Winters Express: Wednesday, May 20, 2026

ALS students, Rotenkolber honored at SELPA CAC Awards

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

A group of students in the district’s inaugural Adult Living Skills program and a longtime Winters educator were among those honored May 11 at the annual Yolo County SELPA Community Advisory Committee Awards, which recognize individuals and programs supporting children and adults with special needs.

The Winters Joint Unified School District recipients included fourth-grade teacher Robin Rotenkolber of Shirley Rominger Intermediate School and the Adult Living Skills (ALS) Program students at Winters High School.

The CAC Awards

recognize school employees, parents, volunteers, students and community partners who provide outstanding service to individuals with special needs throughout Yolo County.

Rotenkolber, who has taught in Winters for more than 29 years, was recognized for her commitment to in-

clusive education and her collaborative approach with families, service providers and support staff.

“Robin creates a classroom where all students feel valued, supported, and capable of success,” said Adriane Laughter. “Her students know that she believes in them wholehearted-

Weather

ly.”

Laughter noted Rotenkolber’s work extends beyond the classroom, highlighting her efforts to coordinate with special education staff, counselors, paraeducators and families to ensure students receive appropriate academic

Duck Derby races the creek May 30

Express staff

The 12th Annual Duck Derby will return to Putah Creek on Saturday, May 30, bringing hundreds of rubber ducks back to the water for the annual race that serves as the primary fundraiser for Winters Youth Day.

The event draws families and community members each year to watch as numbered rubber ducks are released into the creek and carried downstream. The first three ducks to reach the finish line will receive cash prizes. The last duck to finish, now called “Mike’s

Lucky Duck,” is named in honor and memory of Mike Sebastian and will earn a flock of 12 entries in next year’s race. Last year, one of Jeremy Phillips’s racers finished as the last duck across the line and was named Mike’s Lucky Duck. Phillips returns this year with a full flock ready to try again.

Race day details Duck adoptions will be available the day of the event from 11 to 11:30 a.m. at the Rotary Gazebo. Ducks may also be sponsored in

See DUCKS, Page 5

Council reviews animal services community survey results

By Sonora Slater Express staff writer

As the next step in a multi-year process to reshape local animal services, the council reviewed survey results and community feedback on priorities at its May 5 meeting, incorporating resident input into its discussion. Winters currently contracts with Yolo County for shelter and field services, with all facilities located in Woodland. However, the council is exploring alternatives after the public raised concerns about the current system’s quality, cost-effectiveness and accessibility. At its April 7 meeting, the Yolo County Animal Services Joint Powers

Share childcare experiences at Parent Cafes

Families of young children in western Yolo County are invited to help shape the future of local childcare through upcoming Parent Cafes hosted by the Yolo County Office of Education and First 5 Yolo.

The community conversations give parents and caregivers an opportunity to share their experiences, including the challenges many rural families face in finding affordable, local childcare and the need to travel out of town to access services. Input gathered will

help inform local decision-makers working to improve childcare access across the region. The first session was held via Zoom on May 20, with two additional opportunities scheduled for families living west of Interstate 505. Upcoming Parent Cafe dates include:

• May 21, 6 p.m., Winters Community Library, 708 Railroad Ave. • May 22, 6 p.m., Esparto Regional Library, 17065 Yolo Ave. The events are hosted by the Yolo County Office of Education and First 5 Yolo.

Regional News

Yolo judicial candidates jointly rebuke campaign attack

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

The two candidates for Yolo Superior Court judge issued a joint statement Monday denouncing a recent text that criticized a donation made to one of their campaigns.

“We are issuing this joint statement because we firmly believe our local courts must remain fair, independent, and strictly nonpartisan,” Diane Ortiz and Ryan Davis said in a co-authored text sent out to voters Monday evening.

That message went out about eight hours after another text, paid for by the Yolo County Democratic Central Committee, that said one of the candidates was “backed by the Yolo County Republican Party.” It cited a $15,000 donation their campaign received from the Yolo Business PAC.

nity deserves a fair court system, and we trust Yolo County voters to decide this election based on our respective qualifications and legal experience — not partisan division.”

Jake Whitaker, chairman of the Yolo County Democratic Central Committee, responded to the joint announcement.

“The Yolo County Democratic Party’s role is to ensure Democrats in Yolo County have the information they need to make the best decisions in the voting booth,” Whitaker said in an email to the Express’ sister newspaper The Davis Enterprise. “We feel strongly that Democrats should be informed about the influence of PAC money in local elections.”

easier than you might expect, because as a judge you’re making decisions one at a time, based on the information that’s in front of you and the applicable law,” said Davis, a Sacramento Superior Court commissioner, former public defender and former deputy attorney general. “In just about all assignments, politics just really doesn’t enter into it. It’s not the sort of decisions that trial judges are making at the state level.”

“I’ve been in a trial courtroom for enough years to see that politics has no place in a courtroom,” said Ortiz, a 16-year prosecutor with the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office.

“Recently, highly partisan campaign texts were sent out to local Democrats regarding this race,” the joint statement said. “We want to be clear: judicial elections are not about political parties, PACs, or national politics. They are about qualifications, integrity, and a commitment to the law.”

and social supports.

One student described Rotenkolber’s impact simply, saying, “Mrs. Rotenkolber tells me to never give up and keep trying to do my best.”

A parent also praised her dedication, stating, “Mrs. Rotenkolber is amazing, goes above and beyond for her students. She is patient, kind, and connects with her students.”

“These words perfectly reflect the educator and person Robin is each and every day,” Laughter said.

Also recognized were students in the district’s first ALS classroom program: Kaden Karlin, Sammy Rodriguez, Luis Astorga, Jeremiah White and Andrew Dutton.

The students were recognized for leadership, perseverance and community involvement through a range of hands-on projects and partnerships.

“These young adults demonstrate perseverance, resilience, and determination each day as they work toward greater independence, per-

“While we are opponents on the ballot, we are completely united in our re-

sonal growth, and community involvement,” Laughter said. “Through their hard work and dedication, they have become leaders, role models, and ambassadors for inclusion within our schools and community.”

A centerpiece of their work has been the student-run business Warrior Pizza, through which students manage everything from menu design and ordering to finances, customer service and delivery.

“The students took ownership of the entire process — from selecting ingredients and designing menus to managing finances, taking orders, and delivering pizzas to staff and community members,” Laughter said.

“Their teamwork, entrepreneurial spirit, and pride in their work have made Warrior Pizza a tremendous success.”

Beyond the business, students have helped maintain a community garden in partnership with Wolfskill CRA students, supported district recycling programs at Waggoner and Rominger elementary schools, assisted with tree-planting efforts

spect for the judiciary. We ask outside groups to stop trying to turn a nonpartisan judicial race into a partisan battlefield,” the statement added. “Our commu-

The topic of political sway on the judiciary arose at an April 30 judicial candidates’ forum sponsored by the Yolo County League of Women Voters, where one audience member asked, “As a judge, how would you ensure that no political considerations enter your decision-making?”

“I do think it’s somewhat

“When I speak to my victims as a prosecutor, at no point do I ask what their political affiliation is, because justice is fair and justice is for all. So I will remain consistent in what I’ve been doing and leaving politics out of my role as a judge.”

Both candidates are aiming to succeed retiring Yolo Superior Court Judge Janene Beronio. Election Day is June 2.

and helped with event setup at high school football games.

Program staff also credited the success of the ALS program to its instructional team, including education specialist Kim Spalding, instructional staff members Sarah Martin, Blake Calvert and Yolanda Velarde, as well as Workability coordinator Jenny Ramos.

Spalding said the inaugural year of the program has given students opportunities to

“The program allows the student to take their rightful place in the community where they can engage and contribute.”

Kim Spalding, ALS program lead

showcase leadership, creativity and independence.

“The program allows the student to take their rightful place in the community where they can engage and contribute,” Spalding said. “Being the teacher of this pro-

gram I am so proud to be a part of this journey in their adult lives and the growth they have shown.” She added that the recognition is a meaningful milestone for the students involved.

“This award is a high honor for the students to receive and they are all very proud of this recognition,” Spalding said.

SELPA awards

The complete list of the 2025-26 SELA Community Advisory Committee awards recipients include: Winters Joint Unified School District

• Robin Rotenkolber, Teacher, Shirley Rominger Intermediate School

• Program Award: Adult Living Skills Program Students, Winters High School Esparto Unified School District Program Award: Special Day Class Team Davis Joint Unified School District

• Sarah Brown, Paraeducator, Da Vinci High School

• Program Award: Youth Action Research Team, Emerson Junior High School

Washington Unified School District

Lauren Rivas, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Special Education Woodland Joint Unified School District

Ashley Crawford, Program Specialist, Special Education

Yolo County Office of Education

Beth Hogan, Adaptive Physical Education Teacher

Community

Junior Board highlights student-engagement findings

By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer

The Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees heard from a youth version of themselves on Thursday, May 7, as the Winters JUSD Junior Board provided a reflective presentation on student engagement.

Junior Board

During the first year of the Junior Board’s existence, members focused on student engagement, safety — both physical and mental — and future readiness for college and careers beyond the classroom.

To meet those goals, the Junior Board held meetings with staff, conducted social media outreach to make students aware of the board, created a Youth Day float and attended regular Winters JUSD Board of Trustees meetings.

The Junior Board discovered throughout the year that both students and staff value a culture based on active listening and the exchange of ideas.

Junior Board members said learning works best when it is a shared process between students and teachers, and that both perspectives should be considered to make it most effective. They added that ongoing dialogue is the best way to support that collabora-

tion, which they hope to help encourage.

Student members said learning is a collaborative process between students and teachers and that, for it to be most effective, the needs of both should be taken into account. The Junior Board hopes to facilitate continued dialogue between students and faculty.

The Junior Board found through joint meetings that when students have genuine relationships with their teachers, they feel they learn better.

Next year, the Junior Board hopes to establish a student “town hall” to encourage more student dialogue, involve teachers more in ideas and planning, address more issues within the school and establish additional safe and quiet spaces for students.

Trustees said they were happy to hear from the Junior Board and look forward to hearing more from them next year.

“One of our district priorities this year was to lift student voice, and this is a fantastic example of the student perspective and what that means for our innovations moving forward,” Superintendent Rody Boonchouy said.

K-5 social science curriculum

Phoebe Girimonte,

assistant superintendent of educational services, presented a new K-5 social science curriculum. After a year-long elementary social science pilot process comparing two curriculum options, the staff selected “Social Studies Alive!”

Girimonte described SSA as a program that provides multiple access points to content, integrates social-emotional learning and supports hands-on collaborative learning experiences.

“This curriculum supports rigorous, inclusive, and relevant instruction, while helping students build academic knowledge and competencies that will serve them in their lives beyond school,” Girimonte said.

She added that the

district’s existing social science curriculum is the oldest in the district and was a priority to update.

“We wanted to be thoughtful about our process, and that’s why it took us the twoyear window to engage in the framework training, and then pilot these materials,” Girimonte said.

The item will return to the board on May 21 for approval.

Agriscience course description

Replacing the current Ag Biology course is a Career Technical Education course within the Agriculture and Natural Resources sector. Designed as a plant science pathway concentrator, the course is intended for students in grades 1012 and builds upon the Introduction to Agriculture course.

Agriscience is a year-long, laboratory-based course providing students with applied scientific instruction in both plant and animal science systems while incorporating handson learning, scientific inquiry and career exploration.

Girimonte said staff believe the course will act as a kind of “survey course,” helping students identify their areas of interest so they can find the pathways they wish to complete.

“There’s a nice connection to our FFA endeavors and leadership development through the FFA program, and then, of course, career exploration and industry opportunities. So, overall, this course supports our continued efforts to offer students rigorous, rel-

evant, and career-connected learning and promote both college and career readiness,” Girimonte said. Like the social science curriculum, Agriscience will return for approval on May 21.

Personnel Services Report and Action Trustees voted unanimously to lay off the instructional assistant bilingual position due to a lack of work and/or funds. However, the employee accepted an alternate position for the 2026-27 school year.

“No one is, in fact, leaving with no job. It is a different job, and we are thrilled to be able to keep her in that role. Regardless, this is part of the process that we have to complete,” said Lisa Dennis, human resources director.

Local students recognized in Voter Empowerment Design Contest

at the Student Voter Empowerment Design Contest event. Cooper’s entry, shown in the bottom center, received an honorable mention.

Express staff

The League of Women Voters of Yolo County and the Yolo County Library hosted an awards ceremony Sunday, May 17, at the Mary L. Stephens Davis Library in Davis to recognize winners of the inaugural Student Voter Empowerment Design Contest.

Esparto High School student Sergio Santiago earned first place. Davis Senior High School students Shriya Sriram and Anna Steidlmayer received second and third place, respectively.

Two Winters High School students, Jackelyn Cooper and Dianna Valadez Conchas, received honorable mentions for their submissions. Cooper attended the ceremo-

MEMORIAL DAY FLAGS AND SERVICE

Winters Cemetery District (WCD) is seeking volunteers on Friday, May 22nd, to help place the 498 flags on all Veterans’ graves. Please report to the center building at 9:00 AM SHARP with a screwdriver (the tool…not the drink) for your instructions. Please don’t be late! Any questions?...Call Eric, WCD Manager @ 530-795-2475

The WCD is inviting the community to participate in our Memorial Day Service commencing at 1:30 PM on May 25th. We will honor the 26 Veterans that were Killed In Action, as well as the remaining 472 Veterans buried here. All Veterans and their spouses or partners are invited and encouraged to sit in the special seating to the right of the podium under the canopy.

ny and was one of only two students present. She said her poster was inspired by a desire to show students that voting allows people to place those who share their values and beliefs into positions of leadership, emphasizing the importance of civic participation.

Yolo County Assessor/Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Jesse Salinas highlighted ongoing efforts through the YES! program to engage students in civic involvement and noted the League’s support in initiatives such

Salinas also reiterated that California allows 16-year-olds to pre-register to vote.

The contest encouraged high school students to express their perspectives while learning about civic engagement and the importance of participating in elections. Information about voter registration in Yolo County is available at ace.yolocounty.gov/256/Register-to-Vote. A list of all contest participants is available online at lwvyolo. org.

June 13, 2026

Public Safety Report

~Main Street, Person in distress (other)

May 7: County Road

34, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Blue Oak Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

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

May 8: Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

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

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

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

~Dry Creek Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

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

May 9: Ramos Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Hemenway Street, Person in distress (other)

~Carrion Circle, Person in distress (other)

May 10: Edwards Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

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

May 11: Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Carmelo Way, Motor vehicle accident

~Maple Lane, False alarm or false call (other)

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

May 12: Russell Boulevard and County Road 92F, Motor vehicle accident

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

~Hillview Lane, Illegal control burn

~Carmelo Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Pleasants Valley Road and Putah Creek Road, Mutual aid motor vehicle accident

~E. Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~Edwards Street and 3rd Street, Outdoor miscellaneous fire

May 13: E. Grant Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

May 14: Abbey Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

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

Police Report Log

May 8: 10 p.m., 10 block of Anderson Avenue, Grand theft from a motor vehicle (felony)

May 9: 2:23 p.m., 0 block of Main Street, Probation violation/ rearrest (misdemeanor)

View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log. The Winters PD now utilizes the program Citizen RIMS for crime mapping and data which includes report and arrest information.

YESTERYEAR

number of people in the picture, THAC was quite the operation. Their building was torn down and is now a parking lot for City Hall and the hotel. Pictured, left to right, Steve

Lake Berryessa water levels down

Express staff

The water level of Lake Berryessa decreased by 0.44 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 7,867 acre-feet of water storage, according to Tim Gerard, Operations at Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, May 20, he reported that the lake elevation was 438.19 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,517,282 acre-feet. The SID released 398 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 60 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 259 acre-feet of water per day.

Memorial Day events set in Winters, Capay Valley

Express staff

Community members in western Yolo County will have multiple opportunities this weekend to honor military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces, with remembrance events planned in both Winters and the Capay Valley.

Winters Memorial Day Service

The community is invited to attend the Winters Cemetery District’s annual Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 25, at 1:30 p.m. at the Winters Cemetery. All veterans and their families are en-

couraged to attend. Flags will be flown at half-staff, and smaller flags will mark the graves of veterans buried at the cemetery. This year, volunteers will place 498 flags on veterans’ graves beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, May 22. Organizers encourage volunteers to bring a screwdriver to help secure the flags.

The ceremony will include the Winters Girl Scouts leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a community singalong of patriotic songs led by Bruce Chapman. Col. Nelson Prouty, deputy commander of the 60th Air Mobility Wing at Travis Air Force Base, will serve as the featured speaker.

The program will conclude with a 21-

gun salute by the Service Veterans of Northern California Volunteer Honor Guard. Kevin Corrales, a member of the Winters High School band brass section, will perform “TAPS” to close the tribute.

Capay Valley Memorial Day events In the Capay Valley, VFW Post 7143 will host a full day of Memorial Day remembrance activities on Monday, May 25, beginning with a ceremony at 10 a.m. at the Capay Valley Cemetery. A free community luncheon will follow at Noon at VFW Post 7143, and a Family Day with activities for all ages. All events are free and open to the public. The VFW Post is located at 16812 Orleans St., Esparto.

For the Record

Correction

In the May 13, 2026 edition of the Winters Express, the article about the Winters Cemetery District seeking volunteers omitted the date volunteers are needed to place flags on veterans’ graves. Volunteers are needed at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 22. We regret the error.

Eventos hispanos

Ayuntamiento aprueba Zona de Entretenimiento

Diversas opiniones públicas sobre el plan para el centro

Por Sonora Slater

Traducido por Carol Alfonso

En la reunión del Ayuntamiento de Winters del pasado 5 de Mayo se estableció oficialmente una Zona de Entretenimiento en el centro de la ciudad, tras aplazarse la votación final para dar más tiempo a la ciudadanía para expresar su opinión.

La ordenanza permitirá a determinados establecimientos con licencia vender bebidas alcohólicas para consumir al aire libre durante las horas designadas dentro de la zona, siempre que los participantes lleven una pulsera estandarizada que acredite que son mayores de 21 años. No se permitirá el consumo de alcohol del exterior y seguirá estando prohibido fumar en toda la zona, excepto en los callejones, según la normativa municipal. La propuesta se presentó por primera vez el 3 de Marzo y se volvió a debatir el 17 de Marzo.

La zona de entretenimiento, que estaría claramente señalizada si se estableciera, estaba delimitada originalmente por las calles First Street, Edwards Street, Railroad Avenue, Abbey Street, Elliott Street, East Main Street y Russell Street. Durante la segunda lectura del 7 de Abril, un mapa revisado modificó el límite para que terminara principalmente

SURVEY

Continued from Page 1

Authority (JPA), created as a planning body to address the issue, presented several options to the council. These included maintaining the current contract with Yolo County, shifting animal services to local entities, contracting with nonprofits, forming an operational JPA, or adopting a hybrid approach combining two or more options.

After the presentation, the council sought public input on which services are most important to residents, including access to affordable preventive animal care, shelter services and emergency animal response. The survey was widely distributed, and the May 5 meeting focused on analysis of the responses.

There were 122 responses, more than 70 percent of which

en Abbey Street en lugar de Edwards Street, con una reserva para el futuro emplazamiento de la gasolinera Yolo Fill Station.

Horario de funcionamiento

Según el plan de gestión propuesto, la zona de entretenimiento funcionaría:

• De Viernes a Domingo, de 12 p.m. a 11:59 p.m. (del 1 de Marzo al 31 de Octubre).

• Jueves por la noche, de 12 p.m. a 11:59 p.m. (solo de Junio a Agosto, para dar cabida a la serie de conciertos de verano).

El administrador municipal, Jeremy Craig, declaró en un correo electrónico al Winters Express que, si bien la ordenanza introduce nuevas regulaciones, la idea de flexibilizar las normas sobre el consumo de alcohol al aire libre surgió hace varios años. Durante la pandemia de COVID-19, el Departamento de Control de Bebidas Alcohólicas de California (California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control - ABC) flexibilizó los requisitos para obtener licencias de licor para facilitar el servicio de comidas al aire libre. Estas normas temporales finalizarán este verano.

Actualmente, el estado permite a las ciudades crear “zonas de entretenimiento” reguladas localmente, con límites, horarios y normas de cumplimiento específicos.

“El distrito propuesto básicamente formaliza en un programa organizado lo que se ha estado haciendo durante los últimos cinco años,” escribió Craig. “Tenemos un historial de cinco años con esta actividad y la

came from Winters residents. The others came from nearby Yolo and Solano County residents.

The majority of respondents said all services are important, including animal law enforcement, volunteer programs and sheltering and adoption services. However, one of the largest areas of focus was affordable preventive animal care, including spay and neuter services, which nearly half of commenters requested.

Commenters also asked for improved ways to locate lost animals, lower-cost veterinary care and stronger enforcement of leash laws for offleash dogs.

Mayor Pro Tempore Bill Biasi said he would like more information moving forward about the potential for partnerships with local nonprofits to provide some services. The council agreed to send a formal letter to the

intervención policial en las llamadas relacionadas con las actividades en las pérgolas ha sido mínima.”

Craig afirmó que, históricamente, esta actividad ha generado pocas llamadas a la policía, según el personal municipal.

En la reunión del pasado 17 de Marzo, el consejo votó a favor de solicitar más opiniones de la comunidad. Decenas de residentes asistieron a la reunión del 5 de Mayo para compartir sus puntos de vista.

Algunos comerciantes expresaron su preocupación de que la zona pudiera afectar negativamente a sus negocios, argumentando que la presencia de clientes ruidosos o ebrios fuera de las tiendas podría disuadir a familias o clientes que buscan una experiencia de compra más tranquila.

Otros opinaron que un mayor tránsito peatonal beneficiaría al centro de la ciudad en general.

“Lo que comenzó como una solución temporal se ha convertido en algo muy especial,” dijo Emarie VanGalio, directora de operaciones de Putah Creek Cafe. “Debemos apoyar a Winters como destino turístico, para que Winters sea un lugar excelente para visitar. Oficializar esta medida nos permite seguir perfeccionándola cuidadosamente con el tiempo.”

Preocupaciones sobre el cumplimiento de las normas

Otra preocupación se centró en el cumplimiento de las normas y si esto

JPA summarizing survey results and outlining community priorities.

The item is expected to return to the council at a later date, when discussion may focus more on selecting an operational model.

Meeting details

The staff reports and supporting materials for the item are included in the City Council agenda packet available on the city’s website at www. cityofwinters.org/194/ Meetings. A recording of the meeting will be posted to the Archived City Council Meetings section once it is uploaded.

sobrecargaría al Departamento de Policía de Winters o a los negocios del centro. Algunos comerciantes afirmaron que ya tienen problemas con clientes ebrios que intentan entrar a las tiendas con alcohol. Según la propuesta, los negocios serían los principales responsables de hacer cumplir las normas, con patrullajes rutinarios del Departamento de Policía de Winters en el centro. Los participantes deberán usar una pulsera y un vaso designado que los identifique como parte del distrito. Las personas que consuman alcohol en la zona sin la identificación adecuada podrán ser multadas o expulsadas por la policía. Los residentes también podrán presentar informes que documenten incidentes relacionados con la zona de entretenimiento. El Departamento de Policía de Winters recopilará estos informes para una revisión de otoño. Una vez finalizado el período de operación de la temporada, el consejo evaluará las preocupaciones y considerará las modificaciones antes de que comience la próxima temporada en Marzo del 2027. “Vemos esto como el inicio de un proceso,” dijo Craig. Kelli Villanueva, miembro de la Cámara de Comercio de Winters y residente particular, comentó que se sintió atraída por Winters en parte debido a los eventos del centro y ve la Zona de Entretenimiento como una extensión de esa cul-

DUCKS Continued from Page 1

advance at https://bit. ly/derbyducks2026.

Pre-race activities will take place before the start of the race, which is scheduled for 11:40 a.m. Winners will be announced following the race.

Baby Duck Hunt

As part of the weekend events, the Winters Youth Day committee will again host the Baby Duck Hunt. Beginning Friday, May 29, after 3 p.m., small rubber ducks will be hidden throughout downtown Winters.

tura. “He visto muchos cambios en Winters, y muchos de ellos han sido positivos,” dijo Villanueva. “Creo que es posible abordar las inquietudes y los malentendidos y, al mismo tiempo, crear la Zona de Entretenimiento, ampliando algo que ya existía y que hemos estado disfrutando.”

El concejal Jesse Loren preguntó sobre el horario propuesto, que va desde el mediodía hasta la medianoche en días específicos, sugiriendo que podría acortarse a las 10:30 o 11 p.m. Sin embargo, los comerciantes señalaron que, si bien los horarios de cierre se indican más temprano, muchos establecimientos continúan atendiendo a los clientes hasta las 11 p.m. o más tarde debido a las reservas. Finalmente, el consejo acordó comenzar con el cierre a medianoche y ajustarlo si fuera necesario.

“En mi opinión, esto nos dará más control que antes,” dijo el alcalde interino Bill Biasi. “Hacer esto durante Octubre y luego observar y dar un paso atrás es una buena manera de probarlo.”

Los informes del personal y los materiales de apoyo para este punto se incluyen en el paquete de la agenda del Ayuntamiento, disponible en el sitio web de la ciudad: http:// www.cityofwinters.org/194/ Meetings.

Una vez que se suba, se publicará una grabación de la reunión en la sección de Archivo de Reuniones del Ayuntamiento.

Finders may return ducks to the Duckling Recovery Station at the Duck Derby on May 30 to receive prizes or treats. Participants are asked to take only one duck each. Proceeds from the Duck Derby support Winters Youth Day programming, including community celebrations, student scholarships and youth civic engagement initiatives.

Organizers say the event continues to fund opportunities for local students to participate in leadership and service activities throughout the year.

For more information about Winters Youth Day or to volunteer, visit https://linktr.ee/ wintersyouthday or the Winters Youth Day website www. wintersyouthday. com.

Revive your foyer and make a strong

A

entryway is the first interior space people experience when they arrive home— and the last impression they leave with when they depart. Because it serves as both a transition zone and a functional drop zone, even small improvements can significantly elevate the feel of an entire home. With a few intentional updates, homeowners can turn a forgotten pass-through into a polished, highly functional space.

Add seating and built-in functionality

If a foyer is large enough, seating can instantly make it feel more intentional and inviting. Upholstered armchairs or a slim bench provide a place to sit while putting on or removing shoes, but the most effective entryway designs often combine seating with storage.

For example, a bench with built-in cubbies underneath can conceal shoes, sports gear or reusable shopping bags, keeping clutter out of sight. In tighter foyers, a wall-mounted floating bench can provide the same function without consuming floor space.

Make a statement with layered lighting.

Foyer lighting does more than illuminate — it sets tone and mood. A single overhead fixture can be

upgraded to a statement pendant, chandelier or sculptural flush mount that visually anchors the space. To elevate the effect further, consider layering lighting sources. Wall sconces can add warmth and reduce shadows, while a small table lamp on a console table can create a softer, homey glow in the evening. In homes where wiring changes are impractical, plug-in sconces or rechargeable LED fixtures can mimic a custom look without renovation work.

Conquer clutter with smart storage solutions

Foyers tend to collect the daily “drop zone” items— keys, mail, backpacks, jackets and shoes. Without structure, the space quickly becomes chaotic. A slim console table with drawers can help contain small essentials, while decorative trays or bowls

corral keys and loose items. Wall-mounted hooks or peg rails offer vertical storage for coats and bags without taking up floor space, which is especially useful in narrow entryways. For homes with heavier traffic, consider incorporating closed storage such as a cabinet or bench with doors to hide seasonal clutter.

Add artwork, mirrors and wall features

Artwork is one of the simplest ways to introduce character into a foyer, but it can be elevated further with thoughtful placement and layering. A large-scale piece above a console table creates a focal point, while a gallery wall can add personality in a more eclectic way. Mirrors are particularly effective in entryways, as they reflect light and make small spaces feel larger and brighter. A round or arched mirror

first impression

above a bench or console is a common design choice, but leaning floor mirrors can also work in wider foyers.

Intentional paint colors—such as soft neutrals or light-reflective tones — can enhance brightness, while small windows and other sources of natural light play a key role in opening up the entryway throughout the day. Together, these elements help create a cohesive first impression that feels both intentional and inviting from the moment guests step inside.

Incorporate greenery and natural elements

Plants bring life and softness into an entryway, helping bridge the outdoors with the interior of the home. A tall potted plant such as a fiddle leaf fig or olive tree can make a dramatic statement in a corner, while smaller plants on shelves or consoles add subtle texture. If natural light is limited, high-quality faux plants can still provide visual impact without maintenance concerns. Beyond plants, natural materials like wood trays, stone bowls or woven baskets can add warmth and balance to harder surfaces like tile or wood flooring.

Upgrade flooring and define the space with rugs

Because foyers experience heavy foot traffic, durable flooring and wellplaced rugs are essential. A patterned or textured runner can define the

entry zone while protecting flooring from dirt and wear. Washable rugs are especially practical for families or homes in rainy or snowy climates, as they can be cleaned frequently without replacement. If a more permanent upgrade is desired, materials such as porcelain tile, luxury vinyl plank or sealed hardwood can provide durability while maintaining a polished appearance.

Enhance with paint, paneling detail

A foyer offers an ideal opportunity to introduce design character without overwhelming the rest of the home. A fresh coat of paint in a slightly bolder or deeper tone can immediately define the space, while wainscoting, beadboard or board-and-batten paneling adds architectural interest. For a more modern approach, a single accent wall in a contrasting color or textured wallpaper can create a focal point without requiring a full-room commitment. Even simple additions like picture ledges or narrow floating shelves can add structure to blank walls while providing space for rotating décor. With thoughtful updates — ranging from lighting and storage to art, greenery and architectural detail — homeowners can transform even the simplest entryway into a space that feels intentional, welcoming and reflective of the rest of the home.

Growing, managing berry bushes in Zone 9b gardens

like much of Yolo County — home gardeners enjoy a long growing season, mild winters, and plenty of sun. Those same conditions that make the region ideal for tomatoes and citrus can also be excellent for berries, but only if gardeners choose the right species and manage soil, water, and growth habits carefully.

Berry bushes such as blueberries, blackberries, and marionberries can thrive here, but they behave very differently in a warm Mediterranean climate. Success comes down to matching the plant to the environment — and then staying ahead of its natural urge to spread.

Choosing the right berries

Not all berries are created equal when it comes to heat tolerance and soil needs.

Blueberries: The soil specialists Blueberries can grow in Zone 9b, but they are the most demanding of the group. They require acidic soil — ideally a pH between 4.5 and 5.5 — which is not naturally found in most Northern California garden soils.

For success:

• Choose Southern Highbush varieties such as ‘Misty,’ ‘Sunshine Blue,’ or ‘Jewel’

• Plant in raised beds or large containers to control soil chemistry

• Use acidic amendments like peat moss, pine bark, or sulfur

• Maintain consistent moisture with drip irrigation and mulch Without acidic soil, blueberries will struggle, often showing yellow leaves and poor fruit production. Blackberries: The reliable spreaders Blackberries are far more forgiving in Zone 9b and often thrive with minimal fuss. They prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and regular pruning.

Key decisions:

• Erect varieties are easier to manage in small gardens

• Trailing varieties produce higher yields but require strong trellising

• Primocane-bearing types (like ‘Prime-Ark Freedom’) fruit on first-year canes and can extend harvest seasons

Blackberries will spread aggressively if left unchecked, so planning for containment is essential from day one.

Marionberries: The berry with a wild side

Marionberries— technically a type of trailing blackberry— are beloved for their rich, complex flavor but are more challenging in hot climates. They prefer cooler

summers and consistent moisture, making them more successful in shaded microclimates or areas with afternoon protection.

In Zone 9b:

• Plant where they receive morning sun and afternoon shade

• Ensure deep watering during hot months

• Expect strong spreading habits and plan for a dedicated trellis system

They can perform well, but they demand more attention than standard blackberries.

Planting best practices

Regardless of berry type, proper planting sets the foundation for long-term success.

Soil Preparation

Blueberries: highly acidic, loose, organic-rich soil

Blackberries/marionberries: moderately fertile, well-draining soil with compost

Avoid heavy clay without amendment

Raised beds are especially useful in Yolo County gardens where soil tends toward alkaline conditions.

Spacing

Blueberries: 3–5 feet apart

Blakberries: 3–6 feet apart depending on variety

Marionberries: 5–7 feet with trellis support

Crowding leads to

disease, reduced airflow, and harder harvesting.

Sun, heat management

Zone 9b summers can be intense. Most berries prefer:

• 6–8 hours of sun, ideally morning-heavy exposure

• Mulch layers to reduce soil temperature

• Consistent irrigation rather than deep, infrequent watering

Training, trellising, and containment

One of the biggest challenges with berry bushes is not growing them—it’s keeping them where you want them.

Trellising systems

T-post and wire systems work well for blackberries and marionberries

Two- or three-wire horizontal systems help organize canes for easier harvesting

Pruning strategy

Blackberries: remove spent floricanes after harvest; thin primocanes for airflow

Marionberries: prune aggressively after fruiting to prevent tangling

Blueberries: minimal pruning for the first 2–3 years, then light shaping annually

Preventing “going wild”

Blackberries especially can escape garden boundaries quickly. Control methods include:

• Root barriers or edging

• Regular cane removal at the base

• Mowing or cutting back perimeter shoots

• Dedicated raised beds or fenced berry zones

Irrigation and mulch

In hot Zone 9b summers, water management is everything.

Use drip irrigation for consistent soil moisture without wet foliage

Apply 3–4 inches of mulch (wood chips, bark, or pine needles for blueberries)

Avoid drought stress during flowering and fruiting, which reduces yield and berry size

Design with control in mind

Berry bushes can be one of the most rewarding additions to a home garden, offering years of harvest from a single planting. But in climates like Yolo County’s, success depends less on “plant and forget” and more on thoughtful design— choosing the right variety, building the right soil, and staying ahead of growth habits that don’t respect fence lines.

With the right setup, a backyard berry patch can shift from a seasonal snack source into a reliable, lowwaste food crop that returns more each year than it takes.

Mental fatigue: Easy to miss, important to address

Is your mind running on empty?

Special to the Express

Mental fatigue is one of the most common — and commonly overlooked — health challenges people face. Unlike physical exhaustion, which is easy to recognize, mental fatigue often develops gradually and can affect mood, concentration, sleep and physical performance before people realize what is happening.

Researchers define mental fatigue as a temporary state caused by prolonged periods of intense cognitive activity. In simple terms, when the brain is pushed to process information, make decisions and stay alert without enough rest, it eventually struggles to function efficiently.

People balancing heavy workloads, caregiving responsibilities, financial stress or demanding school schedules may be especially vulnerable. The warning signs are often easy to dismiss as stress, aging or simply “having a bad week.”

Recognizing those signs early can help prevent more serious health effects.

Mood changes, irritability

One of the earliest indicators of mental fatigue is a noticeable change in mood or patience.

People may become more irritable, short-tempered or emotionally reactive, even in situations that normally would not bother them. Researchers say mental fatigue reduces the brain’s “tolerance window” — the space between a trigger and a reaction — making emotional responses feel harder to control.

A common pattern is feeling relatively fine in the morning but becoming increasingly frustrated or emotionally drained after hours of concentrated

work, decision-making or constant noise.

Difficulty concentrating, reduced productivity

Mental fatigue can produce measurable changes in how the brain processes information.

Studies using EEG brain monitoring have shown that fatigue decreases beta-wave activity, which is associated with alertness and focused thinking. As a result, people may struggle to start tasks, maintain focus or complete routine work efficiently.

Common signs include rereading emails repeatedly without absorbing the information, forgetting details quickly or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that are normally manageable.

A sudden drop in productivity without another clear explanation may be a sign that the brain is overloaded rather than unmotivated.

“Mental fatigue rarely resolves on its own if the source — sustained overload — is not addressed.”

Zoning out or losing focus

Occasional distraction is normal, but mental fatigue can make lapses in attention more frequent and more serious.

People experiencing mental fatigue may find themselves “zoning out” during conversations, rereading the same paragraph multiple times or arriving at a destination with little memory of the drive there.

Researchers have linked mental fatigue to slower reaction times and impaired alertness, including increased risk while driving. Because the symptoms are cognitive rather than physical, many people underestimate how impaired they are.

Sleep problems

Although mental fatigue involves exhaustion, it does not always lead to bet-

ter sleep.

Research shows people in high cognitive-demand jobs report more insomnia symptoms than those in less mentally demanding roles. Racing thoughts about unfinished tasks, stress and future responsibilities can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep.

Screen use before bedtime can worsen the problem. Blue light from phones, televisions and tablets signals the brain to stay alert, delaying sleep onset.

Poor sleep and mental fatigue can quickly become a cycle: fatigue disrupts sleep, and lack of sleep intensifies fatigue.

Anxiety, persistent stress

Mental fatigue can also activate the body’s stress response system.

When the brain remains under prolonged strain, stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline stay elevated longer than intended. Over time, this may contribute to chronic anxiety, unease or feelings of panic without an obvious cause.

Research suggests mentally fatigued individuals become more sensitive to internal physical sensa-

tions, such as increased heart rate or muscle tension, which can intensify feelings of anxiety.

People who previously managed stress well may suddenly find everyday worries feeling overwhelming.

Physical performance may decline

Mental fatigue does not only affect the mind.

Studies in sports science have found that prolonged cognitive effort can significantly reduce physical endurance and increase the perception of effort during exercise. Physical tasks may feel harder even when the body’s actual capacity has not changed.

People may notice workouts feeling unusually difficult, slower reaction times or a lack of motivation to exercise despite maintaining the same fitness level or routine.

Researchers believe mental fatigue causes the brain to perceive exertion as more difficult, leading people to stop physical activity sooner.

What you can do about it

The good news is that mental fatigue is treatable, especially when recog-

nized early. Take regular breaks: Short, frequent breaks during the day can help reset attention and restore focus more effectively than pushing through exhaustion.

Even a brief walk or stepping away from screens for a few minutes may help.

Spend time outdoors: Research shows natural environments can help replenish mental energy depleted by sustained concentration.

Even short periods in green spaces may improve focus and reduce stress.

Reduce screen time before bed: Limiting screen exposure in the evening can improve sleep quality by reducing blue-light stimulation.

Reading, listening to calming music or having quiet conversation can help the brain transition into rest mode.

Practice mindfulness: A 2024 systematic review found growing evidence that mindfulness-based practices can help reduce mental fatigue over time.

Meditation, breathing exercises and other mindfulness techniques may improve emotional regulation and cognitive recovery.

Use music intentionally: Several studies have identified music as a helpful short-term strategy for reducing mental fatigue and restoring concentration.

Seek professional support when needed: Persistent mental fatigue that interferes with sleep, mood or daily functioning should be discussed with a healthcare provider. A professional can help identify underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatment or support.

Mental fatigue is the brain’s signal that it needs rest and recovery. Recognizing that signal early — and responding to it — can play an important role in protecting long-term mental and physical health.

How gardening is good for mental health

Special to the Express

Gardening and strong mental health often go hand-inhand. Beyond growing flowers, herbs or vegetables, gardening provides something many people struggle to find in daily life: a reason to slow down, step outside and reconnect with the present moment.

A 2018 study published in the journal Clinical Medicine found that exposure to plants and green space — especially through gardening — can positively affect both physical and mental health. Researchers have linked gardening to lower stress levels, improved mood, reduced anxiety and even decreased symptoms of depression. Part of the benefit comes simply from being outdoors. Sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which plays an important role in mood regulation and overall well-being. Natural sunlight also helps regulate the body’s internal clock, improving sleep quality — something closely tied to emotional

“Many gardeners describe the activity as meditative because it encourages focus on simple, immediate tasks rather than worries about the future or stress from the past.”

health and stress management.

Gardening also encourages people to work with their hands and engage directly with the earth. Penn State Extension notes that working with soil and plants can have a calming, grounding effect, helping people relax and release built-up stress or frustration. Some researchers believe contact with soil itself may play a role. Healthy soil contains naturally occurring microorganisms that researchers say may help stimulate serotonin production, the chemical associated with feelings of happiness and calm. While gardening is not a replacement for mental health treatment, studies continue to show it can be a meaningful support for emotional well-

ness.

The repetitive nature of gardening tasks — pulling weeds, watering plants, trimming leaves or turning soil — can also create a soothing rhythm that quiets racing thoughts. Many gardeners describe the activity as meditative because it encourages focus on simple, immediate tasks rather than worries about the future or stress from the past.

complishment and purpose. Watching something grow under consistent care can be deeply rewarding, especially during stressful periods of life. Even small successes — a tomato ripening on the vine or flowers beginning to bloom — can provide encouragement and emotional lift.

Community gardens and shared gardening

spaces can add another layer of benefit by helping people feel socially connected. Research consistently shows that social connection and time spent in green spaces are both associated with better mental health outcomes.

Experts say gardening does not have to be large-scale to make a difference. A few potted herbs on a patio,

tending flowers in a backyard or spending time pulling weeds in the evening can still provide many of the same mental and emotional benefits. In a fast-moving world filled with screens, noise and constant demands, gardening offers something increasingly rare: quiet, sunlight, movement and time to simply be present.

Gardening additionally provides gentle physical exercise. Digging, planting, raking and carrying tools keep the body moving without the intensity of a formal workout. Physical activity of nearly any kind has been shown to reduce stress hormones and improve mood.

For many people, gardening also restores a sense of ac-

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

Thursday, May 21

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

Friday, May 22

Volunteers: Veterans' Flag Placement, 9 a.m., Winters Cemetery, 415 Cemetery St., 530-795-2475, Bring a screwdriver

WTC Presents "A Chorus Line" Opening Night, 7:30 p.m., Winters Opera House (13 Main St., winterstheatre.org

Saturday, May 23

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

Sunday,May 24

Winters Farmers Market

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

Monday, May 25

Winters Memorial Day Service, 1:30 p.m., Winters Cemetery, 415 Cemetery St., 530-795-2475

Tuesday, May 26

Winters Planning Commission Meeting, Meeting canceled

City Facility Closures

Winters City Hall, Monday, May 25

Public Safety Facility Lobby, Monday, May 25

Library Services

Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session)

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

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

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

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

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

Movie Matinee, Fourth Friday, 2-4 p.m., Winters Community Library

All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing

Older Adult Programs

Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)

Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org

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

Ongoing

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

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

Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September thru May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 W. Main St. Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn

Winters Museum public hours Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org

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

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

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

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings:

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

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

April market hits record HOMES, Page 2 Multiple Warriors teams advance SPORTS, Page 6

Container gardening basics, invasive plants to avoid

Special to the Express

This column is written by the UC Master Gardeners of Yolo County each month. It provides answers to selected questions recently asked by Yolo County gardeners.

Gardening on the patio

Q: I live in an apartment with a small outside patio area. Can I grow some vegetables?

A: Yes, you can grow vegetables in a small plot of soil, or in containers on concrete. People are often surprised by how productive a compact space can be. The key is choosing the right crops and making the most of your conditions.

Sun exposure is important. Most vegetables, or fruits like tomatoes and squash, need at least 6-8 hours of direct sun per day. If your area is partially shaded with 3-5 hours of sun, you can still grow leafy greens, some root crops such

130 Years Ago

May 23, 1896

At the regular meeting of Acacia Camp No. 170, Woodmen of the World, held last Monday evening, the following named neighbors were elected to serve as officers for the ensuing term: T.J. Crane, past consul; S.C. Day, consul; C.E. Wyatt, advisor; George L. Barnes, escort; Fred Hemenway, watchman; Harry Taylor, secretary; and George H. Morris, manager.

More rain has fallen again this week and considerable damage has been done thereby. The ripening apricots are cracking open and hay is being damaged.

Mrs. J.G. Fredericks of Citrona did business in Winters last Wednesday afternoon.

William Congrave is having a two-story house built on the place north of town he recently purchased from A.H. Brunson.

The National Fruit Association has secured the Barnett Bros. fruit shed near the depot, and Fred Wertner, the local agent, can be found there hereafter.

Born in Winters, May 15, 1896, to the wife of D.H. Brandt, a son.

Rev. H.C. Culton has been in Monticello this week holding a protracted meeting. William Sims has spent the week in San Francisco attending the Grand Lodge of Knights of Pythias as a representative of the subordinate lodge here.

Ask a Master Gardener

as beets and some herbs. Cool weather crops benefit from being out of the hot sun for most of the day. Don’t overlook microclimates.While heat reflecting from walls or concrete can benefit heat-loving plants, it may stress greens. You can move small containers around to chase or avoid sun as needed, which is an advantage of container gardening.

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

95 Years Ago

May 22, 1931

The new engine for the Winters Rural Fire District arrived Monday. No sooner had it rolled into town than a grass fire was reported near Norton Station, to which it went on its first tryout.

Considerable damage to apricots and peaches has been caused by the high north winds this week.

Twelve cars of fruit went out from the shipping platform of the Fruit Exchange yesterday afternoon. The Fortnightly Club will close the club season Tuesday by giving a swimming party at the L.A. Sackett Beach that afternoon.

In the list of graduates this spring from the New Mexico Military School at Roswell is the name of William Russell, son of Supervisor and Mrs. W.O. Russell.

Mr. and Mrs. Ed Baker, Mrs. Clarence Wyatt, Mrs. Evadna Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Young and Miss Dorothy Young attended the University of California graduation exercises last Wednesday at Berkeley. Miss Vivian Young was one of the graduates.

Container gardening is ideal for small areas. Ceramic pots, five-gallon plastic nursery pots, half wine barrels, half poly barrels, and more will work. Ten-inch pots are suitable for some herbs and green onions. Larger plants with deeper root systems, such as peppers and cucumbers, need five-gallon containers at least. Make sure containers have good drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix. Larger containers generally work better because they hold moisture longer and give roots more room.

Dr. M.O. Wyatt and wife left Saturday by motor for Los Angeles, where he will attend the Bankers’ Convention this week.

Miss Mildred Pleasants is assisting in the offices of the California Fruit Exchange during the busy shipping season.

George Smith, who has been manager of the local Standard Oil plant for the past two years, has been transferred to the Sacramento office. Charles Dumars returned to his home at Madison Friday after a pleasant time at the I.O.O.F. convention in San Francisco.

45 Years Ago

May 21, 1981

Undaunted by rain or cool weather, Tufts Ranch began packing and shipping Castle Brite apricots on Monday, May 18, sending 750 boxes of the early variety to the New York City market. The fruit brought $5 more per box than the Tufts packers had ever received before, according to Stan Tufts. Monster bulldozers and backhoes under the direction of Syar Industries Inc. of Vallejo are ripping up Railroad Avenue, Main Street and First Street this week, pre-

Selecting the right crop is crucial. Some of the easiest and most rewarding patio crops include cherry tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, spinach, radishes, green onions, and herbs like basil, parsley, and mint.

Compact or “dwarf” varieties are especially suited for small spaces. Look for “patio” or “determinate” tomatoes, short carrot varieties, bush beans and compact versions of squash and cucumbers. As with any garden, planting the right crop at the right time is important. Grow heat loving crops such as tomatoes and squash in the summer, cool crops such as lettuce, spinach and broccoli in the winter, or spring and fall, if your space is shady and stays cool.

Vertical gardening can help maximize space; using trellises,

paratory to reconstruction of curbs, gutters, sidewalks and paving.

“Rainbow of Fashions” will be the theme for the Mother-Daughter Tea to be held by the home economics classes at Winters High School on Tuesday, May 26, beginning at 11:30 a.m. To be modeled around the pool area at the high school will be garments made by some 25 girls, including sportswear, dresses, jackets, skirts and blouses. Refreshments will be served after the show, with members of the community cordially invited to attend.

The Winters High School student body has elected new officers. Larry Pisani was elected 1981-82 student body president. The following officers ran unopposed: Joseph Gray, vice president; Pinky Namauleg, secretary; Rich Warren, treasurer; and Margaret Purtill, representative to the school board.

The Winters High School pep squad tryouts drew nine eager and spirited girls, but only six could be chosen. The winners were Lisa Adams, Carla Jeffery, Cora Johnson, Carla Tucker, Karen Caprio and Stacy Stewart. A record 30,000 people jammed the 70th annual Bay to Breakers race in San Francisco on Sunday, racing over city streets awash with wall-towall people. Winters runners included Harold Anderson, Terry Amick, Elaine and Rich Kelly, John Wallace, Bob Figy and Lois Wallace.

California home prices hit record high in April

reported today.

Closed escrow sales of existing single-family detached homes in California climbed 3.9 percent from March and increased 4.1 percent on a year-overyear basis. April’s annualized sales growth pace from last year represents the largest annual increase in seven months, according to data collected by CAR from more than 90 local Realtor associations and MLSs statewide.

This annualized figure reflects the number of homes that would be sold in 2026 if April’s sales pace continued throughout the year, with adjustments made for typical seasonal patterns. The jump completely erased the cumulative sales losses from the first three months of the year, leaving yearto-date sales essentially flat compared to 2025. However, overall sales remained below the 300,000 mark for the 43rd consecutive month.

“April’s year-overyear increase in home sales is a welcome sign that buyer demand remains resilient as we move deeper into the spring homebuying season,” said CAR President Tamara Suminski, a Southern California broker and Realtor. “While elevated

mortgage rates and ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East continue to weigh on the market, California buyers and sellers are still finding opportunities, and that speaks to the underlying strength of housing demand.”

Driven by a shifting mix of sales toward high-end properties, the statewide median home price set a new record of $914,810 in April, a 2.9 percent monthly increase. April’s median home price also marks the third consecutive month of year-overyear growth and represents the first time the median price has crossed the $900,000 threshold since May 2025.

“The increase in the median price was driven in large part by the composition of sales, with a greater share of activity occurring in higher-priced segments of the market,” said CAR Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine. “Nevertheless, housing affordability remains a significant challenge in California, particularly as the statewide median home price reached a new record high amid tight supply and continued competition in many markets.” California homebuyers remained the

most active in the higher-priced sector in April. Homes priced at or above $2 million experienced the largest sales jump, increasing 8.4 percent from April 2025. New record highs in the stock market may have bolstered sales activity in the high-end segment last month, but mortgage-rate declines in the first half of April likely motivated some buyers to close deals. Consumer sentiment surveys also suggest that homebuying expectations staged a mild comeback in

April, possibly due to the temporary ceasefire in the Middle East and modest improvements in consumers’ perception of the job market. Other key points from CAR’s April 2026 resale housing report include:

• Home prices across the regions posted mild annual growth rates. The Central Coast registered the strongest growth pace at 3.2 percent, followed by the Far North (2 percent), Southern California (1.5 percent) and the Central Valley (1 percent). The San Francisco Bay Area was the lone region to

experience an annual price decline, dipping 1.3 percent.

• Competition picked up slightly as the median time on market dropped to 21 days, down from 23 days in March and unchanged from April 2025.

• The statewide sales-price-to-listprice ratio held firm at 100 percent, mirroring both last month and last year’s numbers.

• The monthly average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage jumped to 6.33 percent in April, up from 6.18 percent in March, but down significantly from the 6.73 percent average recorded in April 2025.

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20)

Slow down to smell the roses, Aries. You’ve been running at full speed, and your body is asking for a break. A low-key evening at home will recharge your batteries for a big weekend.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21)

Creativity hits you in an unexpected place, Taurus. It might even come while you’re doing chores. Explore a new idea thoroughly, as it might be the creative spark you’ve been looking for.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21)

A misunderstanding is cleared up by a simple phone call, Gemini. Don’t let a text message stew in your mind. Direct communication is the only way to keep your peace of mind this week.

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22)

Focus on your workspace, Cancer. A little reorganization and some new decor will shift the energy and help you focus. You’ll be surprised how much your environment affects your output.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23)

Your generosity is noted, Leo. Helping a colleague or friend with a thankless task will earn you major karma points. Expect a small, pleasant surprise to come back to you.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22)

Virgo, steer clear of over-analyzing a recent social interaction. You did fine, and people enjoyed your company. Focus on the future instead of replaying the past on a loop.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23)

A financial risk might be tempting, but the stars suggest sticking to the plan for now, Libra. Focus on “slow and steady” gains rather than “get rich quick” schemes this week.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22)

You’re feeling extra protective of your time, Scorpio, and that’s okay. Saying “no” to an invitation isn’t a rejection of the person; it’s an investment in your own mental health.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21)

Laughter is your best medicine this week, Sagittarius. Seek a person who always makes you giggle. A lighthearted approach to a serious problem will reveal the simplest solution.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20)

Your reputation is preceding you in a good way, Capricorn. Someone in a position of power has their eye on your work. Keep your standards high; the payoff is closer than you think.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18)

Aquarius, an old hobby is calling your name. Dust off those tools or that camera. Reconnecting with a past passion will give you the emotional boost you’ve been looking for.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20)

Trust the timing of your life, Pisces. Something you wanted didn’t work out, but that’s because something better is currently in the works. Keep your heart open and your head up.

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

Express Yourself

Walking around San Francisco is almost like our Main Street

Sherri and I were invited to join a group on a walking tour of the Old Barbary Coast of San Francisco last weekend. Our friend, Joe Bristow, went to school with our tour guide Jim and knew several of the other people on the tour. We were the newcomers as they all had some kind of connection with each other.

We had great weather, and luckily, it was in the flatter parts of downtown San Francisco. What Jim didn’t know about early San Francisco, his wife, Kim, did, especially stories from before their earthquake of 1906 and the fire that followed.

The gold rush had a great impact on San Francisco, as did the Comstock Lode in Nevada. Silver is what

tomato cages or cord attached to the pot and a higher railing allows you to grow climbing plants like pole beans or cucumbers without taking up much area. Vining plants can also be allowed to drape down when grown in hanging pots.

Watering is often the biggest challenge in container garden-

made Theodore Winters rich and allowed him to bring his horses to our area and get the town named after himself. If there were any justice in this world, we would be living in the town of Wolfskill.

Living on the West Coast means that our cities are relatively new, compared to the East Coast and Europe. A lot of the Chinese who came to California to build the railroad ended up in San Francisco. Their Chinatown is the largest in

ing. Pots dry out faster than in-ground soil, especially in warm climates. You may need to water daily in summer. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Self-watering containers or drip irrigation systems can make this much easier and more consistent. Fertilizing is also important because nutrients wash out of containers over time. A balanced liquid fertilizer every

the United States and we enjoyed a nice lunch that our host paid for. When we tried to pay for lunch and tip Jim and Kim at end of the day, they just said, no! For being so close, we rarely go to San Francisco. Joe had us take BART from El Cerrito to San Francisco. The trains run on time, are clean, fast and loud when you are going under the bay. I tried not to think about earthquakes during the six mile trip through the Transbay Tube, which took us 135 feet under water. The ride cost $5.90 each way, which is cheaper than

couple of weeks, or slow-release granules mixed into the soil work well.

Finally, start small and experiment. Try a few easy crops first, observe how they perform in your space and expand from there. Gardening in containers is very forgiving; you can adjust quickly if something isn’t working.

For more information, see https:// extension.umd.edu/ resource/growing-

parking a car for an hour in San Francisco. If I had bought a senior citizen pass, it would have been cheaper, but it was easy to just tap my credit card. Joe had a Clipper card on his phone and neither one of us knows how it works.

In some ways, Winters is better off than San Francisco. There are still a lot of empty storefronts there and the homeless seemed to be somewhere other than the tourist areas. We were only there during daylight hours, so maybe it changes in the evening.

San Francisco had their big four; Collis Huntington, Mark Hopkins, Charles Crocker and Leland Stanford. A lot of people made Winters what it is today, including John Wolfskill

vegetables-containers-and-salad-tables/. Landscaping plants to avoid

Q: What landscape plants should I avoid planting because they are invasive or have other negative qualities, even though I might find them in a nursery?

A: You’ve touched on the horticultural equivalent of the idea that “just because something can be done doesn’t mean it should be done.” Despite the efforts of California horticultural organizations and occasional cooperation from bigbox stores and nurseries, some invasive plants are still sold in California. You’re more likely to find them at smaller, local nurseries than at chain retailers, and many are also available online. Although they may look attractive, these plants crowd out native species and can spread into nearby open spaces, where they become difficult to eradicate.

and his brothers Milton, Mathus and Sarchel; the Pleasants brothers, James, William and Ansel; and later Theodore Winters. Our streets are named after those who put Winters on the map; Edwards, Baker and Abbay (now Abbey Street). Early pioneers included Griffin, Ely, Ireland, Sackett, Chapman and Graf families. I could name more family names, but you get my point. We have lost our Japan town and some of our older homes, but taking a walking tour of Winters should be on your list of things to do. Pick up a brochure at the Winters Museum before it gets too warm. Have a good week.

owning them is allowed). Others are known to be invasive and are still legal to sell, but are not recommended for landscape use. (This discussion focuses on California, where invasiveness varies by region.)

Examples of noxious weeds illegal to sell in California include tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), giant reed (Arundo donax), purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius), and artichoke thistle (Cynara cardunculus). These have largely been phased out of legal sale.

Other commonly sold plants that are invasive and not recommended include English ivy (Hedera helix), periwinkle (Vinca major), Mexican feathergrass (Stipa/Nassella tenuissima), pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), highway iceplant (Carpobrotus edulis), and water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes).

While contaminated cargo and livestock feed introduce some invasive plants, horticulture and landscaping are the primary pathways for their spread in California. Organizations such as the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) and the Plant California Alliance are working with nurseries to reduce the availability of invasive plants. Still, for homeowners, selecting landscape plants in California can feel like the Wild West. This overview can serve as a helpful “wanted poster” of species to avoid. — Have a gardening question? Send it to jmbaumbach@ucanr.edu, with “Ask MGs” in the subject line. Include as much detail as possible and pictures if you have them. GARDENER

These problem plants fall into different categories. Some are classified by the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA) as “noxious weeds” and are illegal to sell or propagate (though

Fortunately, there are good alternatives. Ivory star jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) can replace English ivy, evergreen currant (Ribes viburnifolium) can substitute for periwinkle, and blue

grama grass (Bouteloua gracilis) is a better choice than Mexican feathergrass. New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) can replace pampas grass, trailing iceplant (Delosperma cooperii) can substitute for highway iceplant, and water smartweed (Polygonum amphibium var. stipulaceum) may be used instead of water hyacinth.

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case Number: CV2026-1199

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner: LYNNE

Express Yourself

The town that became my newsroom

The phrase

“everyone can be replaced” is a business reality, but the human reality is that not every employee can be replaced in equal measure. Some people leave a mark that makes them indispensable — not because they are irreplaceable, but because the connections, energy and perspective they bring are unique. I know this to be true.

I learned that early in my career. My first job in publishing was surrounded by editorial teams, each producing its own niche magazine. The hours were long and the work demanding, but I loved every minute of it. The people I worked with weren’t just coworkers. They were collaborators, cheerleaders and friends. Looking back, it wasn’t just the work that was rewarding — it was the team beside me. And that’s what made them so hard to replace.

When I joined the Winters Express in 2018 as the community editor, I

thought I had found a piece of that again. But then came the pandemic, which reshaped how so many of us worked and connected. Like others, I found myself in a strange middle ground — still deeply invested in the work, but without the same daily rhythms of a traditional newsroom. Instead, my community began filling that role.

That’s why I often joke that I have multiple “offices” around town. You might find me at Steady Eddy’s with a coffee and laptop interviewing someone, at Patio29 or Turkovich with notes spread across a table, or at Hooby’s Brewing in a meeting about the next fundraiser. I spend time at the library, too, and sometimes even tuck into a corner of the middle or high school office between meetings. The whole town has become my newsroom,

and the community has become my team. It makes sense. Covering Winters means being rooted here, ready to respond when news happens. If there’s a last-minute photo request, a road closure or an emergency that needs immediate coverage, I can be on the scene quickly. It’s much easier to work from a library table and dash to a meeting across town than to try to time a commute to Davis, spend a few hours in that newsroom, and then race back home. Being close isn’t just convenient — it’s necessary for community journalism.

Lately, I’ve found new “mentorees” in the students I’ve been mentoring. One Winters High School senior worked to revive the video news announcement reels — a project that has grown into a youth news crew full of talented students. It was exciting to watch her vision come together and even more exciting to help bring it to life as her Senior Capstone

When we share our work, our time and our voices, we create connections that are difficult to replace.

project. Other students have considered taking on the task of lifting up youth voices on important topics like culture, climate and diversity — creating a platform for students to share their perspectives with the wider community. Still another is diving into the challenges of sports news writing, honing a skill that requires both sharp observation and storytelling. I pitch students and community members all the time. If you’re willing to learn some of the basics of news writing and have a desire to write something, just reach out to me. I’m always happy to help you weigh whether an idea would work best as an op-ed, a fea-

ture or a news brief. It may not be the same as gathering around an editorial table with a group of coworkers, but mentoring these students brings back that sense of collaboration, energy and purpose. Journalism takes many forms, and it’s a privilege to help the next generation explore what storytelling looks like for them. Their curiosity and dedication remind me why I first fell in love with this work — and why local journalism matters so deeply. So no, none of us is irreplaceable. But when we share our work, our time and our voices, we create connections that are difficult to replace. For me, those connections came from coworkers in the past, and today, they come from Winters itself — from the people I meet at my many “offices,” from neighbors who reach out with story tips, and from students who are boldly stepping into the role of local journalists. In the end, the newsroom is not just a place. It’s a community. And I’m grateful that Winters has given me both.

The Graduate Profile in the classroom

When our district first began talking about developing a Graduate Profile, the teacher in me had an immediate reaction: Not another initiative.

Anyone who has spent years in education knows the cycle well. New programs and priorities come and go. Some take hold. Others quietly fade into the background as the next new idea takes their place. So, like many educators, I found myself wondering: What does this actually mean for the classroom? For daily instruction? Is this just one more thing teachers are being asked to do?

But the more I reflected on the Graduate Profile, the more I realized it is not another initiative at all. It is a shared vision. Most teachers en-

Letters

ter this profession with a strong belief about what education should be. We want students to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and grow into capable, compassionate people. Yet too often, schools become overly focused on pacing guides, compliance, and test scores. Over time, it becomes easy to lose sight of the bigger purpose behind teaching.

The Graduate Profile brings that purpose back into focus. It does not ask teachers to do more. Instead, it requires a shift towards intentionality. It asks us to

Are we still the beacon on the hill?

We have lost our moral compass, and we are wandering in a moral desert. Every morning we wake up to more imbecilic, unhinged ravings from a man who sits in the highest office in the land, A man whose words and actions have dragged us into a political nightmare. To those who voted for him and helped usher this chaos into our lives, I hope you feel some measure of regret and responsibility. In 2024, many remained enamored, drinking the Kool-Aid once again and returning him to office; a leader who fails to recognize the danger he has placed the world in, who speaks casually about annihilating an entire civilization, who posts daily rubbish on his platform for the world to see. The list goes on: celebrating the death of Robert Mueller, standing before the world at a G7 conference and siding with Vladimir Putin over his own intelligence officials. Even after more than sixty courts refused to rule in his favor, he persists in claiming he won an election he lost.

He uses tariffs as blackmail, toys with leaving NATO (our strongest alliance with thirty-two nations) and pushes policies that benefit his billionaire cronies rather than the citizens he is meant to serve. This is the viper pit we now inhabit with a wannabe authoritarian who

be more intentional about the work we are already doing. A lesson is no longer just about delivering content. It becomes an opportunity for students to problem solve, communicate ideas, collaborate with peers, and build confidence in themselves as learners.

What makes the Graduate Profile so powerful is that it creates a shared understanding across classrooms and grade levels. Great teaching will always look different from one teacher to the next, and that individuality matters. But students also deserve consistency in the skills and

has normalized vulgarity, lies, deviancy, and divisiveness ever since that golden-escalator descent eleven years ago.

This is the most corrupt, anti-government administration ever voted into the United States of America. The swamp is swampier, the moral decay so profound it would make our ancestors turn in their graves. Sometimes we are called to vote for the common good, especially when reading something like Project 2025 that should have set off red alerts loud enough to cause a conflagration.. But we have a chance to change this in the next election We can choose leaders who will pull us out of the quagmire and chaos and restore respect for our laws and constitution. Let’s begin at the ballot box in November 2026 and hope other countries begin to restore their respect as well.

PRISCILLA SCHULTZ Winters

Vote for Mike Thompson

San Francisco venture capitalist Eric Jones and his Super PAC, is the wealthy Silicon Valley Elite that funds his congressional campaign. Eric receives the overwhelming majority of his support from Silicon Valley because that is where he is from.

He lived in Napa for four years while voting in San Francisco until 2024. Our district is not for sale to the highest bidder. Since he has zero experience in governance, his smear campaign is all that’s left. We don’t need

experiences they are developing throughout their education. A Graduate Profile creates that throughline.

In classrooms where this work is alive, you can feel the difference. Students are engaged in discussion, working through ideas together, and taking ownership of their learning. The environment is active and purposeful. Students are not simply receiving information; they are interacting with their learning and in so doing, they are learning how to think, communicate, and contribute. They build confidence, not just because they got the right answer, but because they had a role in getting there.

This also matters for equity. Without a shared framework, access to these kinds of learning experiences can vary great-

ly depending on the classroom. A Graduate Profile represents a commitment that all students will have opportunities to develop the skills needed not only for academic success, but for life beyond school.

Over time, students begin to see themselves differently. They are not just completing assignments; they are becoming thinkers, problem solvers, and contributors to their community. They learn how to navigate challenges, collaborate with people whose perspectives differ from their own, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Standards tell us what students need to learn. The Graduate Profile reminds us to also consider how they learn and who they are becoming in the process.

another Trump. We need a steadfast leader who understands our issues and fights for what’s right. That person is Mike Thompson.

When Trump entered into illegal wars, Mike spoke out and organized No Forever War rallies in our district. When ICE started to terrorize our communities, Mike was one of the first to call for Kristi Noem’s impeachment, voted against ICE funding, sponsored legislation banning ICE from wearing masks, and organized Know Your Rights events.

And, when we need help with the federal government, Mike, and his team, work relentlessly to ensure we get our Social Security payments and our VA benefits, helping to return more than $85 million to constituents.

Mike knows our district because he was born, grew up and still lives here. No one works harder, or sacrifices more, to meet the needs of his constituents. I am proud to vote for Congressman Mike Thompson.

MARLENE BELL Winters

Second thoughts about Putah Creek Nature Trail

Five years ago, my wife and I retired to this lovely town. We found a house on Creekside Way because we both enjoy nature, and I can push her wheelchair along the nicely paved Nature Park path. However, yesterday we had a near-serious collision with a motorized bicycle. The rider came

They are not just completing assignments; they are becoming thinkers

That is why this work matters. The Graduate Profile raises the standard, but not in the way we have traditionally defined it. It is about deeper thinking, stronger communication, greater agency. It is about preparing students not just to know, but to do, to think, and to participate in the world around them.

—The Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees and superintendent are writing this column to share insights on preparing students for success in college, career and life.

flying around a corner and did not see us in the middle of the path. Luckily, I saw him and pulled my wife out of his way. A few minutes later, he returned, stopped, and said, “Wanna race?” I shouted back, “Cut this out!” He gave me the finger and zoomed off.

I know there will always be teenage rebels, and I accept that there is risk every time I leave the house. However, I’ve now lost count of the number of motorized riders (both scooters and bikes) on the trail. When I was young, we had plenty of teen rebels, but nobody was riding these dangerous vehicles at high speed coming out of nowhere.

Unfortunately, the sidewalks near my home are unusable with a wheelchair. They look like the San Andreas Fault has come to town. So when we go out, I have resorted to pushing her wheelchair in the street, which is surely illegal.

I know the police cannot be everywhere all the time. If I knew who these kids were, I’d turn them in or have a talk with their parents, but I don’t have enough history in Winters to identify them. I wonder if anyone reading this has a better idea? I carry a cell phone camera, but these kids do wear helmets, and at the speed they travel, I’m not sure I’d get anything worth submitting to Winters PD.

JOSEPH WALL Winters

Baseball in section championship

By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer

The Winters High School varsity baseball team is headed to the section championship after backto-back playoff wins over Willows and East Nicolaus.

Winters vs. Willows

The Warriors opened postseason play with a 4–1 win on Friday, May 15, grabbing an early lead and never letting it go.

Winters struck first in the second inning, when Cole Coker delivered a double that helped spark a two-run frame. Jordan Calvert and Tracy Kalish each drove in a run to support the offense and push Winters ahead.

Jake Woods went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead a balanced effort. Cole Jordling added a double, while Everette Beason contributed a hit as Winters managed timely offense against Willows pitching.

On the mound, Aidan Baylor delivered a dominant complete-game performance. He struck out 14 batters, allowed two hits and one run, and issued no walks over seven innings.

The win sent the Warriors past Willows High School baseball and into the next round.

Winters vs. East Nicolaus

Winters followed with an 8–5 win over East Nicolaus High School on Tuesday, May 19, to secure a berth in the section championship game.

The Warriors built early momentum when Carson Alvarado singled in two runs in the first inning. Winters finished with 10 hits and kept pressure on throughout the game.

Woods remained steady at the plate, finishing 2-for-3 with an RBI. Baylor went 2-for-4, Kalish added two hits and an RBI in four at-bats, and Jordling contributed a hit and two RBIs. Each player in the lineup recorded at least one hit.

On the mound, Beason started and struck out two batters, allowing three hits and four runs while walking seven over three innings. Jordan Calvert worked three relief innings, striking out two, walking four, and allowing one hit and one run to help close out the game.

Winters took the lead at the top of the seventh and held on to secure the victory.

The Warriors now advance to the section championship against University Prep baseball on Saturday, May 23, at 4 p.m. at Butte College.

Softball advances in CIF playoffs after win over Paradise

By Traci Calvert Special to the Express

The Winters High School varsity softball team closed the regular season and opened postseason play with momentum, highlighted by a pair of wins over Paradise and a strong finish that carried them into the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section double-elimination bracket.

Regular-season win

Winters opened the week with a 5–1 win over Paradise High School softball, taking advantage of defensive miscues and steady hitting.

The Warriors capitalized on six Paradise errors while stringing together timely offense to control the game from the start. Erika Garcia led Winters with three hits, while Teagan Garcia and Riley Nelson each added two hits. Ava Estepa was sharp in the circle, allowing just three hits and striking out six to secure the win.

Setback on the road

Winters followed with an 11-2 loss at Durham High School softball, where the offense produced eight hits but struggled to convert opportunities into runs.

Teagan Garcia and Jayde Mathias each finished with two hits, while Erika Garcia and Raegan Hurst added doubles. Despite the consistent contact, Winters was unable to capitalize on Durham’s pitching.

Bounce-back win

The Warriors responded with a strong offensive showing in a 9–4 win over Paradise, closing league play with a 7–5 record and securing postseason positioning.

Road to CIF playoffs

Winters opened postseason play by once again facing Paradise, this time in a tightly contested elimination game.

The Warriors fell behind early but surged with a five-run fourth inning to take control. Paradise answered with four runs in the fifth, but Winters regrouped late to secure the win and advance in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section double-elimination tournament in Colusa.

Carrion finished with three hits, including a double, while Nelson added three hits and two RBIs. Teagan Garcia and Hurst delivered key late-inning hits to help Winters close it out.

The Warriors advance to the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section double-elimination bracket in Colusa, with their next opponent and game time still to be determined.

Abbey Carrion and Nelson each collected three hits to power a 12-hit attack. Winters showed resilience after the previous loss, controlling the game with consistent pressure at the plate despite defensive miscues that kept Paradise within reach.

Track sends three to Northern Section championships

This past Friday, a select group of Winters High School track and field athletes competed in the Northern Section Division 3 Finals, where competitors from both junior varsity and varsity levels vied for medals and, for varsity athletes, qualification to the Northern Section championships this week.

Several Warriors earned podium finishes, with three varsity athletes advancing to the NS championships.

In the 100 meters, Winters had two junior varsity athletes competing. Kennedy Brown placed first in 12.49 seconds, while Natalie Saunders fin-

ished fourth in 14.85. Brown also competed in the 200 meters, placing second in 26.01.

Angie Polk won the 400 meters in 1:08.03 and later returned to win the 800 meters in 2:58.98.

In the 1,600 meters, Alice Wales placed first in a personal-best 5:50.78, followed by Carmella Wroten in third at 7:05.26. Both athletes also competed in the 3,200 meters, where Wales placed first in 14:00.29 and Wroten finished third in 16:38.25. Saunders also competed in the 100-meter hurdles, winning the event in a personal-best 17.87 seconds. Addison Thach placed sixth in 19.94.

In the junior varsity boys 4x100 relay, both Winters teams performed well. The A team of Brandon Herrera, Jack Jordling, Levi Reyes and Brown placed second in 48.58, while the B team of Joaquin Ramos Bermudez, Elijah Sarro, Antonio Rome-

ro Gutierrez and Chris Conchas finished fifth in 51.33.

The junior varsity girls 4x100 team of Saunders, Isabella Banuelos, Camila Martinez and Andrea Reyes placed fourth in 58.18.

In the 4x400 relay, the junior varsity girls team of Saunders, Addison Thach, Wroten and Wales won the event in 4:59.99.

In the field events, Ramon Lopez and Gavyn Moore both qualified for the

Northern Section championships. Lopez won the shot put with a mark of 45’ 1.75”, while Moore placed fourth at 39’ 7.25”. In the discus, Moore won with a throw of 151’ 2”, followed by Lopez in third at 125’ 8”. Ezequiel Guerrero placed fourth in the junior varsity discus with a personal-best 97’ 11”.

In the high jump, Ava Muir-Vickrey placed second in the varsity girls competition with a clearance of 5’ 0”, earning qualification to the Northern Section championships. Angie Polk placed fourth in the junior varsity event at 4’ 2”. Guerrero and Damien Chiasson competed in the junior varsity boys high jump, with Guerrero placing fifth at a personal-best 5’ 0”, and Chiasson finishing seventh at 4’ 4”. Elijah Sarro placed seventh in the junior varsity boys long jump

with a mark of 14’ 8”. In the triple jump, Muir-Vickrey placed fourth in the varsity girls event at 32’ 7.75”, also qualifying for the Northern Section championships. Winters finished the meet with strong results despite a smaller group of competitors, with several athletes closing out their seasons on a high note and others still advancing to postseason competition. Congratulations to Lopez, Moore and Muir-Vickrey on their qualifications, and good luck this week.

Thank you, and go Warriors!

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

Arts & Entertainment

‘LitFest 7’ submissions will be due May 25

Annual event to feature local prose, poetry

Special to the Express

The Winters Theatre Company is accepting submissions for “LitFest 7,” a celebration of prose and poetry scheduled for Sunday, June 28, at the Winters Opera House.

The event will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Winters Opera House.

Now in its seventh year, LitFest features original prose and poetry performances by a variety of creators, with works read either by the authors themselves or by local actors.

Story and poetry

submissions are due by May 25. Organizers are seeking previously unpublished works for consideration. Submissions will be reviewed by members of the Winters Theatre Company, and selected writers and poets will receive invitations by email.

Digital submissions should be sent to janene.whitesell@ gmail.com using plain-text formatting without stylized fonts or backgrounds. Accepted file formats include .txt, .docx and .pdf. Complete submission guidelines are available at Winterstheatre.org. Additional information is also available by contacting janene. whitesell@gmail. com.

Two Names - One Great Location Steaks, Seafood, Cocktails, Gluten Free & Vegan Options 530-661-0428 • 428 1st St - Woodland www.MojosKitchen428.com

‘Chorus Line’ opens May 22 at Opera House

Special to the Express

The thrill of Broadway comes to Winters this weekend as the Winters Theatre Company proudly presents the iconic musical A Chorus Line. The high-energy and deeply personal production will be performed weekends from May 22 through June 7.

“A Chorus Line” unfolds on the bare stage of a Broadway theater where 17 dancers audition for a coveted spot in a new musical’s chorus line. When the director, Zach, asks them to step forward and share their personal stories, what begins as a grueling dance audition transforms into a poignant and revealing look at the human spirit.

The Pulitzer Prizeand Tony Award-winning musical blends dance, music and compelling drama. The show features iconic musical numbers including “What I Did for Love,” “At the Ballet,” “I Can Do That” and the finale, “One.”

Alexandria Wilson, who plays Cassie, said, “A Chorus Line means having the bravery to go after what you

want. It requires finding strength in yourself regardless of the doubts or the outcome.”

The Winters Theatre Company production is directed by Shane Robert, who made his Winters directorial debut with Murder on the Nile last year. His directing credits also include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Heathers: The Musical and a sold-out production of Rent at the Ooley Theatre. The creative team includes choreographer Pamela Lourentzos and music director Jia-Min Rosendale.

“After all these

years, ‘A Chorus Line’ remains relevant because of the profoundly human stories,” Robert said. “This incredibly ambitious cast of performers is putting their hearts and souls into this show.”

Winters Theatre Company’s partners at Preserve are helping celebrate the Sunday matinees. Preserve will offer a complimentary mimosa, coffee or iced tea with Sunday brunch to patrons who show a same-day matinee ticket. Visitors can start the morning at the Winters Farmers Market, enjoy brunch downtown, then at-

tend the 2 p.m. matinee on May 24, May 31 or June 7.

“A Chorus Line” will be performed at the Winters Opera House May 22 through June 7, with performances Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Additional 2 p.m. matinees will be held Saturday, May 23, and Saturday, June 6. Tickets are available through www. winterstheatre.org.

Content advisory:

The musical contains mature themes and language. Parental discretion is recommended for children younger than 13.

Fiesta Days melodrama returns to the stage

Express staff

The Gaslighters Theatrical Company will celebrate the 20th anniversary of presenting an original Alice MacDonald–Carol Zadnik melodrama during Fiesta Days.

“Lily the Virtuous Seamstress or She Was So Good, She Never Dropped a Stitch,” written by the late Vacaville residents, returns as part of the annual tradition.

The family-friendly melodrama invites audience participation throughout the performance, with boos and hisses for the villain and cheers for the heroic lead, who falls instantly for the fair

heroine. As in classic melodrama style, the story pits a conniving

villain against an innocent heroine until the dashing hero ultimately triumphs.

While the Gaslighters also stage comedic whodunit murder mysteries, the company’s roots are in the MacDonald and Zadnik melodramas first created for Vacaville’s Fiesta Days festivities in the 1970s.

“We’re thrilled to be able to continue bringing the Fiesta Days Melodrama back for the 20th year,” said Mary Cornelison-Muehlenbruch in a press release.

“It’s hard to believe that we revived the Fiesta Days Melodrama 20 years ago,” she said.

“Both women were dear friends of mine, and GTC is proud to be keeping Alice and Carol’s memories alive by performing their unique take on a classic theatrical art form.”

Performances are scheduled for 2 and 7:30 p.m. May 23 and 2 p.m. May 24-25 at the Saturday Club, 125 W. Kendal St. Seating is cabaret-style and assigned based on the order tickets are purchased. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

Tickets are available at www.gaslighterstheatrical.com or at the door if not sold out. Advance purchase is recommended.

Imbue, Farley Ct, Dalmatia, Pulgasari @ 6:30pm House Show, 893 Farley Ct, Fol‐som Junction

Mon

Memorial Day Service

Torch Club, 904 15th St, Sacramento

Tsunami.wav: Bravo The Bagchaser with DJ Tsunami @ Origin SF (18+) @ 9pm Origin, 1538 Fillmore St, San Fran‐cisco

Whitmer Thomas @ 10pm Uptown Theatre Napa, 1350 3rd St, Napa

Watercolor Portrait Painting with Misuk Goltz @ 10am / $135 Enjoy a one-day watercolor por‐trait painting workshop at the Pence! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370

The Dream Tellers: Xavier Guerrero (solo) at Rellik Tavern @ 4:30pm The Rellik Tavern, 726 1st St, Benicia

My Dog Jack: Tiny Deck Concerts @ 6:30pm SF-Eagle, 398 12th St, San Fran‐cisco

Michael V @ 8pm Monarch, 101 6th St, San Fran‐cisco

Grease Sing-A-Long @ 8pm The Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St, San Francisco

Erston Pearcy @ 8pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

Justin Yates: Sofar Sounds Show!

@ 8pm Smudge Nail Bar, 1831 Exposition Blvd #100, Sacramento

Candlelight: The Best of Joe Hisaishi @ 8:45pm / $39 Brava Theater Center, 2781 24th Street, San Francisco. fever@ eventvesta.com

De Fem @ 9pm The Great Northern, 119 Utah St, San Francisco

Winters Farmers Market @ 9am Visit the Winters Farmers Market for fresh local produce, artisan foods and handmade crafts in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere celebrating the best of the region. Downtown Main Street, 35 E. Main Street, Winters. simbasheirloom farm@gmail.com

Mission Varrio Project band: Carnaval SF 2026 @ 12pm CARNAVAL SAN FRANCISCO

22nd and Harrison ST- San Fran‐cisco, California, 22nd and Harri‐son st, San Francisco

Saritah: Crucial Reggae Sundays

@ 5pm Golden Gate Park Bandshell, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Fran‐cisco

Casuist @ 7pm Cafe Colonial, 3520 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento

JourneyDay Music @ 9pm Andaz Napa - A Concept By Hyatt, 1450 1st St, Napa

Pink Stiletto @ 7pm Knockout, 3223

Where's

@ 9:30am Nationwide, we gather to honor America’s fallen heroes with patri‐otic music, prayers, and wreath presentations during annual Memorial Day services. Davis Cemetery District & Arboretum, 820 Pole Line Road, Davis. jess@ daviscemetery.org, 530-756-7807

Winters Memorial Day Service

@ 1:30pm Join the community for a Memorial Day ceremony at Winters Ceme‐tery featuring patriotic music, local speakers, a 21-gun salute and TAPS honoring veterans laid to rest there. Winters Cemetery District, 415 Cemetery Street, Winters. 530795-2475

DJ Ricky Sixx: Live at Lookout

@ 3pm Lookout, 3600 16th St, San Fran‐cisco

The Saloon - Peter Lindman and Felix Bannon

@ 4pm The Saloon, 1232 Grant ave, San Francisco

GamperDrums Presents:

ZinggFlower - Mondays at Biscuits & Blues

@ 6:30pm Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason St, San Francisco

UltraBomb @ 7:30pm Bottom Of the Hill, 1233 17th St, San Francisco

Maoli: Bottle‐Rock

AfterDark @ 10pm Uptown Theatre Napa, 1350 3rd St, Napa

Bobby McFerrin & MOTION: Circle Central

@ 10am St. Gregory of Nyssa Epis‐copal Church in San Fran‐cisco, 500 De Haro St, San Francisco

Bobby McFerrin: Circle Central (by MOTION)

@ 10am St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco, 500 De Haro St, San Francisco

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

Beginning/Intermediate Tai

Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes suitable for begin‐ning and intermediate practitioners Slide Hill Park, Davis. tina�tness68 @gmail.com

John Elliott @ 2pm Fulton Street Plaza, 147 Fulton St,

@ 7:30pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco Old Mervs @ 8pm The Independent, 628 Divisadero St, San Francisco

MVTANT + More Ephemerol @ 8pm Knockout, 3223 Mission St, San Francisco

Bobby McFerrin: Circle Central (by MOTION)

@ 9:30am St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco, 500 De Haro St, San Francisco

Children's Gymnastics Classes @ 2pm Two types of gymnastics classes for children offered Wednesdays at the Davis Arts Center Davis Arts Center, 1919 F Street, Davis. du ankejie68@gmail.com

Scott Guberman: Mark Karan’s Budz @ 4:30pm Golden Gate Park Bandshell, 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr, San Fran‐cisco

Bray: Solo Acoustic - Wine Girl Napa Valley @ 6pm Wine Girl Napa Valley, 1321 1st St Suite A, Napa

Arbour Season: Sacra‐mento House Concert @ 6:30pm Sacramento House Con‐cert, 1715 Ladino Rd, East Sacramento

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

Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey @ 8pm The Chapel, San Francisco

Brian Haas: Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey @ The Chapel @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

JACOB FRED JAZZ

ODYSSEY @ The Chapel @ 8pm The Chapel, 777 Valencia St, San Francisco

Beginning and Intermediate Tai Chi @ 10:15am Tai chi classes suitable for begin‐ning and intermediate practitioners Slide Hill Park, Davis. tina�tness68 @gmail.com

Kat Heart live at The Stardust Lodge @ 6:30pm Stardust Lodge, 4061 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe

Astrid Kuljanic Trio w/ Mat Muntz & Scott Amendola @ Mr. Tipples 7pm & 8:45pm @ 7pm Mr. Tipple's Recording Studio, 39 Fell St, San Francisco

Danny Ali @ 7pm

Francisco

Power‐house Pub @ 6:30pm / $15 The Groovy Judy Band is bringing the rock and groove to Powerhouse Pub for a night of high-en‐ergy music, dancing, and straight-up good vibes. Powerhouse Pub, 614 Sut‐ter Street, Folsom. judy@ groovyjudy.com

Brandon Goldberg DEBUT Residency @ 7pm / $30 May 29th - May 31st Black Cat Jazz Supper Club, 400 Eddy St, San Francisco. info@ blackcatsf.com

Steve Egelman: The 2026 SF Porchfest Kickoff Party @ 7pm The Hotel Utah Saloon, 500 4th St, San Francisco

The Beast of England/ Manaita/123Curry/Gozzard @ 7:30pm O'Reilly’s Pub, 1840 Haight St, San Francisco

Aaron Bennett: Dave Parker Sextet

@ 7:30pm Bird & Beckett Books & Records, 653 Chenery St, San Francisco

Salsa & Bachata Dance Fridays Salsa Dancing, Bachata Dancing at Dance Fridays, Dance Lessons @ 7:45pm / $16.74-$27.24

This Friday, Early Bird - THE BEST OF SAN FRANCISCO DANCE LESSONS, MUSIC, AND DANCE CLUB DANCING, You're invited to our Epic Salsa and Bachata and Cumbia Bash Dance Party Dance Fridays, 550 Barneveld, San Fran‐cisco. info@dancesf.com, 877398-7025

eSex @ 8pm Neck Of the Woods, 406 Clement St, San Francisco

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

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

Oceanography: SF Porch‐fest - Hila Gelato Caffè @ 12pm Hila Gelato Caffè, 951 Valencia St, San Francisco

sunkissed: Porchfest San Francisco 2026 @ 12pm 319 Lexington Street, 319 Lexing‐ton St, San Francisco

Art in Action: Spectacular Seed Bombs @ 1pm / $10 Kids & their families are invited to join us for this fun workshop on May 30! Pence Gallery, 212 D Street, Davis. pencesocialmedia@ gmail.com, 530-758-3370 Connor Morrison Band at Porchfest San Francisco 2026 @ 2pm The Mellow Mission, 3236 21st