dramatic Comedy Presented by Solano College Theatre @ 7:30pm / $10-$24
Discovering that their end is nigh, the character Everybody frantically seeks answers to life's big ques‐tions! November 7-23, 2025 Tick‐ets: www.solanocollegethe‐atre.org Solano College Theatre, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fair�eld. SCT@solano.edu, 707-864-7100
Tom Dudzick’s Greetings! @ 7:30pm / $18-$20 Tom Dudzick’s Greetings! is a heartwarming holiday story about a young man who brings his athe‐istic Jewish �ancé home to meet his conservative Catholic family for the �rst time on Christmas Eve. Winters Opera House home of the Winters Theatre Company, 13 Main Street, Winters. 530-795-4014
Grooblen/ Milk For The Angry/ Rainbow City Park/ Brendon B @ 8pm Neck of the Woods, San Francisco
Grooblen @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco
Jon B. @ 9pm Blue Note Napa, Napa
Rane @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco
Drago @ 9pm Temple SF, 540 Howard St, San Francisco
Alex Noize @ 9pm Temple SF, 540 Howard St, San Francisco
Motenko and Ghost Coach @ 7:30pm The Lost Church San Francisco, 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco
Savannah Pope @ 7:30pm Crest Theater, 1013 K Street, Sacramento
EVERY‐BODY, an Immersive Dramatic
Comedy Presented by Solano College Theatre @ 2pm / $10-$24
Discovering that their end is nigh, the character Everybody frantically seeks answers to life's big questions! November 723, 2025 Tickets: www.solanocollegethe‐atre.org Solano College Theatre, 4000 Suisun Val‐ley Road, Fair�eld. SCT@ solano.edu, 707-864-7100
The CheeseBergens @ 5:30pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco
Jon B. @ 6:30pm Blue Note Napa, Napa
Sparkle Plenty @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco
Sindustry Sundays w/ Jeff Straw + SKNIBLK @ 9pm Butter, 354 11th St, San Francisco
Strength & Balance Class
@ 10:15am New �tness class for adults at the Woodland Community & Senior Center: Strength & Balance Wood‐land Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�t ness68@gmail.com
FREE Strength & Fitness Class @ 1:15pm Free Strength & Fitness class at the Davis Lutheran Church Davis Lutheran Church ELCA, 317 East 8th Street, Davis. tina�tness68@ gmail.com
Children's Kung Fu Classes at the Davis Arts Center @ 3:15pm Tina Fitness is now offering chil‐dren's Kung Fu classes at the Davis Arts Center! Davis Arts Cen‐ter, 1919 F Street, Davis. duanke jie68@gmail.com
The Saloon - Peter Lindman Duo with Roger Rocha (4 Non Blondes)
@ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco
Salsa Dance Classes - Be‐ginning and Intermediate Salsa Dance Lessons with Salsa Bachata Dance Party @ 6:30pm / $30 Learn to Salsa Dance plus an AWESOME Salsa Bachata Dance Party. We’re Back, THIS Monday! https://salsamon‐days.eventbrite.com Join us for SalsaCrazy Mondays - where you can learn to Salsa dance Neck of the Woods, 406 Clement Street, San Francisco. info@dancesf.com, 877-398-7025
underscores @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
FEMTANYL @ 7pm Ace Of Spades, 1417 R St, Sacra‐mento
Ray Vaughn @ 7pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission St, San Francisco
Danny Brown @ 8pm Ace of Spades, 1417 R Street, Sacramento
Ray Vaughn @ 8pm Brick & Mortar Music Hall, 1710 Mission Street, San Francisco
Thursday Nov 27th
Solano Turkey Trot 2025 @ 8am / $15-$40 Solano Community College, 4000 Suisun Valley Rd, Fair�eld Join Our 10K, 5K, & Fun Run — Trot for Thanks! Solano Turkey Trot bene�ts Meals on Wheels & The Suisun City Kroc Center. 10K/5k/Kids Fun Run near you! Thanksgiving challenge: Solano Turkey Trot. 10K/5K/Kids' Fun
3Quency @ 8pm The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Blvd, San Francisco
3Quency with Soulidi�edBandemonium Tour 2025 @ 8pm The Fillmore, San Francisco
SOULidi�ed @ 8pm The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Blvd, San Francisco
Hannah Mayree @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Children's Gymnastics Classes @ 2pm
Two types of gymnastics classes for children offered Wednesdays at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. du ankejie68@gmail.com
The Towns (Oakland): The Towns @ Make Out Room (SF) @ 7pm Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St, San Francisco
Lance Woods @ 7:30pm Punch Line Comedy Club - Sacra‐mento, Sacramento Business School @ 8pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco Garden Groove tribute: Crawdads on the Lake! @ 9pm Crawdads
Winters. 530-7954014 CA hurricane Relief For Sweet Jamaica @ 8pm Neck of the Woods, San Francisco Aaron Burnham & the Brush�res @ 8:30pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Paula Frazer and Tarnation @ 8:30pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Bar Fight
@ 8:30pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco
Scotty Fox @ 9pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco
Mario Hodge - Live Comedy
@ 9:30pm / $29 Nov 28th - Nov 29th
Mario Hodge was born & raised in Oakland, CA. He is the youngest of 4 siblings and he was inspired to be a comedian as a child by watching sitcoms like Sanford & Son, The Richard Pryor show Laughs Unlimited Comedy Club and Lounge, 1207 Front Street, Sacramento. laughsunlimited@ gmail.com, 916-446-8128
Spectacular "Peter Pan" Panto Returns to the Presidio Theatre for the Holidays @ 1pm / $16.50 Brimming with high-energy com‐edy, send-ups of pop music, physi‐cal humor, one-line zingers, dance and over-the-top costumes, "Peter Pan" is a fast-paced reminder to reawaken magic and wonder in us all. Presidio Theatre Performing Arts, 99 Moraga Avenue, San Fran‐cisco. bluescott260@hotmail.com
