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The legacy, spirit of Winters Youth Day
Express staff
It began with a parade — and a vision.
On April 29, 1933, under the hopeful guidance of Rever end Charles Pruden Barkman and the Winters Service Club, the town of Winters celebrat ed its first-ever Youth Day event. With help from Winters High School Principal Allen Murray Herron, this local ob servance of National Youth Week — originally launched by the Rotary Club of New York City in 1920 — became more than a calendar event. It became a heartfelt investment in the town’s greatest asset — its youth.
That spring morning, a parade wound its way through the heart of downtown, laughter and cheers mingling with brass-band melodies. A community picnic unfolded in the shade of local trees, and student-elected officials took symbolic control of city
government, embodying roles like mayor, judge, city marshal, and fire chief. They weren’t just playing make-believe — they were learning what it meant to lead.
And so began Winters Youth Day — a living tradition that has endured war, weather, apathy, and even a global pandemic, all the while reaffirming the importance of youth voice, leadership and community spirit.
A growing legacy
From its earliest years, Youth Day was more than just fun — it was dynamic civic education. In 1936, Barkman detailed new events like hobby exhibitions, talent shows, and pet parades. Children built model airplanes, Scouts camped under starlit skies, and local youth entertained crowds with music and magic. Each year, the celebration expanded, shaped by a patchwork of school projects, student elections and adult mentorship.
Though World War II paused festivities from 1942 to 1945, Winters revived Youth Day in 1946 with renewed vigor. By 1947, a Sweetheart — chosen by peers — joined the Youth Mayor in publicizing the event on local radio stations, symbolizing both honor and charm. Horse shows, trail classes and Western boot races galloped into the program by the 1950s.
As it evolved, so did its reach. Neighboring com-
munities joined in. In 1960, students were tasked with planning the day under the watchful guidance of a school counselor — a pivotal shift that empowered young people not only to participate but to lead.
Shifting times, steady purpose
By the 1980s, interest at the high school waned, and in 1983, the Winters Chamber of Commerce stepped in to manage operations. But the format remained intact — still youth-driven, still anchored in citizenship. The addition of a weekend carnival added fresh energy and vital funding.
In 1986, the 50th anniversary parade introduced honorary marshals, setting a tone of reverence for legacy. The early 2000s welcomed new honors: Educator of the Year in 2000, and the first “Sweethunk” joining the royal court in 2003. Students continued electing youth city
leaders and hosting community-wide celebrations, balancing tradition with progress.
But even the strongest traditions are not immune to disruption. When COVID-19 swept through the world, Youth Day was cancelled in both 2020 and 2021 — the first cancellations since WWII.
But even in stillness, the spirit of the day lived on. Scholarships were awarded, a family movie night and duck hunt replaced grand gatherings and the Sweetheart Court continued its quiet reign.
Resilience in revival
In 2022, after a two-year hiatus, Youth Day returned. The Duck Derby launched the weekend, and students, though fewer in number and slower to reengage, rallied with resilience. In 2024, a newly introduced Youth Civic Engagement Day reignited the core mission. Youth City Council members met
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
City Attorney Serena Husted and Mayor Eden Miller ask questions at the April 17 Youth City Council meeting.
Courtesy photo
Mike Sebastian championed to keep Youth Day going decades. He served as the parade chairman and announcer for 45 years.
Courtesy graphic
with real city staff, witnessed public works, fire and police demonstrations, and envisioned the roles they might one day fill.
Then, in 2025, a bold new step was taken and Winters Joint Unified School District held its first Youth Board of Trustees meeting. As a new sister program alongside the Youth City Council meeting, students gave public comments on real-world issues affecting their schools and community.
At every Winters school, ballots were cast to elect the Educator and Youth of the Year — turning tradition into tangible civic action.
That same year, the celebration’s footprint expanded — from the City Park to Rotary Park and the stage behind the Community Center. New games and contests joined the roster, and students helped to shape element — from crafting award plaques in shop class to orchestrating activities in the park.
Editor’s note
Each April, Winters Youth Day arrives like a joyful promise — one that has carried through generations, from its beginnings in 1933 to today. In it’s 87th year, this cherished celebration has evolved with the times, adapting to the changing rhythms of our community. Yet at its heart, Youth Day has always been a day of joy, of gathering, and most importantly, of honoring the vibrant spirit of our youth.
This year marks a turning point. The Youth Day committee chose to boldly reimagine what this day could be — not just for the community, but for our youth. From a new festival location in the park to fresh activities and collaborations, the focus is clear — to bring youth back into the center of the celebration, not only as participants, but as planners, leaders and visionaries.
Youth Day is for everyone
Duck Derby event
Winters Youth Day is an open invitation for our youth to lead, to learn and to belong. It’s also an opportunity to adults to tap into their inner child for a day and to be playful and have fun with their fellow community members and friends.
Today, as Winters prepares for its Youth Day celebration, one truth rings louder than the bands in the parade — this day, like the youth it uplifts, is ever-growing, ever-evolving and essential for our youth and our future.
As this year’s youth engagement coordinator, I had the privilege of walking alongside our middle and high school students, city staff, and school partners. Together, we deepened our commitment to youth civic engagement — not just to give our young people a voice, but to listen to it and to amplify it. It reminded me that Youth Day isn’t just for the young — it’s for all of us. It’s a day to remember how to play. So come with an open heart. Celebrate the future we’re building together. Volunteer, if you can. Most of all, be sure to have fun.
Life is too short not to feel it fully. Winters Youth Day is a reminder to live it — joyfully, together. — Crystal Apilado, Editor-in-Chief
2025 Youth Day Events Schedule
The 11th Annual Duck Derby is being rescheduled to Saturday, June 7. Ducks hit the water at Noon. More details to follow. Adopt a Duck (as available racers last) at https://bit.ly/ Ducks2025.
Friday, April 25
Youth Day Opening Ceremonies
• 5 p.m. Talent Showcase sign up opens to the first 10 participants.
• 6 p.m. Ceremony at the outdoor amphitheater stage behind Winters Community Center
• Grand marshal and Honorary grand marshal, Youth of the Year, Educator of the Year honorees
• Talent Showcase (6:30 p.m.)
Saturday, April 27
Rotary Pancake Breakfast
• 7 to 9:30 a.m. at Winters Community Center
• 9 a.m. Community Center parking lot closes to public in designated areas.
Michael Bazan Jimenez & Noah
Lichwa Memorial Fun Run
• 8 to 10 a.m. at 5 E. Abbey St. (Abbey and Railroad Street)
Kiddie Parade
• 8:45 a.m. Kiddie Parade Registration on Fourth Street.
• 9:45 a.m. Kiddie Parade starts down Main Street
Main Parade
• 10 a.m. This year’s parade route starts at Fourth and Main Street. It will go down Main Street, and turn left at First Street. The route ends at Edwards Street.
Kiddie Faire
• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rotary Park near Gazebo. Games and activities extend down to outdoor stage behiind the community center.
Youth Day Festival
• Activities, food and vendors 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rotary Park
Dunk Tank Mayhem
• 12 to 3 p.m., Dunk Tank Mayhem is a fundraising event featuring local leaders. Proceeds benefit the Youth Day scholarship fund. The Dunk Tank lineup includes: Superintendent Rody Boonchoy, Police Chief John Miller, Fire Chief Jack Snyder, Express Editor-in-Chief Crystal Apilado, Principal Jose Bermudez and Mayor Albert Vallecillo.
Stage Schedule I
• 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
• Diaper Derby
• Simon Says Freeze Dance
• Crepe Paper Fashion Show
• Talent Show
Express file photo
The 1960 Youth Day committee invited Gov. Edmond “Pat” Brown (front) to attend Youth Day. From left: Sweetheart Lynn Gaddini Kauffman, General chair Rob Young, Mayor John Martinez and Parade chair Mike Ireland.
2025 Youth Board of Trustees
Paige Gerard and Abbey Carrion Public input speakers
Photos by Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
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Leo Lanfranco Director of Technology Services
Antonio Romero Director of Facilities and Maintenance
Cyrus Laughter Assistant Superintendent of Business Services
Galilea Ramos Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services
Meadow Davis Director of Nutrition Services
Athziry Lopez Director of Human Resources
Middle school students dive into civic engagement
Express staff
The Winters Youth Day Board hosted the inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unified School District on Thursday, March 6.
Following the revival of the Youth City Council last year, the Youth Day board collaborated with Winters JUSD staff, Winters Middle School Principal Jose Bermudez and WMS leadership teacher Madeline Castro to transform the concept of a Youth Board of Trustees into a reality.
While select WMS leadership class students participated in the engagement day, the entire class put work into the event. Together, leadership students brainstormed topics and issues at school and across the school districts they wanted to have addressed on the meeting agenda. They also shared ideas about what values, community icons and visions they had for the youth board of trustee’s logo.
Three potential logos were created based on ideas of agriculture, schools and a water tower. The leadership students voted via a ballot for their top two logo designs, and the winning logo features a tractor and water tower.
The inaugural Youth Board of Trustees includes:
• Trustees Sophia Valeriano, Carmella Wroten and Gracie Zaragoza
• Superintendent Madelynn Kendrick
• Director of technology services Leo Lanfranco
• Director of facilities and maintenance Antonio Romero
• Assistant superintendent of business services Cyrus Laughter
• Assistant superintendent
of educational services Galilea Ramos
• Director of nutrition services Meadow Davis
• Director of human resources Athziry Lopez
• Public input speakers Abbey Carrion and Paige Gerard.
Coordinated by Winters Express editor-in-Chief Crystal Apilado — who serves as the youth engagement coordinator and a member-at-large on the Youth Day board — students met with their real-life Winters JUSD counterparts to learn how the district operates, the impact of the various leadership roles and how to navigate proposed agenda items.
Apilado also led a mini-lesson on crafting effective public input statements, focusing on how students can make meaningful calls to action by addressing specific topics rather than making general remarks.
“A big part of this event is making sure students feel empowered to speak out and advocate for themselves and their peers — especially when they feel issues are being overlooked by adults,” Apilado said. “Several adults told students afterward that their public input gave them a new perspective.”
Topics, discussions
The youth trustees took on two agenda items from the list generated by WMS leadership students.
Antonio Romero, director of facilities and maintenance, and Cyrus Laughter, assistant superintendent of business services, presented a plan to identify and fix drainage issues at different school sites, specifically at Waggoner Elementary School.
Galilea Ramos, assistant
superintendent of educational services, presented an agenda topic on school culture regarding concerns about unkind behaviors, racial slurs, and fighting happenings, especially at WMS. Ramos suggested that youth trustees approve staff to utilize a national plan that addresses school culture and behavior.
Under the guidance from Russ Barrington, Winters JUSD assistant superintendent of business services, the students were able to identify funds in the school district budget to address both issues. The youth trustees unanimously approved both agenda items.
Multiple students made public input statements on the agenda items and the non-agenda items.
Sixth-grader Paige Gerard courageously addressed issues of bullying and unkind behavior at WMS.
Eighth-grader Abbey Carrion raised a concern about the disparity in maintenance and funding between the boys’ baseball diamonds and the girls’ softball fields.
As part of her report, Superintendent Madelynn Kendrick announced the list of candidates for the 2025 Youth Day Educator of the Year and shared that ballots would go out to students at Waggoner, Shirley Rominger Intermediate School, WMS, Winters High School and the Wolfskill Career Readiness Academy so students could vote on the Educator of the Year and the Youth of the Year.
Impact of experience
Some of the participating students shared insight from the experience with the Express.
Many of them said the civic engagement day helped them learn more about how the school district runs, as well as helped give them confidence and experience in public speaking. They also learned more about how things are decided like how school menus are put together and how pipes are relined when maintenance fixes need to be made.
“Adults and the community should know that we
should do this event more and that they should come,” Gerard said. “It helped me learn how to speak in public better and about the importance of the lunches being balanced.”
“It made an impact on me because before it, I never thought about the problems schools may be acing untill I was chosen for the youth board of trustees,” said Romero. “The difference it has made is that it shows me some of the problems bring worked on throughout the school district. It also taught me how to speak in front of a little crowd of people which is a start for my public speaking experience.”
Other students said it gave them a newfound respect for the work that school district staff and trustees do for them. They not only gained leadership skills, but could see themselves participating again now that they have a better understanding of the process.
“I learned how to be more of a leader after seeing the
The Youth Board of Trustees took part in the inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unifed School District to learn about the inner workings of the school district and to run a youth school board meeting.
Express file photo
Winters Youth Day history — year by year
Express staff
The history of Winters Youth Day as compiled by students in the late 60s and provided to the Express by parade officials. The summaries for Winters Youth Day between 1968–1990 and 2011–2018 were compiled by Mike Sebastian. Express staff have served as historians since and have made updates to past summaries based on new information found in archived Express articles collected by Tom Crisp in the two-park Winters Youth Day scrapbooks produced by the Historical Society of Winters.
1933
Back in 1933, Rev. C. P. Barkman, local Presbyterian pastor, and Dr. A. M. Herron, high school principal had a consultation. They discussed a lot of ideas and held some conferences. The observance of the first Youth Day began on April 29, 1933. These professionals believed that youth should have some training for future civic, business and social obligations. They also had heard the adage about all work and no play, etc. The two founders incorporated support for a parade, competitive games, a bountiful picnic luncheon and general sociability along with a citizenship program to accomplish their aims. They enlisted business and social organizations’ help.
1934
Modes of conveyance were used in various
forms, with the horse and buggy much in evidence. There were single and double rigs, horseback riders, buggies, and surreys in the trappings of the Gay ’90s; baby buggies of yesterdays and toy wagons. The parade was said to be a half-mile long. Union District School took first prize. Doctor Ira. B. Cross, head of economics at the University of California, was speaker, and Anack Carando was mayor. Councilmen were Bill Sale, William “Bill” Duncan, Burt Scribner, Philip Ritchie and Roger Riesbeck; clerk was Millicent Burge; treasurer was Martha Fenn; and judge was Vernon Hannon.
1935
Fifty entries took part in the parade and for the first time neighboring towns entered floats. Bill Duncan was mayor and Judge Grant Burton gave a speech on citizenship and America. During the youth council meeting, students debated on the merits and demerits of the state highway plan. Rainy weather put a damper on the outdoor activities, and indoor entertainment included a magician and a folk-dancing by the girls in the gymnasium.
1936
Governor Frank Merriam was the guest speaker on the Possibilities of Youth. The governor remained for the night show. Ed-
die Baker was mayor. Council men were Philip Ritchie, Eugene Ireland, Myrtle Little, Oscar Holmes, Richard Guthrie, and William Braker. Other youth dignitaries included Clerk Mae Holmes, Treasurer Margaret Ann Hemenway, Judge Joseph Dwight Griffin, Marshal Walter Spurlin, Engineer HAmpton Richey, Night Watchman Arthur Ish and Fire Chief Ruth Leggett. Some of the new activities added on included a “Hobby Show and Achievement Exhibition” where students displayed work they have done.
1937
Lt. Governor Hatfield was the speaker, and the mayor was Herman Meyer. Councilmen were: Goodwin Horigan, Alicia Conard, Willie Guthrie, Douglas Fenley, Jack McKenzie and Herbert Connor Jr.; clerk was Barbara Gwartney; treasurer was Elda Button; and judge was Rene Rossi.
1938
It rained that year, but a thousand people attended. Rev. Barkman had departed to another field of labor, and Dr. A. M. Herron took over the general chairmanship. For the first time, guest mayors were chosen from other schools. They were among the guests on the platform at the citizenship hour. Oscar Holmes was acting mayor and Dr. T. W. McQuarrie, head of San Jose Teachers’ Col-
lege, was the speaker, Councilmen were: Mildred Thomson, Laura Gale, Bettymae Niemann, Violet Siranian, Jack Muro and Wayne Sharp; Jean Wehrman was clerk; Wayne Clark, judge; Jean Griffin, treasurer. Elwin Martin was chairman of the evening show.
1939
A new attraction and one in which many were interested was the model airplane contest, directed by W. R. Pugh. Jack Mermod was mayor and Judge John Pullen gave a fine speech about Youth in the Changing World. Councilmen were: Robert Gale, Edgar Yarberry, Alfonso Carrion and Boyd Hall; clerk, Bert Coman; Henry Gutierrez, treasurer; and Harry Fredericks, judge.
1940
Administering civic affairs for the day were Don Clark, George Pede, Claire Peterson, Dorothy Martin, Alfonso Carrion, Bert Coman and Elmer Scott. A new feature was the SCAL track meet that drew many spectators in the afternoon. Edgar Yarberry was the mayor for the day.
1941
A record crowd of 2,500 was present. The last pre-war observance was the 1941 Youth Day. An attractive evening show was given by the Northern California WPA Negro Chorus, presented by Elmer Keeton. Ted Mermod was elected
as Youth Day mayor, but because he had the mumps, his good friend, Charley Graf, stood in for him that day.
1946
A monster parade and program full of events marked the first observance in five years. Henry Church was mayor. Officials were Albert Koolhoff, Donald Rominger, Marilyn Vasey, Kenneth Farnsworth, Marian Cecil, Bob Gardner and John Griffin. Henry Votaw, the representative sent by Governor Earl Warren, gave a brief message.
1947
The crowd was estimated at between 5,000 and 6,000 people. Lloyd Islip was mayor and Marlene Hague was sweetheart. A big part of their duties were to promote the Youth Day event on the radio by interviewing with local radio stations. The Boy Scout Camporee also officially became a the launch of the Youth Day festivities the Friday before. The evening program was a variety show by the high school, aided by Dixon, Davis, Vacaville and Esparto talent.
1948
The streets were jammed with people as the three-mile parade came down Main Street. Tom Lewis was the mayor, with Jean Adams selected as sweetheart. Tom Washabaugh was judge. City councilmen were Joe Mayes, Alfred Graf, Larry Warren and
Doyle Pinkston. Other officials were Tom Potter, clerk; Henry Kato, city engineer; and Bob Gardner, treasurer.
1949
Herman Ramos was Youth Day mayor; Anna Reiff was judge and Bob Draper, city clerk. Officials were Pat Biasi, Wanda Henley, Jean Ramos, Jim Snodgrass, Keith Farnsworth, Manuel Ramos, L. Welch, L. Warren, Eugene Gale and M. Clark. For the first time since 1936, Winters was honored by having the governor of California, Earl Warren, for Youth Day. Aerial bombs, two of them, heralded the start of the day. Five thousand people attended.
1950
Juliann Burket, Youth Day sweetheart, and Larry Warren, Youth Day mayor were the dignitaries for the day. Newton Wallace was general chairman. Peter Knoles spoke; he was vice president of Sacramento Junior College. Governor Warren was the honored guest, and the parade was an estimated four miles long. About 7,000 people attended Youth Day, and 2,500 were at the night show. The date for Youth Day that year was April 28.
1951
The general chairman was Bob Johnson and Jean Frank was secretary. The mayor was Doyle Pinkston.
TRUSTEES
Continued from Page 8
board leading the district. Also, how their system works and how they run,” said Meadow Davis, who served as the director of nutrition services. “I feel more important, like we made more of an impact to our school district and our comunity. This event made me feel motivated to make more of a differnce.”
“I learned just how difficult it could be to run a school district. I am very glad that these people are doing it for us,” Ramos said. “I had alot of fun and it does make me feel empowered. I want to lift some weight from others shoulders.”
When asked what
Youth Superintendent Madelynn Kendrick listens as Superintendent Rody Boonchouy makes a public input statement to the youth trustees.
they liked about the experience, youth trustee Carmella Wroten said she liked how everyone had an opportunity to say something and were all included in the meeting in some way. Leo Lanfranco, director of technology services, said he liked learning how complex it is to run a school. Carrion said she liked that all of the topics discussed at the meeting were ones that the leadership class had brainstormed ahead of time.
The people at Berryessa Sporting Goods are getting ready to help you have a great Youth Day. “We have everything you need to entertain family and friends,” said John Lorenzo. “If you’re going fishing or hunting, we have everything you’ll need, from bait to clothing. We have a large selection of liquor, wine and beer, all reasonably priced, with weekly specials on your favorite brands,” John added.
L-R: Rafael Guardad, Angela Otton, Carol Thompson, Anna Cruz, and of course, Johnny Lorenzo.
David Bosse, 3dollarpictures.com/Courtesy photo
1952
from Page 9
Sam Fernandez was judge. Patsy Conner was clerk, Elsie Griffin was treasurer. Roger Deas, research secretary to Governor Earl Warren, was the speaker at the citizenship program. The Youth Day sweetheart was Rosemarie McKenzie. There was a baseball game and the parade route was changed to keep Railroad Avenue open for highway traffic.
Angie Biasi was unanimously chosen as sweetheart in 1952. Mike Ireland won the Youth Day slogan contest with “Today’s Youth.” John Carba-
hal was chosen mayor. Dorothy Watterson was city clerk; Ira Day, city treasurer; and the city councilmen were Pat Rohenkohl, Jim Kozen, George Burket and John Brinck. The attendants were Lona Cody, Anita Ramos, Edwin Potter, Nelda Burket. The kiddie parade tradition was started this year. Robert R. Gros, manager of the advertising and publicity of Pacific Gas and Electric Company, was the speaker at the citizenship program. This was the sixth year that Tony Koester of KFBK broadcast the citizenship program.
1953
The mayor was John Mayhew and the sweetheart was Sharon Goetze. The general chair-
man was Lloyd Adams. Max Baer, former world heavyweight champion, was the master of ceremonies at the evening program. The University of California at Berkeley’s 65-piece band gave a concert on the high school grounds after the citizenship program. They were directed by James Berdall.
1954
The population of Winters was 1,300 and 3,000 people attended the night show. Carl Ramos was chosen mayor. Carmen Cuberos was Youth Day sweetheart. Joe Verducci, director of athletics at San Francisco State, was the speaker at the citizenship program. Patsy Speeder, champion
See HISTORY, Page 15
L-R: Asmar Rueal, Johnny Lorenzo, Sue Maldonado, Melissa Lopez, Julieta, Gutierrez, and then Maria Cervantes.
Smith makes big-hearted impact to inspire new generation
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Along the charming stretch of Main Street, Winters kids have always gathered curbside for one of the town’s most heartwarming traditions: the Youth Day Parade. It’s a kaleidoscope of color, laughter, and smalltown pride where the grand marshal isn’t a celebrity, but someone even more meaningful — someone local, someone familiar, someone who has shaped their childhood in real and lasting ways.
This year, that someone is Danielle Smith.
Smith, a Winters native and Winters High School
Class of 2009 alumnae, doesn’t just know the spirit of Youth Day — she lives it. Named the 2025 Grand Mar-
shal by the Youth Day board, Smith’s selection feels like the most natural of homecomings. For her, it’s more than an honor — it’s a dream come true.
“When I learned that I had been chosen as the Grand Marshal of Youth Day, I became emotional because
this honor is not one I take lightly,” Smith said. “I have been passionate about kids and education since I was first offered a leadership position at Waggoner Elementary in 1999 as a third-grader on the school site council. My love for community engagement began in this town and it has filtered into every career path I have ever taken.”
Smith’s résumé of community service reads like a blueprint for how to pour love into your hometown. From coaching youth soccer as a high school student to substitute teaching at Waggoner Elementary today, she has remained deeply rooted in service. Over the years, she’s worn many hats including AYSO coach, WHS women’s soccer assistant coach, working parent volunteer,
nursery school board member, and Winters Combined PTA President. In just the past seven years alone, she has coached over 10 youth sports teams.
Her efforts extend beyond the sidelines and into the very heart of school policy and student support. Smith serves on the Local Control and Accountability Joint Advisory Committee, the District Bond Oversight Committee, and was an original member of the Spirit of Winters committee, where her advocacy for youth and bilingual education remains unwavering.
“It’s easy to pour hours into something you truly believe in, and I believe in the power of our Winters youth,” Smith said.
One of Smith’s most notable accomplishments is
reviving the Winters Combined PTA after it was nearly dissolved to the post-COVID lull.
“When my daughter started Transitional Kindergarten, the PTA was dissolving. I was not going to let that happen,” Smith said. “I took on the president position and built a team. We went from no active roles to a 16-member board, and together we’ve poured over $25,000 and hundreds of volunteer hours into our schools, staff and students.”
For Smith, this success isn’t about individual credit — it’s about the collective action of a group of like-minded people.
“The success of the PTA is hands down a team effort and an excellent example of what can happen when you gather people from all
Courtesy photo
Danielle Smith will be waving from the Winters Combined PTA float in the 2025 Youth Day parade..
social, cultural, academic and life experience backgrounds who share a common connection in the love for our youth and the opportunities presented through their education,” Smith said.
Smith said her volunteer work is more than service — it’s a calling.
“One adult in a child’s life who advocates, listens and makes life exciting, can change lives and in return can change entire generational cycles. I don’t take my volunteerism lightly and it is something I feel I was meant to do in my soul and down to my bones,” Smith said. “The real joy and incentive to make genuine connections with our youth is
in the magnetic energy they are already exuding and meeting them where they are at.”
Her most cherished moments aren’t accolades or accomplishments but rather moments of connection — those intangible sparks between a mentor and a child, or a parent and a community that’s rising together.
“I feel strongly that in order for our youth to have the best upbringing — they need to be nurtured fully by their community, and watching and working to ensure that happens and seeing the incredible opportunities and moments of connection we can give them through school and through sports are core mem-
ories and lessons they will keep with them for a lifetime,” Smith said.
As Smith waves from her place of honor in the 2025 Youth Day Parade, she will be waving not just to the children lining the sidewalks — but to her younger self, to the town that raised her and to the future she is still shaping.
“I’m deeply honored and humbled to receive this award,” Smith said. “I hope my story encourages you to find something you’re passionate about, that you would do for your community. We all have strengths and you are meant to make a difference — find your niche and fill your soul — you might make a lasting impact.”
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Continued from Page 11
baton twirler, was chosen as the main attraction at the night show.
1955
Pearl Martin was chosen sweetheart. The theme was “Count Your Blessings,” entered by Linda Owings. The mayor was Ray Johnson. The master of ceremonies at the night show was Jack Burton. Some 2,200 people turned out for the program.
1956
The theme was “Storyland.” The sweetheart was Ann Martin, and the mayor was Dale Corbett. The judge was Jean Schroeder, clerk was Bob Kozen, treasurer was Daphine Constant. The master of
ceremonies of the night show as Eddie Bartell. A hobby show was held in the high school library. An estimated 8,500 people attended Youth Day, one of whom was Rev. Barkman, Youth Day founder.
1957
The Mayor was Jim Hyer and the Sweetheart was Isabel Rojo. The attendants were Gloria Molina, Janet Martin, Alice Guerard and Lynn Gaddini. The theme was “Youth is Golden.” Some 5,000 people attended the festivities. Don Frisbee was general chairman. There were 10 bands in the parade. Fran O’Brien was emcee for the night show.
1958
William E. Duncan. Russell Arms was the grand marshal for the parade. There were an estimated 5,000 people who participated in the Youth Day activities. Knox Kirkland announced a magnificent horse show. Linda Owings was the sweetheart, and David Sparks the mayor.
1959
Ian MacKenzie was the general chairman. James West was elected mayor. In the parade, which was dampened by showers, the Youth Day officials rode in a horseless carriage furnished by the Sacramento Horseless Carriage Club. Sweetheart Janet Martin was accompanied by her four lovely attendants,
See HISTORY, Page 16 HISTORY
The general chairman for this year was
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Elaine Martin, Darla Guthrie, Charlene Rice and Betty Ann Carrion. Some 4,500 people participated in the day’s events.
1960
The Winters youth were placed in charge of Youth Day this year, under the guidance of Miles Wemp, high school counselor. The Chamber of Commerce no longer ran Youth Day, but continued to contribute financially to the enterprise. The first youth to have the honor of general chairman bestowed on him was Robert Young. The Youth Day mayor was John Martinez and the sweetheart was Lynn Gaddini, along with Anna Manas, Pat Allsip, Judy Allsip and Roulou Reeves as sweetheart attendants. The council invited Governor Edmund G. Brown to attend the festivities, but unfortunately, he was unable to do so.
1961
The Youth Day General Chairman was Gene Ramos. The Mayor was George Duncan and Juanita Estepa was chosen sweetheart, along with Joanne Martinez, Geraldine Martin, Janet Watterson, and Carol Perkins, attendants. Winters had a parade that consisted of nine divisions. Dr. A. M. Herron, youth founder, was chosen to be the Grand Marshal.
1962
General Chairman was Steve Meyer. The
Mayor, Jim Thomas, chose Joe Young, Douglas Baldridge, Byron Randolph, and Leland Jeffery as his councilmen. The sweetheart, Betty Carrion, was accompanied by Dannie Greenwood, Barbara Holmes, Geraldine Diaz, and Janet Watterson. The youth chose “Tomorrow’s Future Through Today’s Youth” as the Youth Day theme.
1963
Bob Chapman was chosen to be Mayor and alongside him stood Geraldine Martin as sweetheart. Robert Harris was the General Chairman for this year. The three councilmen chosen were Wilson Wallace, Dick Graf and Don Schroeder. Some 6,000 persons were on hand at the day’s activities.
1964
Don Schroeder was the General Chairman. Don Dote represented Winters High School as Youth Day Mayor, with Barbara Holmes as sweetheart. Her attendants were Joan Chapman, Diana Storz, Linda White, and Beverly Diaz. Winters was proud to have Congressman Robert Leggett attend Youth Day. Dr. Max Rafferty, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, was also present.
1965
David Wemp was General Chairman this year. Tommy Ramos was chosen Mayor. Gaylene Ichtertz was chosen sweetheart and her attendants were Nancy Button, Carol Gomez,
Ann Buck-master, and Dannie Greenwood.
1966
Joe Martinez was General Chairman. Mayor Floyd Shimomura escorted Sweetheart Deanne Gomez. Deanne’s attendants were Karen Humphrey, Lorraine Rominger, Kim Greenwood, and Rosanne Turkovich.
1967
General Chairman was Peter Hunter. Rudy Rodriguez was Mayor, and on his council were Bill Young, Jim Fredericks, and Stan Clark. Claudette Maxim reigned as sweetheart, and beside her were Kathy Roberts, Virginia Roberts, Lola Ramos, and Susan Shimomura, attendants. The parade was improved with 120 entries, which made for a unique parade size. A Greased Pig Contest was added to our list of events.
1968
General Chairman
Joe Ramos and Parade Chairman Tony Turkovich saw that the day ran smoothly. Stan Kato was elected Mayor, with Joyce Warren as Sweetheart. City Council members included Beverly Atherton, Ray Clark, David Storz, Linda Martinez and John Hart. The First Youth Day Kiddie Show took place for talented kids 13 and under. An estimated 7,000 people enjoyed the events this year.
1969
Charley Wallace was elected Mayor, with Candy Trafican as Sweetheart. City Coun-
cil members for the day were Robert Kayton, John Martin, Eva Adams, Ernie Frost. New events scheduled were a skydiving exhibition and a street dance. 7,500 People were in Winters for the festivities, according to General Chairman Bill Martin and Parade Chairman Howard Kato.
1970
Mayor Archie Humphrey presided over Youth Day with his council Pat Taylor, David Carrion, Bill Harrington, Gloria Lopez Andrea Kammerer and Rhonda Williams. Other officers included Ken Galloway, Judge: JoAnn Pitts, Treasurer and Larry Fisher, Clerk. The 1970 Sweetheart was Patty Hoskins. Her court included Gail Holabird, Sheila McGuire, Margie McGuire, and Veronica Roybal.
1971
Ellen Kammerer reigned as Youth Day Sweetheart with her court of Susan Reimers, Pam Lopez, Dana Duncan and Bernice Ramos. Richard Soto served as Mayor and Stan Tufts was General Chairman. Events added to the schedule included a watermelon eating contest. A large crowd of 7,000 attended this year.
1972
Randy Washabaugh was elected Youth Day Mayor. Selected as his council was John Carbahal, Ricky Baker, Danny Martinez, Cecilia Aguiar and Patty Rominger. Mr. and Mrs. Elwin Martin were cho-
sen as Grand Marshals for the Parade which 7,000 people watched. Debbie Gomez was crowned as Sweetheart.
1973
Joe Zaragoza took the place of City Mayor Losoya for the day. The Sweetheart was Sheila Pinkston, with her attendants Linda Keith, Glenda Estes, Ilda Garcia and Cheryl Lorenzo. General Chairman Michael Smyth estimated crowds at over 7,000.
1974
Retired Winters Ag Teacher Lindsay Jewett led the Youth Day Parade as Grand Marshal. Joe Rominger served as General Chairman with Rene Mayes as his assistant. Ralph Rosas was elected Mayor, and Pilar Jimenez was Sweetheart. Her attendants included Glenda Tucker, Kathy Martin, Margie Shugart and Cindy Izzo.
1975
Tim Snow was elected Mayor, with his council Mike Biasi, Jesse Lizarraga, Paula Ramos, Ed Carbahal and Cyndi Garcia. The 1975 Sweetheart was Connie Javier. Her attendants included Diana Rubio, Rosie Rojas, Jennifer Franke and Stephanie Smyth. New events scheduled were a Live band and two baseball games. Jack Vasey, WHS Class of 1908, and his sister Mary Walters, WHS Class of 1907, rode as Grand Marshals of the Parade, of which 6,500 people watched.
1976
Darla Humphrey was
crowned Sweetheart, with her court Patti Biasi, Kathy Graf, Sandy Wolever and Litza Thanos. Randy Jordan took top honors as Mayor. His Council included Tim Geerts, Andrew Skaggs, Lynn Brickey, Manuela Collado and Nancy Thomas. Manuela Collado also served as General Chairman, with Bill Cody her assistant. A crowd of over 7,000 was estimated for the day.
1977
Tim Geerts was elected Youth Day Mayor and Debbie Rojo was chosen Sweetheart. City Councilmen for the day were Clay Walker, Kelly Figy, Sarj Singh, David Snow, Keely Graf, Jeff Ingles, Ramon Lopez, Fred Turkovich, Diane Sawyer and Dan Rominger. Sweetheart attendants included Susan Martin, Lisa Ramos, Jody Graf, and Sherry Donaldson. Longtime Winters auto dealer E.J. Graf served as Parade Grand Marshal. Word was also received that the first Youth Day Mayor Bill Poppe had passed away.
1978
Bob Pisani took charge as General Chairman with Keri Graf his assistant. Levada Russell was the chosen Sweetheart with Melicia Ramos, Jennifer Muller, Wendy Gale and Keri Graf as attendants. The 1978 Youth Day Mayor was Andrew Skaggs. His council included Grace Rosas, Shannon Martinez, Jack McDowell
See HISTORY, Page 18
Donlevy works to better lives of youth worldwide
By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent
John W. Donlevy, Jr is many things. A Winters resident for 25 years and its city manager for 19 years. He’s done volunteering, coaching and refereeing. He’s a friend, a neighbor and a parent.
This year, he can add to that storied list the title of 2025 Honorary grand marshal of the Youth Day Parade.
As detailed in his nomination for the honor, Donlevy supported and instituted several youth related efforts in the city including overseeing the creation of city parks, as well as putting in time with the community, promoting, organizing and refereeing youth soccer and helping organize an after-school child care program.
Donlevy expressed his gratitude for the honor of being named Honorarygrand marshal.
“Being the Honorary grand marshal for the Youth Day Parade is one of the greatest titles I could ever gain in Winters. Youth Day is the iconic tradition of our community and it represents the core of what makes Winters the best town for families, children and friends,” Donlevy said.
Indeed, the entirety of Donlevy’s words were overflowing with his love for Winters and for all those who helped him attain this honor and accomplish his many volunteer-
ing projects in the city and beyond. It’s these people and the spirit of community they create that he credits for this title and for his volunteering work.
First and foremost amongst his credits is his wife.
“This recognition is really a reflection of the efforts of both me and my wife Kathy. We are a team on all of this,” Donlevy said. “I like to compare us to Ozzy and Sharon Osborne. I am the front man but she is the brains and motivation behind much of what I do.”
Donlevy was sure to credit the organizations and individuals who he felt had helped foster this community spirit in Winters and who helped his volunteering efforts.
“I appreciate the honor and recognition, but the reality is that I am simply a representative of the many people I have worked with over the years,” Donlevy said. “From AYSO,
spread the community spirit of helpfulness and uplifting youth internationally.
Rotary, the schools I am simply a representative of all the people I have collaborated with over the years.”
Donlevy also expressed his honor to accept this title this year in celebration of his friend Mike Sebastian, who Donlevy noted worked with Kathy on the Youth Day board for over 10 years.
Donlevy explained a number of his key projects over the years.
He spent 16 years on the soccer board, 10 years on the youth day board, with him also listing, “schools, FFA, high school sports, Rotary, the library, swim team, project playground and with practically every other group in town.”
“In Winters, I am still active with Winters AYSO as a referee and collaborate with Winters Rotary on projects benefiting young people throughout the world.”
Outside of Winters, Donlevy has sought to
Donlevy has worked a number of projects in Baja California, Mexico, including helping to organize a summer camp for more than 6,000 orphans, developing infrastructure plans aimed at expanding utilities in the region, and supporting efforts to provide medical services for children, including dental and vision clinics, cleft lip and palate clinics and prosthetics.
Another major project of Donlevy’s is working with an organization supporting HIV Positive single mothers and their children in Kenya.
“I work to provide income generating activities and micro financing for the women. For the children, we support Next Gen, a program teaching vocational training in welding and wood skills which helps build a sustainable future for them. I advocate for the Education of Girls in Kenya, keeping them in schools and against young marriage and female genital mutilation,” Donlevy said.
Donlevy also assisted the Rotary Club of Winters in developing the Katavi Youth Center, a school for girls in Western Tanzania.
“The school is specifically for girls and has led to programs to build female entrepreneurs,” Donlevy said.
Donlevy expounded
on the effect working on these international projects has had on him, including giving him greater appreciation for the experiences of those in need, including youth and women.
“As we work on the border and Northern Baja, we see the eyes of children who could be just like any kid in Winters,” Donlevy said. “I see the receptiveness to love and care these children seek and it makes you want to help them more than you can ever imagine.”
Though he has been around the world, Donlevy’s heart is always right here in Winters, a place he takes with him everywhere he goes.
“Our inspiration in serving young people is rooted in our commitment to Winters,” Donlevy said. “Our community’s priority is young people and their success literally became our life. In many ways, serving young people became our life mission because it benefitted the Winters community.”
Donlevy said, “as we raised our kids, we were active in the town and began serving youth throughout the world, we have always carried the love and community commitment we have learned and practiced in Winters.”
One part of this sharing of Winters is Donlevy’s tradition of giving Winters soccer balls to kids around the world.
“I take Winters AYSO soccer everywhere, literally giving hundreds of soccer balls which all say ‘Winters’ on them. I tell everyone I meet I am from ‘Winters’ and invite them to visit (and some do),” Donlevy said.
Over the years, Donlevy has come to see and appreciate what giving back to the youth and community of Winters has done.
“We have lived in Winters for 25 years and have seen young people we worked with grow and mature into thriving adults. We see doctors, lawyers, electricians and teachers who were once on the soccer field or in Kathy’s Girl Scout troop who are now thriving and making a difference. We constantly see the positive impacts supporting and encouraging youth can make and it is inspiring,” Donlevy said. Watching the young people he has helped in the city grow and succeed, Donlevy says he “couldn’t be prouder of them and it fills my heart seeing them as our future leaders.”
Donlevy requested to dedicate this title to his friend Alfredo Rodriguez, who died seven years ago, and who helped him with a number of his youth-related efforts in the city.
Donlevy said that Rodriguez “had the most amazing impact on young people. Probably one of the finest people I have ever known.”
Courtesy photo
John Donlevy brings soccer balls with “Winters” scrawled on them to children around the world, inviting them to visit one day.
and David Lane. High School Athletic Director John Kammerer rode as Parade Grand Marshal.
1979
Keri Graf was a very busy person. She was elected Sweetheart as well as running Youth Day as General Chairman. Sam Biasi Jr. served as Mayor. Corinne Martinez was Assistant General Chairman, in preparation for next year’s chairmanship.
1980
Mayor Mark Webster and Sweetheart Helen Hemenway took top honors this year. General Chairman Corinne Martinez was assisted
by Andra Sawyer.
1981
Andra Sawyer served as General Chairman with Michael Delbar her assistant. Matt Brickey was elected Mayor and Jennifer Muller was crowned Sweetheart. A special show, “This is your Life” was done for longtime Winters Music Teacher Lloyd Adams. The 1st annual Lloyd Adams Music Award was introduced and was given to Outstanding Senior Musician Michael Sebastian.
1982
Sweetheart Carol Baylor reigned over Youth Day. Richard Warren was elected Youth Day Mayor. Michael Delbar served as General Chairman, with Patty Thomas as
his Assistant.
1983 Due to Dwindling interest at Winters High School, Youth Day was taken over this year by the Winters Chamber of Commerce. The whole format will stay the same, with the Chamber handling the organizational part of Youth Day. Chamber President Mel Norman served as Adult General Chairman, and Patty Thomas was student assistant. Youth Day was extended to a three-day event to accommodate a Carnival. The Carnival is a big financial booster for Youth Day. Ralph Gonzales was Mayor and Cara Hill was the Sweetheart. Doctors Corbin and Ernie Young were chosen
2025 Youth City Council
Vickrey
Hawk Selleck Council member Aydarri Seth City Manager
Fernanda Blanco Delgado Fire Chief
Jackson Bronson Public Works Director
Serena Husted City Attorney
Guadalupe Pedraza Mejia Police Chief
Eden Miller Mayor
Valentine Soriano City Clerk
Courtesy graphic
Photos by Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
as Parade Grand Marshals, but sadly Corbin was killed in a plane crash the week after being selected. Ernie still rode as Grand Marshal, with a moment of silence being held for Corbin.
1984
Gilbert Sebastian was chosen as adult General Chairman with Tecy Philbrook the Student Assistant. Mayor John Campos and Sweetheart Charmaine Capps reigned over the festivities. Marion and Julia West rode as Parade Grand Marshals, with over 140 entries following behind. The largest parade in years was chaired by adult Mike Sebastian and student Kristen Smith.
1985
Brian Duncan was elected Mayor, making him a third-generation Youth Day Mayor. His father George was Mayor in 1961, and his grandfather Bill Duncan was Mayor in 1935. The Sweetheart was. Eva Leal.
1986
Due to the cancellation of Youth Day during the World War II years, the community celebrated its 50th Anniversary. Gilbert Sebastian served as General Chairman once again with his assistants Denise Ehnat and Michelle Delbar. Elected as Mayor was Richard Nitzkowski. Sweetheart was Isabel Campos. Parade Grand Marshals were Marge Singleton and Mary Lee
Pokrywka, daughters of Youth Day Co-founder Dr. A.M. Herron. Due to the special nature of the 50th Anniversary, there were honorary Grand Marshals as well.
1987
Tom Martin took charge as General Chairman with his student assistant Wendy Pierce. Enrique Jimenez was elected Youth Day Mayor and Lidia Rodriguez was Sweetheart. Retired Winters Fire Chief Vernon C. Bruhn was Parade Grand Marshal. A Bike Race was added to the list of events.
1988
Winters Youth Day saw its first female Youth Day Mayor. Julia Reid was elected to the city’s top post for the day. Jenny Ramos was crowned Sweetheart. David Faustino from television’s Married... With Children, and his brother Michael (Touchstone Pictures’ Monster Squad) were the featured guests at the Parade and the Opening Ceremonies.
1989
Virginia Rosas takes top honors this year as Mayor. The Sweetheart the Carolyn Garcia. Tom Martin was General Chairman and Carnival Chairman with Gloria Marion as his assistant, taking charge of all other events except the Parade. The Parade Chairmen were Mike Sebastian and Jim Marion. Retired Winters School Bus Driver Dorothy Becker rode as Grand Marshal.
1990
Citing their many years of involvement with youth and sports, the Youth Day council selected Rudy and Linda Rodriguez to be co-marshals for the parade. Members of the City Park Playground Committee were chosen to ride in the parade as honorary grand marshals. General Chairman of Youth Day was Jim Marion, and Mike Sebastian, parade chairman. Annette Connelly served as mayor and Heidi Erickson reigned as Sweetheart. Four dignitaries from Winters sister city, Almogia, Spain, (Mike Ruiz, Angel Rubio, Cristobal Torre Blanca and Manuel Garrido) were guests of the city on Youth Day weekend.
1991
Youth Day opened officially Friday, following a rally for returning troops from Desert Storm, organized by Duane Barb and held at Rotary Park. The Sweetheart was Rita Guzman and Jonah Lindeman was Mayor. The parade chairman was Mike Sebastian, assisted by Dawn Branscum. The theme for the day was “Today’s Youth — Tomorrow’s Peace.” After eight years of having a carnival, Youth Day returned to the basics with a more traditional format. Before the Winters High School Alumni baseball game, the varsity field was dedicated and named for Hugh Randolph, a former teacher and varsity coach. Jenny Lester was the Youth Day poster winner. The first Kids Faire was held. Approximately
8,000 people attended the festivities.
1992
Youth Day was blessed with blue skies, sunshine.
The event was dedicated to Jim Marion, the general chairperson of the event, who had a heart attack in the early morning on Youth Day and was recovering. Another highlight was a tribute to Grand Marshal Judy Montgomery during the Friday evening opening ceremonies. Montgomery taught dance in Winters for many years.
1993
Balmy weather and sunshine were the order of the day for the 57th annual Youth Day. The Grand Marshals were Steve and Cindy Baker. The sweetheart was Lisa Olson. The Swan Brothers Circus provided free entertainment for the youngsters, courtesy of the Winters Chamber of Commerce. Youth Day ‘93 was coordinated by Jim and Gloria Marion.
1994
Temperatures were in the upper 70s for Youth Day 58. The floats in the main parade reflected the theme “Youth-Our Ageless Resource.” Joseph Puccio was the Grand Marshal. Liza Dunham was mayor and Nancy Walton was the Sweetheart.
1995
Kristina Knabke was both Youth Day Mayor and Sweetheart as the students took over the management of the city for a day. Adult Mike Sebastian and student
Jenne Ehnat were parade co-chair men.
1996
Big winds were the order of the day for Youth Day ‘96. The Grand Marshals were Frank and Juanita Ramos, honored for their many years of service to the community. Erin Autry was the Youth Day sweetheart and Todd Ramos served as Youth Day mayor.
1997
Blue skies and sunshine made the 61st annual Youth Day parade more fun for the thousands who turned our to watch. The Grand Marshal was Larita Salek, who was honored for her work volunteering in the community. The 1997 Sweetheart was Jenne Ehnat and Cara Inns was Mayor.
1998
It was another windy morning as crowds braved the gusts to watch the Kiddie
The year’s Youth Day Grand Marshal was Jay Shepard, honored for his involvement on behalf of the community’s youth. The Youth Day Honorary Grand Marshal was Ray Epling, Winters resident and 24 year teacher in the Winters School District. Brandy Alvera was the Sweetheart, who also served as the Youth day Mayor and for to spend some time learning from her real-life counterpart Mayor Harold Anderson.
1999
Mother Nature was in a good mood for Youth Day 1999, with plenty of sunshine on tap. Perennial parade chair-
man Mike Sebastian presented plaques to Grand Marshal Dr. Bill Davis and Honorary Grand Marshal Dale Brewer at Opening Ceremonies. The 1999 Sweetheart was Adrienne Solorio, who also served as the Youth Day student general chairman. The Youth Day Mayor was Anna Inns.
2000
A mellow mood and sunny weather made Youth Day 2000 one of the best. The Grand Marshals were Jeff Hesemeyer and Dianne Beaton, and the Honorary Grand Marshal was Jack Graf. The inaugural Youth Day Educator of the Year was Pam Scheeline. The 2000 Sweetheart was Natalia Franco and the mayor was Heather Halk.
2001
A cool breeze died down to a warm whisper just in time for the 65th annual Youth Day festivities. Youth Day Sweetheart was Edith Rodriguez. Grand Marshal was Germaine Hupe, and Honorary Grand Marshals were Richard and Evelyne Rominger. The Youth Day Educators of the Year were Jack Delbar and Gary Pitek. Jimmy Ramos was the mayor.
2002
With a temperature in the 60s, this Youth Day was a cool one. Opening ceremonies saw plaques awarded to chairman Mike Sebastian; Grand Marshal Frank Ramos; Educator of the Year, Laurie Helm, and Sweetheart Jenaye Shepard. The Mayor was Brandi Vigil.
2003
Even though rain was forecast, it stayed away on Youth Day and left beautiful weather in its place. Th was Mayor Maggie Brewer. The Grand Marshal was Harold Anderson, Honorary Grand Marshals Kay and Al Graf and Educator of the Year Polita Gonzales were honored at the opening ceremonies. The royal court introduced the first Sweethunk Tyler Von Kraintz and Sweetheart Melanie Stocking.
2004
Grand Marshal Susan Southworth, Honorary Grand Marshal Phil “Flip” Ritchie, Sweetheart Beth Curry and Sweethunk (dubbed “Braveheart” this year) Chad Stocking were honored at the opening ceremonies. Kent Benson was Educator or the Year. Chad Stocking also served as the Mayor.
2005
The weather was balmy and beautiful for Youth Day 2005. The day was filled with dancing flowers and colorful crops as Winters celebrated the “Garden of our Youth.” At Opening Ceremonies, high school students Leticia Rodriguez and Piedad Junoz earned the titles of sweetheart and sweethunk respectively. Gloria Marion was honored as this year’s Grand Marshal for her involvement in Winters community events. Educator of the Year was Liz Coman, a teacher of the Winters High School English Depart-
ment. The Youth Day mayor was senior Kaely Romney.
2006
After weeks of rain, spring turned just in time for the annual Youth Day celebration. This year’s theme was “Celebrating Youth Generation by Generation.” The 2006 Sweetheart was Jackie Stocking and Sweethunk was Jacob Thorne. John Lopez was honored as Youth Day Grand Marshal, Peg Dozier was named Honorary Grand Marshal, and Vickie Catalan earned the title of Educator of the Year. The Youth Day Mayor was Tyler Cross.
2007
Youth Day 2007 was one for the books with sunshine and warm temperatures. Kelsey Fox and Mat Catalan earned the titles of Sweetheart and Sweethunk respectively. Gloria McCreary, a teacher at Winters High School, was Educator of the Year. This year’s Grand Marshal was Mike Sebastian, who was honored for his involvement with Winters Youth Day. Mae Martin, who witnessed the 1st Youth Day, was Honorary Grand Marshal. The theme was, “Youth Ahoy!”
2008
The 72nd Youth Day was wild, fitting with the theme “Safari to Success. The Sweetheart was Ari Ruiz and Sweethunk was Cody Campos. Educator of the Year went to high school teacher, Diane Grimard. Karen Benson-Neil was named
Grand Marshal for her dedication to child development and youth success, and Kathy Skaggs was named Honorary Grand Marshal for her support of the Winters Fire Department. The Main Parade featured an extra-special entry: a carriage carrying a night in shining armor who proposed to his girlfriend in front of an adoring crowd.
2009
There were blue skies, sunshine, and temperatures in the low 70’s for Youth Day 73. The Grand Marshal, Manuel Garcia, had dedicated years of service to multiple Winters youth baseball programs. The title of Honorary Grand Marshal was awarded to Peggy Narducci, who rode her black and white paint horse in many Youth Day parades. The Youth Day Mayor was Jameson Shugart, and Sweetheart and Sweethunk were Anna Solorio and Robby Emery respectively. Jim Stark earned the title of Educator of the Year. The theme was “Wild West Youth.”
2010
Youth Day 74 featured picture perfect weather. Parade chairman Mike Sebastian presented a plaque to Grand Marshal Bruce Rominger. Rominger was honored for his exceptional service to the Winters community as a farmer, philanthropist and mentor. Juanita Skaggs was also honored as Honorary Grand Marshal. The theme, was “Let Your
Youth Shine Through.”
The mayor was Justin Hyer. The Sweetheart was Kayla O’Neil and Sweethunk was Phil Giroux-Ayoutte. Matt Baker was Educator of the Year.
2011
This Year’s parade was led by Winters Business owners and philanthropists John Pickerel and Melanie Bajakian. They were honored for many years of service to the Winters Community. Youth Day Mayor Polette Gonzales led the festivities with City mayor Woody Fridae. The Sweetheart was Katie Clark and Sweethunk was Isaac Asak. The Honorary Grand Marshals were the Winters u14 girls soccer team who won the state championship. Courtney Caruso was named Educator of the Year.
Youth Day was honored with a proclamation from Assemblywoman Lois Wolk and County Supervisor Mariko Yamada for the years of service to the Winters Community.
2012
Winters Music Director Lynne Secrist led the 76th Youth Day Parade, being chosen for her dedication and energy put into the School District program over many years. City Mayor Woody Fridae and Youth Day mayor Kevin Lane led the council delegation. The 2012 Youth Day Sweetheart was Ashley Shaw and Sweethunk was Aaron Garcia Fun fact: 91 year old Vickie Southwick visited for the first time since she was in
the first Youth Day Parade in 1933.
2013
The 77th Youth Day Parade was led by Grand Marshals Don and Tracy Calvert, longtime community volunteers. Winters Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry introduced the Youth Day Mayor Nicholas Muldong. The Youth day Royalty were Sweetheart Yvette Valadez and Sweethunk Ty Spalding. The Youth Day Parade was chosen to host the 2013 California State Horseman’s Association (CSHA) Championship Parade, attracting horse entries from all over California.
2014
The 78th Youth Day Parade was led by Winters Little League Mega-volunteers, Chris, John and Mark Rodriguez. They have led Winters Little League that was started by their father Rudy Rodriguez. Youth Day Mayor Fernando Cortes and city Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry welcomed everyone. This year’s Youth Day Sweetheart was Alex Cushman and the Sweethunk was Jake Ivory. This year’s theme “May the Youth Be with You” brought out a fleet of Storm Troopers to the Parade.
2015
Youth Day honored Tawnya McCracken Martin as Grand Marshal for the 79th Parade. She is a longtime volunteer for FFA and 4-H, and many other organizations. Winters mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and
Youth Day Mayor Edgar Chavez ushered in councilmembers. This year’s Youth day Sweetheart was Isabel Angel and the Sweethunk was Chris Kays.
2016
The 80th Anniversary celebration was a huge success. The Youth Day Parade was led by Grand Marshals, The Thomas Sisters. They have been a huge part of the Winters community from Swim Team to Grad Nite Chairpersons. The Mayor was Emily Ferreira.
2017
The 81st Youth Day Parade was led by Winters Junior Warriors founders Rudy and Shelly Baylor. The Mayor was Emily Ferreira. The Sweetheart was Kenya Gallo and Sweethunk Devon Muldong.
2018
The 82nd Youth Day Parade was led by Grand Marshals, The Project Playground Committee. The Mayor was Andrea Gonzales. The Youth Day Sweetheart was Karina Del Toro and Sweethunk was Moises Garcia. The Autos for Autism Car Show was added to the City Park Festivities this year.
2019
Superheroes of all ages celebrated on a sunny Youth Day in 2019, when the theme was “Super Youth –The Heroes of the Future.” The Duck Derby was postponed to May due to high water
and most
in the area. We are happy that we opened in Winters and are pleased to be part of this community.
HISTORY
Continued from Page 21
levels in Putah Creek. The Grand Marshal was Elementary School Principal Greg Moffitt. The Mayor was Andrea Gonzalez.
2020
Amid the coronavirus pandemic and with state and county mandates not allowing events, the Youth Day committee made the tough decision to cancel the 84th Youth Day celebration.
2021
Although the plans were to come back strong in 2021, the Youth Day committee opted to cancel the Youth Day celebration, again. The committee cited local and state mandates not
only caused great challenges in planning for the gathering but many small businesses and vendors were struggling or had gone out of business due to the pandemic.
WHS honored the annual tradition of nominating a Sweetheart Court. The 2021 WHS Youth Day Sweetheart was Liliana Balderas and the Sweethunk was Jesus Chavez.
The Winters Express launched Family Fun Week to keep the spirit alive and hosted a family movie night and downtown duck hunt.
2022
Following a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the 84th Winters Youth Day celebration was revived in 2022. The chosen theme was
Youthfully Ever After. The celebration kicked off on Friday, April 29 with a Downtown Winters Duck Hunt and the Duck Derby. Jenny Ramos was the Grand Marshal. Donnie Whitworth was recognized as the Educator of the Year. Brooklyn Mariani was the Sweetheart and Atanacio Garcia Jr. was the Sweethunk. The 2022 Youth Mayor was Lupita Tovar, and Youth City Manager Lexi Hellinger.
Saturday, April 30 brought the return of the Rotary Pancake (sausage) Breakfast, the Kiddie and Main Parade, events at the Park.
2023
The 85th Winters Youth Day celebration
almost didn’t happen due to a lack of volunteers in the initial planning stages. However, several community members stepped up to assist the Youth Day Committee and the Kiwanis Club of Winters took on organizing the annual Duck Derby event. The theme was Grow Youthful.
Carol McMasters-Stone as the Grand Marshal. Winters High School teacher Andrea Hurst was recognized as the Educator of the Year. Serena Husted was the 2023 Sweetheart and Luca Navarette was the Sweethunk. The 2023 Youth Mayor was Lupita Tovar and the Youth City Manager was
Angelica Michel.
2024
In collaboration with the school district and the city, bringing students back into the planning and celebration wa a top priority. With planning well-already underway, the unexpected death of long-time parade chair and president Mike Sebastian caused challenges as Youth Day committee members worked to document planning processes and practices.
The inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall brought youth council members back into city hall and introduced new connections with city staff.
The theme was Youth: The Musical. Mike Sebastian was named the honorary Grand Marshal in memoriam. Winters Middle School teacher Sue Bridge was recognized as the Educator of the Year. The royal court was transformed into a Royal Ambassador marketing program with Alison Gamboa and Karen Covarrubias. The Mayor was Eden Miller and the City Manager was Mikenzie Hapworth-Eldridge. However, during the Youth City Council meeting, Treasurer Vidali Ceja was the acting City Manager. Julian Bermudez served as the first WMS council member.
