Winters Express: Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Lopez is 2025 Citizen of the Year

By Abigail Hofland Express correspondent

When Gloria Lopez, recipient of the Toast of Winters Citizen of the Year Award, received a phone call informing her of the honor, she graciously laughed off the distinction.

“I said, ‘Oh, that’s OK. Just go ahead and give it to somebody else,’” she recounted. “I always just think of myself as a worker bee. I’m behind the spotlight, not in it. So this is a very humbling honor for me.”

But if Lopez was taken off guard by the recognition, her nominators were unequivocal. They jointly affirmed a lifestyle of unmistakable engage-

ment, service and leadership.

A lifelong resident of Winters — except for a period away during the 1970s — Lopez’s community involvement has ranged from roles with Winters Parent Nursery School, 4-H and FFA to Winters Farm to School, the Winters Joint Unified School District board and the Winters Fire Protection District.

Over a 35-year teaching career, her volunteer spirit grew alongside her family.

“When you have kids, there are so many activities that need parent volunteers,” she said, then smiled as she reflected on her current season. “Once you retire, people go, ‘Oh

look! You have all this time,’” and the calls for involvement just keep coming.

After graduating from Winters High School in 1970, Lopez went on to study education at UC Davis. Her teaching career began with junior high home economics instruction in Modesto and Davis. Eventually, she taught family consumer science and child development at Sacramento City College, where she spent the bulk of her career.

Looking back on her childhood, Lopez credits several role models with demonstrating the importance of an others-focused

See LOPEZ, Page 8

The ‘Flower Ladies’ receive Theodore Winters Award

By Sonora Slater Express Staff Writer

It practically goes without saying that downtown Winters is picturesque — from the white gazebo at the center of Rotary Park, exuding nostalgic charm, to the quirky, historic buildings lining Main Street, to the thriving flower boxes that are always blooming, tidy, and bright. Some of Winters’ charm is intrinsic, owed to its smalltown, tight-knit feel. But much of its character and

Waggoner hosts early learning family information night

Waggoner Elementary School will host a family information night for families interested in learning more about the school’s transitional kindergarten (TK), kindergarten and dual-language immersion programs.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The evening will include informational presentations, opportunities to meet teachers, classroom tours and time for families to ask questions. Registration packets will also be available.

The presentation, in both English and Spanish, will begin at 5:30 p.m. Self-guided classroom tours will

take place from 6:15 to 6:45 p.m.

Eligibility

Children who turn 4 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2026, are eligible to register for transitional kindergarten.

Children who turn 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2026, are eligible to register for kindergarten. Families with questions should contact the Waggoner Elementary office at 530-795-6121.

Weather

appearance is intentionally curated and maintained by community members who work behind the scenes to shape the city’s livability and personality.

Each year, the community recognizes those efforts with the Theodore Winters Award, bringing usually unrecognized work into the light. This year’s recipients? The women who keep the downtown flower boxes full and flourishing.

The latest trio of women who took this task upon themselves — Nancy

Button Young, Niki Greenwood and Kristie Burris, also dubbed the guerrilla gardeners and known as the Flower Ladies — are not city employees. They are volunteers motivated by love for their city and the fulfilling work of keeping downtown flowers vibrant year-round. They are the 2025 Theodore Winters Award winners, honored for the deep impact their weekly efforts have had on the community.

See FLOWERS, Page 3

Trustees hear attendance, construction update

State champions recognized during packed meeting

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

It was a packed house on Thursday as the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized the football team for its state championship win, received updates on attendance during the first phase of the school year, and heard reports on construction projects across the district.

Attendance update

Russ Barrington, assistant superintendent of business services, provided the board with a brief presentation on the district’s P-1 First Principal Attendance Period, which runs through Dec. 31.

The district’s average daily attendance (ADA) for P-1

was 1,572.60, excluding students funded through county programs. Last year’s P-1 ADA was 1,535.54, demonstrating a slight improvement in attendance.

“That’s a real good sign for the district,” Barrington said. “We hopefully make it through the flu season with these numbers not shifting too much, and that would help us when we report out on our P-2.”

This was the first of two principal attendance periods the district reports on. The next period will run through April 15, with a final Annual Attendance Period reported through June 30.

Barrington said the district is projected to be funded based on current-year ADA.

Facilities update

Del Rio opened her presentation by noting it would be a “pseudo-bragging session” for her and her contractors, who were especially busy over winter break.

At Waggoner Elementary School, asphalt has been installed but is awaiting slurry sealing once warmer weather arrives. A permanent front fence has replaced the temporary construction fencing.

Del Rio said much of the recent work has taken place inside the new classrooms, including installation of ceiling tiles, cabinetry, and fixtures, with carpet to be installed soon.

“This is the phase that’s not as visible to the public because everything’s inside the classrooms,” Del Rio said. “But there’s still a lot of activity, and we’re getting very

Ashley Del Rio, program manager with Van Pelt Construction Services, returned to provide an update on progress at the Waggoner Elementary School transitional kindergarten project and the Winters Middle School kitchen project.

Community

Davis announces Yolo Superior Court candidacy

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

Ryan Davis, a Sacramento Superior Court commissioner and longtime Davis resident, announced Tuesday his candidacy for Yolo Superior Court judge in the June 2 election.

Davis, 45, says he’s seeking a Yolo County judgeship “because I want to serve the community I’ve called home for more than 40 years.”

“Throughout my career — as both a lawyer and a judicial officer — I’ve been dedicated to the fair administration of justice,” Davis said, noting his broad background that spans civil, criminal and family-law matters. “I want to bring that commitment home and help ensure that Yolo County’s courts remain worthy of the public’s trust.”

Four of the court’s current judges have their terms expiring this year: Janene Beronio, Danette Castillo Brown, Tom Dyer and Catherine Hohenwarter. The court also has a vacancy with the retirement of Judge Tim Fall earlier this month.

Davis earned his law degree from the UC Berkeley School of Law in 2009. From there, he spent a decade representing men and women on California’s death row in post-conviction proceedings, including at the Office of the State Public Defender and at the Federal Public Defender’s Office for

the Central District of California.

He also served as a deputy attorney general at the California Department of Justice, representing Californians in a variety of complex legal cases, including work surrounding constitutional and statutory law, government operations, elections, state mandates, criminal law and firearms.

Appointed as a Sacramento Superior Court commissioner in 2023, Davis currently presides over family-law matters such as divorce, child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, and domestic

violence cases.

He’s also taught at both the UC Berkeley and UC Davis law schools and serves as an advisory member of the Judicial Council of California, the state judiciary’s policymaking body.

In his campaign announcement, Davis said his campaign will focus on “ensuring that access to justice is not limited by language, economic circumstance or other barriers.”

“My entire legal career has been shaped by the conviction that every person is entitled to a level of compassion and respect that is not earned and cannot be forfeited,” he added.

Off the bench, Ryan has served the Davis community as president of the Davis Schools Foundation, a Davis Human Relations Commission member, a member of the Davis Joint Unified School District’s Parcel Tax Citizens Oversight Committee, and a community panelist for Yolo County’s Neighborhood Court program.

“I’m proud of my public service and the responsibility I’ve been entrusted with throughout my career,” Davis said. “I’m running to serve Yolo County with fairness, integrity and respect for the people who rely on our courts.”

Davis and his wife Nikola, a Patwin Elementary School teacher, have two daughters.

For more information about Davis’ campaign, including a list of endorsements, visit his website, RyanforYolo.com.

Workshop focuses on how grazing can curb wildfires

Special to the Express

Wildfire threatens every community in the Capay Valley. How will you plan for the upcoming fire season? While many turn to lawnmowers and weed whackers after the rainy season, there’s an alternative: prescribed grazing using cattle, sheep, or goats.

Even if you have no experience with grazing, the Yolo County Fire Safe Council can help. Funded by CAL FIRE, the council facilitates prescribed grazing projects to manage fuels in high-

Special to the Express

PG&E will contribute $1 million to help local food banks replenish stocks after the holidays and help feed the growing number of individuals and families struggling to put food on the table.

Nine of these food banks are in the greater Sacramento area and are receiving $168,000, including $19,170 to the Yolo Food Bank.

The PG&E funding will provide the equivalent of approximately three million meals for individuals and families. It will support 38 food banks representing 47 counties in PG&E’s Northern and Central Cali-

Winters JUSD seeks nominations for Hall of Fame Class of 2026

Express staff

The Winters Joint Unified School District is now accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame, which honors individuals who have gone above and beyond for the district and the community. Nominations open Jan. 7 and will close Feb. 4.

Launched in 2018, the Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made lasting contributions to the district and community. Honorees are selected in three categories: alumni, employee, and distinguished service. Eligibility criteria and nomination forms are available on the district’s website at https://www. wintersjusd.org/hof.

risk fire areas of Yolo County. Prescribed grazing uses ruminants to consume grasses and other ground cover that fuel wildfires, reducing available fire fuel.

Well-managed grazing also benefits the land through weed control, improved soil health, and reduced erosion.

The Yolo County Fire Safe Council, in partnership with grazing expert Sarah Keiser of Wild Oat Hollow, is hosting the Capay Valley Grazing Workshop: Managing Wildfire Fuel with Grazing Ruminants on Saturday, Jan. 24,

It is the third contribution to food banks since September from PG&E or The PG&E Corporation Foundation. Funding for these charitable contributions comes from PG&E shareholders, not PG&E customers.

Officials with the California Association of Food Banks said that food banks are facing re-

2026, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The hands-on workshop is open to residents of the Capay Valley and broader Yolo County interested in prescribed grazing for fuels reduction, animal husbandry, and community grazing cooperatives.

Presenters Sarah Keiser and Roselle Busch, DVM, of UC Davis, will cover:

• Basic animal stockmanship

• Animal husbandry, including hoof trimming, inoculation, and breeding programs

• Feeding and care, including small ruminant health, age

cord-breaking demand, the highest since the pandemic.

“California food banks experienced an unexpected surge with the [federal government] shutdown this fall. So, we reached out for help on their behalf and PG&E responded,” said Stacia Levenfeld, Chief Executive Officer of California

and teeth assessment, mineral needs, and overall management

• Prescribed grazing techniques and portable electric fencing

• Community grazing cooperatives

The workshop will be held at a Capay Valley location to be announced. Attendance is limited to 25 participants. The event is free, but registration is required.

To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/ yolo-grazing-school or contact Tanya Meyer, Fire Resilience Program Manager, at meyer@yolorcd.org or 530-661-1688 ext. 2.

Association of Food Banks. “Their $1 million gift to food banks throughout Northern and Central California will have a meaningful impact on the

Special to the Express

The Yolo Bird Alliance invites the public to participate in two popular winter birding field trips.

On Saturday, Feb. 14, the Bird Alliance invites birders to one of Northern California’s premier birding destinations: Bodega Bay. This full-day outing will focus on winter specialties, including shorebirds, gulls, loons, grebes, ducks, raptors and wading birds. Past trips have recorded more than 70 species, including brant, longtailed duck, rednecked Grebe, and a full “cormorant sweep” of Brandt’s, double-crested, and pelagic cormorants.

Former employees must have had a significant impact on academics, athletics, or student-centered activities and exemplified community service and good character.

Distinguished service inductees are local citizens or businesspeople whose extraordinary contributions brought exceptional benefit or honor to the district. There are no time requirements for this category.

Hall of Fame honorees will be selected and notified in mid-February. They will be recognized at an induction ceremony on April 23, with details to be announced.

Questions about the Winters JUSD Hall of Fame can be directed to Anietta Kelley, assistant to the superintendent, at akelley@wintersjusd.org or 530-7956100.

Alumni are eligible 10 years after graduating from Winters High School. Nominees should have demonstrated high quality, strong character, and active engagement in school programs, and continued these qualities in their professional careers, military service, or community involvement.

and returns by 5:30 p.m. Participants should bring binoculars, water, lunch, snacks and warm layers. A spotting scope is recommended; one will be available for group use. Participation is limited to five cars, and early registration is encouraged. The meeting location will be provided after signing up. On Sunday, Feb. 15, birders are also invited to explore the grasslands of southeastern Solano County in search of overwintering raptors and other winter visitors. The fields near Robinson and Flannery Roads are known for locally uncommon grassland species. Participants will scan fence lines, farm equipment, and open pastures for birds such as mountain plovers, horned larks, and Yolo Bird

Birding will be a mix of car-based viewing and short walks on level terrain. Bathrooms are available at some, but not all, stops. The trip meets at 6:30 a.m.

SENIORS AND STROKES

Winters Senior Foundation Community Meeting KNOWING A STROKE

• Learn The Facts About Strokes

• Types Of Strokes

• Risk Factors Not Within Our Control

• Risk Factors You Can Control

SPEAKER: Mr. Tom Hoag - Manager, Woodland Community Stroke Support Group

DATE: Thursday, January 22, 2026

GATHER: 1:00 pm for the discussion

LOCATION: Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave

The presentation follows Meals on Wheels (MOW) Winters Café Yolo lunch. All are invited to enjoy a free lunch from MOW. Please call MOW 530-662-7035, 24 hours ahead. Lunch: 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Questions: 530-794-6067

Regional News

California Forever announces largest construction worker pact ever

By Todd R. Hansen McNaughton Media

California Forever has signed “the largest construction labor agreement in history” with the Napa-Solano Building Trades Council and Northern California Carpenters Union.

“For over a century, California has been more than a state; we’ve been a promise: a symbol, a dare –to dream big, and to build even bigger,” California Forever said in a statement released Tuesday night.

“From the shipyards of the Bay Area to the studios of Hollywood, from rockets in the Mojave to microchips in Silicon Valley,

FLOWERS

Continued from Page 1

They weren’t the ones who started the beautification project. That credit goes to Nicki Chapman, who planted and maintained flowers downtown during COVID-19 as a way to keep busy and brighten the city. When she decided to retire, she asked Young to step in.

A fifth-generation Winters resident, Young’s ancestors were ranching pioneers in the area in the 1850s, and her family has stayed tied to farming for generations.

“I like having dirt under my fingernails, and I like being outside in the sun,” Young said. “When Niki asked me if I liked to garden, I said, ‘Heck yeah — it’s so rewarding.’”

Since then, Young has recruited Greenwood, who

lives of millions of people this holiday season and help food banks continue their critical work in our communities.”

“We are grateful to help local food banks fulfill their mission during this time of increasing demand, especially as more families and seniors are struggling through the holiday season,” added Joe Wilson, vice

burrowing owls, with chances to see prairie falcons, merlins, golden eagles, ferruginous hawks and roughlegged hawks.

Most birding will be done by car with frequent stops and a few short, level walks along gravel roads. Bathrooms are not available at this location.

This trip is limited to 11 participants in three cars, and space fills quickly. Participants should bring binoculars, water, snacks, and layered clothing for winter conditions. High winds or significant rain will cancel the trip. The group will return to the meeting location by mid-afternoon.

To register for these field trips, contact Zane Pickus at yolobirdalliance@gmail. com. Birders of all ages and skill levels are welcome.

The Yolo Bird Alliance, a chapter of the National Audubon Society, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering an appreciation of birds and

California didn’t just imagine the future, we built it,” the statement said. “Today, we’re reviving that spirit.”

Jan Sramek, founder and chief executive officer for California Forever, said the construction agreement allows for “the next great American city, and (will) lay the foundation for the next 100 years of California’s promise.”

The 40-year labor agreement covers all of the nearly 70,000 acres owned by California Forever – approximately 110 square miles.

It requires the majority of construction, including all infrastructure, public works, major commercial,

attended Winters High School at the same time as her, as well as Burris, a more recent Winters resident. Together, they plant pansies in the fall and petunias in the spring along Main Street and maintain the boxes year-round, each taking one day a week to weed, water, deadhead, and tidy the flowers.

“We have a vested interest in this community,” Young said. “Just like anything else, the more you put into it, the more you get out of it.”

Greenwood joined the project at Young’s request, given their long friendship. She said volunteering not only feeds her love of gardening but also serves as an outlet for her perfectionism when it comes to tidy, aesthetic yards.

“I can’t stand it when yards look ugly,” Greenwood said. “I have to fix it. I wanted these boxes to

president of PG&E’s North Valley & Sierra Region. “Our longstanding partnership with the California Association of Food Banks supports the safety net that is our local food banks.”

In September, the PG&E Foundation awarded $1.12 million to support local food banks, tribal food banks and senior meal programs.

In November, the PG&E Foundation donated $250,000 to the California Associ-

conservation in Yolo County. The group offers free field trips, lectures, and events — both live and virtual — to educate and in-

office, retail, industrial, defense and energy projects, to be built using union labor through individual project labor agreements.

The new city, the statement said, will include what was described as America’s largest advanced manufacturing park, its largest shipyard and the first walkable city built in a century.

“The Bay Area Council Economic Institute conducted an in-depth analysis of the economic and fiscal impact of the Suisun Expansion Plan and the Solano Shipyard, which was also released (Tuesday). The report estimated that once ramped up, construc-

look pretty, so we’ve really taken ownership of these flowers.”

Burris joined the team after spotting Chapman working on Main Street during a walk. “One thing led to another!” she said. After moving to Winters from Sacramento in 2021, she said the role has been a wonderful way to integrate into the community.

“I never expected things to evolve the way they have, but it’s sort of like synchronicity,” Burris said. “It’s helped me become part of this community as the new kid on the block. I love it here. This is where I’m supposed to be, I know it is.”

Though the work is demanding, Burris said volunteering is also enjoyable.

“It’s never been a chore,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun to talk to people, even drag these hoses down the sidewalk. And we always plan a luncheon together after

ation of Food Banks’ Emergency Response Fund. According to the California Association of Food Banks,

tion for both projects will create over 17,000 direct construction jobs in Solano County each year during the 40 year build out, with the majority of these jobs being union, paying an $108,000 in average annual compensation,” the statement said. At full build-out, the report stated, the combined impact of the Suisun Expansion Plan and Solano Shipyard would deliver:

● 530,000-plus new jobs, consisting of 225,000 new jobs in the new city and 205,000 new jobs elsewhere in Solano County and across California.

● $123,600 average compensation: 25% more than

planting days, of course.”

All three women said they were surprised and grateful to receive the recognition.

“We don’t do anything unusual,” Young said. “It’s just our little job we do.”

The Flower Ladies also wanted to acknowledge other so-called guerrilla gardeners in Winters who volunteer their time, from those tending the roundabout to volunteers caring for the gardens in front of the post office and library.

“There’s a lot of people doing things behind the scenes in Winters,” Young said. They also appreciate the many residents and tourists who stop by while they’re hard at work to chat or thank them for the flowers. If you haven’t yet spotted them, it shouldn’t be hard — all three now wear custom-ordered match-

account for county poverty and unemployment levels, us-

the current average salary in Solano County. ● 170,000 new homes of all types.

● $16 billion in annual tax revenue: $3 billion for local governments, $4.1 billion for California, and $9 billion for the federal government.

California Forever said “the land is ready; the plans are ready; the workers are ready. What’s needed now is approval to move forward – and the chance to break ground in 2026.”

The development group said residents can learn more and join the call to break ground at californiaforever.com/breakgroundnow.

ing Flower Ladies aprons while gardening.

“We’re official now,” Young quipped. If you see one of the distinctive blue aprons on a downtown stroll, stop by and say thanks. And if you’re looking for a way to get involved in Winters this year, Burris has advice.

“If you’re really looking, the right thing will come along,” she said.

The 2025 award winners Ample Electric (Business of the Year), The Guerrilla Gardeners (Theodore Winters Award), Rich Marovich (Senior Citizen of the Year) and Gloria Lopez (Citizen of the Year) will be honored at the Toast of Winters on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Winters Community Center. Tickets are available at Eventbrite or bit.ly/ toast25tickets.

ing the California Department of Social Services’ formula, to

promote equity among counties with higher need.

Public Safety Report

accident with injury

Jan. 7: 6:14 p.m., Interstate 505/Allendale Road, Motor vehicle accident

Jan. 8: 2:35 p.m., Dry Creek Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jan. 9: 7:20 p.m., Malaga Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jan. 10: 1:33 a.m., Matsumoto Lane, False alarm or false call (other)

~7:25 a.m., Myrtle Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~2:36 p.m., W. Main Street, False alarm or false call (other)

~7:11 p.m., Pleasants Valley Road/ Putah Creek Road, Outside rubbish, trash or waste fire

~8:09 p.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jan. 11: 4:40 a.m., Hillview Lane, False alarm or false call (other)

~8:16 a.m., E. Baker Street, Person in distress (other)

~1:23 p.m., County Road 29a /County Road 91b, Investigation

Jan. 12: 4:32 p.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle

Jan. 13: 4:53 a.m., Myrtle Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

View the Winters Fire Activity and Call Log at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.

Police Report Log

Jan. 7: 2:45 p.m., 400th block of Edwards Street, Towed Vehicle

Jan. 8: 11:06 a.m., 800th block of Jefferson Street, Informational report

~10 p.m., 200th block of Lenis Avenue, Domestic Dispute

Jan. 9: 8:36 a.m., 800th block of W. Main Street, ID theft

~1:27 p.m., 300th block of First Street, Fraud

~3:12 p.m., 20000th block of County Road 31, Outside Agency Assist

~4:01 p.m., 800th block of W. Main Street, Informational report

Jan. 12: 9:25 p.m., 700th block of Matsumoto Lane, Domestic Dispute

Jan. 13: 9:15 a.m., 100th block of E. Main Street, Missing Person-Located

View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log

130 Years Ago

January 25, 1896

A party of young men armed with picks, shovels, pans and rockers, went into the hills northwest of town last Monday on the hunt for gold. What success they had in their quest we have not learned.

B.R. Sackett and W. H. Gregory went to San Francisco yesterday afternoon.

J.H. Skinner came down from Durham, Butte county, last Sunday to visit with his wife, her father and mother, Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Wolfe of this place.

95 Years Ago

January 23, 1931

H. G. Boyce, M. A. Rhodes and Carl Holmes were in attendance at the fruit growers’ school held at Fairfield on Tuesday.

Mrs. W. I. Baker, for the local Red Cross, is making an appeal for funds for relief in the drought area. Some $20,000,000 is being raised by the Red Cross for this relief work.

Only one bid was received by the Town Board for the old water tank and tower. This bid was from Geo. Jeffries, poultry feed and supply man of the Allendale dis-

YESTERYEAR

Picked by Charley Wallace

Lake Berryessa water levels up

Express staff

The water level of Lake Berryessa increased by 0.25 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 4,625 acrefeet of water storage, according to Cristian Tejeda, Solano Irrigation District –Putah Diversion Office. On the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 20, he reported that the lake elevation was 436.59 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,487,496 acre-feet. The SID released 50 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 40 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 23 acre-feet of water per day. For more information about services from the Solano Irrigation District or to view the latest updates, visit https://www.sidwater.org.

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

trict. Jeffries’ bid was for $26.50 and he was awarded the tank.

Jas. H. Roseberry, druggist, escaped injury Tuesday evening when he ran into a large red hog in the highway. The pig was killed. It weighed over 500 pounds.

Born at the Sutter Hospital, Sacramento, on Friday morning, Jan. 23, to Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Vasey, a baby girl.

Miss Betty Linne Waggoner was the honored guest at a birthday dinner party given for her at the E.L. Dexter home Saturday night.

C.E. Wyatt, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Barker, Mr. and Mrs. Robt. Haze, Miss Thelma Little, Francis Jacobs and Fred Schaupp of the local Pacific Gas and Electric force attended the sales meeting of the company at Sacramento Fri- day evening.

Norval Morlan is exhibiting a badly damaged face this week as a result of a little accident over the weekend. He was helping to push a

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turned to his duties as manager of local Shell Oil Plant Monday.

Dean Griffin, U.C. student, was a weekend visitor at his parents’ home, Mr. and Mrs. J. Griffin.

45 Years Ago

January 22, 1981

balky car when it suddenly started, sending him face-first into the gravel.

80 Years Ago

January 25, 1946

Howard Pouz, planning engineer of the Bureau of Reclamation, will speak at a public meeting to be held at 8 p.m., Monday, Jan. 28, at the Winters High School gymnasium under the sponsorship of the Winters Service Club. An invitation to speak has been extended to N.D. Clark, supervisor from Napa County.

Paul Vannucci, veteran of World War II, and son of Mr. and Mrs. E. Vannucci of Capay, has declared himself a candidate for the office of tax collector of Yolo County.

H.O. Evans has sold his residence on Second Street near Grant Avenue to Elmer Flannery.

Douglas Fenlev attended an electric refrigeration repair school in Sacramento this week, put on by the Frigidaire division of General Motors. William Poppe of Oakland, formerly of Winters, was one of the instructors at the school.

Mr. and Mrs. Joe Diaz hosted a surprise birthday party one night last week honoring M. Munoz and Mrs. Z. Partain. Robert S. assumed his duties as S.P. agent of Vacaville last week. Parker DeWitt of San Leandro is succeeding Mr. Cadjew in Winters.

Wayne Ireland re-

The American Field Service speaking schedules are now being finalized for Winters High School students Jorge Vargas of Costa Rica and Nadine Hemmer of France. Jorge lives with Honore and John Eldridge and their family, while Nadine lives with Vicky Panzich and her daughter. Henry Ramos, left, of the La Tienda Market, presented a check for $771.35 to Cathey Larson, chairman of the Community Center Commission, to the center’s operational fund. The money was the net receipts from La Tienda’s New Year’s Eve benefit dance. The money represents the first donation to the ongoing operation of the center. Five one-room cabins and a bathroom building on Wolfskill Street were burned by the Winters Fire Department in a controlled burn operation that took about four hours, with three fire engines used. George Castro owns the property on which the cabins stood in a multiple-family zone along the creek edge. There are eight new names on the scroll at the City Hall, all members of the Century Club of contributors to the Community Center. They are Richard J. Rojo, Harry S. Kato, Utae Kato, Dudley M. Sparks, Martha B. Sparks and Anna L. Sparks, all memorials. Architect Dean Unger is the eighth member, making a total of 139 names on the scroll.

Eventos hispanos

Nuevas leyes del 2026 afectan a las fuerzas del orden y las armas de fuego

Por Angela Underwood Traducido por Carol Alfonso

A medida que California implementa nuevas leyes en el 2026, varias leyes podrían afectar las prácticas policiales locales y las regulaciones sobre las armas de fuego en Winters. El jefe de policía John P. Miller explicó cómo estos cambios, desde los requisitos de identificación de los agentes hasta normas más estrictas para el almacenamiento de armas, pueden influir en la seguridad pública y las operaciones policiales en la comunidad.

Las siguientes leyes se refieren a las fuerzas del orden de California, comenzando con la ley SB 627, que tipifica como delito que un agente de la ley use una mascarilla o cubrebocas mientras realiza sus funciones.

“La ley afecta tanto a los agentes de policía locales como a los agentes federales,” dijo Miller. “Los agentes podrían enfrentar sanciones civiles por arresto

TRUSTEES

close to basically being done.”

Van Pelt Construction Services is awaiting PG&E electrical work scheduled for the summer, which will require shutting down power at the site.

“PG&E will come in and do their work, and then we’ll have a fully operational classroom,” Del Rio said.

The Winters Middle School kitchen project saw the majority of its work completed over winter break, including underground plumbing and electrical work. Core Construction began preparing to install a fire suppression system, which was completed by Dec. 29, well ahead of the project schedule.

“Winter break was crazy. We got a lot done in two weeks,” Del Rio said. “They worked the weekends. They worked Christmas Eve. They worked New Year’s Eve. That team deserves an absolute appreciation shout-out because they worked hard, got this site ready and are still well on schedule.”

Because of the accelerated timeline, the Winters youth basketball league was able to resume practices the same day Core Construction completed its work.

Del Rio closed with an update on a planned student field trip to view a live demonstration of a

o detención ilegal de una persona si usan un cubrebocas.”

Además, el jefe señaló que la Asociación de Jefes de Policía de California (CPCA) apoyó la AB 250 y se opuso a la SB 627, como se hizo público, ya que estaba “dirigida al ICE (Control de Aduanas e Inmigración).”

“La legislación estatal no tiene jurisdicción, y las fuerzas del orden municipales no tienen la autoridad para hacerla cumplir,” dijo Miller, y agregó que la administración del presidente Trump actualmente impugna esa ley.

Al igual que los otros proyectos de ley, la SB 805 se basa en la aplicación de la ley y exige que los agentes de California que no usan uniforme muestren visiblemente una identificación que incluya su agencia y su nombre o número de placa.

“La ley también tipifica como delito menor la suplantación de identidad de un agente de la ley,” dijo Miller, y agregó, “Un proyecto de ley dirigido a

las fuerzas del orden federales encubiertas (ICE), pero como se mencionó anteriormente, sin jurisdicción local.” La política de uniformes del Departamento de Policía de Winters exige el uso de un uniforme “oficial,” que incluye una camisa tipo polo con una insignia bordada, nombre y rango, o, si se viste de civil y no está encubierto, mostrar una placa. Las dos últimas leyes se refieren a las armas de fuego, comenzando con la SB 53, que “endurece las leyes sobre armas al exigir que las armas de fuego almacenadas en el hogar se guarden bajo llave en una caja fuerte u otro dispositivo de seguridad cuando no se estén manipulando de inmediato.”

Miller dijo que la nueva legislación cierra una laguna legal que permitía el almacenamiento sin seguridad si el propietario del arma no esperaba que hubiera niños presentes.

“El incumplimiento podría resultar en un delito menor o grave,” dijo Miller.

Roomba-like device that uses building modeling data to mark floor plans directly onto concrete. Due to space limitations, the demonstration will instead be held at an alternate location. VPCS is coordinating with contractors to host the demonstration sometime in February.

“We’re really excited to get our contractors out in front of our kids and show them what this work looks like,” Del Rio said. “Construction fatigue is totally a thing, but there are some really cool things that come out of it.” County, Winters JUSD collaboration

Trustees voted to approve a 2x2 committee consisting of board President Joedy Michael and board Clerk Everardo Zaragoza in partnership with the Yolo County Board of Supervisors.

On Nov. 4, 2025, the Board of Supervisors established its own 2x2 committee with Winters JUSD, appointing Supervisors Lucas Frerichs and Angel Barajas.

Superintendent Rody Boonchouy presented the item, ex-

plaining that Frerichs approached him about ways the county and district could work more closely together.

Boonchouy said the meetings will provide an opportunity to address areas of mutual concern, such as mental health services, program coordination and other regional issues affecting the district.

Frerichs attended the meeting and spoke during public comment, expressing enthusiasm for the collaboration.

“I think it really provides an opportunity to come together regularly and talk about what we might still do together,” Frerichs said. “It’s not just about what we’re already working on, but

El jefe de policía dijo que la SB 53 fortalece la ley actual destinada a evitar que los niños u otras personas prohibidas accedan a las armas de fuego, pero el proyecto de ley va más allá al especificar detalles.

“Si no es razonablemente probable que un menor o una persona no autorizada tenga acceso a las armas de fuego, estas deben estar guardadas de forma segura si no están ‘bajo control inmediato,’” explicó Miller, detallando las directrices, que incluyen que la persona u otro usuario autorizado lleve el arma consigo.

“Y que la persona u otro usuario autorizado legalmente se encuentre lo suficientemente cerca del arma de fuego como para impedir que personas no autorizadas accedan a ella,” dijo Miller sobre el proyecto de ley que ya enfrenta posibles impugnaciones legales.

El jefe de policía destacó especialmente que el Departamento de Policía de Winters ofrece candados para armas de fuego de for-

asking, ‘What could we be working on together?’ That regular dialogue can lead to new ideas.”

He added that the county has appreciated working with many of the trustees in recent years and looks forward to expanding that partnership.

Football champs honored

The meeting opened with a standing-room-only crowd of football players, cheerleaders and band members who returned to Winters as state champions.

The team received certificates from the board, along with resolutions from the Yolo County Board of Supervisors honoring each player.

Varsity football coach Daniel Ward thanked the board for ensuring the cheer team and band were able to accompany the football team during its playoff run. Ward said that after securing the championship victory in Los Angeles, players ran to celebrate with the cheerleaders and band.

ma gratuita. Finalmente, la Ley AB 1127 prohíbe la venta de pistolas Glock que vienen con una barra de gatillo, lo que facilita su conversión a armas automáticas con un simple interruptor.

“La ley, que entra en vigor en Julio, no afecta a los actuales propietarios de pistolas Glock,” dijo Miller, y agregó que el proyecto de ley prohíbe la venta de ciertas armas, específicamente pistolas Glock/ clones de Glock, debido a su particular barra de gatillo cruciforme. “Sin embargo, cabe señalar que ya es un delito grave poseer un interruptor y otro delito grave convertir un arma en automática, ambos delitos federales,” dijo Miller, y también señaló que este proyecto de ley también enfrenta impugnaciones legales.

Nota del editor: Este artículo forma parte de una serie de varios artículos que examinan las nuevas leyes de California que entrarán en vigor en el 2026 y su posible impacto en los residentes.

Noche de información familiar de Kindergarten, Kínder de Transición

Personal de Winters Express

La Escuela Primaria Waggoner está organizando una noche de información familiar para los estudiantes que ingresan al jardín de infantes (Kindergarten) y al Kínder de Transición (Transitional Kindergarten - TK) en la cafetería de Waggoner.

La noche de información familiar es el jueves, 29 de enero. La presentación en Inglés y en Español comienza a las 5:30 p.m. Requisitos de elegibilidad

Los niños que cumplan 4 años antes del 1 de septiembre de 2026 pueden inscribirse en el jardín de infancia de transición.

Los niños que cumplan 5 años antes del 1 de septiembre de 2026 pueden inscribirse en el jardín de infancia.

Las familias que tengan preguntas deben ponerse en contacto con Nicole Brace en la oficina de Waggoner, llamando al 530-795-6121 o escribiendo a nbrace@ wintersjusd.org.

Consigue una suscripción WE impresa y digital por 30 dólares.

homeowners should

Signs a fireplace needs repair

Fireplaces are most heavily used during winter, when temperatures outside are less inviting and few activities sound more appealing than huddling up indoors around a warm fire. As winter winds down, a season of heavy use can take its toll on a fireplace, making spring an ideal time to inspect these popular features for damage.

The American Heritage Insurance Group notes that neglect of chimneys and fireplaces can pose a range of notable dangers, including increased

risk for carbon monoxide poisoning and chimney fires. Poorly maintained fireplaces also may fail prematurely, which is not insignificant, as a new fireplace can cost thousands of dollars. With so much to gain from a well-maintained fireplace, homeowners can learn to spot signs suggesting a unit is in need of repair.

• Insufficiently vented smoke: Smoke from a fireplace is meant to go up and out of a home through the chimney. If that’s not happening, and smoke is instead entering living spaces, then a fireplace and

chimney inspection is in order. When such situations unfold, the chimney may be blocked or a damper may be damaged. Such issues are easily and often affordably resolved. But smoke coming into a home also might indicate structural damage to the chimney or fireplace, which can be a more costly fix.

• Foul odors: Fireplace afficionados tend to love the smoky aroma that emanates from the fixtures while a fire is burning. If that familiar aroma has been overtaken by a foul odor, then there

See SIGNS, Page 7

Survive lengthy home renovations

Metro

Special to the Express

Renovation timelines vary depending on the scale of the project. Projects also often take longer than expected, as surprises may be in store once homeowners begin peeling back the layers in homes. Homeowners about to embark on lengthy renovation projects can embrace these tips to come through on the other side relatively unscathed.

Choose your timing

The timing of a renovation may have to coincide with contractor availability or having the budget to fund the project. But homeowners should consider life circumstances and season before starting a project.

Figure out what you can realistically take on to reduce the likelihood that you’ll feel overwhelmed.

Plan accordingly

Creating and sticking to a daily schedule, and knowing what is happening each day, can keep a project on track. It also allows you to determine which days will be the most chaotic. Demolition days can be noisy and messy, and maybe those are days when you plan to be away from the house for a few hours.

Store items out of harm’s way Invest in a storage solution for the duration of the renovation. Decluttering and removing items before the project is in full force will make it easi-

er to work and maneuver, and it also means fewer items will need to be cleaned afterwards.

Designate a safe zone

Establish a room or rooms as work-free areas to which residents can retreat. If multiple rooms are being renovated, you might consider spending time with a family member or friend, or getting a hotel for a short duration until the bulk of disruption dies down.

Lower your standards

Homecooked meals may be your standard most days of the week, but it’s alright to be a bit lax when remodeling projects begin. Relying on frozen foods or takeout might be necessary for a little while.

Signs it’s time to replace gutters

Home improvement projects run the gamut from complex undertakings like room additions to simpler renovations like a new front door. Some home renovations excite homeowners more than others, but all improvements are a way to make a home safer, more comfortable and/ or more functional.

A gutter replacement might not inspire the same level of excitement as a room addition or an overhaul of an outdoor living space, but new gutters can help to prevent roof damage and make properties safer by ensuring rain water is directed away from walkways. Homeowners who suspect it might be time for a gutter replacement can look for these signs of fading gutters.

• Cracks or splits: Cracks or splits at the seams of the gutters where two pieces connect is a telltale sign they need to be replaced. Cracks or splits are can slowly lead to separation of gutter pieces, which will lead to leaks. But not all cracks or splits are found at the seams. In fact, some homes feature seamless gutters, which also can crack or split. Regardless of where they’re found, cracks or splits

are a warning signs of fading gutters.

• Rust: Rust is rarely a good sign whether you’re looking at a vehicle or even garden tools. Rust also is a bad sign in relation to gutters. Gutters are painted, and not only for aesthetic purposes. Paint on gutter also serves to protect them from water.

When paint begins to flake, gutters will begin to rust and may even produce noticeable rust flakes on the ground below. Rust on gutters and rust flakes beneath them are indicative of gutters that need to be replaced.

• Gutters pulling away from the home: Gutters that appear to be pulling away from the home is a sign that they need to be replaced. Gutters are fastened to a home during installation, which ensures they can withstand rain and water. Over time, those fasteners can wear down, ultimately leading to gutters that

appear to be pulling away from the home. Though gutters can be refastened, eventually they will need to be replaced.

• Pooling water: Pooling water in a gutter may just be a sign that gutters need to be cleaned. However, pooling water on the ground directly beneath gutters indicates they’re not effectively directing water away from the home.

• Water damage inside: A home’s interior might not be the first place homeowners look when inspecting for damaged gutters, but a flooded basement or crawl space could indicate a gutter problem. Gutters and downspouts are designed to direct water away from a home when functioning properly. When that isn’t happening, water can pool beneath the foundation, leading to pooling water and other water damage in basements and crawl spaces.

Special to the Express

Even though no two homes are the same, rooms have a tendency to take on similar characteristics regardless of which property they’re a part of. Kitchens tend to be popular gathering spaces, while basements have become go-to spots for game rooms and watch parties.

Garages also tend to share certain characteristics between homes, and one notable attribute is the tendency to become difficult-to-navigate dumping grounds for a wide range of items, including lawn and garden tools, children’s toys, sporting goods, and seasonal home décor. Though there’s nothing wrong with utilizing a garage as a storage space, the following are three simple ways homeowners can get more out of these spaces.

Utilize the wall space

The walls in a garage have lots of potential. Effective use of walls within a garage can ensure garden tools, small toys, and other items do not accumulate on the floor. Such accumulations contribute to the

reputation of garages as dumping grounds for miscellaneous items. By clearing the floors of clutter and utilizing wall spaces to store items, homeowners can open up the space to serve any number of functions, including home gyms, art studios, or even parking spaces to protect vehicles from the elements.

A storage organizer system with various hooks can be mounted on a garage wall to free up floor space, while shelving can be hung to store paint cans, power tool batteries, and other items.

Look upward

If garage ceilings extend several feet above the height of homeowners’ vehicles, then the space above where cars might be parked can be converted into storage for large recreational items like canoes or kayaks, or seasonal décor that doesn’t need to be accessed regularly. A simple kayak hoist using a pulley system clears floor space and makes it easy to store kayaks overhead. Lifting storage racks work similarly and are great for anyone who needs to

store containers full of seasonal décor but doesn’t want to stack items on the floor. A hand-crank system for a lifting storage rack makes for safe and easy access.

Install new lighting

Without ample lighting, garages may not be conducive to recreational pursuits like painting, crafting, or even exercising. A lighting upgrade is a relatively affordable renovation that can make a big difference, brightening spaces not exactly known for illumination—especially if there are no windows. New lighting can extend the usable hours of a garage workshop or gym into the darker months.

Homeowners whose garages are currently serving as cluttered storage closets can do much to get more out of these useful spaces.

When Permits Are Required (Including in Winters, CA)

Before beginning certain projects—especially those that change the structure or use of your garage— it’s important to check whether you need a permit. In many municipalities, adding electrical wiring, constructing built-ins,

expanding the space, or converting part of a garage into livable area may require building or planning permits.

In the City of Winters, California, for example: Building permits are required before a structure can be built, enlarged, altered, removed, demolished, and/or repaired. This typically includes residential remodels, additions, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes, and work that affects the structure of a garage or other building.

The Building and Code Enforcement Di-

Continued from Page 6

vision reviews plans, issues permits, and conducts required inspections to ensure work complies with local and state standards.

To find out whether your specific garage project needs a permit or to apply for one, contact the city’s Winters Planning Department. This team handles planning questions, zoning and development issues (including projects that may affect land use or require planning approval). Additional resources, including building permit applications and checklists for re-

be a buildup of creosote within the chimney. The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes creosote is a derivative of the distillation of tar from wood or coal. Though creosote is a byproduct of burning wood, if it’s allowed to accumulate over time, the risk of chimney fires increases considerably. A foul odor coming from the fireplace, particularly when it’s not in use, is a sign of excessive creosote buildup, which necessitates immediate remediation.

• Water damage: Water damage, which can manifest as rust or dampness around the fireplace or chimney, is another sign a fireplace is in need of repair. Water

quired documents, are available on the city’s website through the Building Division’s form center. Tips before you start Check early: Contact the Planning or Building Division before purchasing materials or starting work to confirm what permits are needed. Applications can be submitted by mail or email in Winters, which may streamline the process. Unpermitted work can lead to compliance issues when selling your home later, so it’s worth confirming requirements upfront.

damage often indicates that water is getting inside. Sometimes that’s due to a faulty chimney cap, which is a simple and affordable repair. Other times it could indicate issues with the masonry, which requires a more costly fix.

• Diminished warmth: If cuddling up around the fireplace isn’t quite as cozy as it used to be, that drop in warmth could indicate issues with airflow or suggest the buildup of creosote. Diminished warmth around a lit fireplace should be brought to the attention of a fireplace professional immediately. These are not the only potential indicators that a fireplace is in need of repair. Physical signs like cracks or loose masonry and even unusual noises like cracking sounds also indicate repairs might be necessary.

“There’s so many you could name in the community, because that’s how you got things done,” she said.

In addition to Felicia Diaz and Bobby Greenwood, Lopez cited May Martin, her childhood 4-H leader, as instrumental in instilling the importance of community involvement. Lopez recalls picking up litter and planting trees along the creek — a handson application of the 4-H community service creed.

Yet perhaps the most vivid portrait of community involvement was painted by her parents, Sebastian and Marie Lopez, whose families emigrated to Winters from Spain in the early 1900s.

“My dad was on the school board, and my mother volunteered for a number of different organizations,” Lopez said.

Her parents’ values, demonstrated through community leadership, were evident to Lopez despite the unique challenges immigrants face when integrating into a new community.

“The first barrier is always language. That was an issue for my grandparents and my parents in their early years,” she said, noting that when assimilating into a new culture, immigrants typically lose language, culture and food — in that order.

“We’re still hanging onto the food,” she quipped.

Her passion for food, people and culture is reflected in her 2007 book, An American Paella, a compilation of stories from descendants of Spanish immigrants who settled in Winters. She video-recorded several of the 87 interviews, creating a form of “living history” that showcased members of the local Spanish American community.

“It was so important

because now many of those people are no longer here,” said Vicki Jacobs, a lifelong friend of Lopez. “All of her contributions to the Spanish community — as far as documenting their history and promoting their history and contributions to Winters — are immeasurable.”

Perhaps more than any other role, her current position as president of the Historical Society of Winters has served as a vehicle for animating the town’s historical roots. Originally opened as a “museum without walls,” the Winters Museum is now a brick-andmortar community fixture. Her colleagues attribute much of that transition to Lopez, who has had a hand in every exhibit since the museum’s opening in 2018.

“She has always insisted that when we’re doing an exhibit, we have a theme and tell a story. That has been our mantra,” said Rob Coman, executive director.

“I think that’s a big reason behind the success of the Winters Museum.”

The current exhibit, The Journey from Spain to Winters: Stories of Hard Work,

insisting on homogeneity.

“New people bring in new blood and new ideas. As long as they get involved in the community, I think that’s a really good thing,” she said.

She has been around long enough to remember when Winters was a very different place.

“When we were growing up, there were 2,000 people in town, but we had multiple grocery stores, movie theaters and car dealerships. Everyone who lived here worked here and shopped here,” she said.

As changes came — including Route 505 and the expansion of UC Davis — Lopez saw a downturn in Winters’ economic and community landscape. But strong community ties held through the slump, and she witnessed a “rebirth of Winters” in the 1980s and ’90s.

“Community involvement has always been really important to people who live in Winters. That’s what makes us a community in addition to being a town,” she said.

Coman said Lopez not only encourages participa-

“I think to preserve the charm of Winters, you have to understand how we got here, and you have to become involved.”

Gloria Lopez, 2025 Citizen of the Year

Strong Families and Great Food, is the culmination of more than 20 years of research on Spanish immigrants in the Winters area. Two of the featured families are Lopez’s own: her maternal and paternal grandparents, the Carbahals and the Lopezes.

“I think to preserve the charm of Winters, you have to understand how we got here, and you have to become involved,” she said.

But Lopez knows preserving charm does not mean

tion, but models it.

“If someone notifies her that they’re in town and going to the museum, she will make it a point to come down and personally lead a tour,” he said. “She’s very hands-on and very knowledgeable.”

Education and history are not her only domains. In characteristic Winters fashion, Lopez and her family have strong agricultural roots. She and her husband operate a family walnut orchard, and in

her spare time she pursues a pepper-growing hobby carried over from the days when her paternal grandfather cultivated seeds he brought over by boat from Spain.

“My father continued the tradition, and now my brother and I are the keepers of the seed,” Lopez said.

In February, visitors to her home may find Lopez planting her yearly batch of seeds — about 1,000. By April, the seedlings are ready for transplanting.

“And then she gives them away to anyone who wants them,” Jacobs said. “Not only does the Spanish community rally, but a lot of us also love to have them in our gardens.”

In this way, the pepper plant tradition encapsulates the history and heart of Gloria Lopez: a descendant of immigrants who cherishes her Spanish heritage while investing deeply in her American

community.

She values collaboration at both institutional and personal levels. From school districts and local businesses promoting volunteerism to individual families modeling lives of service, Lopez calls on the next generation of leaders to step into the city’s civic space.

In the meantime, she will continue to be exactly where she feels most at home — at the center of service, outside the limelight.

The 2025 award winners Ample Electric (Business of the Year), The Guerrilla Gardeners (Theodore Winters Award), Rich Marovich (Senior Citizen of the Year) and Gloria Lopez (Citizen of the Year) will be honored at the Toast of Winters on Saturday, Jan. 24, at the Winters Community Center. Tickets are available at Eventbrite or bit.ly/ toast25tickets.

FEATURES

Thursday, January 22

Winters High School Basketball vs Colusa, WHS gymnasium, Junior Varsity Boys – 5 p.m.

Varsity Girls – 6:30 p.m. Varsity Boys – 8 p.m. whs.wintersjusd.org/en-US/athletics-d8f556f5

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, January 24

Start with Calm: Yoga at the Library, 9–10 a.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/ Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution, Saturdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, PG&E Gas Safety Academy parking lot, 1 PG&E Way, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food

Library Event: Clothing Swap, 1 p.m., Winters Community Library, yolocountylibrary.org/locations/winters/

Tuesday, January 27

Winters Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m.,City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/planning-commission/ Upcoming

Tuesday, February 3

Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/

Thursday, February 5

Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK or www.wintersjusd.org

Library Services

Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m. Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library

Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org

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

Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing

Older Adult Programs

Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org

Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)

Ongoing

View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents

Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org

Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September thru May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 W. Main St. Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org

Saved & Sober program Thursdays, 7p.m., The Rock Church West, 201 Main St. Winters Open Mic, third Thursday, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Winters Opera House (13 Main St.), Visit wintersopenmic.org

12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com

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

Dance Fitness, - first/third Sundays February thru July, 8 to 9 a.m., Winters Community Library. No registration required.

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: » St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m. » Yolo Housing office building, 62 Shams Way: Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m.

Housing market ends 2025 strong HOMES, Page 2

Supervisors reflect on 2025

By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent

Yolo County Supervisors Angel Barajas and Lucas Frerichs had a busy 2025. In their year-end reviews, both highlighted accomplishments, milestones, and moments that made the year memorable.

Barajas’s statement began by summarizing themes from last year, notably the importance of community and the county’s many successes in 2025. He described the year as “marked by strong community partnerships, strategic investments, and measurable progress.”

“Guided by equity, access, and collaboration,” the statement continued, “the county advanced improvements to infrastructure, workforce development, sustainability, and quality of life across Woodland and the 10 rural towns I represent.”

Barajas gave credit to those within the county and community who made these

achievements possible, citing the “county staff, community partners, volunteers, and residents whose shared efforts turned priorities into lasting results.”

He then detailed particular accomplishments in 2025, beginning with the completion of the Guinda, Rumsey, and Brooks pavement preservation effort as part of the county’s Pavement Preservation Project.

“Nearly 50 miles of

rural roads in the Upper Capay Valley were resurfaced and preserved,” the statement read, “many for the first time in decades, improving safety, access, and drivability.”

Another notable project was the ongoing replacement of the County Road 40 Bridge, aimed at “restoring safe and reliable access for residents, emergency services, and visitors.” Construction is underway, with com-

pletion anticipated in 2026–2027, the statement notes.

In his year-end review, Supervisor Frerichs reflected on the difficulties many faced in 2025 but said Yolo County’s community gave him hope for the year ahead.

One of the biggest challenges last year was uncertainty around critical federal funding, culminating in a 43-day government shutdown.

“Amid these challenges, we reaffirmed our commitment to being a safe and welcoming county for all,” Frerichs noted, adding that local law enforcement “emphasized that under SB 54, they do not participate in federal immigration enforcement and remain focused on building trust and protecting every resident.”

“Through every challenge, Yolo County has acted quickly, collaboratively, and compassionately to support

Helping Yolo youths thrive independently

By Angela Underwood, Express correspondent

Make it Happen Board of Directors President Jan Judson will be the first to tell you the nonprofit does much more than provide furniture to transition-age adults in need.

“In response to client feedback, MIH expanded the program two years ago to include refurbished bicycles, along with new helmets, locks and lights, recognizing transportation as a critical component of independence,” she said.

But the organization’s original purpose, founded in 2014, focused on furnishing homes. MIH offers beds, dressers, tables, cookware, linens and cleaning supplies.

“Most items are purchased new to ensure quality, safety and longevity, though MIH also accepts gently used furniture donated by members of the Yolo County community,” Judson said, adding that the nonprofit continuously evaluates the items it offers to align with client needs.

MIH meets more than basic needs through its Youth Access Program, which serves clients

referred by partner agencies and individuals.

“Once referred, each client receives a comprehensive wishlist of available goods and selects the items that best meet their needs,” Judson said.

After clients complete their wish list, they visit a Davis storage unit, where volunteers help them select and deliver items to their homes, promoting autonomy and dignity.

Moving day and the Guardian Scholars Program

Participation in the UC Davis Guardian Scholars Program (GSP) Annual Move-In Days has grown each year, including a record 24 students assisted in 2025. Any Guardian Scholar who requests support is eligible, ensuring no student begins independent living without essential household items.

After moving in, MIH continues to set young adults up for success through the Make It Happen Bicycle Program.

Launched two years ago, the program “is in direct response to client feedback and our growing awareness of transportation as a significant barrier for under-resourced transition-age youth,” Judson said.

“Reliable transportation is essential for accessing employment, education, healthcare and basic services, yet many of our clients lack viable options,” she added.

MIH partners with Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Davis, where students refurbish bicycles as part of a hands-on repair and maintenance class.

“Bicycles donated to the school are

by

dents as part of their coursework,” Judson said. MIH purchases the completed bicycles at a reduced cost and donates them to the program, creating a mutually beneficial

that supports

and

“Each

California home sales end 2025 on high note

California Association of Realtors

Special to the Express

California’s housing market ends the year on a high note as sales rise in December from both the previous month and year for a fourth straight month, finishing nearly 1 percent higher than in 2024, the California Association of Realtors reports.

Closed escrow sales of existing, single-family homes total a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 288,200 in December, according to CAR data from more than 90 local Realtor associations and MLSs statewide. The figure reflects what 2025 sales would be if December’s pace continued, adjusted for seasonal trends.

Sales rose 0.3 percent from November and increased 2 percent from December 2024. For the full year, California posts 271,590 sales, up 0.9 percent from 2024.

Pending home sales are essentially flat year over year in December, down 0.2 percent, but fall 21.5 percent from November, reflecting typical seasonal slowing combined with mortgage rate volatility and economic uncertainty.

“California’s housing market closes 2025 on solid footing, with sales and inven-

tory improving from a year earlier,” says 2026 CAR President Tamara Suminski, a Southern California broker and Realtor. “With price growth easing and mortgage rates near three-year lows, conditions are setting up for a healthier, more balanced market in 2026.”

The statewide median home price fell to $850,680 in December, down 0.4 percent from November and down from a year earlier, marking a 10-month low. The decline runs counter to the typical seasonal increase and represents the second year-over-year drop in three months and the largest annual decrease since June 2023. Softer demand and elevated inventory continue to pressure prices heading into 2026.

“Housing affordability improves late in the year, and lower mortgage rates combined with more supply should bring more buyers back to the market,” says CAR Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine. “Despite lingering policy uncertainty, we expect modest economic growth and continued improvement in housing conditions in 2026.”

At the regional level, all major California regions post year-

(530) 795-4531 * irelandagency.com

over-year sales gains on a nonseasonally adjusted basis. The Far North records the largest increase at 23.5 percent, followed by the Central Coast at 12.8 percent. More moderate gains occur in the Central Valley (5.5 percent), San Francisco Bay Area (2 percent) and Southern California (1.7 percent). At the county level, 39 of the 53 counties tracked by CAR report higher sales than

a year earlier. Plumas leads with a 133.3 percent increase, followed by Mono at 100 percent and Lassen at 44.4 percent. Thirteen counties post declines, led by Del Norte, down 50 percent.

Three of California’s five major regions see year-over-year median price increases, led by the Far North at 2.8 percent. Southern California rises 0.6 percent and the Central Coast gains

0.2 percent. Prices fall in the Central Valley by 1.4 percent and remain flat in the San Francisco Bay Area. Housing inventory tightens seasonally in December. The Unsold Inventory Index stands at 2.7 months, down from November and unchanged from a year earlier. Active listings rise year over year for the 23rd consecutive month, though growth slows for an eighth straight month. Homes take a me-

dian of 36 days to sell in December, up from 31 days a year earlier. The statewide salesprice-to-list-price ratio is 97.9 percent, down from 98.7 percent in December 2024. The median price per square foot falls to $408. The average 30year fixed mortgage rate declines to 6.19 percent in December, down from 6.72 percent a year earlier, according to CAR calculations based on Freddie Mac data.

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)

Your attention is focused on finances and deeper connections, Aries. This is the week to speak honestly about budgets, debts or your investments with a partner.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)

Taurus, the spotlight is shining on your relationships, whether in love or business. Expect some meaningful conversations that define your approach going forward.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)

Your focus turns to work and wellness as part of your daily routine this week, Gemini. You may feel a strong urge to get more organized and capitalize on resolutions made.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)

Your inner child is leading the way for the week, Cancer. Spend time on hobbies, connect with children or plan a memorable date night. Don’t be afraid to take a creative risk.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)

Leo, your energies are best spent on your home and family life right now. You may be dealing with a domestic project, a renovation or sorting out a matter with a relative.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)

Communication is your strongest tool this week, Virgo. With ideas flowing, you may be up to signing an agreement or running errands. You may want to reconnect with an old friend.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)

Libra, review your income streams and spending habits to give you a clear picture for the new year. This isn’t about cutting things out, but about understanding what you value.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)

It is your time to shine and redefine yourself, Scorpio. With cosmic energy focused your way, you have the drive and the focus to launch a personal project or make a major change.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)

Take some necessary steps back for quiet work and rest, Sagittarius. This week favors wrapping up older projects so you can think more clearly. Don’t overschedule yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)

Capricorn, social activities and future goals take center stage right now. It might be wise to start networking or join a new group that will open you up to different people.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)

This is an important period for your career, Aquarius. If you’ve been mulling over making a move, now is the time to get a jump on it. Your professional achievements are getting noticed.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)

Pisces, finalize plans for a trip or a new pursuit, such as returning to school. Seek experiences that will broaden your horizons. Adventure beckons you this week.

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our community, and we will continue to do so in 2026 and beyond.”

Frerichs also highlighted his personal accomplishments from the year, beginning with his chairmanship of First 5 Yolo, which runs several early childhood programs in the county, including Welcome Baby, Road to Resilience, and Help Me Grow.

He underscored the importance of confronting gun violence in Yolo County. “This year underscored both the urgency of addressing gun violence and the real progress we can make when our community works together,” Frerichs wrote. Following a shooting earlier this year that left three UC Davis students injured, he described some county efforts to combat gun violence, including the Yolo County Sheriff’s Gun Buyback Program and the growth of the Yolo Gun Violence Prevention Collaborative.

Yolo County’s response to environmental issues also featured heavily in Frerichs’s review.

“Despite our tight budget, Yolo County continued efforts to implement our CAAP [Climate Action and Adaptation Plan], and launched the Yolo County Community Climate Action Fund,

which awarded grants to organizations for projects that align with the CAAP.”

Supervisors Barajas and Frerichs lauded what Frerichs called “one of the year’s biggest milestones”—the start of construction on the Walnut Park Library. “With $22.8 million in funding, this new 12,857-squarefoot library will offer dedicated youth spaces, technology access, educational programming, and a community assembly area,” Frerichs said.

Barajas added that the project was “built with sustainability and accessibility at its core, and will serve as a lasting community resource and hub for learning and connection in South Davis.”

The library is expected to be completed in October 2026.

An important issue in 2025 was the agricultural well

moratorium. Both supervisors celebrated the creation of the Farmworker Housing Ad Hoc Committee, which they co-chair, and which, according to Barajas, “supported responsible groundwater management through the agricultural well moratorium.” Of the roundtable meetings

held by the ad hoc committee, Frerichs wrote, “I greatly value the opportunity to connect with and hear directly from farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture community about pressing issues impacting this sector, and opportunities for partnership and collaboration.”

As the year ended,

Barajas again highlighted the importance of community, especially during the holidays. “Community engagement remained central,” his statement reads, “with events including the Dunnigan Christmas Toy Giveaway, backpack distributions, scholarships, heritage celebrations, and in-person office hours in Knights Landing.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Barajas expressed admiration for the successes of 2025 and excitement for the future. “Together, we’ve made meaningful progress, and I look forward to continuing to invest

in people, infrastructure, and opportunity so Yolo County remains strong.”

Frerichs also reflected on the challenges of 2025 while emphasizing the resilience and spirit of Yolo County’s residents. “As we close out the year, I’ve been reflecting on all our community has navigated together, from federal uncertainty and local safety challenges to major wins for children, families, and our environment. Across every issue, one thing has been clear: Yolo County residents consistently show up for one another.”

Express Yourself

Now there is no reason to watch the Super Bowl

Winters High School has a state championship, while the 49er players and coaches are home, making up excuses as to why they played so poorly. Some of them might be watching game film, but if they are smart, they will stick to Hallmark movies. It will give them another reason to cry.

I made a point of watching the Chicago Bears and the Los Angeles Rams game, partly because I hate the Rams. It was cold, 14 degrees, but not as cold as it was advertised. Before the game, I was on the golf course and the weather was perfect. Watching the weather on the East Coast, all the way down to Florida, makes you remember why we live in California.

My sister, Lois, a Seattle Seahawks fan, watched the 49er-Seahawks game from a bar in Mexico. She wished the 49ers luck before the game, and was nice enough to not com-

ment on the slaughter after it was over. My permanent tenant reminded me that we might be out of town on Super Bowl Sunday. I told her that I wasn’t planning on watching the game, anyway, so I hope we are going someplace warm.

Our daughter, Laura, and son-in-law, Rance, brought friends to visit Winters this week. They toured the museum and we showed them the Monticello room. I hope they made it up to the dam to see how high the water is.

Daniela and Sean are staying at the Winters Hotel and the last time I saw them, they were waiting for a table at the Café. We trained our daughter well. Bring people to Winters, let them spend a few dollars and thank them when they

go home. We have had 13.51 inches of rain so far this year. We need three or so four more inches to see the water flow over the Glory Hole. I’m not sure how many back-to-back years we have had where the water spilled into Putah Creek, but it would be nice to have a full lake again.

Congratulations to all of the people and Ample Electric who are being honored by the Winters Chamber of Commerce. It is people and businesses that make Winters special and not everyone gets recognized for their time, effort and money that they invest into making Winters, Winters.

The Raiders and 49ers will be watching the Super Bowl at home, like the rest of us. If you have a favorite team still playing, I hope they win. Have a good week.

Speak up now!

I felt very supported by Richard Kleeberg’s column “The Tragic Killing of Renee Good.”

Thank you, Richard. And thank you Winters Express for printing this very important letter. As a teacher and student of U.S. history, I recognize many very troubling developments with the Trump administration in charge of our nation. It’s important for citizens to speak up now, before it’s too late.

DEBORAH SHAW HICKERSON

Winters resident for almost 36 years

Helping pets together

On behalf of the Girl Scouts of Winters Troops 1225 and 2744, we want to say thank you. Thank you to everyone in the community who dropped off pet food and supplies or bought items from our wish list.

Between the two drop-off days of our Pet Food and Supply Donation Drive, we filled a car’s trunk and back seat at least four times. We weren’t sure how successful the drive would be because of the colder weather, but our community really showed up.

We were very happy to help pets through Meals on Wheels Yolo County’s PAWS program. Pets are important to a lot of people, and when local senior citizens’ pets are taken care of, it helps seniors focus on taking care of themselves too.

We would like to give a special thank you to Kathy Tuel and her family for picking up food and supply donations from our collection booths. We hope we can do this again every year.

Thank you to Hooby’s Brewing for letting us use their front area as a place to collect donations.

JACKELYN COOPER, EVELYN JORDAN, REIA COOPER, BELLA BANUELOS, SOPHIA BERMUDEZ Winters Girl scout troop 1225

Debate is healthy, misinformation is not

By Tim Bolla Special to the Express

Public discussion about policing is important. It is equally important that those discussions be grounded in verifiable facts. Unfortunately, the recent opinion piece by guest columnist Richard Kleeberg makes several claims about police use-of-force policy that are demonstrably false and easily disproven by publicly available policy manuals.

First, Mr. Kleeberg asserts that police officers walking around the front of a car is “a violation of standard procedure of ANY law enforcement agency.” No such blanket prohibition exists in the policies of the Winters Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office, or the California Highway Patrol. All three policies can be found on the corresponding agencies’ webpage, and none contain any rule stating that officers are prohibited from positioning themselves in front of a vehicle. What these agencies do emphasize is officer safety and threat mitigation. Their policies encourage officers, when feasible, to move out of the path of a vehicle rather than remain in a dangerous position. That guidance is not a prohibition, nor is it evidence

Fire

By Richard Casavecchia Winters City Councilmember

What good are safety regulations that stunt economic development without enhancing safety?

Requiring fire sprinklers in commercial buildings based solely on square footage, rather than use type, will not make us safer but will restrict our economic growth. I dissent. At our final Winters City Council meeting in November, the only agenda item for discussion was adopting the new state building codes and continuing our more stringent local amendment to them.

of some rigid rule being imposed on officers. Presenting safety guidance as an absolute ban misrepresents what their policies say and what officers are allowed to do.

Second, Mr. Kleeberg states, “And remember, no law enforcement officers, NONE WHATSOEVER, including ICE Agents, are allowed to fire a gun at a vehicle moving away. NONE. That conduct is illegal.” This statement is also false.

As of 2020, California state law requires all law enforcement agencies to post their use-of-force policies online for public review. The Winters Police Department policy directly addresses this issue in section 300.4.1: Shooting At or From Moving Vehicles. That policy states that shots fired at or from a moving vehicle are rarely effective and carry additional risks. However, it does not prohibit officers from firing at a moving vehicle. Instead, it clearly allows such action when specific legal and tactical criteria are met.

Under the policy, an officer may discharge a firearm at a moving vehicle or its occupants when the officer reasonably believes there are no other reason-

Our local amendment requires fire sprinkler systems to be installed in any commercial building with 4,000 square feet or larger, regardless of occupancy use type. If safety above all else is our only concern, this is a good idea. Our Historic Downtown is a potential tinderbox of old buildings, built in the old style with shared walls, many of which are over 4,000 sq. ft. inside, including the unusable second floors. This has been a requirement since 2019 and is more restrictive than the state

able means available to avert an imminent threat posed by the vehicle, or when deadly force other than the vehicle itself is being directed at the officer or others. This language is consistent with California Government Code § 7286(b) and the US Supreme Court case Tennessee v Garner, and reflects long-standing use-of-force principles based on imminent threat, necessity, and reasonableness.

In other words, officers are not barred from firing at a vehicle moving away. The determining factor is not the direction of travel, but whether an imminent threat still exists and whether deadly force is reasonably necessary under the circumstances. Suggesting otherwise ignores both the actual policy language and the governing law. Section 301.4.1 of the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office policy and section 5(d) (1) of CHP’s Use of Force policy do not put a blanket ban on shooting at a vehicle that is driving away.

Mr. Kleeberg further asserts that ICE agents are “not police officers” and therefore lack legal authority to order someone out of a vehicle or to force open your car door. This claim is misleading and legally incorrect.

ICE officers are federal law enforcement officers whose authority is defined

standard. However, like all things government-related, this is not a mandate. It is an incentive to action or inaction, nothing more. The sprinkler requirement is not proactive. There is no immediate requirement to install fire sprinklers. The regulation only applies during a remodel or change in use that affects more than 50 percent of the building. So, as long as we never change the types of shops downtown, and the property owners don’t engage in any significant remodel, modernization, or retrofit, we will never realize the intended protection of fire sprinklers

in federal statute. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1357(a), immigration officers and employees authorized under regulations prescribed by the Attorney General have broad powers without a warrant. These include the authority to make arrests not only for immigration violations but also for any offense against the United States committed in the officer’s presence and for any felony recognized under U.S. law when there are reasonable grounds to believe the person has committed or is committing such a felony while performing immigration. When a U.S. citizen commits a federal crime in an officer’s presence, including actions that interfere with immigration enforcement, such as obstruction, assault on a federal officer, or providing false information, ICE has statutory authority to detain or arrest that individual. When an ICE agent decides to detain or arrest a person, US Supreme Court cases Graham v Connor and Pennsylvania v Mimms allows them to use the level of force that is “objectively reasonable”, such as ordering that person out of their vehicle or forcibly removing them. Providing the public with false or oversimplified information about the legal authority of federal agents is not merely inaccurate; it is dangerous. When in-

downtown. In this instance, this regulation is an incentive to inaction. We will not get fire sprinklers with this rule, but we will likely miss out on economic growth.

A fire sprinkler system costs upwards of $100,000 to install. Small businesses are not lavishly profitable endeavors. An extra $100,000 in startup costs before serving a single customer can, will, and has prevented the realization of entrepreneurial ideas. Locally, I have been told several prospective restaurants didn’t open in town due to the cost of meeting the regulatory requirements for

dividuals are told that law enforcement officers lack the authority they actually possess, they may believe they are legally justified in disobeying lawful orders. That misunderstanding can quickly escalate encounters, leading not only to legal trouble, such as charges for resisting, obstructing, or assaulting a federal officer, but also to serious injury or death for officers and civilians alike.

Misrepresenting the scope of enforcement authority undermines public safety and can contribute to harm in already tense situations. The death of Renee Good was a tragic situation, and we don’t need it to happen again because somebody listened to the legal advice of Mr. Kleeberg. These inaccuracies matter. When opinion pieces misstate clear, publicly accessible policies and laws, they mislead readers and undermine informed discussion. Criticism of law enforcement practices should be rooted in what policies and statutes say and how they are applied — not in incorrect claims presented as fact. Debate is healthy. Misinformation is not. If we are going to have meaningful conversations about policing and federal enforcement, they must begin with an accurate understanding of the laws and policies that govern officers’ actions.

remodeling spaces that didn’t have what they needed, with and without sprinklers. Imagine you are starting a business. You draw up your business plan, conduct your competitive analysis, create an operating budget, find an open space on Winters’ Historic Downtown that fits your budget, and allows you enough profit to make it worthwhile to make your vision into your livelihood. It’s perfect. Unfortunately, the space you want used to be a pharmacy, or an ice cream parlor, or some other business with a setup incompatible with your plan, and requires a

significant remodel of the 2,500 sq. ft. you wish to rent. Because the building is 4,300 square feet, with a 1,800-square-foot second story that cannot be used because it is not earthquake-compliant, you now have to install fire sprinklers. Your startup costs just increased by more than your first annual net profit projection. Your payback time is now extended by years. In the hearing, I asked how we arrived at 4,000 sq. ft. as the requirement. The risk of not having sprinklers was articulated well by our fire chief, and my expectation of him

Sports

Boys basketball heats up with three straight wins

Express staff

The Winters High School varsity boys basketball team put together a dominant three-game winning streak last week, defeating Pierce, Durham and Willows behind efficient scoring, strong rebounding and balanced team play.

The Warriors opened the stretch Monday, Jan. 12, with a convincing 64–52 win over Pierce High School. Senior Luke Felsen led all scorers with 41 points, while Lane Brown added 15. Koa Branco and Joe Hawkins also chipped in points for Winters.

Felsen controlled the boards with 9 rebounds, and Brown followed with 8. Cameron Bermudez pulled down 6 rebounds, while Branco, Anthony Matamoros Mayes, Aidan Baylor and Harper Brown also contributed on the glass.

The victory marked Winters’ most emphatic performance of the season to

date, as the Warriors dictated the pace on both ends against the Pierce Bears.

Winters carried that momentum into Wednesday’s matchup against Durham High School, earning a hard-fought 49–3 victory over the Trojans on Jan. 14. Felsen again paced the Warriors with 27 points, while Branco finished with 14. Lane Brown and Matamoros Mayes scored 4 points apiece.

On the boards, Felsen and Lane Brown collected 8 rebounds each. Matamoros Mayes and Branco grabbed three apiece, and Bermudez added two.

The win was particularly meaningful for the Warriors, who were coming off a 57–24 loss to Durham in their previous meeting in February 2025.

The streak continued Friday, Jan. 16, as Winters overwhelmed Willows High School 61–36 in a league victory on the Honkers’ home court. The Warriors

jumped out early and never looked back, holding the Honkers to just 36 points. Individual statistics were not posted for the game.

Winters head coach Jon Davis credited the team’s collective effort during the three-game run.

“Three in a row is a

reflection of extraordinary effort across the board,” Davis said. “Koa and Lane have been anchors on both ends of the floor. Cam and Anthony have had a huge impact on the boards and setting up teammates. Luke has been totally unstoppable. His efficiency is on

Warriors grapple their way to success

By Hawk Selleck Express sports correspondent

Last week, the Winters High School wrestling team competed in a match night hosted in the school gymnasium, as well as two tournaments over the weekend, where multiple athletes had strong performances.

On Wednesday, Jan. 14, the Warriors had seven wrestlers compete in a hosted match night featuring teams from their league.

In the first match of the night, Damien Chiasson earned an overtime win, 13–11. Chiasson wrestled two more matches, taking a 1–17 loss in his second match and a 3–18 loss in his third.

Hayleigh Gomez wrestled one match and won quickly, 7–0.

Lily Waldrop wrestled twice, losing 5–15 in her first match and 0–3 in her second.

Fernanda BlancoDelgado wrestled one match, ending in a 0–3 loss.

Amir Jihad also wrestled one match, earning a 7–0 victory.

Cameron DelRio competed in one match, winning 12–2.

Eliud Suarez wrestled twice, winning his first match 3–0 and

tying 3–3 in his second match, which counted as a loss.

Over the weekend, three Winters athletes competed in the Corning Boys Invitational. Amir Jihad wrestled six matches and placed fifth overall. He opened with a pin over Michael Martin (Henley) at 5:59, then pinned Branden Cossio (Marysville) at 1:05. His third match was a major decision, defeating Aiden Ortegon (Fred C. Beyer), 14–4. Jihad lost his fourth match to Ryan Herring (Live Oak) by technical fall, 13–2.

In the quarterfinals, he was pinned by Ramon Chamorro (University Preparatory) at 3:45, then won the fifth-place match against Rugar Baxter (McKinleyville) with a pin at 3:28.

Eliud Suarez had a bye in round one, then lost two matches. He fell to Carlos Telly (Las Plumas) by technical fall, 19–3, and to Boston Draper (Las Plumas) by pin in 15

seconds.

Damien Chiasson also had a bye in round one, then lost to Kaiden Reich (Modoc) by pin at 31 seconds and to Kashmir Govinda (Ukiah) by pin at 1:39. In the Ed Zuckerman Classic, Winters had five competitors.

Fernanda BlancoDelgado wrestled three matches, going 1–2. She lost to Mia Garcia (Chico) 3–0 by pin at 46 seconds, defeated Brooklyn Koepke (Chico) 3–0 by pin at 48 seconds, and lost to Kiana Alvarez (Pierce) 7–0 by pin at 1:43.

Guadalupe Herrera also wrestled three matches and finished 1–2. She lost her first match to Brianna Reid (Chico) 3–0 by pin at 50 seconds, won against Ramona Marsh (Chico) 3–1 by pin at 3:54, and lost to Vidali Ceja (Winters) by pin in nine seconds.

Hayleigh Gomez wrestled five matches and went 3–2. She lost to Abby See (Chico) 9–4 by decision, defeated

Rylie Delepierre 3–0 by pin at 1:02, lost to Dayami Villanueva (Pierce) 9–9 by pin at 2:46, beat Lily Smith (East Nicholaus) 11–3 by major decision, and won her final match against Kiera Metcalf (Pleasant Valley) by default.

Lily Waldrop went 0–3 in three matches. She lost to Elena Lor 3–0 by pin at 48 seconds, fell to Charlotte Brock (Chico) 7–4 by pin at 1:44, and lost to Sophia Isbell (Trinity) 10–0 by pin at 1:30.

Vidali Ceja wrestled three matches and finished 2–1, facing the same opponents as Herrera. Ceja defeated Ramona Marsh 6–4 by pin at 3:01, then lost to Brianna Reid 3–0 by pin.

The Warriors are heading into the final stretch of the season, and all athletes have shown great improvement over the year.

Next up, Winters will compete in a match night hosted by Williams High School on Wednesday, Jan. 21. The girls will then compete in the Corning Girls Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 24, starting at 9 a.m.

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.

another level. He’s making great decisions.”

Davis also praised his staff for helping push the team forward.

“I also can’t say enough about our assistant coaches, Chad Wigmore and Hector Reyna, who have challenged this group to rise to the occasion and are a huge reason we’re playing our best basketball right now,” Davis said. “We’re having fun and working hard. It’s a great feeling.”

Upcoming game

Winters High basketball will be at home Thursday, Jan. 22, against Colusa High School in what coaches are calling the biggest game of the season. Game times are 5 p.m. for junior varsity boys, 6:30 p.m. for varsity girls, and 8 p.m. for varsity boys.

Tickets are available online through the WHS GoFan home page: https:// gofan.co/app/school/ CA8082

Girls basketball splits road games at Durham, Willows

Express staff

The Winters High School girls varsity basketball team split two road games last week, falling to Durham High School before bouncing back with a win at Willows High School. Durham pulled away for a 44-31 victory over Winters on Jan. 19. Maci Dodic led the Warriors with 15 points, and Reece Barbosa added seven. Winters held a three-point lead at halftime, but Durham’s taller and more experienced lineup challenged the Warriors, particularly in the third quarter.

Girls varsity head coach Ivan Dodic said the Durham squad included 6-foot-1 and 5-foot11 players in the backline, heights that Winters lacked across its roster.

“Durham changed up from zone defense to an aggressive man defense and pulled away in the third quarter and we could not catch up. We outscored them in every quarter except the third and it cost us. Our defensive scheme gave them fits, the girls did an excellent job of executing,” said Coach Dodic.

He noted that despite the loss, Winters executed their

defensive game plan well, keeping Durham from pulling away earlier and showing that the team can compete even against bigger, more seasoned opponents.

Winters rebounded on Jan. 21 with a 31-21 victory at Willows. Skyler Neal scored 10 points — including six in the fourth quarter — despite feeling under the weather and playing fewer minutes than usual. Maci Dodic added nine points and dominated defensively, tallying an estimated 10 steals.

“We never play our best against Willows and this year was no different, I am not sure what it is but we don’t come out playing hard. With that being said we had the game in hand from the outset although we didn’t capitalize on scoring chances like I had hoped,” Coach Dodic said. He praised the Warriors for their effort, noting that strong defensive play and key individual performances allowed Winters to control the game despite a slow start. The team’s resilience and execution provide optimism as they look ahead to the remainder of the season.

Arts & Entertainment

Winters Live returns for 2026

Special to the Express

Preserve is proud to announce the return of Winters Live for the 2026 season, bringing a curated lineup of premier tribute performances to downtown Winters.

Celebrating legendary artists across rock, country, and classic hits, Winters Live continues its mission of fostering community through live music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable shared experiences.

In partnership with the Winters Theatre Company, the series runs February through December at the historic Winters Opera House, transforming the 1876 landmark into a unique, intimate tribute concert venue.

The 2026 season offers fans of classic rock and music legends a high-energy, nostalgic experience.

The venue’s setup— featuring reserved table seating, general admission seating, and dedicated standing and dancing areas—ensures every guest can connect directly with the music and celebrate some of the greatest artists of all time.

2026 Winters Live lineup highlights:

• Feb. 7 – Neil Diamond Superstar featuring Jack Wright

• March 7 – The Big Jangle: A Tribute

to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

• March 14 – Gypsy Dreams: The Ultimate High-Energy Fleetwood Mac Tribute

• April 11 – ZZ Tush: The Most Authentic ZZ Top Tribute

• April 18 – Amarillo by Morning: The George Strait Tribute

• May 8 – Garratt Wilkin & The Parrotheads: A Celebration of Jimmy Buffett

• June 20 – Crossroads: An Eric Clapton Tribute

• Aug. 22 – Illeagles: The Premier Tribute to The Music of The Eagles

• Aug. 29 – Traveling Wilburys Revue: The Amazing Music of the Wilburys

• Sept. 26 – The Sun Kings: A Premier Tribute to The Beatles

• Oct. 10 – Carnaval: A Tribute to Santana

• Oct. 17 – Fog City Swampers: Bringing the Iconic Sounds of Creedence Clearwa-

Seafood, Cocktails, Gluten Free & Vegan Options 530-661-0428 • 428 1st St - Woodland www.MojosKitchen428.com

ter Revival to Life

• Nov. 7 – Journey Revisited: Bringing Back the Classic Journey Sound

• Dec. 4 – James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash: A Show That Walks the Line

“We are incredibly excited to build upon the success of our inaugural year,” said Paul Stich, Winters Live music series promoter. “This concert series is about more than just music; it’s about creating an atmosphere where fans can relive the energy and nostalgia of these legendary acts inside a truly magnificent, intimate 19th-century setting. We invite everyone to come experience the magic.”

Tickets and additional details are available at winterslive.com and on social media on Instagram @winters_live and Facebook at Winters Live.

SPRINKLER

Continued from Page 5

is to do just that. His job is to focus on fire risk when he makes recommendations to the council. Our job is to balance risk with reward; in this case, economic possibilities. However, the 4,000 sq. ft. standard was developed before any of our current staff were involved, so no

Thursday Live! features bluegrass band

Special to the Express

On Thursday, Feb. 1, the Davis Odd Fellows Thursday Live! concert series welcomes Broken Compass Bluegrass for the first time.

The show takes place at the Davis Odd Fellows Hall, 415 Second St., downtown. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. The series is donation only, with all contributions going directly to the musicians. Organizers encourage attendees to donate generously.

Formed in 2021, Broken Compass Bluegrass has quickly gained recognition

for tight arrangements, tasteful picking and standout songwriting. The Northern California band features Kyle Ledson, Django Ruckrich, Mei Lin Heirendt, and Sam Jacobs. Though young, each member is a seasoned performer, accomplished multi-instrumentalist, and prolific songwriter. Together, they have established themselves as one of California’s most exciting string bands.

In just a few years, Broken Compass Bluegrass has performed at festivals including High Sierra Music Festival, Strawberry Music

Festival, WinterWonderGrass, and Bluegrass in La Roche in France. The band is at the forefront of the contemporary bluegrass revival, combining tradition with innovation to appeal to longtime fans and new listeners alike. The bar will be open, offering beer, wine and other beverages.

For information or to join the Thursday Live! email list, contact Juelie Roggli at juelrog@gmail.com. Thursday Live! is sponsored by the Davis Odd Fellows Music Committee with support from KDRT Radio.

WTC extends audition registration for ‘A Chorus Line’

Special to the Express

Winters Theatre Company has extended registration for auditions for its 2026 production of the musical “A Chorus Line.” Auditions will be at the Winters Opera House, 13 Main St., on Friday, Jan. 30, and Saturday, Jan. 31.

The creative team, led by director Shane Robert, music director Jia-Min Rosendale, and choreographer Pamela Lourentzos, is looking for performers 18 and older who are prepared to sing and dance. Auditioners should prepare 16 to 32 bars of a song in the style of the show and bring sheet music in the correct key. An accompanist will be provided.

Auditions are by registration only. Friday, Jan. 30, auditions run from 7 to 9 p.m., and Saturday,

one could answer how it was created. One council member commented that they are sure this number isn’t arbitrary. Which caused me even more concern because I realized we aren’t asking how questions, just accepting recommendations and presuming necessity.

What we have passed says that 65 different combinations of use types and space size (13 types each in five sizes) all have identical fire

Jan. 31, from 3 to 8 p.m. Callbacks are set for 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, and are mandatory for casting consideration.

To register, email Shane. Robert349@gmail.com with the subject line “A CHORUS LINE REGISTRATION” and include a headshot, résumé and preferred audition date. The registration deadline has been extended to Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Rehearsals begin March 30, with performances scheduled from May 22 through June 7.

Winters Theatre Company will also kick off its 2026 season with the return of its popular 10-Minute Play Festival. Full audition information for both productions is available at www.winterstheatre.org/auditions.

risk requiring sprinklers; assemblies of people, businesses, daycares, factories, mercantile, storage, and other miscellaneous uses like barns, carports, garages and sheds. Effectively, any use under 4,000 sq. ft. is low risk; above 4,000 sq. ft. requires fire sprinklers. That feels arbitrary.

Continuing to allow the mere possibility of risk to drive policy decisions will stunt our long-term economic growth.

The commonality of 2025 was to enact policies and ordinances that functionally restrict or prevent economic growth because someone has asserted there is a possibility of risk. Not once have I seen an attempt to determine the probability of that risk. Blame for this outcome lies with the city council, not the staff. It is our job to accept or decline risk. There has been no appetite to accept any risk, regardless of its severity or probability.

I understand the urge to protect downtown. We have spent large sums of public and private funds to make Downtown Winters the premier regional destination.

But when the policy we enact doesn’t actually achieve the outcome we desire, and instead discourages growth, what are we doing?

I believe we are more likely to get fire sprinklers downtown due to businesses whose use type requires them (like restaurants), regardless of size, than by reducing the square-footage threshold for sprinklers. People make larger investments in new businesses when there is enough economic potential to justify them. And as one business owner commented in recent years, “People bring people.”

We cannot let the fear of losing our Historic Downtown result in stagnation and loss of vibrancy, as happened to Old Sacramento.

This amendment is a disincentive to economic growth with no realistic offsetting benefit to safety. So, I voted no.

The basics of sensory overload

Metro

Special to the Express

Hectic, loud and/or overly busy scenes and settings may not be safe havens for most people. In fact, it’s likely a majority of people find such environments uncomfortable and challenging to be in. Despite that discomfort, people typically can still manage these types of situations. Those who struggle to do so might be dealing with a condition known as sensory overload.

What is sensory overload?

The Cleveland Clinic compares sensory overload to an issue many modern adults have undoubtedly confronted: a computer paralyzed by too many applications running at once. Much like the operating system of a computer can be overwhelmed when too many internet tabs are open at once and/or too many applications are running simultaneously, a person’s operating system can be overwhelmed by too much stimuli, potentially contributing to paralyzing feelings that make it hard to move forward. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the sympathetic nervous system is the part of the body responsible for the fight-orflight response. When a person experiences sensory overload, that system switches on and alerts individuals that they are in danger. This also occurs when individuals feel sudden stress resulting from some aspect of the world around them, which can be triggered by various

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individual recipient, and every youth receives a helmet, lock and front and rear lights,” Judson said.

Safety is a core component of the program. Longtime volunteer and cyclist Lynn Thorpe serves as the Make It Happen Bicycle Program manager, overseeing bike selection, purchasing, repairs and final refurbishment.

“For many of our clients, owning a car is financially unattainable due to the cost of purchase, insurance, maintenance and fuel,” Judson said. Some youths are unable to obtain a driver’s license because they lack a vehicle or a licensed adult to help complete required

prompts.

What are some potential triggers of sensory overload?

The organization Autism Speaks notes that sensory overload is triggered when an intense sensory stimulus overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. A single event, including an unexpected loud noise, can be a trigger for sensory overload. The Cleveland Clinic reports these are some additional potential triggers:

• Sight: A lot of visual stimuli also can trigger sensory overload. That’s because individuals confronting a lot of visual stimuli may not figure out where to look or focus their attention. Bright of flashing lights also can trigger sensory overload.

• Smell: Strong scents and aromas, such as those produced by perfumes and certain cleaning products, also can trigger sensory overload.

• Touch: The Cleveland Clinic notes some individuals are extra sensitive to the feel of certain fabrics. Tight, uncomfortable clothing can trigger sensory overload, as can wearing materials that feel itchy.

• Taste: Even spicy foods or dishes individuals have never tried can trigger sensory overload. What happens when sensory overload is triggered?

Sensory overload can prompt both emotional and mental reactions. The Cleveland Clinic notes such reactions may

driving hours.

“A bicycle provides an affordable, reliable and empowering alternative, offering independence, physical activity and a practical means of transportation,” she said. In 2024, MIH provided bicycles to 17 youths; in 2025, the number increased to 31.

“We anticipate the need for this program will only increase, making the Bicycle Program a critical component of our efforts to support youth stability and self-sufficiency,” Judson said. Connecting youths to resources

After move-in, MIH continues to support youth and families by linking them to a network of trusted community partners throughout Yolo Coun-

include:

• General feeling of stress

• Anxiety

• Inability to focus

• Irritability

• Intrusive thoughts, which the Cleveland Clinic notes are unwanted images or urges that come to mind even though they are unwanted

Autism Speaks notes more specific signs that people with autism who experience sensory overload may experience, which can include but are not limited to:

• Increased movement, such as jumping, spinning or crashing into things

• Talking faster and louder, or not talking at all

• Covering ears or eyes

• Difficulty recognizing internal sensations like hunger, pain or the need to use the bathroom

• Refusing or insisting on certain foods or clothing items

• Frequent chewing on non-food items

• Frequent touching of others or playing rough

• Difficulty communicating or responding as the brain shifts resources to deal with sensory input (shutdown)

• Escalating, overwhelming emotions or need to escape a situation (meltdown)

The Cleveland Clinic notes that children are more prone to sensory overload because youngsters’ coping skills are less developed than adults’. More information about sensory overload can be found at https://health. clevelandclinic.org/ sensory-overload.

ty. Resource connections, including Yolo Crisis Nursery and Empower Yolo, help stabilize households and support long-term independence.

“We maintain close ties to the child welfare system through our Board Secretary, Erica Jimenez, a licensed social worker and former member of Yolo County Child Welfare Services’ Transition Age Youth unit,” Judson said.

“Through her ongoing work with Yolo CASA and continued collaboration with Child Welfare Services, MIH can connect with county agencies and receive client referrals,” she added.

While some young adults pursue fulltime work, others continue their education through the UC Davis Guardian Scholars

How nutritional needs change with age

Metro Special to the Express

The human body undergoes an assortment of changes over the course of a lifetime. Some of those changes are visible to the naked eye, but many more are not. The body’s changing needs in regard to nutrition is one alteration that people cannot see.

A nutritious diet can be a building block of a long and healthy life. Nutritional needs change as the body ages, and recognition of those changes can help people rest easy that their diets are working in their favor and not to their detriment.

Calorie needs

The body requires fewer calories as individuals reach adulthood. That’s because muscle mass begins to decrease in adulthood while fat increases. The National Institutes of Health notes that muscles use more calories than fat throughout the day, so it makes sense that a body experiencing a decline in muscle mass will require less calories than one in which muscle mass is on the rise. No two individuals are the same, and some adults exercise more than others. So it’s best for adults to consult their physician to discuss their own calorie needs and then adjust their diets based on such discussions.

What to eat

The American Heart Association notes aging

adults’ calories should come from nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meat, and low-fat dairy. This recommendation aligns with adults’ declining calorie needs, as nutrient-dense foods contain ample amounts of protein, vitamins and/or minerals but do not contain a lot of calories.

Water needs

It’s vital for aging adults to make a concerted effort to drink water each day. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion notes that the sensation of thirst declines with age. Aging adults who are unaware of that unique biological reality may be risking dehydration because they are not compelled to drink water throughout the day. The Cleveland Clinic notes that dehydration can contribute to dizziness, weakness and lightheadedness, among other symptoms. Those symptoms can be particularly menacing for older adults, who are at increased risk for potentially harmful falls even if they are not dehydrated.

The body still needs water as it ages, and seniors taking certain medications may need more than usual due to medication-related fluid loss.

These are just some of the ways nutritional needs change with age. Adults are urged to pay greater attention to diet as they age and make choices that can counter age-related changes in their bodies.

through partner agencies, schools, organizations and individuals. The nonprofit is actively increasing awareness and outreach in these areas. Funding, community support

All funding for the Furniture, Household Goods and Bicycle Programs comes entirely from individual donations, community support and fundraising efforts such as the Paint for a Purpose event.

Program, which MIH partners with. The program serves students with lived experience in foster care and offers supportive wraparound services, including priority registration, mentoring and workshops focused on time management, study skills and other essential tools.

Eight years ago, MIH launched the annual GSP Move-In Days to address a need faced by UC Davis Guardian Scholars moving into off-campus housing.

“While first-year Guardian Scholars typically live in furnished dorms with meal plans, many encounter significant challenges when moving into independent living as sophomores, including a lack of furniture and basic household items,” Judson said.

Recognizing youth excellence

MIH also honors youths with the annu-

al Youth Excellence Award, presented to a graduating participant of the Yolo County Independent Living Skills Program (ILSP) pursuing post-secondary education or career training.

“ILSP serves youth ages 14–21 who are emancipating or have emancipated from foster care, or who were involved in the juvenile justice system and placed in out-ofhome care,” Judson said. The program equips youth with life skills needed for independent living, from opening a bank account and obtaining a California ID to conducting job searches and managing finances. The Youth Excellence Award, presented in June, and the UC Davis GSP Move-In Days have served 19 students since 2023.

MIH also serves youths in Winters and the Capay Valley, who can access services

“MIH is deeply grateful for the generosity of donors and volunteers who contribute financially, donate goods and assist with program operations,” Judson said. Additional support comes from the Big Day of Giving and fundraising events through community organizations.

“They all help sustain and expand services,” she said. The 2026 Paint for a Purpose fundraiser will take place Saturday, Feb. 7, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. at the Davis Unitarian Universalist Church on Patwin Road in Davis. Tickets are $75 per person; tables of four are $300. Tickets may be purchased through the MIH website.

To refer a youth, contact Make It Happen for Yolo County at info@mihyolo.org or call 530-341-2432.

This is the second article in a multipart series examining Make It Happen Yolo County. The next installment will explore the organization’s programs, services and resource connections for youths and families.