Winters Express: Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Road closures set for Youth Day

In preparation for the annual Youth Day celebration, the city of Winters has approved a series of street closures to accommodate the traditional parade and festival activities. Now in its 88th year, Youth Day honors the city’s youth and their civic engagement, drawing residents and visitors alike for a day of community festivities.

Youth Day is traditionally held on the last Saturday in April, with the parade along Main Street serving as the signature event. The Kiddie Parade, held prior to the main event, and the Kiddie Faire at Rotary Park will also be part of the day’s activities. Post-parade festivities will take place in Rotary Park and on select blocks of

See ROADS, Page 8

Early check-in offered for Memorial Fun Run

Express staff

Participants in the third annual Michael Bazan Jimenez & Noah Lichwa Memorial Fun Run can check in early and pick up their T-shirts on Friday, April 24, during the Youth Day cornhole tournament at Hooby’s Brewing, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The 5K fun run/ walk begins Saturday, April 25, at 7 a.m. Participants who registered by April

2 are guaranteed a commemorative T-shirt. Later registrations will receive shirts as supplies last.

The event raises funds for the Noah Lichwa & Michael Bazan Jimenez Memorial Scholarships, honoring the two Winters teens who died in June 2022. Community members can support the memorial scholarships through donations made on the Memorial Fun Run registration page ont https://runsignup. com or by clicking the Memorial Fun Run link at linktr.ee/ wintersyouthday.

Martinez is Youth of the Year

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Camila Martinez, a Winters High School sophomore, has been named the 2026 Youth of the Year after being selected by a vote of students across the Winters Joint Unified School District. The honor recognizes a student who demonstrates leadership, service, resilience and a commitment to positive impact in school and community life. The Youth of the Year award highlights young people who serve as role models, showing integrity, responsibility and compassion while inspiring others through action. Martinez was chosen for her leadership roles, community involvement and consistent effort to uplift her peers.

Martinez has been active in student leadership since middle school and currently serves as class president, a role she has held for two years as a

class representative. She is also involved in Interact, Friday Night Live, and the Student Ethics Club, while balancing three sports — cheer, soccer and track. In competitive soccer, she serves as a captain for Dixon Leon Soccer Club.

Her involvement in Friday Night Live (FNL) was driven by what she sees as a growing concern among students.

“I think that is a very

big issue with kids our age now. A lot of people use vapes and e-cigarettes, and they don’t realize the consequences of it later on in life,” she said.

Martinez said a personal family experience also shaped her motivation.

“My Grandpa died from lung cancer. He told me he wished someone had said something to him about not smoking before he got addict-

ed,” she said and added that experience helped guide her involvement in prevention efforts.

“That definitely motivated me to want ot join FNL because we try to inform students of the risks and causes of vaping, cigarettes, and other drugs.” Service to others, she said, is central to her identity.

“I think helping the community out in any way, especially because we’re such a small town, is important. Even if it’s just one simple thing,” Martinez said. She has helped with local events, including setting up the Dinner on the Bridge, and said even small contributions matter.

“Even if you show up for an hour or two, it helps the people who are organizing events a lot, even if you don’t realize it,” Martinez said.

She has also taken on leadership roles

Winters Fire to host sensory-friendly tour April 29

Express staff

In recognition of Autism Awareness Month, Winters Fire Department will host a Sensory-Friendly Fire Station Tour on Wednesday, April 29, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Winters Fire Station. The event is designed

Weather

to welcome individuals and families in a calm, inclusive environment.

The open house will allow community members to meet firefighters, explore the fire station and see equipment in a setting intentionally structured to reduce sensory stimulation.

The tour features include no sirens or loud noises, opportunities to meet firefighters, hands-on interaction with fire trucks and designated quiet spaces for those who may need them.

Winters Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III said he wanted to ensure all children in the community have the opportunity to experience the firehouse, noting the sensory-friendly tour was developed as one way to create a more inclusive experience.

The tour reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and community connection during Autism Awareness Month.

The Winters Fire Department also shared a related message on its official social media accounts outlining its commitment to serving individuals on the autism spectrum and strengthening inclusive emergency response practices.

“Every day, the men and women of the Winters Fire Department respond to calls across our community, a community made up of individuals and families with unique strengths, perspectives and needs,” the social media post stated. “Among those we are honored to serve are individuals on the autism spectrum, and we take that responsi-

bility seriously.”

The post noted that first responder awareness extends beyond symbolic recognition.

“For first responders, awareness goes beyond a ribbon or a color,” the post continued. “It means understanding how we communicate, how we approach a scene and how we show up for every individual, especially in high-stress moments when it matters most.”

The fire department reaffirmed its commitment to compassionate, informed emergency response, ongoing training and fostering a community where all residents feel safe, seen and supported. For more information, contact the Winters Fire Department at 530-795-4131 or visit wintersfire.org.

Local nonprofits unite for head start on Big Day of Giving

Special to the Express

Early giving for the region’s largest annual day of philanthropy opens this week, giving Winters residents a head start on supporting local nonprofits ahead of the main event.

Big Day of Giving, hosted by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, returns Thursday, May 7. The 24-hour fundraising campaign raises critical support for nonprofits across the region, including many serving the Winters community.

Early donations open to the public on Thursday, April 23, and will be accepted through midnight on May 7. Donors can view the participating Winters nonprofits online at www. bdog-winters.org.

Fourteen Winters-based and serving nonprofit organizations are again working collaboratively to promote the

effort and maximize its local impact. Participating organizations include the Winters Education Foundation, Winters Farm to School, Winters Friends of the Library, Winters Museum, Winters Participation Gallery, Winters Senior Foundation, Winters Healthcare, Winters Youth Day, Winters Music Boosters, Winters Theatre Company, Winters Robotics Inc., Winters Community Corazón, Putah Creek Council and Meals on Wheels Yolo County.

While each organization serves a different mission, all contribute to the community’s character, vitality and quality of life through programs and services available to residents.

The Winters nonprofit collaborative began in 2019, when a small group of organizations joined forces to streamline outreach efforts. By

pooling resources, the group has reduced costs, limited excess signage and expanded its reach — while still highlighting each organization’s individual campaign.

The impact of the effort continues to grow. In 2024, Yolo County nonprofits raised more than $1.9 million from over 8,100 gifts during the giving day. Winters-based organizations raised a combined $114,401, and when including contributions to Putah Creek Council and Meals on Wheels Yolo County, the total for all 14 participating groups reached $309,451.

Organizers encourage community members to mark their calendars for May 7 and consider making an early donation starting April 23 to help local nonprofits build momentum ahead of the 24-hour event.

Frerichs to lead Community Foundation

By Rebecca Wasik McNaughton Media

On Tuesday, April 14, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors received an informational-only presentation from the Yolo Community Foundation.

The Yolo Community Foundation promotes philanthropy by serving as a public foundation through which community members pursue their own charitable goals; local nonprofits benefit from YCF programs and events and youth learn the meaning of community involvement and service.

In 2025, Yolo Community Foundation launched the West Sacramento Foundation and the All Things Right and Relevant Grant with $1.4 million in total giving. It also launched new scholarships and programs like Yolo

Neon and We Prosper Together. Yolo Community Foundation also hosts the Yolo Philanthropy Breakfast and Yolo Philanthropy Awards.

photo

Courtesy

STACIE

FRERICHS New YCF executive director

Stacie Frerichs was introduced to the board as the new executive director of the Yolo Community Foundation. She will begin her tenure in her new role starting on April 22. She is the wife of Supervisor Lucas Frerichs.

According to a Yolo Community Foundation press release, Stacie Frerichs most recently served as Director of Business Programs at the California State Association of Counties, where she led statewide initiatives addressing

critical challenges facing California counties, including childcare access, workforce development and economic development. Prior to her work with CSAC, she served as executive director of the Davis Arts Center for more than eight years.

“I’m honored to join Yolo Community Foundation at such an important time,” said Stacie Frerichs. “Yolo County is home to an extraordinary network of nonprofits, leaders and community members. I look forward to building on that foundation and working together to expand opportunity, strengthen partnerships and increase impact across the region.”

Winters Farmers Market opens Sunday

The Winters Sunday Farmers Market will kick off its 2026 season this Sunday along downtown Main Street.

The market will run every Sunday through Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring produce and goods from local farms and vendors across Yolo and Solano counties.

Ahmad “Simba” Baratti of Simba’s Heirloom Farm will continue to coordinate the market. Baratti brings experience organizing farmers markets, while the Winters Downtown Business Association will focus on promotion and community outreach. Members of the Winters District Chamber of Commerce will also assist with marketing efforts and provide live music.

Agricultural vendors interested in participating can contact Baratti at simbasheirloomfarm@gmail. com or 415-996-8179.

Live music will continue at the Sunday market events, starting

with Odd Man Out, a Davis-area folk and Americana band, performing Sunday, April 26. Seasonal road closure

The Winters City Council has approved a seasonal closure of Main Street from Railroad Avenue to the mid-block crosswalk during market hours. After the market concludes and vendors break down, barricades will be removed and the street will reopen to traffic Sunday afternoons.

Regional News

Judge lifts Esparto defendant’s bail hold

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

A former volunteer firefighter charged in connection with the Esparto fireworks explosion that killed seven people last year could be released from jail after a Yolo Superior Court judge lifted his bail hold.

Craig Allen Cutright’s bail was set at $500,000, with the requirement that he must prove any funds used to secure a bond are from lawful and legitimate sources. He remained in Yolo County Jail custody as of Tuesday evening.

Cutright operated BlackStar Fireworks on the Esparto property alongside Kenneth Chee’s Devastating Pyrotechnics LLC, whose seven employees died in the July. 1, 2025, explosion. Chee and four others remain on nobail holds, charged with second-degree murder.

The 61-year-old Cutright faces four counts of conspiracy to commit a crime and multiple charges related to the unlawful manufacturing, possession and distribution of explosives and destructive devices in a grand jury indictment handed down earlier this month.

His bail hearing Monday featured just one witness — his brother-in-law, Mike Yurochko, who testified that he and his wife earn income from their tech careers as well as stock and real-estate investments.

Yurochko outlined plans to pay $25,000 in cash to secure the $500,000 bail bond and use the family home as collateral for the remaining $475,000. He said he did not expect to recover the $25,000 from Cutright, who had been staying in his sister’s home since his own was destroyed in the July 1, 2025, blast and resulting fire.

“He’s family, and we’ll help him wherever we can,” Yurochko said.

Judge Daniel Maguire agreed to lift the hold, imposing a list of conditions should Cutright post bail. If freed, Cutright must surrender his passport; refrain from associating with his codefendants, the victims and their families; and steer clear from explosives and fireworks or their

precursors for the duration of the court case.

Darryl Stallworth, Cutright’s defense attorney, objected to the prosecution’s further request for Cutright to undergo electronic monitoring, saying his client “never had so much as a parking ticket” and would make his court appearances. Maguire ultimately imposed the monitoring for 60 days.

Cutright and four of his codefendants — Gary Chan Jr., Jack Lee, Douglas Tollefsen and former Yolo County sheriff’s Lt. Sam Machado — are due in court Wednesday for further proceedings. Machado’s wife, former sheriff’s legal secretary Tammy Machado, returns to court June 4 in her separate mortgage and tax fraud indictment.

Prosecutors still await Chee’s extradition from Florida, where authorities arrested him during a family trip to Disney World. An eighth defendant, Ronald Botelho III, remains in Del Norte County custody.

SUMMERGARDEN CAMP 2026

Yolo supervisors briefed on kratom

By Rebecca Wasik McNaughton Media

Last Tuesday, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors were briefed by Dr. Aimee Sisson on kratom and its risks, legality and enforcement landscape.

Kratom is a supplement derived from leaves of a tropical tree. Kratom contains opioids and is dangerous and illegal to sell and manufacture.

Kratom enforcement currently relies on the state but there are options for local kratom enforcement.

Despite being illegal, kratom has been widely available throughout California, including in Yolo County at places like smoke shops, convenience stores and gas stations. It is also widely available for purchase online.

In December 2025, Yolo County Public Health sent letters to all licensed tobacco retailers advising them to remove kratom from shelves.

Options for local kratom enforcement include:

• Option 1: Continue to request California Department of Public Health Food and Drug Branch enforcement of kratom sales.

• Option 2: Amend the Yolo County To-

bacco Retail ordinance to disallow kratom sales at licensed tobacco retailers and allow county staff or any peace officer to enforce.

• Option 3: Adopt a separate ordinance specific to kratom disallowing retail sale and allow county staff or any peace officer to enforce.

Sisson’s staff recommendation was Option 1. Ultimately, the board asked that Option 1 continue and for more analysis and cost estimations to be done for Option 2.

While Sisson says she is not aware of any counties or cities in our region adopting ordinances related to kratom sales, there have been ordinances in some Southern California municipalities since as early as 2016.

Sisson says that while kratom is illegal to sell and manufacture, it is not illegal to possess or use as those being sold kratom are seen as victims of the industry.

Supervisor Angel Barajas expressed concern that a strict ordinance would push users to the black market.

Sisson explained that most users would then move to online purchases. If an ordinance was in place, however, many users

would not be able to receive shipments to their Yolo County addresses, as many websites restrict deliveries where ordinances are in place. If the county was to amend the tobacco retail ordinance, they would then go around to the county’s cities to ask them to adopt the same ordinance.

Chair Sheila Allen says at last year’s National Association of Counties health meeting, she spoke with Oregon public health officials who were seeing babies exhibiting opioid withdrawal.

“When they tested them, they didn’t have the opioids they usually tested for which led them to find out it was kratom,” said Allen. “So it has real public health implications not just for adults but for pregnant people and for babies.”

Resolutions April was declared Child Abuse Prevention Month and Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Yolo County.

April 19-25 was recognized as National Library Week and National Victims Rights Week.

April 22 was declared Earth Day. The Yolo County Board of Supervisors will next meet on April 28.

LWV sets candidate double-header

Special to the Express

The League of Women Voters of Yolo County will host two candidate forums in preparation for the June 2 California primary election.

Featured candidates for Yolo County Superior Court judge and candidates for 3rd District Yolo County Supervisor appear in a “back-to-back” format.

The forums will take place on Thursday, April 30, at the Woodland Community and Senior Center, 2001 East St. in Woodland. The first forum starts at 6 p.m. for judicial candidates and concludes at 7 p.m. The supervisorial candidates will be featured from 7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:45 p.m.

Attendance is free, but attendees are encouraged to register at

lwvyolo.org/events.

Candidates will answer a set of questions prepared by the League, followed by an opportunity for the audience to submit their own written questions, to be reviewed by the League. The two judicial candidates are Ryan Davis and Diane Ortiz.

Davis serves as a court commissioner for the Sacramento County Superior Court, where he presides over family-law cases involving divorce, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, and domestic violence.

Ortiz worked for nine years in administrative positions with the California Highway Patrol, including the cadet hiring unit, internal affairs, and the legislative office.

While working for the CHP, Ortiz attended law school, earned her juris doctorate from Lincoln Law School and eventually became a deputy district attorney in Yolo County.

This forum will include questions on challenges for the Yolo County Court in the next few years, and the candidates’ views about the duties, responsibilities and role of a superior court judge.

The supervisorial candidates for District 3 are Dotty Pritchard, Xóchitl Rodríguez and Mayra Vega. Pritchard has served as the 3rd District Supervisor’s deputy and chief of staff under three supervisors, working on a range of community and county programs. In this role, she has partnered with residents, county staff, and local leaders on a variety of initiatives. Rodriguez has served California’s state and local communities for over 17 years. She is a small business owner and a former veterans deputy secretary and tribal liaison at the California Department of Veterans Affairs. She is a former Woodland mayor and an Army Combat Veteran, serving as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Vega is a former Woodland mayor and current City Council member. She attended Napa Valley College and transferred to UC Davis. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in economics from UC Davis and a master of business administration from Sonoma State

sity.

This forum will

clude questions

Public Safety Report

City of Winters

Apr. 9: Highway 128, Fast public assistance

~Niemann Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Edwards Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~County Road 89 and County Road 31, Grass fire

~E. Baker Street, EMS

call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Apr. 10: Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Myrtle Drive, EMS call –excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Martin Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Main Street, EMS call –excluding vehicle accident with injury

Lake Berryessa water levels low

Express staff

The water level of Lake Berryessa decreased by 0.05 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 938 acre-feet of water storage, according to Tim Gerard, Operations at Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, April 21, he reported that the lake elevation was 438.79 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,528,520 acrefeet. The SID released 124 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 68 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam.

Read obituaries online at wintersexpress.com/obituaries

To submit an obituary, visit the “Submission Forms” page or hover over “Obituary” for the submission link

Apr. 11: Taylor Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Owings Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Apr. 12: First Street, Person in distress (other)

~E. Grant Avenue and East Main Street, Motor vehicle accident

Apr. 13: County Road 31,

130 Years Ago

April 25, 1896

Rain began falling last Wednesday night and continued without intermission until yesterday noon. The gauge at the railroad depot registered 3.25 inches for the storm.

A killing frost visited this section last Sunday night, and as a consequence, serious damage was done the fruit.

The real property belonging to the estate of the late J. W. Ball was sold at auction last Monday afternoon by W. E. Rippey, the administrator of the estate, and was purchased by J. A. Henderson for $750.

Railroad carpenters have been here this week making changes and repairs about the company’s property. They will lay a new floor in the

Motor vehicle accident

~Orchard Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Apricot Avenue, Person in distress (other)

Apr. 14: Hemenway Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~E. Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Apr. 15: Kennedy Drive, Hazmat incident

View the Winters Fire Activity and Call Log at https://cityofwin-

ters.org/157/Fire.

Police Report Log

Apr. 8: 4:21 p.m., 100 block of E. Grant Ave., Bench warrant/failure to appear (misdemeanor)

~8:11 p.m., 3rd Street and Main Street, Bench warrant/failure to appear/outside warrant (misdemeanor) View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www.cityofwinters. org/289/Report-Arrest-Log

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

office, a new platform around the depot, repair the bridge, etc. M. Kahn came up from San Francisco on Tuesday morning’s train to see what damage the frost had done to his orchard.

95 Years Ago

April 24, 1931

The crowded condition of the class periods at high school was discussed at a special meeting of the school trustees Monday. It is likely that a ninth faculty member will be added to the staff.

J. G. Motroni, con-

tractor of Woodland, with a crew of bricklayers, is making E. J. Graf’s new garage take on building proportions. The walls all around are now up above the windows.

Leland Stith arrived in town Friday with one of the new De-Vaux cars. “Looks like a million dollars.”

On Sunday, May 3, Monticello will hold its eleventh annual rodeo and barbecue.

Finishing 11th in a starting field of 25, Bear Sackett came in the prize list in the annual swim of Carquinez, which took place Sunday.

Roy Haven of Oakland visited the first of the week with his mother, Mrs. Viola Haven.

Harold Overhouse was from Oakland Sunday to spend the day with his father, W. D. Overhouse.

Sunday guests at the James Briggs home were their son, Fenley Briggs of Oakland, and Mr. and Mrs. Ralls Briggs of San Francisco.

Rev. and Mrs. C. S. Wilkinson, Mr. Will Goodman, and Mrs. George Utterback at-

tended the Christian Church convention for Sacramento District, held in Gridley Tuesday.

80 Years Ago

April 28, 1946

All plans have been completed for the Tenth Annual Winters Youth Day, to be held here tomorrow.

Miss Clare Mumma, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Mumma of Dunnigan, has been named one of California’s 4-H Diamond Stars.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lopez hosted a turkey dinner at their home here on Easter Sunday honoring their sons, Mike and Frank Lopez, who recently received honorable discharge from the service.

Nate Yanci and daughter hosted a barbecue dinner served at their home on Easter Sunday. Guests were Mr. and Mrs. B. Salaverria and daughters, Helena and Flora; Mr. and Mrs. Clifton Perkins; and Mr. and Mrs. F. Abaitua of Esparto. Joe Gobert was honored at a party on his 26th birthday last Monday. Mrs. Gobert acted as hostess. The regular monthly meeting of the Fellowship Guild of the Methodist-Presbyterian Church was held Tuesday evening at the home of the president, Mrs. David Baxter.

Eventos hispanos

Ayuntamiento revisa modelo de servicios para animales

Una presentación de la Autoridad Conjunta de Servicios para Animales del Condado Yolo (Yolo County Animal Services) dio inicio a la reunión del Ayuntamiento de Winters del pasado 7 de Abril, en la que se describieron diversas estructuras de gobernanza para los servicios para animales ante el ayuntamiento y el público.

El debate surge a raíz del descontento público con el sistema actual de servicios para animales en el condado, así como de una revisión realizada por un gran jurado civil del Condado Yolo en el 20242025 sobre el programa de voluntarios de Servicios para Animales del Condado Yolo, que generó inquietudes sobre la seguridad de los voluntarios y la calidad del programa.

Actualmente, la ciudad de Winters tiene un acuerdo con los Servicios para Animales del Condado Yolo que se renueva anualmente. El refugio y los servicios se encuentran en Woodland, lo que supone un viaje considerable para los dueños de mascotas de Winters.

Entre las alternativas para continuar con el contrato de la ciudad con el condado se incluyen la

creación de una red autosuficiente de servicios para animales, la contratación de una o varias organizaciones sin fines de lucro para la prestación de servicios, o la adopción de un modelo híbrido.

La presentación señaló los costos operativos de entidades regionales similares que operan bajo diferentes modelos y concluyó que ninguna de las alternativas sería necesariamente más barata, aunque podrían ser más efectivas o brindar servicios de mayor calidad a un costo similar.

“Puedes recibir una factura del condado y que te digan qué servicios recibes, o puedes formar una asociación conjunta operativa y decidir qué servicios son relevantes para ti,” dijo Lisa Gaynes, una ciudadana. “Las cifras pueden ser las mismas, pero los servicios no.”

Algunas organizaciones sin fines de lucro expresaron su disposición a brindar servicios — UC Davis, por ejemplo, estaba dispuesta a ofrecer un número limitado de esterilizaciones — pero operar completamente a través de servicios sin fines de lucro parecía una solución precaria en este momento.

El alcalde interino Bill Biasi dijo que quiere saber qué servicios desean

los habitantes de Winters y cuáles les gustaría que estuvieran bajo control local, incluyendo programas de acogida, refugios, servicios de esterilización y castración, y cumplimiento de la ley. También preguntó si los servicios de control animal pasarían a ser responsabilidad del Departamento de Policía de Winters bajo un modelo de control local, lo cual parecía posible.

“Esa no es una carga que debamos siquiera considerar imponer a nuestro departamento de policía, considerando todo lo que ya tienen,” dijo Biasi.

Otros concejales compartieron opiniones similares, expresando su apoyo al control local, pero solo si Winters cuenta con la infraestructura y el personal necesarios para respaldarlo sin sobrecargar a los empleados. También solicitaron más información sobre las prioridades de la comunidad y qué servicios podrían brindar las organizaciones sin fines de lucro y a qué costo.

El alcalde Albert Vallecillo solicitó al personal que preparara un “menú de servicios” que describiera los tipos de servicios que generalmente se incluyen en los servicios para animales, para ayudar a orientar la opinión de la comunidad.

El tema volverá al consejo en una fecha posterior, tras una investigación más exhaustiva y la consulta pública.

Actualizaciones del Departamento de Bomberos

El jefe de bomberos de Winters, Jack S. Snyder III, presentó el informe anual del 2025 del Departamento de Bomberos de Winters Fire, detallando el volumen de llamadas, las iniciativas y las actualizaciones de personal. El volumen de llamadas disminuyó durante el año, lo que permitió a los bomberos dedicar más tiempo a la participación comunitaria y la capacitación. Esto contribuyó a un aumento del 66 por ciento en las horas de capacitación avanzada en comparación con el 2024. El capitán de bomberos Matt Schechla obtuvo su designación de oficial de bomberos del Centro para la Excelencia en la Seguridad Pública, convirtiéndose en uno de los únicos 1007 en todo el país. Snyder también obtuvo su credencial de oficial ejecutivo de bomberos de la Academia Nacional de Bomberos, una de las 406 en el estado. En las iniciativas de reducción de riesgos comunitarios, el departamento realizó 57 controles de

salud durante las visitas a las reuniones de adultos mayores de Winters y brindó capacitación práctica en resucitación cardio pulmomar (RCP) y uso de extintores a casi 60 participantes. El departamento también participó en cuatro incendios importantes en California en respuesta a emergencias mutuas. Snyder afirmó que uno de sus mayores motivos de orgullo del año fue la contratación de nuevo personal a tiempo completo, incluyendo dos ingenieros de bomberos y un bombero. “La moral está alta,” dijo Snyder. “El personal ahora puede tomar vacaciones y capacitarse.”

El departamento también redujo su tiempo promedio de respuesta en la ciudad a dos minutos y 55 segundos.

Otros temas tratados El consejo votó a favor de trasladar la segunda lectura de una ordenanza que establece una Zona de Entretenimiento en el centro de Winters de la orden del día de trámites ordinarios a debate. Tras un extenso debate — que se abordará con mayor detalle en una futura edición del Winters Express — el consejo aplazó el tema para la reunión del 5 de Mayo.

Yolo County invites community input for Roadway Safety Plan

Yolo County is inviting residents to participate in a series of community workshops as part of the development of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP), an effort focused on improving safety for everyone who travels the unincorporated areas of the county roadways, whether walking, biking, driving, or taking transit.

“Understanding how people experience our transportation system every day is essential to creating meaningful safety improvements. We encourage all community members to participate and share their perspectives.”

Todd Riddiough, Public Works Division director

participate and share their perspectives.” Community Workshops

Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the following locations:

• Woodland Community Center, 2001 East St. in Woodland on Wednesday, April 29

their experiences traveling throughout Yolo County. Bilingual support in English and Spanish will be available.

cluding those in rural areas, farmworker communities, youth, seniors, and individuals who rely on walking, biking, and public transit.

Input gathered through this process will directly inform strategies to improve safety and create a more accessible transportation system for all.

The CSAP will identify priority safety concerns across the county and outline strategies to reduce serious injuries and fatalities. Community input will play a key role in shaping the plan and ensuring it reflects real experiences on Yolo County roads.

“Understanding how people experience our transporta-

Yolo County’s budget and local services, agriculture and housing, and climate change. Both forums will be streamed by Woodland TV, and will be available to watch after the forums at www. youtube.com/@WoodlandTV21 or lwvyolo. org. No campaign banners, signs, literature, handouts, buttons, T-shirts or other campaign paraphernalia will be allowed in the forum meeting room. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan organization dedicated to voter education and empowering citizens to shape better communities nationwide. The views of the

tion system every day is essential to creating meaningful safety improvements,” said Todd Riddiough, director of the Public Works Division. “We encourage all community members to

essarily reflect the

• Esparto Regional Library, 17065 Yolo Ave. in Esparto on Thursday, May 7

Attendees will have the opportunity to review interactive maps, identify locations where safety concerns exist, and share

Residents who are unable to attend a workshop can provide input through an interactive online map, where participants can identify safety concerns and share feedback at any time.

Yolo County is committed to engaging a broad range of community members, in-

For more information, please visit: https://fp.mysocialpinpoint.com/yolo-county-csap.

The basics of molding replacement projects

The right renovation project can change the look and feel of a home. Major undertakings like a kitchen remodel might be the first projects homeowners think of when considering ways to transform their home interiors, but small projects also can go a long way toward remaking spaces in a home.

The molding in a home is a small yet important feature that can affect the look and feel of interior spaces. New molding might not offer the wow factor of a kitchen redesign, but new molding still has a dramatic effect and is well worth the investment of time and effort, particularly if existing molding has begun to show signs of wear and tear. When should molding be replaced?

Replacement may be necessary when molding is showing signs of rot or damage or when paint is peeling. Rotting molding may feel soft, while warping and swelling indicates the molding is damaged and in need of replace-

ment. Molding that is detaching from the walls also may need to be replaced. But such a condition also can occur as a house is setting or due to seasonal fluctuations of humidity within the home. If this occurs with molding that still looks good, then re-nailing may be the best approach. What should I know about molding before replacing it?

Molding comes in many shapes, styles and sizes. Molding helps to maintain cohesion in spaces throughout a home, so it’s necessary to identify the current type of molding that’s in a home if you only need to replace pieces here and there. If all of the molding must be replaced, then you may have more flexibility. Molding styles include colonial, ogee, cove, and step and double step. The height and thickness of the molding as well as which material type, such as solid wood or PVC, also may determine the right product for your home. Working with an interior designer and contractor can help homeowners

who are uncertain about their existing molding make the right choice when installing a new product.

How much does molding cost?

The cost to install new molding will be determined by a number of variables unique to each home, including where the home is located, which materials homeowners choose, which molding is being replaced (i.e., crown molding, baseboard molding, or both), and how much is being replaced.

The renovation experts at Angi.com estimate that the range for a crown molding replacement project is between $600 and $2,100. Angi.com notes a similar price range for a baseboard molding replacement project, which typically runs between $800 and $2,250. Replacing fading or damaged molding can subtly but effectively transform interior spaces in a home. Homeowners are urged to work with a contractor to identify the right molding products for their homes.

Choose the right countertop material for your space, budget

Metro Creative Special to the Express Kitchen renovations continue to top the list of improvements that offer a high rate of return on investment. Buyers pay close attention to kitchens, which directly influences renovation ROI. According to the Journal of Light Construction’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2025,” a minor kitchen remodel offers an ROI of 113 percent, while a midrange remodel offers an ROI of 51 percent.

In California— where housing demand remains competitive and many buyers expect movein ready homes—updated kitchens can play an even more important role in attracting interest and supporting resale value. Replacing a kitchen countertop is one of the most visible upgrades homeowners can make, improving both functionality and appearance. According to data from Grand View Research, the U.S. countertops market is projected to reach $35.57 billion in 2026, driven by homeowners choosing renovation over relocation. In California, that trend is amplified by high home values and the cost of moving, making strategic upgrades especially important.

Those considering new countertops should weigh materials based on cost, durability, maintenance, and how well they suit California lifestyles— including strong sun exposure, outdoor living spaces, and longterm efficiency.

Engineered quartz

The National Kitchen & Bath Association reports that 78 percent of design professionals expect quartz to be the preferred countertop material over the next several years.

Quartz is non-porous, meaning it resists stains, scratches, and bacteria without requiring sealing. It also offers consistent patterning, which allows for clean, seam-

less design transitions—popular in modern California homes.

In warmer, sunheavy climates like much of California, quartz is best suited for indoor use, as prolonged UV exposure can lead to discoloration over time. Quartz costs between $50 and $150 per square foot installed.

Granite

Granite remains a staple in countertop design and continues to appeal to homeowners who want a natural, one-of-a-kind stone appearance. It offers excellent heat resistance and strong resale value, which can be especially beneficial in California’s high-value housing markets. Granite can also work well in both indoor kitchens and covered outdoor cooking spaces. However, it does require periodic sealing to maintain its appearance and prevent staining. Costs range from $40 to $190 per square foot.

Porcelain

Porcelain slabs and tiles are among the fastest-growing materials in the ceramic tile market, according to industry reports.

Advanced printing technology allows porcelain to closely replicate marble and natural stone, while offering a highly durable surface. It is harder than granite and highly resistant to UV exposure, making it one of the strongest choices for outdoor kitchens—an increasingly popular feature in California homes.

Its durability, low porosity, and weather resistance also make it well suited for indoor-outdoor living spaces.

Porcelain typically costs $60 to $120 per square foot.

Butcher block

For homeowners seeking warmth and a more natural aesthetic, butcher block remains a popular choice.

Wood countertops are experiencing renewed interest as design trends shift away from all-white kitchens toward more organic textures and tones. Butcher block can also be sanded to remove scratches, extending its usable life. However, in California’s dry and sun-intense climate, wood requires consistent maintenance to prevent drying or warping, especially in homes with heavy sunlight exposure.

Costs range from $50 to $150 per square foot.

Laminate

Laminate remains the most budget-friendly countertop option at $20 to $80 per square foot.

Modern laminate products can convincingly mimic stone and other high-end materials while requiring minimal maintenance. However, they are less durable than stone, quartz, or porcelain and can be more vulnerable to heat and scratching over time.

For homeowners focused on cost-effective updates or rental properties, laminate can still be a practical choice.

Popular insect-repelling plants to add to your garden

Special to the Express Homeowners choose plants for their landscapes for many reasons. Some prioritize fresh food, while others want a vibrant, welcoming outdoor space filled with color and fragrance. In Winters and surrounding areas, where spring quickly gives way to long, hot, dry summers, many gardeners are also looking for plants that are both practical and resilient. One added bonus? Certain plants can naturally help deter common pests.

Insects are more than just a seasonal annoyance. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, insect-borne diseases are transmitted through bites from pests such as mosquitoes and fleas and can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to more serious illness. While no plant offers complete protection, incorporating insect-repelling varieties into a yard can help reduce pest activity—especially when combined with good garden maintenance and eliminating standing water.

For Winters gardeners working in Zone 9b, the following plants are especially well-suited to the local climate while offering natural pest-deterring benefits:

Basil

A staple in summer gardens, basil thrives in full sun and warm temperatures. Its strong scent can help deter mosquitoes and flies, making it a smart choice for containers near patios, outdoor dining areas or kitchen doors.

Companion planting tip: Basil is widely used alongside tomatoes and peppers, where it may help discourage aphids, whiteflies and hornworms while also improving overall plant vigor.

Lavender

Few plants are as well-matched to Northern California’s dry summers as

lavender. This hardy perennial prefers well-drained soil and minimal water once established. Its fragrant purple blooms help repel mosquitoes, moths and flies, while attracting bees and other pollinators.

Companion planting tip: While not typically planted directly in vegetable beds, lavender works well along garden borders. It can help create a protective buffer that discourages flying pests while drawing in beneficial insects.

Mint

(best in containers)

Mint grows easily in Zone 9b and offers a refreshing scent that can help discourage ants and mosquitoes. However, it spreads aggressively in the ground.

Companion planting tip: Keep mint in pots placed near vegetable beds or entry points to deter ants and aphids without letting it take over your garden.

Lemongrass, Citronella grass

Lemongrass thrives in heat and can be grown as an annual or overwintered in protected spots. It contains citronella oils commonly used in insect repellents and works well in large containers placed around patios and entryways.

Companion planting tip: Best used as a “perimeter plant” in pots rather than in garden rows, lemongrass helps create a mosquito-reducing zone around outdoor living spaces rather than directly protecting vegetables.

Marigolds

Bright and easy to grow, marigolds are a go-to companion plant in vegetable gardens. They thrive in full sun and bloom throughout the growing season.

Companion planting tip: Marigolds are one of the most effective companion plants for vegetables. They are commonly planted with tomatoes, peppers, beans and squash, where they can help deter

aphids, whiteflies and even certain soil nematodes. Many gardeners interplant them throughout beds for broad protection.

Rosemary

This woody, drought-tolerant herb is a natural fit for local landscapes. Rosemary’s strong aroma can help repel mosquitoes and certain insects, and its evergreen structure makes it useful as a border, hedge or foundation plant.

Companion planting tip: Rosemary pairs well near cabbage, beans and carrots, where it may help deter cabbage moths and carrot flies. It’s especially useful planted along the edges of vegetable plots.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrin, a natural compound used in many insecticides. These flowers can help repel ants, fleas and other insects.

Companion planting tip: While not as commonly used in vegetable beds as marigolds, chrysanthemums can be planted nearby or in borders to help reduce overall insect pressure in the garden.

Tips for getting the most benefit

Insect-repelling plants are most effective when used thoughtfully throughout the landscape rather than in a single location. Consider placing containers of basil, mint or lemongrass near outdoor seating areas to help with mosquitoes, while incorporating marigolds directly into vegetable beds for pest control. Lavender and rosemary can serve as attractive, drought-tolerant borders that support a healthier garden ecosystem.

It’s also important to remember that plantbased deterrents work best as part of a broader approach. Reducing standing water, maintaining healthy soil and encouraging beneficial

insects like ladybugs and bees all contribute to a more comfortable and productive outdoor space.

In Winters, where outdoor living is a big part of spring and summer, choosing the right plants can make a noticeable difference. With a mix of drought-tolerant herbs, flowering annuals and hardy perennials, gardeners can create spaces that are not only beautiful and productive, but also naturally help keep unwanted pests at bay.

Railroad Avenue and Main Street.

Parade route and closures

The Youth Day Parade will proceed down Main Street, beginning at Cody Street and continuing to First Street, where it will turn left and proceed to Edwards Street before concluding at Second Street.

Road closures along the parade route will begin at 8 a.m. and will be lifted once the parade concludes, typically by noon.

Russell Street residents will be able to access the other side of town via the white bridge at the Railroad Avenue and Russell Street intersection at the edge of town, then continue along Putah Creek Road to Interstate 505.

The Community Center parking lot entrances on Railroad Avenue and Elliott Street will remain open.

A separate closure will be in place for the Kiddie Parade, Main Parade and related activities. Main Street will be closed from First Street to Haven Street beginning at 8 a.m. and will reopen after the parade concludes and spectators have safely cleared the area.

During this time, cross streets including Second, Third and Fourth streets will be blocked at Main Street. Officials strongly urge motorists not to attempt to bypass barricades to ensure the safety of parade participants and spectators.

Festival closures

For the Rotary Park festival, Main Street will also be closed from Railroad Avenue to Elliott Street, and Railroad Avenue will be closed from the alleyway at Carbonie’s Ristorante to the back alley between Preserve and Chuy’s. Both closures will be in effect from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Elliott Street will remain open, and signage will clearly mark sections of the parking lot that are off-limits during the event.

Seasonal road closure

The seasonal closure of Main Street from Railroad Avenue to the mid-block crosswalk during market hours is a full vehicle restriction and will remain in effect from Friday through Sunday. After the Winters Farmers Market concludes and vendors have broken down booths, barricades will be removed and the street will reopen to traffic on Sunday afternoon.

Regional News

Parole board vacates rapist’s proposed release

ByLauren Keene McNaughton Media

The California Board of Parole Hearings has vacated the proposed release of a convicted a child rapist from Winters following pushback from his victim and the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office.

Israel Vargas Ceja, 63, who had been serving a 139-year state prison sentence for sexually assaulting his stepdaughter over a six-year period, was recommended for release in January under the state’s Elderly Parole Law.

Qualifying prisoners must have been incarcerated for at least 20 continuous years and reached the age of 50, or incarcerated for at least 25 continuous years and reached the age

of 60.

Following the parole recommendation, made by a two-member panel of the parole board, Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig penned a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom, asking him to exercise his authority to intervene and reverse the decision.

Ceja’s victim, Roxanne, spoke out at a news conference last week, saying Ceja’s violations of her “has affected every area of my life. I don’t create bonds with people, I don’t have friends, because in my eyes they’re not good.”

Roxanne also said she fears that if Ceja is released and reoffends, “I’m just afraid this time he won’t get caught, because he won’t leave anybody alive.”

The matter returned Tuesday before the full Board of Parole Hearings, which voted to vacate the parole recommendation and schedule a new suitability hearing on the next available date.

Reisig praised the board’s action.

“I believe the parole board made the correct decision in reversing the release, recognizing the lasting harm caused and the need to prioritize community safety,” said Reisig, who also commended Roxanne for making herself heard.

“This victim’s willingness to come forward and speak openly about her victimization is both courageous and impactful. Her voice matters,” Reisig said.

Travis celebrates renovated runway opening

Special to the Express

Travis Air Force Base announced the opening of its newly renovated runway with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The moment was capped by the landing of a C-5M Super Galaxy, the first aircraft to touch down on the completed

YOUTH

Continued from Page 1

through ASB and student organizations, where she helps guide younger students.

“In ASB, I often speak to underclassmen to teach them the procedures in ASB about how things are run and how they should be set up.”

Martinez said she once struggled with public speaking but found confidence by

21R runway. It was flown by Col. Nelson Prouty after an aeromedical training sortie.

The project represents a major investment in infrastructure that increases Travis Air Force Base’s runway capabilities twofold. The runway repair was a collaborative effort between the

watching her peers.

“It’s inspiring to see people your own age doing a lot of the things because I think it takes a lot of courage to do things for the first time and you’re the only one doing it.

Public speaking was very hard for me in ASB. Seeing people my age speaking to the whole school at rallies was inspiring. It pushed me to be a role model for people.”

60th Air Mobility Wing, the Air Force Civil Engineer Center, Baldi Bros. Construction and the Environmental Chemical Corporation.

The project involved 220,000 labor hours, 450,000 tons of concrete recycled, and 140,000-plus cubic yards of new concrete placed.

When she learned she had been selected as Youth of the Year, Martinez said she was surprised and honored.

ogy or social work, fields she said align with her interest in understanding people and helping those in need.

“Don’t wait for the perfect moment to do something. If you want the perfect moment, you’ll wait forever. Do it now. Your moment is now.”

She also credits community and church involvement, including serving as a lector and training altar servers at St. Anthony’s Parish, with shaping her sense of responsibility and leadership.

Martinez said inspiration has also come from family and community members who modeled service.

“My mom is also a big role model for me. She’s always gone out of her way to be kind to people, even if they’re not kind in return. She’s given me the mentality that you never know what other people are going through.”

She added, “I carry that with me, that I’m always trying to be kind to others.”

“I was very shocked when I was told. It’s an honor because it means that all of my hard work in trying ot be a role model, being nice and being there for everyone … it paid off in a way. People recognize that and confirmed she is a role model.”

For Martinez, she said, community is built through small acts of service that grow over time.

“She’s always gone out of her way to be kind to people, even if they’re not kind in return. She’s given me the mentality that you never know what other people are going through.”

Camila Martinez, 2026 Youth of the Year

“I was very happy because it’s a big title to hold. It’s a big title to be. More eyes are put on you, you get to show people why you were nominated for it.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a career in social psychol-

“Community is like a family. Everyone knows each other. If one person is helping one person, it’s benefiting all of us. It’s a domino effect. If one person helps someone, it’s a ripple, a drop that causes a chain of kindness.”

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, April 25

Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Saturdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food

Sunday, April 26

Winters Farmers Market,

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

Youth Day

Friday, April 24

Opening Ceremonies, 5:30 p.m., Downtown Main Street Youth Day Cornhole Tournament, 6 p.m., Hooby's Brewing, Fun Run early check-in, Sponsor a Duck, Scholarhip fundraiser

Saturday, April 25

Rotary Pancake Breakfast: 7–9:30 a.m., Winters Community Center

Kiddie Parade: 9:45 a.m., Downtown Main Street Main Parade: 10 a.m., Downtown Main Street

Kiddie Faire/Park Activities: 11 a.m.–4 p.m., Rotary Park/Downtown Main Street

View the official Youth Day publication at https://www.wintersexpress.com/ special_publications/youth_day

Sunday, April 26

Girl Scout Park Clean up, 10 a.m., Rotary Park Library Services

Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session)

Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m.

Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library

Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library

Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org

Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.

Movie Matinee, Fourth Friday, 2-4 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 Saturday, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Downtown Main Street, Visit wintersopenmic.org

12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair.

Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings:

» St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m.

» Yolo Housing office building, 62 Shams Way: Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m.

Youth Civics Summit connects students with local leaders

By Sonora Slater Express Staff Writer

Winters is a place that values the voices of its youth, from the long-standing tradition of Youth City Council to consistent encouragement for younger residents of Winters to attend and speak on issues during regular Winters City Council meetings.

On Tuesday, April 14, the Winters Youth Civics Summit, held in the Winters High School gym and Winters Community Library, offered yet another opportunity for teens to learn about avenues they can use to work toward change for causes they care about.

The event brought together students from both Winters High School and Winters Middle School and was the culmination of a series of lessons about local government and civic engagement.

Olivia Rodriguez, WHS teacher librarian, gave an overview of the lesson plan, explaining that on day one, social science students researched local government, including various people’s roles and responsibilities and how to determine which departments related to which community issues. They were then each assigned a specific community issue, such as homelessness, public parks or crime, to create a tri-fold presentation on.

The next day, dozens of local officials and community members, ranging from a

librarian to a district attorney, to council members, to the chair of the Winters Climate Action Commission, were paired with student groups to provide expert insight on each topic, answer questions and participate in discussions about potential solutions for local issues.

Jackson Bronson, a senior at WHS, shared his experience creating a presentation on and then speaking with a community member about domestic violence.

“It was a pretty deep topic to be given, but I think that helped us really think about how our community deals with real issues,” Bronson said. “We talked to Katharine Campos, who works with the Yolo County Elections Office, and

she was able to give us some added insight into how elections influence how resources are allocated for supporting victims and dealing with domestic violence.”

Rodriguez said another student enjoyed brainstorming solutions for affordable housing with Lisa Baker, chair of the Winters Planning Commission and an affordable housing and community development consultant.

“It was really special to see how much of the community is invested in the civic engagement of the youth,” Bronson said.

“I think that young people do want to be an active member of their community — most of us just don’t know where to start.

So having this event

where high schoolers and middle schoolers are able to meet and learn from a large group of our most active local leaders is incredible and important.”

Each community member also shared their own definition of civics during the summit, with answers ranging from Olivia Rodriguez’s focus on “being informed,” to Diane Ortiz, deputy district attorney, focusing on “who has the power, how they got it and how you can influence it,” to Edwin Ortega Beltra, youth development program manager for the Yolo County Office of Education, focusing on creating pathways for student voices, ideas and innovation to be heard.

After the event, Bronson defined civics as “acting in service of the whole.”

The project also aligned with preparations for Youth Day, which will take place Saturday, April 25, and continue the students’ focus on community engagement.

The teachers who worked on the project hope that eventually this curriculum will be used throughout Yolo County in classrooms.

“We believe it is so important for our students to learn about civics, about their own communities, and give you the tools so that when you’re adults, you’ll know which part of our local government you can go to when you have an

If you could pay cash for a property, should you?

Not all housing markets react the same to uncertainty. Here in Winters, March recorded the lowest housing inventory in the past five years, as global headlines around inflation, oil, and conflict add pressure to an already constrained housing market. Just down the road in Vacaville, conditions have remained a bit more balanced, even as both markets have seen a noticeable increase in days on market, signaling a broader slowdown in buyer pace and reinforcing how hyperlocal these shifts can be.

So what’s actually happening beneath the surface?

Recent tensions in the Middle East have pushed oil prices higher and nudged mortgage rates back above 6 percent after a brief dip. That movement happens through

“Using financing means taking on debt, but if that debt is fixed, inflation can make it cheaper over time while you keep your cash available and maintain flexibility.”

the bond market. When investors anticipate inflation, Treasury yields rise, and mortgage rates tend to follow. For buyers, that can quickly change monthly payments and purchasing power, even if nothing about the home itself has changed. We saw rates move from roughly 5.9 percent to 6.25 percent in a matter of days as the conflict with Iran es-

Contact our office with your insurance questions. Providing insurance solutions in Winters since 1946. Tim Ireland and Maegan Ireland 26

(530)

bath, 1876 sq ft, built in 2007, listed price $599,000.00. MLS#225087212

SINGLE FAMILY

115 Almond Drive, Winters, CA 95694

3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2013 sq ft, built in 1988, listed price $675,000.00. Co-listed with Sandy Vickrey DRE#01018341. MLS#226016943 NEW LISTING! 989 Carbahal Street, Winters, CA 95694

3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1757 sq ft, built in 2023, listed price $675,000.00. MLS# 226043723

CAMELOT WINTERS

Maria D. Rodriguez REALTOR, DRE# 02128223 Cell: (530) 574-5562 7 E. Main Street, Suite C, Winters, CA 95694 realtormaria21@gmail.com

Hablo Español

calated.

At the same time, higher energy prices ripple directly into consumers’ budgets. Fuel impacts everything from materials to transportation. As costs rise, buyers become more cautious. In today’s environment, even small changes matter, especially when gas is pushing $6 a gallon.

But there’s another layer starting to shape real estate decisions.

After a recent conversation with a client, a more strategic question came up: if you can pay cash for a property, should you?

This goes back to ideas from David Ricardo. When governments and the broader system take on more debt, it doesn’t

disappear; it works its way through the economy, often showing up as inflation or shifting interest rates.

That’s where it becomes personal. If you’re deciding between paying cash or taking on a loan, you’re deciding how you want to position yourself within that system. Paying cash keeps you out of rising rates. Using financing means taking on debt, but if that debt is fixed, inflation can make it cheaper over time while you keep your cash available and maintain flexibility.

A simple example:

Jean Deleonardi

On a $500,000 home purchase, paying cash eliminates a monthly payment but ties up your capital. Financing allows you to control the same asset while keeping liquidity, with the added potential benefit that inflation reduces the real cost of that fixed debt over time. If inflation cools and rates come down, it also opens the door to refinancing. There isn’t a onesize-fits-all answer. In a stable environment, paying cash can feel like the obvious move and will make your offer more competitive. In a more uncertain one, flexibility and liquidity start to carry more weight. Global events can create short-term pressure on rates and

costs, but local inventory and buyer behavior still shape the market day to day. Right now, we’re seeing that play out in real time, with tighter supply here at home even as nearby markets remain more balanced. For buyers and sellers, the focus shouldn’t be reacting to headlines. It should be understanding how those headlines filter into rates, pricing, and strategy, and making decisions that hold up not just today, but over time.

— Joedy Michael is a local real estate agent based in Winters. To inquire about market insights or more, reach out to him at Joedy.michael@exprealty.com or connect with him on Instagram @joedymichael_realestate.

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)

Aries, a delay turns out to be a blessing this week. You end up somewhere better than planned with this redirected route. Trust how things turned out.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)

A decision you have been avoiding suddenly seems completely obvious, Taurus. Money as well as work clarity arrives closer to the weekend. Hold on to it while you can.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)

You are the go-to person for the job when anyone needs some comic relief or a mood-lifter, Gemini. Your humor and insight will help someone more than you realize.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)

Cancer, offer your help to a friend or colleague in need but make sure you don’t go it alone. Enlist the help of others to ensure this new project goes smoothly.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)

A compliment will hit you differently this week, Leo. You have earned the recognition, so don’t brush off the kind words that are offered to you in the next few days.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)

Virgo, something you thought was a problem this week, eventually will turn into a learning experience. This is a time for you to experience some emotional growth.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)

It is time for an aesthetic and artistic reset, Libra. Figure out a way to change your decor, music playlist or your fashion sense. Your shift in attitude will attract good things.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)

A moment of truth hits you this week, Scorpio. It won’t be dramatic, but it will clarify something you already knew. This revelation will free up mental space.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)

Last-minute plans can sometimes be the best plans, Sagittarius. Spontaneous fun is coming your way, so reach out and grab it.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)

Capricorn, this week you will get proof that your effort matters to others. Praise from some close people in your life will have a notable impact.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)

If you have been looking to expand your squad, Aquarius, this is the week when some new people will find you. A conversation helps you feel understood.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)

You feel more motivated than usual, Pisces. Ride the wave that this energy boost offers you. It may be easy to get carried away, however.

To submit a Letter to the Editor, visit the “Submission Forms” page and click the link under “Online Services”

Express Yourself

Civic spirit, rivalries, and the dunk tank

Youth Day is this Saturday, and with it comes a mix of tradition, new ideas, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.

For me, that’s meant leading the Youth Civic Engagement Program at work— connecting Winters Middle School and Winters High School students with local leaders at City Hall and the Winters Joint Unified School District.

Over time, I’ve started to picture something bigger: what was once a one-time introduction to local government growing into a year-round opportunity for students to engage, question, and participate.

Youth Day is already evolving, and that evolution has quietly become one of my favorite parts of the whole thing.

This year, I had the chance to work with WHS senior Hawk Selleck, who bravely took on the challenge of expanding civic engagement opportunities and helping shape Youth Day planning. It’s not an easy role—especially when you’re trying to rally students, ideas, and logistics all at once—but his dedication shows. He

“Come out to Main Street at the Rotary Park Gazebo at 1 p.m. and try your hand at dunking me.”

introduced the idea of voting booths at WHS and WMS for the Youth and Educator of the Year election and helped evolve the WHS Youth Day Club’s mission to embrace broader civic involvement.

And now, somehow, he’s also joining the Dunk Tank Mayhem lineup.

This year’s returning competitors include WMS Principal Jose Bermudez and yours truly, along with newcomers WHS Principal Justin Young, Winters AYSO referee administrator Eric Jepsen, Hawk (in his role as WHS Youth Day Club president), and educator Danielle Smith—who also happens to be last year’s Grand Marshal.

The goals remain simple:

• Raise the most

money during our 30-minute shift.

• Get gloriously, mercilessly dunked by the community.

All funds support the Youth Day Scholarship, a grant awarded to graduating seniors who have gone above and beyond in serving our town. So yes, it’s competition for a cause—and I should probably admit I am not above a little friendly trash talk.

If you’ve followed this column before, you already know: I’m a little competitive. Actually, scratch that—very competitive.

Last year’s dunk tank battle came down to a single ticket. One ticket decided the glory of Dunk Tank Mayhem, and Jose rightly claimed the win. And yes, I can confirm it still comes

up from time to time in conversation—and at least one school board meeting.

This year, we’ve successfully roped in Justin, which feels only fair given that principals come with the advantage of entire school populations behind them. So now I’m turning to you—my community, my friends, the people I’ve met through volunteering, coffee chats, and even readers I haven’t met yet.

Come out to Main Street at the Rotary Park Gazebo at 1 p.m. and try your hand at dunking me. Every dunk comes with a smile. I may also ask if you’ve stretched properly before you throw. And if you try to walk by without participating and I recognize you? I cannot promise I will let that slide. What’s a little friendly accountability among friends?

I do plan to buy a few rounds of balls ($5 for three) and take my own shots at dunking the other competitors. But mostly, I hope you’ll come out, join in, and help make this year’s Youth Day another one to remember. Because it’s for the kids—and yes, I’m still volunteering as tribute.

It is easy to tell other people what to do

Do as I say, not as I do. That could be the official slogan of either of our major political parties, and it even applies to me, sometimes. I’m planning on putting “Let my burning bridges light my way” on my tombstone. Reading about the antics in Washington, D.C. is close to watching a soap opera on television. What makes people think that they can get away with lying, cheating and stealing without getting caught? Maybe it’s because some of them have been doing it most of their lives without repercussions. Sacramento might be worse, passing laws that cost us thousands of dollars without any benefit. Politicians created a housing shortage by spending so much money that it drives up inflation, making the cost of building and buying a home just about double from just a few years ago. Add on local building fees, and you just shake your head when a home sells for over $700,000 in Winters. We are being bombarded by political ads that promise us the moon. Very few promises are kept, if any, and politicians know it. Once they get into office, they trade votes, raise money for each other and make more promises. And, we keep voting for the same kind of people. Maybe that is a little cynical, but we get the government we deserve and vote for. If we could just

“If we could just draw 120 names out of a hat containing small business owners’ names, we would at least have a chance for some common sense and fiscal responsibility.”

draw 120 names out of a hat containing small business owners’ names, we would at least have a chance for some common sense and fiscal responsibility. That would be to replace the 40 state senators and 80 assembly members. We would still have to vote for governor because I can’t think of a group of people that I would put into that hat. We drive to Boise to see our grandson, and our son and daughterin-law, and I’m always amazed at the difference in gasoline prices in the four states we pass through. California is always the highest, Nevada is a little more afford-

able, Oregon is worse, and Idaho is at least a dollar cheaper per gallon.

It won’t get any better in California as oil refineries are closing faster than farmers are taking out walnut orchards. Sure, some of the refineries are old and need replacing, but that isn’t a choice is you want to build in California. I call it overregulation, but in some instances, you just can’t get something built in your lifetime. They built the Exxon oil refinery, now Valero, in just over a year in 1968. Benicia was in our league back then, and the first thing Exxon did

was build them a new gym at their high school. Now they are closing the plant in a few weeks. Not good news for Benicia and not good news for California.

What happens to the 400 employees and the $2 million that Valero gives to local charities each year? Is anyone in Sacramento working on making it easier to do business in California, or working on keeping businesses in California? If they are, they aren’t being very successful.

Not that I want to pay more for fuel, but I’m hoping that the price of gas keeps going up until after the November elections. People will vote with their pocketbooks.

I saw a good one this week; instead of Trump 2028, Trump $20.28 per gallon. Have a good week.

Letters

Results from income tax submissions –Winters

As the 2025 tax season has come to a close, many Winters residents once again chose to have their returns prepared and filed at no cost through the AARP Tax-Aide Foundation. As a local volunteer with this program, I’d like to share a brief summary of our efforts in Winters and across Yolo County.

All returns in Winters were prepared by IRS-certified volunteers at City Hall. This year, 91 federal returns were completed for local taxpayers. Federal refunds totaled $75,578—an increase of 33 percent over last year. Across Yolo County, AARP Tax-Aide volunteers prepared 1,413 returns, resulting in $1,532,322 in federal refunds.

Because these figures reflect federal refunds only, they understate the total benefit to taxpayers when state refunds are included. It’s reasonable to expect that a sizable portion of these funds is spent locally, helping support our businesses and a wide variety of community programs. We extend our sincere thanks to Diana Tafolla, City Manager Jeremy Craig, and the City Hall staff for their generous support and for providing such a wonderful space for our work.

We hope to return to Winters next year to continue serving the community. The AARP Tax-Aide program is open to taxpayers of all ages— AARP membership is not required.

Appointments for the 2026 tax season will be available beginning in January 2027. Taxpayers can schedule an appointment at that time by visiting www.yolotaxes.org or calling 530-207-0055. An announcement will also be published in the Winters Express in early 2027 with additional details.

BOB POLKINGHORN Winters

Davis for Yolo County Judge

As a longtime educator in Davis, including my years teaching

at West Davis Elementary, West Davis Intermediate, and serving as principal at North Davis Elementary, I’ve had the privilege of working with many young people. I first met Ryan Davis when he was a third grader in my classroom. Even as a young boy, his thoughtfulness, his sense of fairness, and the respect he showed to others were evident. He interacted with his friends and classmates with kindness and goodness.

Years later, I became a parent to him, which has given me a deeply personal understanding of who he is, both in public life and at home. It was a pleasure to watch him delve into his university studies and work hard to gain a breadth of experiences in his areas of interest.

I have seen his integrity, his compassion, and the care he brings to the people around him. He listens closely, treats others with respect, and takes his responsibilities seriously. He has a strong moral foundation and a genuine commitment to doing what is right.

The qualities I saw in Ryan as a child are the same ones that define him today. Our community deserves a judge who brings experience, fairness, and humanity to the role. I believe Ryan will serve with all three.

JUDY BOOCK Davis

Send us your letter

The Winters Express encourages readers to submit letters of general interest to the Winters community. Letters contribute to community discussion. Express Letters to the Editor guidelines: We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity or clarity, or to reject any letter. Letters must be legibly signed by the writer. We reserve the right to determine legitimacy. Mail letters to: The Winters Express, PO Box 520, Winters, CA 95694, submit online at https://tinyurl.com/ syzevywd or visit wintersexpress.com.

Beekeepers assess this year’s colony health

By Vicky Boyd California Farm Bureau

Although California beekeepers have not seen the devastating hive mortality this winter that they did in 2025, they say they’re still losing colonies.

“Things are looking OK, but we won’t really know until the end of bloom,” said Ryan Burris, California State Beekeepers Association president and a Palo Cedro beekeeper and queen breeder. “It sounds like the numbers are better, but some people still lost a lot of bees.”

Beekeepers nationwide made headlines in the 2024-25 winter when they reported an average of 62% colony losses. With increasing production costs and depressed honey prices, many beekeepers said the current situation is not sustainable economically.

“It’s very, very difficult,” Burris said. “The thing that makes it unsustainable is just the cost that goes into the business and the fact that the honey price is so low when it should be much higher.”

An average beekeeper spends about $350 per hive annually to keep it going, he said. Almond pollination rates average about $200 per hive. To make up the difference, Burris said producers rely on honey sales.

Demand for honey in the U.S. has historically exceeded supply, so some foreign product is imported.

More recently, he said, countries such as India have priced their honey as low as 80 cents per pound when U.S. producers need about $2 per pound to be profitable. The cheaper imports have driven down domestic prices, Burris said.

February traditionally kicks off the pollination season as beekeepers from throughout the nation converge on California for the six-week-long almond bloom. The almond indus-

try needs about 2.4 million hives to pollinate the crop, but there are only about 840,000 resident colonies.

In 2025, nearly 1.7 million hives crossed border inspection stations into the state, according to figures from Matt Beekman, a Hughson-area commercial beekeeper and CSBA executive board member.

Arriving bee shipments have steadily declined from 2021, when more than 2 million entered California.

Beekman attributed the decrease to mounting pressures on the industry, including rising costs, ongoing colony stress and long-term attrition among commercial beekeepers.

Nevertheless, Charleen Carroll, a Manteca-area bee broker and owner of Pollination Contractors Inc. for 47 years, said she didn’t experience hive shortages this season. Carroll sources bees from coast to coast through long-term relationships she’s developed with beekeepers.

“Last year was really horrible,” she said. “This year, 99 percent of our beekeepers are doing great. Next year is like Russian roulette.”

As with many agricultural commodities, Carroll said beekeepers in one part of the country may have strong hives while those in another region may have

weaker production due to different environmental conditions.

Fredy Valenzuela, owner of Golden State Honeybees in Paradise, is a smallish commercial beekeeper who offers pollination, honey and queens. He described his colony health this season as about the same as last year, when he didn’t experience significant losses.

“We’re not a big outfit, so we can manage them fairly well and stay on top of things,” Valenzuela said.

Buzz Landon, owner of Buzz’s Bees in Oroville, rents out more than 6,000 hives for pollination. He and his wife also produce honey, breed queens and sell packaged bees.

This year, he described his colony health as “good,” compared to last year, which he said was “really good.”

“They survived the dieoff,” Landon said. “It’s learning how to use these new materials.”

He was referring to a handful of new miticides that have been registered for use in California and federally during the past year.

Caleb Absher and his older brother, Cash, run Absher Honeybees, a Stanislaus County operation that offers pollination services and honey. Like many commercial beekeepers,

Caleb Absher said they experienced substantial losses during the 2024-25 winter. But this winter, “it looks 100 times better than last year.” He credited part of the improvement to paying close attention to varroa mites and treatments. Absher was also able to move his bees after pollinating almonds and cantaloupe in the Central Valley to fall forage that had tarweed. A late-blooming native wildflower, tarweed is known for its pollen and nectar production when other plants are done for the season.

Still top of mind within the industry is the early 2025 disaster, when numerous beekeepers nationwide began to discover dead hives that only months earlier seemed robust. The nonprofit honeybee research organization Project Apis m. responded by conducting a survey to gauge the problem.

Beekeepers representing 68 percent of the nation’s hives reported average colony losses of 62 percent. Nationwide, the losses totaled more than 1.1 million hives over a short period.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service Bee Research Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland, analyzed samples sent in from dead and dying colonies for possible causes. Scientists found unusually high levels of deformed wing virus strains A and B along with acute bee paralysis virus. Both are known to be vectored by varroa mites, pinhead-sized external parasites that feed on adult bees and developing larvae and pupae within brood cells.

The researchers also screened varroa mite samples for resistance to amitraz, a widely used miticide. All the mites were resistant.

Burris was quick to defend amitraz and said the industry shouldn’t broadly

dismiss the miticide. Instead, he said beekeepers and researchers should find new ways to use it effectively. Some beekeepers have turned to oxalic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in many foods, including spinach, to manage mites. Others have enlisted formic acid, another naturally occurring material.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and California Department of Pesticide Regulation recently approved increased labeled rates for Api-Bioxal, a powdered oxalic acid applied using a heat vaporizer. The label change does not apply to oxalic acid used as a dribble between hive frames.

The EPA and DPR also approved VarroxSan slow-release oxalic acid strips. Recently, they registered an RNA interference treatment, Norroa, which targets a specific protein in varroa mites, slowly halting their reproduction. But the pests can still parasitize bees and potentially spread the virus as they feed.

As queen breeders, Burris, Landon and others are working with the USDA-ARS Honey Bee Lab in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to develop queens with the varroa sensitive hygiene trait. Bees with the attribute remove mite-infested pupae from capped worker brood. But breeding for the hygiene trait is a slow process.

“It’s something that a lot of queen breeders are trying to look into,” Burris said. As with other varroa management methods, he looks at varroa sensitive hygiene as simply another tool in beekeepers’ arsenal rather than as a silver bullet.

This article was originally published in the Feb. 25, 2026, issue of Ag Alert, and is reprinted with permission of the California Farm Bureau.

California lawmakers rush to change rules on elderly parole

By Joe Garcia CalMatters

State legislators are taking aim at California’s parole system after two high profile sex offenders were granted opportunities for release from prison last year.

David Allen Funston and Gregory Lee Vogelsang each had been convicted of multiple sexual assaults against young children in the Sacramento region, but were both found suitable for parole in 2025 by California’s Board of Parole Hearings. Under elderly parole statutes, many convicted felons with life sentences may become eligible for their first parole hearing if they are at least 50 years old and have served at least 20 years.

Funston is 67 and Vogelsang is 57, and politicians are challenging the notion that 50 is an old enough benchmark for sex offenders to age out of criminal behavior.

Lawmakers put forward several bills that would restrict parole for sex offenders, a change they say reflects the severity of the crimes as well as doubts about the potential for sex offenders to safely reenter society. Some civil rights

and prisoner advocacy groups are raising concerns about the proposals, arguing they could weaken parole laws that have proven effective in reducing the state’s incarcerated population.

One of the main bills is authored by Democratic Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen of Elk Grove, who represents the region where Funston and Vogelsang committed their offenses. Her bill would raise the earliest parole age for sex offenders with life sentences to 65.

“I think rehabilitation is a thing — people can rehabilitate,” said Nguyen, who stressed she is not trying to repeal elderly parole altogether. “But when you’ve done things like molested little boys, ages 5 to 11, I just don’t know that you can change from that.

“It doesn’t matter 20 years. I don’t know that you can necessarily change yourself from wanting or stopping yourself from molesting little children. And as a mother to two young girls, this scares me.”

Funston earned parole at 67 years old after serving 27 years. He had originally been sentenced to three consecutive 25 years-to-life terms, plus an additional 20year sentence.

Vogelsang earned parole at 57, also after serving 27 years. He had originally been sentenced to 355 years-to-life.

Nguyen’s proposed legislation would also require the parole board and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to refer sex offenders with life sentences for psychological evaluation through the Department of State Hospitals, which can choose to commit a person indefinitely to treatment if they deem them to be a “sexually violent predator.”

Currently, the state hospital screening only applies to sex offenders who are not sentenced to life sentences and will be released without a recommendation from the parole board.

In an Assembly Public Safety Committee meeting on April 7, Nguyen’s colleagues were quick to show bi-partisan support for the bill and requested to be listed as co-authors. It passed by an 8-0 vote.

“The way the law currently exists is a travesty to justice,” Assemblymember Tom Lackey, a Republican who is a retired California Highway Patrol officer, told CalMatters. “It’s ridiculous. It’s absurd, and it’s extreme. I think the public is finally over this stuff.”

Funston, Vogelsang remain in custody

Elderly parole dates to 2014 as part of court-mandated efforts to decrease the state prison population. A 2020 law lowered the elderly parole eligibility age to 50.

Gov. Gavin Newsom this spring expressed concern about the possibility of Funston and Vogelsang being released. He used his authority to request the board conduct further reviews of each of the men’s parole hearings.

Funston’s parole grant was upheld and finalized in an en banc ruling on Feb. 18 — where the entire parole board scrutinized the decision of the two commissioners who originally determined Funston was not an unreasonable threat to public safety.

“It was a solid, solid decision — legally sound,” said attorney Maya Emig, who represented Funston at the Sept. 24, 2025, parole hearing where he was found suitable. “There was candor. There was deep understanding, just such deep programming. He really did the work to earn his freedom.”

But on Feb. 26, the day of his release, Placer County filed new criminal charges against Funston from an old unprosecuted

investigation. Prison officials handed him directly over to local law enforcement.

Funston remains in the Roseville jail, potentially awaiting a new trial.

Vogelsang’s finding of parole suitability went to an en banc review last month, and the parole board decided to schedule a further hearing to determine if his parole should be rescinded. He remains in state custody and will either be released or resume his life sentence.

A parole system in question

Because of Funston’s and Vogelsang’s potential chances at freedom, more public attention has been focused on the Board of Parole Hearings and its decision-making process. Republican lawmakers in March held a press conference outside of a board meeting to draw attention to Vogelsang’s potential release.

“Any member of the parole board who voted to release these predators — in my opinion, they should be removed right now,” said Lackey. “When you release a child molester back into the community, you’re putting more children at risk.”

People released from prison through

the parole board have an extremely low recidivism rate with less than 3 percent of them committing new crimes. Less than 1% of them return to prison for crimes involving violence against another person.

A 2008 California Supreme Court case known as the Lawrence decision turned on the parole board’s repeated denials of parole to a prisoner. Justices held that the facts of a crime are “static” or “immutable” because they cannot be changed.

The court further stated that a “particularly egregious” crime or the static facts thereof cannot, by itself, support a denial of parole if there is no evidence that the offender poses a danger after lengthy rehabilitation.

“Legally, the board must release someone if they no longer pose a current, unreasonable risk to the public,” said Jennifer Shaffer, former executive officer of the Board of Parole Hearings. “The board takes its responsibility very seriously. It employs about 70 experienced forensic psychologists who evaluate each person’s risk.

“The risk assessments they produce are based on decades of well-established research.”

Sports

Express staff

The 530 Ducks 14U 7-on-7 football team capped its inaugural season with a league championship, earning rings with a win over Team Natomas on April 19 in North Highlands.

The Ducks began preparing in December 2025, competing in tournaments in Stockton and the Sacramento area before entering league play. The team faced larger programs from across Northern California in Sunday matchups throughout March and April.

Made up of players from small communities including Winters, Williams, Arbuckle, Colusa and Woodland, the Ducks were led by head coach Art Garcia of Winters and team president and assistant coach Connor Herrick of Colusa County.

Garcia and Herrick first connected while coaching opposing youth teams — the Arbuckle Jr. Bears and Jr. Warriors — before

joining forces to build the 14U 7-on-7 squad from within their local league.

Without hesitation, Garcia accepted the opportunity to lead the team.

“Seeing these young group of athletes are special and having the opportunity to coach them is a blessing. Specially when I love what I do,” Garcia said.

Despite facing larger opponents from bigger cities, the Ducks relied on determina-

tion and teamwork through the season.

“We knew going into our league games we were going to be facing large city teams with bigger kids,” Garcia said. “Our small town kids have bigger hearts. They played every Sunday with heart and played for their small towns.”

The Ducks’ championship run highlighted both their resilience and growth in their first year as a program.

“I’m still excited

and proud of every player on the 530 Ducks,” Garcia said. “These kids are special. I am very excited to coach them at the high school level.”

Team members include Jason Salad and Mason Salud of Arbuckle; Santiago Mendoza and Edgar Ibarra of Williams; Liam Jaime of Woodland; Isaac Apaseo of Colusa; and Jack Bentz, Damien Torres, Aiden Estepa, Tony Passantino III and Carlos Jenkins of Winters.

Track competes at NorCal Small Schools Invitational

Last Friday, the Winters High School track and field team traveled north to Chico High School to compete in the NorCal Small Schools Invitational. Several athletes set new personal bests and showed strong improvement from the start of the season.

Track events

100 meters

• Varsity boys: Jayden Clifford led Winters, placing 13th in 12.22 seconds, followed by Oswaldo Del Toro (27th, 14.07).

• Varsity girls: Kourtnei Hampton placed second in 14.68, while Alexys Penunuri finished 11th in 13.81 (season best).

• JV boys: Brandon Herrera placed 15th in 12.74 (personal best), followed by Levi Reyes (19th) and Elijah Sarro (26th).

• JV girls: Andrea Reyes placed 12th in 14.30, while Isabella Banuelos finished 24th (season best).

200 meters

• Varsity girls: Penunuri placed

fourth in 28.78 (personal best).

• JV boys: Chris Conchas finished 19th in 27.44 (personal best).

400 meters

• JV boys: Braden Corliss (17th, 1:04.80) and Damien Chiasson (19th, 1:07.68) both set personal bests.

• JV girls: Anita Guzman placed ninth, followed by Miranda Guzman Haro (15th).

800 meters

• Varsity girls: Angelina Passantino placed fifth in 2:47.19.

• JV boys: Elias Seth led Winters in 11th, followed by Maximiliano Hernandez (19th).

1,600 meters

• JV boys: Elijah Sarro placed sixth in 5:31.47 (personal best).

3,200 meters

• Varsity girls: Lupe Pedraza finished sixth in 16:25.34 (personal best).

110-meter hurdles

• JV boys: Levi Reyes won the event in 17.44 (personal best), setting a meet record.

Relays

4x100 relay

• Varsity girls: Winters’ A team (Penunuri, Idaly Lopez Sanchez, Hampton and Varenna Terronez) placed seventh in 57.29.

• JV girls: Winters’ A team (Andrea Reyes, Camila Martinez, Natalie Saunders and Guzman) placed seventh in 1:00.11.

Field events

Shot put

• Varsity boys: Ramon Lopez won with a throw of 45 feet, 8.5 inches, while Gavyn Moore placed sixth at 40-6 (personal best).

• Discus

• Varsity boys: Lopez won with a throw of

144-8 (personal best), followed by Moore in second at 138-1.

High jump

• JV boys: Damien Chiasson placed 11th, clearing 4 feet, 4 inches.

Long jump

• Varsity boys: Clifford led Winters, placing 18th at 15 feet, 9.25 inches, followed by Del Toro (24th).

• Coming up next, the team heads to Paradise High School to compete in its second league meet of the year (April 22).

Next week, Winters hosts the third and final league meet before the league championships and celebrates senior night, recognizing all of this year’s track seniors (April 29).

After that, the team returns to Paradise to compete in the league championships, with some athletes possibly advancing to divisional and section championships.

Thank you, and go Warriors!

—Hawk Selleck is a senior at Winters High School. He’s a sports enthusiast and participates in the school band, and many other things on campus. He enjoys music, baseball, and track and field.

Warriors walk off Spartans

By Traci Calvert Special to the Express

The Winters High School varsity softball team avenged a loss earlier in the week with a 3-2 walkoff victory over East Nicolaus on Friday.

The Warriors struck early, scoring two runs in the first inning and holding the lead until the Spartans tied the game in the top of the seventh.

Winters answered in the bottom half.

Frances Lundy laid down a well-placed bunt to advance the runner to third, setting the stage for Riley Nelson, who delivered a walk-off hit to secure the win.

“We made some defensive and offensive adjustments we thought would give us an edge,” said

head varsity softball coach Garrett Garcia.

The victory marked Winters’ first win over East Nicolaus in more than a decade and signals the Warriors’ emergence as a contender in league play.

Ava Estepa pitched a strong game for Winters, backed by a defense that committed no errors against a potent Spartan lineup.

Nelson, Raegan Hurst and Estepa each recorded hits in the win.

“This team has great chemistry and energy on the field. It’s been fun coaching this group,” said Garcia.

Winters returns to action next week against Durham in continued league play.

WHS fields JV softball team for first time in years

By Traci Calvert Special to the Express

For the first time in several years, Winters High School has fielded a junior varsity softball team, signaling a step forward in rebuilding the program.

Head coach Erin Johnston brings 18 years of experience and a strong passion for the sport, while assistant coach Hayle Rubio is a familiar presence in Winters softball. Together, they are focused on developing student-athletes both on and off the field.

Their goal is to strengthen players’ skills while building confidence through encouragement rather than fear. Johnston said

the coaching staff is prioritizing a strong foundation as the program works toward becoming more competitive.

As the team continues to develop, coaches have seen individual players step up in key ways. Juliette Duenas has taken on catching duties despite having no prior experience at the position. Giuliani Arriago anchors the defense at shortstop, and center fielder Lily Wardrip is contributing in her first season playing softball.

The early efforts reflect a team committed to growth and improvement, with the addition of a junior varsity squad pointing to a promising future for Winters softball.

Arts & Entertainment

WHS Musical Theater debuts with energetic ‘Addams Family’

Special to the Express

The Winters High School musical theater class staged its first official production over the weekend, drawing more than 270 audience members to Pioneer Church’s Wesley Hall for “The Addams Family: The Musical.”

WHS performing arts teacher Mike Williams directed the production with assistance from co-director Linda Glick. Together, they guided students through an ambitious production featuring a full song list, choreography, costume design and acting. Rehearsals began in January, following a December mini-performance written by WHS senior Ricki Rodriguez.

Adapted from the original Broadway production, “The Addams Family: The Musical (School Edition)” puts a lively spin on the famously eccentric family. At the center is Wednesday Addams (Addison Thach), now a teenager who has fallen for a kind-hearted, all-too-normal young man, Lucas Beineke (Eden Graham). When the two families meet for dinner, their contrasting worlds collide in surprising and often comedic ways.

Adding to the tension, Wednesday asks her father, Gomez (Jonah Gibbs), to keep her relationship a secret from Morticia (Kylee Jackson and Izabelle Guzman), a request that challenges the family’s long-standing tradition of honesty. Lucas’ parents, Alice (Melanie Muller and Evelyn Ramirez) and Mal (Kennedy Brown), question the family their son has been introduced to.

As the evening unfolds, secrets emerge, expectations shift and both families are forced to reconsider what

it means to love and accept one another.

Uncle Fester (Jackelyn Cooper) delights the audience as narrator and through a comedic subplot involving a newfound love interest in the Moon. Pugsley (Jazlynn De La Cruz) struggles as Wednesday’s attention shifts to Lucas and wonders whether she will ever return to her torturous sibling antics.

tors (Erica Hechy, Cheyanne Larsen, Angie Polk, Valeria Reyna, Sofia Salgado, Peytyn De Leon and Muller). WHS band members Jack Jordling provided percussion, and Noah Thach played electric bass alongside Williams to support the production’s live music. WHS musical theater students Kylie Dreyer, Victor McCall and Sammy Vargas assisted with lighting and props, while Ricki Rodriguez, Carolyne O’Campo and Blanca Duran handled set design. Audience members responded enthusiastically to the performance.

“Every student had a new and exciting challenge that they conquered, and I sincerely hope that they look back on this time with the same amount of pride and awe at themselves and their friends as I do,” Williams said.

The Winters Music Boosters partnered with the WHS performing arts program to support ticketing and production needs.

Community members who would like to support the WHS performing arts program through Winters Music Boosters can donate at https://bit.ly/ donatewhsmusic.

Grandmama (Evelyn Jordan) and Lurch (Gavin Pisani) add their own signature quirks to the production, supported by a lively ensemble of ances-

UCD Bee Haven sponsors nature-journaling classes

By Kathy Keatley Garvey Special to the Express

The UC Davis Bee Haven will sponsor two nature journaling classes billed as “Relaxed Mornings Among the Bees and Blooms.”

A beginners’ session for teens and adults is set for Saturday, May 2, and a session for young explorers (kindergarten age through fifth grade) will take place Sunday, May 3. Both will be led by naturalist, watercol-

orist and science educator Lorie Topinka of Davis, former assistant director of education at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco.

Samantha Murray, education and garden coordinator of the garden, said the sessions “invite you to slow down, look closely, and capture what you find, through sketches, notes, and your own creative observations. Step into the Bee Haven garden and let curiosity be your guide.”

“You’ll learn simple nature journaling techniques as you wander among pollinators and plants,” Murray said, adding “There’s no pressure to make ‘good art’ — nature journaling is about presence and noticing, not perfection. Leave with your own journal pages filled with the sights, textures, and tiny wonders of Bee Haven and a new way of seeing the world just outside your door.”

The Bee Haven is on Bee Biology Road west of the UC Davis campus. It was installed by the department of entomology and nematology in the fall of 2009, and thrives with more than 200 native plants and displays of multiple art projects; the work of classes taught by UC Davis distinguished professor emerita Diane Ullman. She is the director emerita and co-founder of the UC Davis Art-Science Fusion Program.

Topinka said mature journaling is “about curiosity, noticing details, and enjoying time outside. She traces her love of nature journaling to the years she spent at CAS, where “curiosity and careful observation were part of everyday life.”

It was there that she picked up a sketchbook in the field and “never stopped.” She went on to teach “Sketching for the Science Classroom” and “Nature Journaling” to educators as well as the general public.

42nd Street, a

42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square and the magic of show biz with wit, humor, pizzazz, and a whole lot of TAP DANCING! Come be stunned by color, whimsy, dancing, singing, and star‐power! Solano College Theatre, 4000 Suisun Val‐ley Road, Fair�eld. SCT@ solano.edu, 707-864-7100

Jacki @ 10pm The Great Northern, 119 Utah St, San Francisco

Maznoize @ 10pm The Great Northern, 119 Utah St, San Francisco

Winters Youth Day: “Youth Ahoy!”

@ 9:45am

The Kiddie and Main pa‐rades march down Main Street, followed by family fun at Rotary Park with food, vendors, activities for youth of all ages, the crowd-favorite Dunk Tank and more. Rotary Park, 201 East Main Street, Win‐ters. wintersyouthday@ gmail.com

MOSAIC Family Camp Day

@ 2pm Family Camp Day is an afternoon and evening for the whole family! Expect fun hands-on activities, music, bon�re and s'mores in a camp-inspired place. Nelson's Grove, 15285 County Road 99E, Woodland. info@mosaicchildrens museum.org, 530-650-6279

Latin Soul Spring Fling Los Cochinos and QVO Band!

@ 7pm Angel Garcia Cultural Room, 1019 Del Paso Blvd., North Sacramento

Recliner with The Etiquettes

@ 7pm Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St, San Francisco

42nd Street, a classic Broadway musical presented by Solano College Theatre!

@ 7:30pm / $10-$24

42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square and the magic of show biz with wit, humor, pizzazz, and a whole lot of TAP DANCING! Come be stunned by color, whimsy, dancing, singing, and starpower! Solano College Theatre, 4000 Su‐isun Valley Road, Fair�eld. SCT@ solano.edu, 707-864-7100

Robert Gastelum @ 8:30pm The Royale, 800 Post St, San Fran‐cisco

Emo Nite (21+ Event) @ 9pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street, San Francisco

Solano County Public Native Plant Garden Tour @ 10am / Free Tour public outdoor spaces to dis‐cover California Native Plants in garden settings Solano countywide Dunnell Nature Park and Ed‐ucation Center (Dunnell Park), 3351 Hillridge Drive, Fair�eld. out reach@jepson.cnps.org

42nd Street, a classic Broadway musical presented by Solano College Theatre! @ 2pm / $10-$24

PTDT Spring Concert - The Ripple Effect @ 2pm / $20 Pamela Trokanski Dance Theatre Spring Concert: The Ripple Effect, a thoughtful, and sometimes hu‐morous, exploration of the reper‐cussion of our actions as individu‐als, communities, and as a species. Louise H Kellogg Memor‐ial Theater, Pamela Trokanski Dance Workshop, 2720 Del Rio Place, Davis. of�ce@trokan ski.com, 530-756-3949

Interna‐tional

Karaoke

Night @ IHouse @ 5:30pm / $10-$20

A gathering to celebrate diversity through music without borders. No pres‐sure, no judging, just shared joy and community while experiencing karaoke from around the world! International House Davis, 10 College Park, Davis. camila@ihouse davis.org, 530-753-5007

Anime Titties Tour in San Francisco!

@ 7pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

Jazz Ma�a: Realistic Orchestra at Keys Jazz Bistro in SF @ 7pm Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco

Agness Twin: Sirens of the East @ 7pm Make-Out Room, 3225 22nd St, San Francisco

CJ Lawrence @ 7pm

Folklore

Records+Drinks+Food, 1226 3rd St, Napa

Long A: San Francisco, CA

@ 8pm The Faight Collective, 473A Haight St, San Francisco

Absolution @ 8pm Old Ironsides, 1901 10th St, Sacra‐mento

Tai Chi Classes for Beginners

@ 8:50am Beginning tai chi classes offered at the Woodland Community & Senior Center Woodland Community & Senior Center, 2001 East Street, Woodland. tina�tness68@ gmail.com

Strength & Balance Class

@ 1:15pm Strength & Balance 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 SaloonPeter Lindman and Felix Bannon

@ 4pm

The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

GamperDrums Presents: ZinggFlower - Mondays at Biscuits & Blues @ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

Paci�ca - Band @ 8pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street, San Francisco

Emi Grace @ 8pm Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St, San Francisco

Saturday Apr 25th

Stellamara Acoustic Roots Trio @ 7pm / $25 Watermelon Music, 1970 Lake Boulevard, Davis. info@TimnaTalMusic.com, 530-867-1032

Reuniting the core members of Stellamara, an internationally acclaimed ensemble known for its evocative blend of early and traditional modal (The Eastern Classical Music tradi‐tion) music.

Valley Road, Fair�eld. SCT@ solano.edu, 707-864-7100

Beginning/Intermediate

Donovan

Chipper Lowell - Comedy

Magician: CHIPPER LOWELL LIVE! - Where COMEDY & MAGIC Collide!

@ 7pm The Loft Theatre-Lounge-Dining, 1001 Heavenly Village Way, South Lake Tahoe The Toxhards @ 7pm

Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

Doomsday @ 7pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

Still Ruins @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Ambar Lucid @ 8pm August Hall, 420 Mason 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

Remy Sher @ 7pm Folsom Ho‐tel, 703 Sut‐ter St, Fol‐som Liberty Ellman: w/ Marcos Varela Quartet @ 7pm Mr. Tipple’s Jazz Club, 39 Fell St, San Francisco

Oxis

@ 7:30pm Channel 24, 1800 24th St, Sacra‐mento

Beginning and Intermediate Tai Chi

@ 10:15am Tai chi classes suitable for begin‐ning and intermediate practitioners Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. tina�tness68@gmail.com

bobbyy @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

Jared Mattson @ 7pm Kilowatt Bar, 3160 16th St, San Francisco

PHER Sings the Blues

@ 7pm / $30

Black Cat Jazz Supper Club, 400 Eddy St, San Francisco. info@black catsf.com

inkBoat present the World Premiere of "Clouds from a Crumbling Giant: our wild shining days" @ 8pm / $25

inkBoat present the World Pre‐miere of "Clouds from a Crumbling Giant: our wild shining days" at Z Space as part of the San Francisco International Art Festival. Z Space, 450 Florida Street, San Francisco. andrew@s�af.org, 415-305-1102

Phil Grif�ths: Next Stop Comedy at Luna Restaurant (Headlining) @ 8pm Luna Restaurant, 2118 Willow Pass Rd #100b, Concord

Mufutau Yusuf presents "Impasse" @ 8:30pm / $25

Mufutau Yusuf presents the West Coast Premier of "Impasse" at Dance Mission Theatre as part of the San Francisco International Arts Festival. Dance Mission The‐ater, 3316 24th Street, San Fran‐cisco. andrew@s�af.org, 415-3051102

Danny Sandoval & His Amigos @ 9pm Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacramento

Fri 5/01

Healing Arts 6-Session Workshop @ 10am / $35 May 1st - Jun 5th Sign up now to grab a spot in the Pence's next 6-session Healing Arts Workshop! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia @gmail.com, 530-758-3370

Grooblen @ 7pm Mabuhay Gardens, 443 Broadway, San Francisco

Bel Canto presents Into the Light - a Bene�t Concert featuring the Rutter Requiem @ 7:30pm / $15-$35 Features the resplendent Rutter Requiem with orchestra, and a col‐lection of modern songs to �ll your soul. Proceeds bene�t the Provi‐dence Community Health Founda‐tion First Presbyterian Church of Napa, 1333 3rd Street, Napa. mu sic@belcantonv.org

People's Circus Theatre present the World Pre‐miere of "The Un�nished Work of Camille Claudel" @ 8pm / $42 People's Circus Theatre present the World Premiere of "The Un�n‐ished Work of Camille Claudel" at Dance Mission Theater as part of San Francisco International Art Festival. Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th Street, San Francisco. andrew@s�af.org, 415-305-1102

Jero @ 9pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐cisco

JLittle @ 9pm f8, 1192 Folsom St, San Francisco

Blyss @ 9pm f8, 1192 Folsom St, San Francisco

SULKFORM @ 9:30pm DNA Lounge, 375 11th St, San Francisco

The SF Stair Challenge @ 8am / $100 5 miles. 2,000 steps. 100% pure fun! The SF Stair Challenge is a unique, scenic physical challenge connecting some of San Francis‐co’s best stairways into one epic route! Alta Plaza Park, Steiner Street, San Francisco. events@ walksf.org Commu‐nity An‐gels Ven‐dors Faire

88TH ANNUAL YOUTH DAY

Saturday, April 25

Proud Supporter of Winters Future Farmers of America and Parent Teachers Association!

Proud to Support Youth Day and the Winters Community!

Proud Platinum Sponsor of the Winters High Safe and Sober Grad Night & Yearly Sponsor of the Winters Little League since 2019!

Monticello Veterinary Practice is proud to have been serving Winters and the surrounding areas for the past 9 years. We look forward to continuing to meet the community needs for years to come. We are a full service veterinary clinic that proudly offers the following services for dogs, cats, pocket pets and exotics:

• Digital X-Ray • In-House Labs • Surgery

• Dental Services • Wellness Plans

Mayfair Vet Care Urgent Care 105 E Dorset Drive, Dixon

Open Fri - Mon 11am - 7pm to satisfy the need of our communities

Please visit our website at monticelloveterinary.com

2026 Youth Day Events Schedule

Friday, April 25

Youth Day Opening Ceremonies

• 5:30 p.m. Ceremony on downtown Main Street. Celebrate the 2026 Grand Marshals, Youth Grand Marshal and the Youth of the Year, Educator of the Year honoree.

Youth Day Cornhole Tournament

• 5:30 p.m. Check-in at Hooby’s Brewing.

• 6:15 p.m. Bags fly. Kick off community fun, Memorial Fun Run early check-in, sponsor a duck, raffle prizes and more.

Saturday, April 27

Rotary Pancake Breakfast

• 7 to 9:30 a.m. at Winters Community Center

• 8 a.m. Youth Day street closures begin.

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. The 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 are in the park.

Youth Day Festival

Activities, food trucks and vendors 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rotary Park, and set up along Main Street and Railroad Avenue.

Dunk Tank Mayhem

• 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Dunk Tank Mayhem is a fundraising event featuring local leaders who support youth programs and organizations. Proceeds benefit the Youth Day scholarship fund. The Dunk Tank lineup includes: Winters High School Principal Justin Young,

AYSO Referee Admin Eric Jepsen, Winters Middle School Principal Jose Bermudez, Express Editor Crystal Apilado, WHS Youth Day Club President Hawk Selleck and Winters Educator Danielle Smith.

Parade Awards

• 2 p.m. on Winters City Park stage

Duck Derby event

The 12th Annual Duck Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at 11 a.m. Sponsor ducks and enjoy family fun activities and treats at Rotary Park. Ducks hit the water at 11:45 a.m.. More details to follow. Adopt a Duck (as available racers last) at https://bit.ly/derbyducks2026.

DUNK TANK MAYHEM SCHEDULE

The Dunk Tank will be set up on Main Street near the Rotary Park Gazebo. Event goers can get 3 balls for $5.

11:30 a.m.

Justin Young, WHS Principal 12 p.m.

Eric Jepsen, AYSO Referee Admin 12:30 p.m.

Jose Bermudez, WMS Principal 1 p.m.

Crystal Apilado, Express Editor

1:30 p.m.

Hawk Selleck, WHS Youth Day Club

2 p.m.

Danielle Smith, Winters educator

Proceeds support the Winters Youth Day Scholarship Fund.

TUEL SELECTED AS FIRST YOUTH GRAND MARSHAL

BY EXPRESS STAFF

Anew tradition will debut at this year’s Youth Day Parade, and fittingly, it begins with a student whose impact already reaches far beyond the field, the classroom and the community she calls home.

Violet Tuel, a senior at Winters High School, has been selected as the inaugural Youth Grand Marshal, a distinction created by the Youth Day Committee to recognize young leaders who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership and dedication to the Winters community.

“A nomination came in for Violet and we were inspired to create this new award,” said Youth Day board member Crystal Apilado. “We’re already putting all of this work into involving local youth more. Students vote on the Youth of the Year. The Youth Grand Marshal opens up the opportunity to include youth who aren’t attending school in

the Winters Joint Unified School District or who are possibly under the radar doing amazing things. We look to our community to nominate adults as the Grand Marshal based on the work they do for youth, why not ask them to recognize youth who are doing amazing work too.”

Rooted in community values

The Youth Grand Marshal title mirrors the long-standing Grand Marshal recognition, which honors adults for sustained contributions to youth and community life. The youth-focused award, however, shifts that lens to the next generation — celebrating students who actively serve others, lead by example and create meaningful impact. Candidates are nominated by community members and selected by the Youth Day Committee based on demonstrated service, leadership, academic effort and strong character. The award is distinct from Youth of the Year, which is schoolnominated and student-voted.

serves as both a youth advocate on the Winters AYSO Regional Board and a youth liaison on the Area 2D board. She is also a certified U.S. Soccer Federation referee, working weekend matches.

Her volunteer efforts include Meals on Wheels deliveries, participation in community cleanups and drives, mural projects and local events. She has also taken on leadership roles as a church youth volunteer and as a cabin leader for Exploring New Horizons.

“I enjoy working with youth and volunteering to help others,” Tuel said. “I became an AYSO youth referee to advocate against youth referee abuse and help prevent it from happening. I am strongly against any abuse towards referees, especially youth.”

Her advocacy has extended beyond officiating. Tuel helped organize a youth soccer festival aimed at increasing access and participation for local families.

other people,” Tuel said. “One who makes good decisions, is patient with others and one who is responsible and respectful. I hope others have role models who are like that as well.”

For Tuel, the idea of community is simple but powerful.

“Community means friends and family who help and support each other no matter the situation,” she said. “Community means feeling safe with one another and having each other’s backs.”

Tuel said she was surprised to learn she had been nominated for the honor.

“I am extremely honored and thankful for the community, and I will wear this title with pride,” she said. “I have been a part of this community, and have been volunteering since I was very young. I will treasure this title and am thankful for the recognition for the hard work and help I have done.”

Together, the honors reflect a shared vision: recognizing both those who have long supported youth and those who are already shaping the community’s future.

Tuel’s selection reflects years of involvement across athletics, leadership and volunteerism.

A four-year varsity athlete in both soccer and track, she has also spent four years on the high school yearbook staff, serving as chief editor and president for the past two years. Her campus involvement includes Link Crew, WHS News Club and Interact Club.

Beyond school, her service expands even further. Tuel has volunteered as a youth referee with AYSO for five years and now

“In a small town, there are people that are involved in multiple organizations, and someone there is always needing any help they can get,” Tuel said. “Everybody knows everybody and I feel safe helping out. Our town is limited without corporate sponsors, so our community is the one to sponsor one another.”

Driven by purpose

Tuel credits her mother as a key influence in her commitment to service.

“She has volunteered alongside me all of my life, and has always cared about helping our community as well,” Tuel said. “She pushes me to do my best, and because of her, I strive to be more responsible, helpful, and determined.”

That foundation has shaped the example she hopes to set for others.

“I want to be the role model who is helpful, kind, and one that cares about

A lifelong soccer player and goalkeeper, Tuel plans to continue both her academic and athletic career at Solano College, where she will study media and communications and compete on the women’s soccer team. She hopes to transfer to a four-year university before pursuing a career in public affairs with the U.S. Air Force.

“I’ve loved writing ever since I was young,” Tuel said, noting her passion for yearbook, photography and design. “I can’t wait to continue it in my future.”

As the first Youth Grand Marshal, Tuel sets the tone for what the recognition represents: not just achievement, but impact.

“I’d like to encourage people to pursue and accomplish the goals and dreams they have in life,” she said. “I hope to make an impact by showing that any small or big action to help others isn’t left unnoticed. By helping others we build a strong community.”

“If

A SHARED HONOR, A PARTNERSHIP IN SERVICE

BY JACOB HOFFMAN

In an already extraordinary year, one more rarity will visit Winters: the title of Grand Marshals of the Youth Day Parade will be shared.

That rarity is less unusual than it might appear. This year’s Grand Marshals, Zach and Sterling Davis, are a husband-and-wife team who have each — and together — made an indelible impact on the youth of Winters.

Among their many contributions, the Davises co-founded the Winters Youth Basketball League, coached at Winters High School and volunteered for Winters Combined PTA events. Sterling also serves as a trustee on the served on the Winters Joint Unified School District school board

“Their consistent service, leadership, and genuine care for Winters youth embody the spirit of Youth Day,” their nomination letter reads. “Zach and Sterling are wonderful role models, and their contributions deserve recognition.”

The Davises shared about what the

honor means to them, what inspired their volunteer work and what it has taught them about their community and themselves.

Sterling expressed their shared gratitude, noting the honor of being chosen in a community like Winters, where so many give their time.

“For both of us, it’s incredibly humbling because the volunteer work we do is not about being recognized, and in our community with so many people who volunteer and give back to the kids, it feels astounding to be chosen amongst so many worthy people.”

For the Davises, volunteering began the way it does for many: by recognizing a need and stepping in to help fill it.

Zach traced his path to youth volunteering and local sports to dissatisfaction with his oldest daughter’s experience in a basketball program.

“I thought quite honestly, something should be done,” Zach said, “and maybe I could do something better than what was being offered.”

sports and service, noting that his father introduced him to basketball at a young age and modeled volunteerism.

“When I moved to Winters in high school, I lived with a family (Debbie and Ben Geerts) who were also highly involved in their kids’ lives and community, and that too was inspiring for me. I always noticed the strong connection with volunteerism in Winters.”

As a cheer coach for more than nine years, Sterling emphasized the relationships and mentorship she has built with students as a key motivation.

She shared examples ranging from a former cheerleader calling her late at night when stranded with car trouble to a student asking her to attend a soccer game because her parents never did.

For Sterling, those moments “spoke everything about the reason why coaching … what makes being a part of kids’ lives so meaningful. Those are the things that stick out and push me to keep doing this year after year.”

Another major motivator, the Davises said, is the example they can set for their own children, the youth they serve and the broader community.

makes you feel more of a connection to where we are living, it sets an example for our daughters so that when it becomes time they’ll want to give back whatever it is they are capable of doing, and seeing there is a positive impact.”

The Davises’ impact spans a wide range of efforts. Sterling has served as a capstone mentor for 13 student projects, including the creation of the Pink Out football breast cancer awareness game and Find a Cure Night. She also coached Winters Junior Warriors cheer for three years and served on the Winters PTA board for two years. Zach has been an assistant coach for the WHS varsity girls basketball team for three years and has mentored two seniors through WYB capstone projects.

The Davises closed with a message about the importance of volunteering and the accessibility of giving back, regardless of scale.

After meeting with the city, he and Sterling organized a new Winters Youth Basketball League for elementary-age children.

“For me, it was seeing something that wasn’t being done so well, and it kind of lit a fire inside of me to fill the void of something that wasn’t being currently offered.”

Zach also pointed to early influences in both

“I like to think I’m setting an example for our own kids, and for the kids on our teams that we’re working with,” Sterling said, reflecting on her own transition from being supported by her community to giving back. “I didn’t know it at the time, but I realized that, as it was my turn to step into my community, that this stuff happens because of the hardworking people, like my previous coaches, or the different people who I saw as models, and if I don’t get to say it to these kids, I want to show it to them.”

Zach agreed.

“I think also getting involved also

“I think that’s what we want our community to know that it doesn’t have to take a lot to volunteer. You don’t have to be creating youth organizations from the ground up or coaching for nearly a decade or serving as an elected official to make a difference, it can just be offering the skills that you have,” Sterling said.

“It’s something that I’ve told people who have asked us how we are able to be doing everything that we are,” Zach added. “This is what we are telling them — that it is possible, it’s just something that you have to be prepared for,” he said, emphasizing communication, shared calendars and meal preparation.

“We know that volunteerism can be a high commitment, and we hope that what we’re doing will allow someone else to want to do it also.”

WINTERS YOUTH DAY ACROSS GENERATIONS

BY EXPRESS STAFF

The history of Winters Youth Day, originally compiled by students in the late 1960s and provided to The Winters Express by parade officials, spans more than nine decades of community tradition. Later summaries covering 1968–1990 and 2011–2018 were compiled by Mike Sebastian. In recent years, Express staff have continued that work, updating earlier accounts with additional detail drawn from archived Express articles collected by Tom Crisp and preserved in the two Winters Youth Day scrapbooks maintained by the Historical Society of Winters.

Origins & Growth of Winters Youth Day (1933–1999)

Founding (1933)

Winters Youth Day began April 29, 1933, through the vision of Rev. C.P. Barkman and Winters High School Principal Dr. A.M. Herron. They believed young people should be given opportunities to develop civic responsibility while also enjoying social and recreational activities. The first celebration combined a parade, games, a picnic and a citizenship program, establishing a tradition centered on youth leadership and community involvement.

Pre-war Years and Revival (1934–1949)

Early celebrations featured horsedrawn entries, school competitions and prominent guest speakers, including university leaders and state officials. By the late 1930s, Youth Day had grown into a major community event, drawing large crowds and expanding its program offerings.

The celebration paused during World War II, returning in 1946 with renewed energy. Postwar Youth Days saw record attendance, large parades stretching miles through town and the introduction of new traditions such as the Boy Scout Camporee kickoff. Community participation surged, and the event reestablished itself as a

signature

Winters tradition.

Growth and Youth Leadership (1950s–1970s)

Through the 1950s, Youth Day attendance climbed into the thousands, with expanded programming that included concerts, hobby shows, athletic events and evening entertainment. The Kiddie Parade tradition began in 1952, adding a new layer of youth participation.

A major shift came in 1960 when Winters youth took on leadership roles in planning and organizing the event, guided by local mentors. This transition strengthened the event’s core mission of civic engagement.

During the 1960s and 1970s, Youth Day continued to grow with larger parades, new contests and expanded community involvement. Events such as talent shows, watermeloneating contests and even a greased pig contest reflected the evolving and spirited nature of the celebration. Attendance regularly reached 7,000 or more, underscoring its importance to the region.

Expansion and Community Tradition (1980s–1990s)

In the 1980s, organizational leadership shifted to the Winters Chamber of Commerce, helping stabilize and expand the event. Youth Day grew into a multi-day celebration with the addition of a carnival and increased community sponsorship. Traditions such as the Youth Day Sweetheart, parade grand marshals and themed festivities became firmly established.

The 50th anniversary was celebrated in 1986, honoring founding families and long-standing contributors. Youth Day also marked milestones in representation, including the election of its first female Youth Day mayor in

By the 1990s, Youth Day had evolved into a full-scale community festival featuring parades, talent shows, sporting events and family activities in City Park. New additions such as the Kids Faire, expanded contests and community showcases reflected the town’s continued commitment to youth engagement. Despite changes over time, the event remained rooted in its original purpose: celebrating and empowering the youth of Winters.

Educator of the Year

As the celebration continued into the modern era, one tradition that grew in importance was the recognition of local educators who shaped and supported Winters youth. The Educator of the Year award became a meaningful part of Youth Day honors, highlighting individuals whose dedication extended beyond the classroom and into the broader community.

Because these educators deserve recognition, the following is a list of Winters Youth Day Educator of the

Dr. Taylor Langdon, DC specializes in family, prenatal, sports, and animal chiropractic. Dr. Taylor is Webster technique certified through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) to treat pregnant women. Dr. Taylor received her animal chiropractic certification through the Animal Chiropractic Education Source (ACES). She treats small animals in her office and commutes to barns for large animals. Her mission is to provide quality chiropractic care to all people and animals in each stage of life.

David Lorenzo

Public Figure

Real Estate Agent • Coach

As a local resident of the California community, I am extremely passionate about my hometown and all that its beautiful neighborhoods have to o er. I pride myself on providing my clients with the most thorough, full service experience by creating relationships that extend beyond the sale. Appreciating the diverse culture of California is what makes my job truly rewarding, but seeing the smiles on my clients’ faces when they find the home of their dreams is what makes my job the best. Let’s find your home together.

Wed & Thu 1pm-6pm

APRIL 25TH

•

U.S. SILVER COINS

CARRION PROPERTIES

56.41 acres. Located just East of Winters towards Davis off Russell Blvd. The Ag well and pump have been recently been refurbished. This property comes with a mature Hartley orchard with a solid set sprinkler system. Class 1 soil. An excellent spot to build your dream home, as there’s already a

towards the middle of the orchard which adds

Year recipients. There are gaps for 2014, 2017, and 2018, and it is unclear whether the award was presented during the two years Youth Day was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further review of records is needed to confirm those years.

If you know any of the missing names—or if you are a past recipient and notice an error—please email the editor.

Winters Youth Day Educator of the Year recipients:

2000: Pam Scheeline

2001: Jack Delbar, Gary Pitek

2002: Laurie Helm

2003: Polita Gonzales

2004: Kent Benson

2005: Liz Coman

2006: Vickie Catalan

2007: Gloria McCreary

2008: Diane Grimmard

2009: Jim Stark

2010: Matt Baker

2011: Courtney Caruso

2012: Raena Lavelle

2013: Olivia Rodriguez

2014: Name not yet confirmed

2015: Matt Biers

2016: Laurie Helm, JoanE Jussell, Woody Fridae, Kari Mann

2017: Name not yet confirmed

2018: Name not yet confirmed

2019: Jeff Sims

2020: No event (COVID-19 pandemic)

2021: No event (COVID-19 pandemic)

2022: Donnie Whitworth

2023: Andrea Hurst

2024: Sue Bridge

YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE

2025: Michael Williams

2026: Daniel Ward

Youth Day: Year-by-Year

The following years reflect both the continuation of longstanding traditions and the continued evolution of Youth Day.

2000: Sunny weather and a relaxed atmosphere made Youth Day 2000 one of the best. After opening ceremonies the night before, residents gathered for the Rotary Club pancake breakfast at the Community Center. The Kiddie Parade and main parade followed along Main and First streets, featuring marching bands, floats, and high-stepping horses. Grand Marshals Jeff Hesemeyer and Dianne Beaton, Honorary Grand Marshal Jack Graf, and Youth Day Educator of the Year Pam Scheeline rode in the parade. The sweetheart float, themed “Peter Pan,” carried 2000 Sweetheart Natalia Franco and her court. Heather Halk served as Youth Day mayor. City Park featured the Kids Faire, climbing wall, food vendors, and games, while Little League games and family picnics rounded out the day.

2001: A cool breeze gave way to warm weather for the 65th annual Youth Day. Sweetheart Edith Rodriguez and her court were introduced at opening ceremonies, along with Grand Marshal Germaine Hupe, Honorary Grand Marshals Richard and Evelyne Rominger, and Educators of the Year Jack Delbar and Gary Pitek. Youth Day officials included Mayor Jimmy Ramos; council members Joie Rodofda, Krystal Majorvas, Jennie Little, and Brandi Vigil; Judge Mike Paschoal; City Clerk

2012: Youth City Attorney Emily Laredo and City Attorney John Wallace

Jenaye Shepard; Fire Chief Jessie Svozil; City Manager Jill Fox; Police Chief Jordan Romney; Treasurer Christina Lopez; Chamber of Commerce representative Adam Mills; City Attorney Liliana Aredondo; Community Service Director Melanie Stocking; and Public Works representative Elaine Medina.

2002: Cool temperatures in the 60s marked this year’s Youth Day. Opening ceremonies included recognition of Chairman Mike Sebastian, Grand Marshal Frank Ramos, Educator of the Year Laurie Helm, and Sweetheart Jenaye Shepard. Students participating in a mock city council meeting included Mayor Brandi Vigil; council members Sara King, Beth Curry, and Amanda Balough; City Attorney Krystal Majorvas; City Manager Elaine Medina; Treasurer Joie Rodolfa; City Clerk Jenaye Shepard; Judge Chris Majorvas; Police Chief Jordan Romney; Fire Chief Jose De

ceremonies.

2004: A “record” number of pancakes were served at the Rotary Club breakfast on a beautiful Youth Day morning, according to member Charles Wallace. Grand Marshal Susan Southworth, Honorary Grand Marshal Phil “Flip” Ritchie, and Sweetheart Beth Curry were recognized at opening ceremonies. Kent Benson was named Educator of the Year. City officials included Mayor Chad Stocking; council members Jordan Shugart, Jackie Correa, Kaely Romney, Marty Sackett, and Megan White; City Clerk Mallory MacLaughlin; Judge Kristin Lucero; and Treasurer Richard Atherton.

La Cruz; Community Services Director Jill Fox; and Public Works Director Jessie Svozil. Topics discussed included city beautification, the high school parking lot, and sports funding.

2003: Although rain was forecast, clear weather prevailed. About 660 people attended the Rotary pancake breakfast, with an estimated 1,400 pancakes served. Youth Day officials included Mayor Maggie Brewer; City Clerk Krystal Majorvas; Treasurer Richard Atherton; Judge Sabrina Brunning; Police Chief Jacob Nelson; Fire Chief Chris Carrion; City Attorney Jessie Svozil; Community Services Director Megan White; City Manager Katelyn Cummings; Public Works Director David Wentling; and council members Joie Rodolfa, Marissa Garcia, Flavio Guimaraes, and Mike Sellers. Grand Marshal Harold Anderson, Honorary Grand Marshals Kay and Al Graf, and Educator of the Year Polita Gonzales were recognized at opening

2005: Balmy weather accompanied Youth Day 2005, themed “Garden of Our Youth.” Leticia Rodriguez and Piedad Junoz were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Guillermo Figueroa won the Youth Day talent show. Gloria Marion was honored as grand marshal, and Liz Coman was named Educator of the Year. Kaely Romney served as mayor, with council members Sarah Warren, Jackie Correa, and Sarah Cooper. Winters Cub Scout Pack 600 won the Sweepstakes Award for best float.

2006: After weeks of rain, clear skies arrived in time for Youth Day, themed “Celebrating Youth Generation by Generation.” Katie Hill won the talent show with “Chain of Fools.” Jackie Stocking and Jacob Thorne were named sweetheart and sweethunk. John Lopez was grand marshal, Peg Dozier honorary grand marshal, and Vickie Catalan Educator of the Year. Tyler Cross served as

mayor, with council members Ozzy Arce, Sarah Warren, and Savannah Waldron. The Rotary breakfast served nearly 750 people, and the parade featured more than 100 entries. Winters Friends of the Library won the Sweepstakes Award.

2007: Warm weather marked Youth Day 2007. Opening ceremonies included the talent show, where Ashley Jordan and Mattie Long took first place performing “Beautiful.” Kelsey Fox and Mat Catalan were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Gloria McCreary was Educator of the Year. Grand Marshal Mike Sebastian was honored for his longtime involvement with Youth Day, and Mae Martin, who witnessed the first Youth Day, was honorary grand marshal. Events continued throughout the day at City Park. First Northern Bank won the Sweepstakes Award for its pirate-themed float.

2008: The 72nd Youth Day carried the theme “Safari to Success.” The band “Green River,” made up of Joey Sanders, Steven Lanfranco, and Nick Hawley, won the talent show with “Crossfields of Gold.” Ari Ruiz and Cody Campos were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Diane Grimard was Educator of the Year. Karen Benson-Neil was grand marshal, and Kathy Skaggs was honorary grand marshal. A memorable parade moment included a marriage proposal from a participant in armor. The Winters High School Class of 2010 won the Sweepstakes Award with a safari-themed float.

2009: Blue skies and temperatures in the low

YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE

70s marked Youth Day 73. Grand Marshal Manuel Garcia was honored at opening ceremonies for his years of service to youth baseball. Peggy Narducci was named honorary grand marshal.

Jameson Shugart served as mayor, while Anna Solorio and Robby Emery were named sweetheart and sweethunk.

Jim Stark was Educator of the Year. Talent show winners Christyna Lopez and Raenne Ramos performed “A Thousand Miles.” Sweepstakes Awards went to Moms on Cowpeds and the Winters High School Class of 2010 for entries reflecting the theme “Wild West Youth.”

2010: Youth Day 74 featured picture-perfect weather. Opening ceremonies were held at the Community Center, where parade chairman Mike Sebastian presented plaques to Grand Marshal Bruce Rominger, honored for his service to the Winters community as a farmer, philanthropist and mentor.

Juanita Skaggs was recognized as honorary grand marshal. Matt Baker was named Educator of the Year. Winters Parent Nursery School won the Sweepstakes Award for its float, themed “Let Your Youth Shine Through.” After the parade, the Buckhorn celebrated its 30th anniversary downtown with live music and special menu offerings. BryanBraker Funeral Home debuted the Bryan-Braker Railroad, a model train for children to ride.

2011: The parade was led by Winters business owners and philanthropists John Pickerel and Melanie Bajakian, recognized for their years of service to the community, as grand marshals. Courtney

Caruso was named Educator of the Year. Youth Day Mayor Polette Gonzales led the festivities alongside Mayor Woody Fridae. Youth city council members were Alexandra Balasek, Brandon Masteller and Elliot Herrera. Youth Day was recognized with a proclamation from Assemblywoman Lois Wolk and Yolo County Supervisor Mariko Yamada for its years of service to the Winters community.

2012: Winters music director Lynne Secrist led the 76th Youth Day parade and was honored for her dedication to the school district’s music program. Mayor Woody Fridae and Youth Day Mayor Kevin Lane led the council delegation. The Youth Day sweetheart was Katie Clark, and the sweethunk was Isaac Asak. Vickie Southwick, 91, attended for the first time since participating in the inaugural Youth Day parade in 1933.

2013: The 77th Youth Day parade was led by Grand Marshals Don and Tracy Calvert, longtime community volunteers. Olivia Rodriguez was named Educator of the Year. Mayor Cecilia AguiarCurry introduced Youth Day Mayor Nicholas Muldong. Youth city council members were Ka’eo Drumright and Paola Calderon. Youth Day royalty included Sweetheart Yvette Valadez and Sweethunk Ty Spalding. The parade hosted the 2013 California

Sunday-Tuesday: 8am-8pm

Wednesday: 8-3pm

Thursday-Saturday: 8am-8:30pm

Buckorn Steakhouse

Monday-Thursday: 4-8:30pm

Friday-Saturday: 4-9:30pm Sunday: 3-8:30pm

State Horsemen’s Association Championship Parade, attracting entries from across California, and featured 75 entries.

2014: The 78th Youth Day parade was led by Winters Little League volunteers Chris, John and Mark Rodriguez, who continued the program started by their father, Rudy Rodriguez. Youth Day Mayor Fernando Cortes and Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry welcomed attendees, joined by youth city council members Ignacio Ochoa and Micaela Tweedt. The Youth Day sweetheart was Alex Cushman, and the sweethunk was Jake Ivory. The theme, “May the Youth Be With You,” brought a fleet of stormtroopers to the parade.

2015: Youth Day honored Tawnya McCracken Martin as grand marshal for the 79th parade, recognizing her volunteer work with FFA, 4H and other organizations.

Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and Youth Day Mayor Edgar Chavez led council members

YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE

Emily Ferreira, Mariah Castillo, Brooke Little and Sarah Hagy. The Youth Day sweetheart was Isabel Angel, and the sweethunk was Chris Kays. The parade featured 60 entries.

2016: The 80th anniversary celebration was a major success. The parade was led by Grand Marshals the Thomas Sisters, recognized for their contributions to the Winters community. Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and Youth Day Mayor Emily Ferreira led the procession, joined by council members Mariah Castillo, Jolie Cintas, Nataly Hernandez and Valeria Serratos. The year also marked the retirement of Mike Sebastian as parade chairman after 35 years.

2017: The 81st Youth Day parade was led by Winters Junior Warriors founders Rudy and Shelly Baylor, recognized for their contributions to youth sports. Mayor Wade Cowan and Youth Day Mayor Emily Ferreira led the council delegation, joined by Nataly

Hernandez and Andrea Gonzales. The sweetheart was Kenya Gallo, and the sweethunk was Devon Muldong. The parade marked the 75th appearance of the Yolo Post 77 American Legion Color Guard and the final year for announcer and former chairman Gilbert Sebastian, who retired after 45 years. The parade featured 58 entries.

2018: The 82nd Youth Day parade was led by the Project Playground Committee as grand marshals. The city council was represented by Mayor Wade Cowan, Youth Day Mayor Andrea Gonzales, and council members Nataly Hernandez, Ian Lopez, Itzel Rodriguez and Kyle Gardener. The Youth Day sweetheart was Karina Del Toro, and the sweethunk was Moises Garcia. Former parade chairman Mike Sebastian marked 40 years as parade announcer and committee member. The Autos for Autism Car Show was added to City Park festivities.

2019: Superheroes of all ages gathered for a sunny Youth Day, themed “Super Youth — The Heroes of the Future.” The Duck Derby was postponed to May due to high water levels in Putah Creek. The Winters JUSD Hall of Fame float took first place, featuring inductees Patty Rominger, Germaine Hupe, Gloria Lopez and Tom Pearse. Mike Sebastian served as parade chairman, and Winters Elementary School Principal Greg Moffitt was

grand marshal. The Youth Day council included Mayor Andrea Gonzalez; Mayor Pro Tem Nataly Hernandez; Secretary Victor Angel; City Manager Yolanda Covarrubias; City Clerk Itzel Rodriguez; Police Chief Celeste Garcia; Fire Chief Jackie Ayala; Treasurer Ian Lopez; and City Councilmember Jorge Luis Fernandez.

2020: Amid the coronavirus pandemic, and with state and county mandates not allowing events, the Youth Day committee made the difficult decision to cancel the 84th Youth Day celebration.

Since the first Youth Day in 1933, this marked the first cancellation since World War II. To keep the focus on youth and maintain the spirit of Youth Day, the committee awarded four $500 scholarships to Winters High School Class of 2020 seniors.

2021: Although plans were in place to return in 2021, the Youth Day committee again opted to cancel the celebration. The committee cited local and state mandates, which created significant challenges for planning gatherings, as well as the impact of the pandemic on

small businesses and vendors. To continue supporting local youth, four $500 scholarships were awarded to members of the Winters High School Class of 2021.

Winters High School continued the tradition of selecting a Sweetheart Court. The 2021 WHS Youth Day sweetheart was Liliana Balderas, and the sweethunk was Jesus Chavez. The Sweetheart Court included Kimberly Garcia (Class of 2024), Madeline MacMahon (Class of 2023), and Celeste Garcia (Class of 2022).

The Winters Express launched “Family Fun Week” to help keep the spirit of Youth Day alive, hosting a family movie night and a downtown duck hunt.

2022: Following a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the 84th Winters Youth Day celebration returned in 2022 with the theme “Youthfully Ever After.” Festivities began Friday, April 29, with a Downtown Winters Duck Hunt and Duck Derby.

Opening ceremonies were held across the creek at Green River Brewing & Taproom,

YOUTH DAY AT A

GLANCE

where Youth Day Committee

President Mike Sebastian honored Jenny Ramos as grand marshal. Donnie Whitworth was recognized as Educator of the Year. Brooklyn Mariani was named sweetheart, and Atanacio Garcia Jr. was named sweethunk. Lupita Tovar served as Youth Day mayor, and Lexi Hellinger as youth city manager.

Saturday, April 30, featured the return of the Rotary pancake breakfast, the kiddie and main parades, park activities, and the WHS alumni baseball game.

2023: The 85th Winters Youth Day celebration nearly did not take place due to a lack of volunteers during the early planning stages. However, community members stepped up to support the Youth Day Committee, and the Kiwanis Club of Winters took on organizing the annual Duck Derby. The theme was “Grow Youthful.”

Youth Day Committee

President Mike Sebastian honored Carol McMastersStone as grand marshal.

Winters High School teacher

Andrea Hurst was named Educator of the Year. Serena Husted was selected as sweetheart, and Luca Navarette as sweethunk. Lupita Tovar served as Youth Day mayor, and Angelica Michel as youth city manager.

2024: The 86th Winters Youth Day committee set out to return the event to its roots, prioritizing student involvement in planning and celebration through collaboration with the school district and the city. Planning was well underway at the start

of the school year, but the unexpected death of longtime parade chairman and president Mike Sebastian created challenges as committee members adjusted without his leadership and institutional knowledge.

With the support of additional community volunteers and a commitment to carrying forward his vision, the event moved ahead successfully. The inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall brought youth council members back into a hands-on learning environment, including demonstrations from the Winters Police Department, Winters Fire Department, and the city’s Public Works Department. Students also participated in a Youth City Council meeting, where they approved agenda items to create a “Report a Pothole/ Pavement Emergency” form on the city website and to direct Winters Police Department staff to develop a program on drug prevention and student resources.

The theme was “Youth: The Musical.” Mike Sebastian was named honorary grand marshal in memoriam. Winters Middle School teacher Sue Bridge was selected as Educator of the Year through a districtwide vote. The traditional royal court was replaced with a Royal Ambassador marketing program, with Alison Gamboa and Karen Covarrubias serving as ambassadors. Eden Miller was Youth Day mayor, and Mikenzie Hapworth-Eldridge served as youth city manager. During the Youth City Council

meeting, Treasurer Vidali Ceja served as acting city manager. Julian Bermudez served as the first Winters Middle School council member.

2025: The 87th Winters Youth Day event saw another shift as Kiddie Fair activities were moved to Rotary Park. The theme was “Youth Around the World.” Winters High School music teacher Michael Williams was named Educator of the Year, and Eden Miller was named Youth of the Year through a districtwide vote. The Youth of the Year award was revived after previously being discontinued. Danielle Smith was selected as grand marshal, and John Donlevy was named honorary grand marshal.

The Winters Youth Civic Engagement Program expanded with the inaugural Youth Board of Trustees, alongside a Youth Trustees Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unified School District modeled after the Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall.

The Youth Board of Trustees included 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; and public input speakers Abbey Carrion and Paige Gerard.

The 2025 Youth City Council included Mayor Eden Miller; council members Serena Husted and Hawk Selleck; City Manager Aydarri Seth; City Clerk Valentine Soriano; Fire Chief Fernanda Blanco Delgado; Public Works Director Jackson Bronson; and Police Chief Guadalupe Pedraza Mejia.

The Duck Derby was held in June due to high water levels in Putah Creek.

Your Youth Day Memories

The Winters Express invites community members to share their favorite Youth Day photos, whether from this year’s celebration or years past. Photos may be emailed to news@wintersexpress.com

. Submitted photos may appear in upcoming Youth Day coverage and publications. Please include the year the photo was taken, the names of those pictured and any additional details or context to help preserve the history of the event.

Coming Up - Our 2026 Plays

Hi, I’m Jenni! As your local Commercial Insurance Agent — born and raised right here in Winters — I am dedicated to protecting the community I love. My goal is to give you total con dence that you, your business, and your assets are fully protected. From Workers’ Comp and Liability to Cyber, Property, and Farm policies, I have the expertise to ensure you’re covered whether you own or rent. Call me today to ensure your peace of mind.

A Chorus Line

The poignant, provocative and exhilarating Tony and Pulitzer prize winning musical.

Directed by Shane Robert

May 22 - June 7, 2026

LitFest 7

Poetry and storytelling by local and regional wrtiers.

June 28, 2026, 6-8pm

FREE ($10 donations requested)

Seeking submissions at winterstheatre@gmail.com

Romeo

and Juliet

Shakespeare’s tragedy of “star-crossed lovers.”

Directed by Andrew Fridae

July 21 - August 9, 2026

Pigs Is Pigs & Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories

Dynamic and entertaining staged reading of “Pigs is Pigs” and other works by Butler, one of the wittiest authors of the early 20th century.

Directed by Cody Svozil

September 11 - 13, 2026

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

A holiday classic by Barbara Robinson, the heartwarming and hilarious story of mayhem when “the most awful kids in history” are in the annual church Christmas pageant.

Directed by Anita Ahua

November 20 - 29, 2026 & December 6, 2026