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WHS builds toward authentic learning News, Page 2
Senior Capstone honors local legacy Features, Page 1
Volume 143, Number 32 — Locally-owned since 1884
Winters, Yolo County, California, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
The hometown paper of Donna Hirshfield
Winters police, firefighters remember 25 years after 9/11 By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief With the American flag flying from the ladder of Truck 26, local public safety officials gathered Friday, Sept. 11, to honor the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Members of the Winters Police Department and Winters Fire Department participated in a bell-ringing ceremony to remember the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives in New York, at the Pentagon and aboard United Airlines Flight 93. The ceremony is a longstanding tradition among firefighters and first responders, honoring colleagues who made the
ultimate sacrifice in service to others. Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III reflected on the enduring significance of Sept. 11 for those in the fire service. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001,” Snyder said. “But for the men and women of the fire service, the memory of that day has never faded.” Snyder remembered the 343 firefighters who died that day, along with the thousands of civilians, police officers and other first responders who were killed in the attacks or later died from illnesses related to the recovery efforts at Ground Zero.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Winters police officers and firefighters stand in solemn tribute as the bell rings on Friday, marking the 25th
See TRIBUTE, Page 6 anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
City Council Candidates Forum set for Oct. 1
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Officers Adamaris Zamudio (left) and Samuel Zamora are sworn in during the Sept. 15 Winters City Council meeting.
Winters PD adds two new officers By Sonora Slater Express staff writer
EXPRESS
Two new members of the Winters Police Department, Officer Samuel Zamora and Officer Adamaris Zamudio, were sworn in during the Sept. 15 Winters City Council meeting. Family members assisted with their badge-pin-
ning ceremonies. Zamora has been with the department since April and previously worked for Sacramento Regional Parks, where he served as a ranger for eight years. He has experience as a firearms and Taser instructor, bike patrol team member and UTV/ATV operator, as well as working with a homeless outreach program. He has already joined Chief John P. Miller on bike patrols. Zamudio was raised in Esparto and joined
the Winters PD after graduating from the Sacramento Sheriff’s Police Academy in May and completing field training over the summer. She began solo patrols in August. Both officers expressed their thanks to the city and said they look forward to serving the community. The police department is also currently recruiting for a police sergeant, its last remaining open position.
Index Features ........................ B-1 Classifieds ................... B-4 Community .................. A-2 Eventos hispanos ....... A-4 Opinion ......................... B-4 Real Estate ................... B-2 Sports ........................... B-5
We at he r Date
Rain
High
Low
Sept. 09
.00
96˚
63˚
Sept. 10
.00
105˚
57˚
Sept. 11
.00
108˚
61˚
Sept. 12
.00
97˚
59˚
Sept. 13
.00
94˚
58˚
Sept. 14
.00
82˚
56˚
Sept. 15
.00
90˚
54˚
Rain for week: 0.00 in. Season’s total: TRACE Last sn. to date: 0.00 in. Winters rainfall season began 7/1/26. Weather readings are taken at 9 a.m. daily for the previous day by local weatherman Joe Bristow.
Express staff
Ask the candidates
The community is invited to attend a Winters City Council Candidates Forum on Thursday, Oct. 1, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Shirley Rominger Intermediate School multipurpose room, 502 Neimann St. The open, in-person forum is hosted collaboratively by the Winters Express and Democracy Winters. Davis Access Media will record the forum and the video will be posted the week following the event. Winters Express Editor-in-Chief Crystal Apilado and Democracy Winters’ Kate Laddish will moderate the forum.
Forum organizers are seeking questions and topics that community members would like the candidates to address during the forum. Questions submitted by Winters residents will help shape the topics discussed during the event. Email questions or topics of interest to news@wintersexpress.com by the end of the day Wednesday, Sept. 23.
Five candidates, three seats The forum will feature the five candidates running for three open City Council seats in the Nov. 3 election. Candidates
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See FORUM, Page 6
Trustees adopt priorities for 2026-27 school year By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent The Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees unanimously adopted four priorities for the 2026-27 school year at its Sept. 3 meeting, maintaining continuity with last year while updating the goals and indicators tied to each area. Superintendent Rody Boonchouy presented the priorities as a framework for the district’s work and decision-making throughout the school year. “Each year Winters JUSD approves
a set of priorities and goals for the district,” Boonchouy said. “The intent is to set a direction for where we’re going as an organization to guide our decision-making and also to establish a framework for accountability not only for the organization but for the leaders within that organization.” Boonchouy said the district is maintaining the same priorities as last year to provide continuity, while the goals and indicators under each priority will continue to evolve based on the work taking place during the school year.
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will have an opportunity to discuss their goals and positions on topics of interest to the Winters community. “The forum is an opportunity for Winters residents to hear directly from each candidate about local issues that matter to our community,” Apilado said. “The planning committee believes there is value in giving the community a voice through its questions, while also providing each candidate with a nonpartisan, informational forum to share their ideas and explain why they want to serve on the City Council.”
The first priority is “creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments.” The district will work to expand student voice and leadership, foster a culture of connectedness and belonging, and strengthen engagement with students, families and the community. The second priority is “amplifying student engagement, learning, and growth.” Boonchouy said this priority is tied to implementation of the district’s Education Innovation Plans,
See TRUSTEES, Page 6
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A2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Community Authentic learning drives WHS innovation plan Editor’s note: This is the final installment in the Express’ series examining the rollout of Winters Joint Unified School District’s site-based Education Innovation Plans for the 2026-27 school year.
By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent During its Aug. 20 meeting, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees was presented with an Education Innovation Plan for each of the district’s four school sites. As Phoebe Girimonte, assistant superintendent of educational services, explained, the plans chart “what the initial 30 days of school will look like at each of their schools, and how they are shifting strategies to improve student outcomes and align practices with Graduate Profile competencies.” Girimonte described the Graduate Profile as “our vision, it’s our north star,” and said the plans demonstrate how each site will seek to achieve the vision laid out by the profile through clear, actionable goals. “We recognize that it is the educators in classrooms that bring these competencies to life every day. And in service of that, our professional learning
surveys and Critapproaches have to align with that ical Thinking vision,” GirimonLearner Progreste said. sions that measure students’ Additionalengagement with ly, each site’s critical thinking. principal spoke with the trustYoung noted ees about immethat WHS had an diate goals for “amazing turnthe beginning of out on all three the school year Express file photo days” of the Auand summarized gust professionWinters High School. the professional learning sesal learning days sions. focus will provide students held Aug. 4-6. The first day was “really with opportunities to work The final two sites in the on projects that are signif- devoted to putting into reExpress’ series are Winters icant to them, including an ality what critical thinking High School and Wolfskill expanded Senior Capstone means for our students,” Career Readiness Acade- Project. with educators asking my. “Students will have the themselves and each othPrincipal Justin Young opportunities to research, er, “what is that definition described WHS’ focus on to create, to present, to de- of critical thinking? What authentic learning, which sign and solve problems, does it look like for our stuwill allow students to apply performing that critical dents to be critical thinkwhat they have learned in thinking, that are connect- ers?” ways that feel significant. With a working definition ed to topics that matter to “Students learn best them, that are relevant and established, staff will then apply it to their content arwhen they have the oppor- engaging,” Young said. tunity to apply what they As part of this authentic eas to ensure students are know in meaningful ways,” learning approach, WHS encouraged at all levels to Young explained, “and we set a goal for the 2026-27 be critical thinkers. at Winters High School and school year that “each WHS educators also Wolfskill Career Readiness teacher will implement examined how to design Academy are excited about at least two High Quality the HQPAs, described by shining a spotlight on these Performance Assessments Young as “authentic learnopportunities and expand- (HQPA) throughout the ing opportunities,” with the ing opportunities for stu- year, so at least one in the guiding questions of “how dents to demonstrate their fall and at least one in the can we ensure that we have learning through authen- spring building on that one that laser focus during protic ways like projects and from the fall.” fessional development and real-world experiences The goal is to increase stu- collaboration time that is across the curriculum.” dent-reported engagement, devoted to applying critical This authentic learning as measured by formative thinking, assessing critical
thinking throughout the year, through every lesson, and then also in those HQPAs?” The second day was devoted to eKadence training with Winters Middle School. Fifteen teachers, more than 50 percent of the teaching team, have committed to piloting eKadence. Young explained the system as “a Learning Management System that includes personalized learning paths for students and course management tools for teachers. It supports student engagement, learning reflection, and development of critical college and career readiness skills.” The third day was devoted to “celebrating the work we did over the first two days,” Young said, “and giving our team the time to start applying that, [to] start developing lessons, start thinking critically about critical thinking and how we can embed that in all the work that we’re doing.” Young gave special recognition to the eKadence presentation, noting that Deng Vu, a co-founder and CEO of eKadence, came to conduct training for staff. He also said the eKadence team has been highly responsive to requests from educators.
Dance for a Senior fundraiser set for Sept. 23 Special to the Express Yolo Healthy Aging Alliance will host its annual Dance for a Senior fundraiser from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at Berryessa Brewing Co., 27260 Highway 128, Winters. This year’s event, themed “Boots, Beats & Big Hearts,” will feature live music,
Western line dancing, raffles, food and drinks. Attendees can step, shuffle and slide onto the dance floor while supporting programs that benefit older adults in Yolo County. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children and are available at www.yolohealthy-
aging.org. The event also will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about Yolo Healthy Aging Alliance and its work supporting older adults. The organization promotes the well-being of older adults through education, collaboration and advocacy and works to connect Yolo County residents with services and supports that help them age with dignity, choice and independence. Yolo Healthy Aging Alliance also provides direct services to older and disabled adults through its programs. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
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Hundreds of children wield their rods during the 28th Annual Alvin Bonifacio Memorial Fishing Derby at Lake Solano Park, Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023.
Fishing derby returns to Lake Solano Park Special to the Express The Sunrise Rotary Club of Vacaville will host the 32nd annual Alvin Bonifacio Fishing Derby on Saturday, Sept. 26, at Lake Solano Park near Winters. The free event honors the memory of Alvin Bonifacio, a longtime charter member of the Sunrise Rotary Club of Vacaville who was instrumental in the derby's success and spearheaded construction of the fishing pond at Lake Solano Park, 8685
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on the largest fish caught in each category, along with a trophy for the overall largest fish. For more information, view the event video on YouTube at http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=EhpSyPIOkXw. For directions to Lake Solano Park, visit http://www.co.solano.ca.us/depts/rm/ countypark/dd/default.asp. For additional information, contact Doug Spletter at dcspletter@yahoo. com or Lara Penny at lpenny@switzer enterprises.com.
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Pleasants Valley Road. While the event is free, Lake Solano Park charges a parking entrance fee. No advance registration is required. The first 500 children age 14 and younger will receive a fishing rod and reel, tackle and bait. A hot dog lunch, chips, water and other drinks also will be provided. Fishing begins at 8 a.m. for children age 7 and younger. All children may fish from 9 a.m. to noon. Trophies will be awarded in various age categories based
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File photo
Scotty Dozier is shown coming to the aid of Joe Martinez in 1981, after his tractor got stuck while pushing brush into a burn pile. Watching is Terry Schroeder. Joe looks worried, but with help from a fire engine, the tractor was saved.
Public Safety Report City of Winters
Fire Sept. 2: Manzanita Way and Blue Oak Lane/Maple Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~County Road 31 and County Road 91A, Grass fire ~County Road 87 and County Road 34/ Highway 128, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Morgan Street and Caselli Court/Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 3: Rosa Avenue and Mermod Place/ Hemenway Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 4: E. Grant Avenue and Walnut Lane/ Morgan Street, Motor vehicle accident ~Matsumoto Lane and Russell Boulevard, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Main Street and Second Street/Third Street, Person in distress (other) ~Chapman Street and Alley/Wyatt Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 5: Jackson Street and Washington Avenue/McArthur Avenue, EMS call – ex-
cluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 6: Ivy Court and Lupine Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Griffin Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Rosa Avenue and Hemenway Street/ Apricot Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 7: Jefferson Street and Washington Avenue/McArthur Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~E. Baker Street and East Street/Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Cottage Circle and Anderson Avenue/ Karnail Street, Outdoor miscellaneous fire ~Jackson Street and Washington Avenue/ McArthur Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Morgan Street and Caselli Court/Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 8: E. Baker Street and East Street/ Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~County Road 90A
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and Buckeye Road, Grass fire ~W. Main Street and Chapman Street/Niemann Street, Motor vehicle accident ~E. Grant Avenue and Walnut Lane/Morgan Street, Person in distress (other) ~Blue Oak Lane and Creekside Way/Manzanita Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~E. Baker Street and East Street/Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 9: Buckeye Road and County Road 29A/County Road 31, Power line down
View the Winters Fire Activity and Call Log at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.
Police Report Log Sept. 4: 2:51 a.m., 100 block of E. Grant Avenue, Driving under the influence of alcohol (misdemeanor) ~2:51 a.m., 100 block of E. Grant Avenue, Traffic collision without injury (violation) Sept. 5: 6 a.m., 600 block of Snapdragon Street, Preventing/ dissuading a witness or victim (misdemeanor) Sept. 6: 8:07 p.m., 10 block of Abbey Street, Disorderly conduct/ alcohol (misdemeanor)
View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log
Picked by Charley Wallace
YESTERYEAR
Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026 — A3
130 Years Ago
September 18, 1896 The Democrats of Winters today elected James R. Briggs, R.L. Humphrey, D.O. Waughtell, Edward Lahey, Geo. Hutchins, J.C. Campbell, J.H. Ely and S.H. Hoy to represent them at the county convention next week at Woodland. The Christian Endeavor societies of the Presbyterian church held one of their society socials Thursday evening at the country residence of S.K. Baker. A son of J. Parker caught a coyote last week and received $5 bounty from the county and $2.50 from the sheepmen. The Winters W.C.T.U. society elected the following officers Thursday: President, Mrs. Nellie Young; recording secretary, Miss Sallie Wolfskill; corresponding secretary, Mrs. Dr. Caldwell; treasurer, Mrs. Dr. Wyatt; auditor, Mrs. Udell.
95 Years Ago
September 18, 1931 Mr. Mitchelson, engineer of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, spoke at the Exchange Club Monday night, saying that his department is studying the Putah Creek fan with the possi-
207 First Street, Winters 530.795.1283 Rachel Woods
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Award-winning American journalism. Designed in Yolo, manufactured in Solano. Notice: Unless otherwise indicated, all of the stories, articles, pictures, captions and editorials appearing in this edition are © Copyright 2024 The Winters Express, LLC, a limited liability company, all rights reserved.
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Lake Berryessa water levels down Express staff The water level of Lake Berryessa decreased by 0.03 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 7,338 acre-feet of water storage, according to Cristian Tejeda, Operations at Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 15, he reported that the lake elevation was 429.46 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,358,084 acre-feet. The SID released 372 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 23 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 259 acrefeet of water per day.
Years Ago Dispatches from the Express archives.
bility of installing a dam to restore water to the underground depleting reservoirs of this area. John Graf, catcher, Douglas Perkins, first-baseman, Ad. Schinkle, left-fielder, and “Chunky” Scott, relief catcher, all of Winters, are on the Valley League Champion Woodland baseball team which meets the State League champion Santa Cruz team Sunday. The Winters High School football team will open the season with Vacaville Friday. The following line-up is expected to start the contest: Trimble, RE; Sackett (Capt.), RF; Stith, RG; Gifford, C; Riesbeck, LG; Rice, LF; Poppe, LE; B. Fredericks, Q; Young, LH; J. Fredericks, RH; Perkins, F.
80 Years Ago
September 20, 1946 Chief of Police and Mrs. Gil Crowder have returned from a vacation trip to Redmond, Oregon, where they visited relatives. Ben Couch is taking a week’s leave of absence from his duties on the local police force helping care for his infant daughter born here Wednesday. Master James Boyce, Jr. entertained a group of playmates Sunday afternoon in his ranch home east of town. The occasion was the host’s 10th birthday anniversary. Alice Lee Estepa announces the opening of 3 Meals Cafe
located on south Railroad Avenue. The first birthday anniversary of “The Friendly Girls Club” was observed with a party Friday, September 13, at the home of Mrs. Ida Robbins, leader. Wanda Henley was elected president; Dolores Lopez, vice president; Edwina Potter, secretary and Mary Cortez, treasurer.
45 Years Ago
September 17, 1981
Frank Ramos is opening his own real estate office this week in the Heart Federal Savings and Loan building on Main Street. The Tamborettes, a singing telegram team of Elizabeth Coman, Susan Scheidegger and Sally Paul, were the hit of the party last Thursday when Vasey Brothers Market closed its doors. The three told (in verse) of the effect of the market closing on members of the community, and named each person who worked in the store, telling of their special virtues or vices. A mixture of laughter and tears greeted their performance. Laini Nance, the daughter of Darrell and Juanita Nance, had a slumber party at her home last Friday night, September 11, to celebrate her eighth birthday. Laini had the following guests: Amy Dyck, Stephanie Wallace, Krissy Balogh, Aurora Sanchez and Dawn Branscum.
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A4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Eventos hispanos Entra en vigor nuevas normas sobre vehículos eléctricos en Winters Por Crystal Apilado Traducido por Carol Alfonso Las nuevas normas locales que regulan las bicicletas, patinetes y motocicletas eléctricas, así como otros vehículos eléctricos (E-Conveyence), entraron en vigor en Winters el pasado 3 de Septiembre. Este es el último paso en un esfuerzo conjunto de varios meses por parte de la ciudad, el Departamento de Policía de Winters y el Distrito Escolar Unificado Conjunto de Winters JUSD (Winters JUSD), para abordar las preocupaciones de seguridad relacionadas con el creciente uso de dispositivos de transporte eléctrico. La Ordenanza sobre Vehículos Eléctricos de la ciudad establece las normas sobre dónde y cómo se pueden utilizar estos dispositivos, además de requisitos sobre el uso del casco, equipo y nuevas herramientas para sancionar las infracciones. Al mismo tiempo, la ciudad, el departamento de policía y el distrito escolar colaboran en la educación y en el programa municipal de prevención de riesgos para menores, cuyo objetivo es ayudar a los jóvenes usuarios y a sus familias a comprender la ley y evitar la conducción insegura o ilegal. La ordenanza fue aprobada por el Ayuntamiento de Winters en Agosto pasado y entró en vigor 30 días después de su aprobación, el 3 de Septiembre. Se aplica a bicicletas eléctricas de clase 1, 2 y 3, patinetes o scooters eléctricos, hoverboards, ciclomotores, motocicletas eléctricas de todoterreno y otros dispositivos de transporte personal eléctricos. La normativa busca complementar los requisitos del Código de Vehículos de California y, al mismo tiempo, brindar a la ciudad herramientas adicionales para abordar las preocupaciones locales de seguridad.
Un enfoque coordinado La ciudad y el distrito escolar han estado trabajando juntos en este tema durante todo el 2026, incluso en las reuniones 2x2 entre la ciudad y el Winters JUSD. La colaboración ha incluido la coordinación con las fuerzas del orden, la educación pública y los esfuerzos para establecer expectativas consistentes para los estudiantes que
utilizan vehículos eléctricos para ir a la escuela. En la reunión 2x2 del 26 de Agosto, el jefe de policía John P. Miller informó que el Departamento de Policía de Winters está finalizando un programa de desvío de seguridad para menores que permitirá a los menores infractores que cumplan con los requisitos, completar una guía de autoaprendizaje sobre las normas locales y estatales, seguida de una prueba de opción múltiple. El objetivo es proporcionar una alternativa educativa a los procedimientos judiciales tradicionales para menores cuando sea apropiado. “Hemos implementado el programa para menores, que permite aplazar la intervención en lugar de crear una situación en la que tengamos que sacar a un niño de la escuela porque deba ir a Woodland para comparecer ante un tribunal de menores,” dijo el administrador municipal de Winters, Jeremy Craig, en la reunión del 26 de Agosto. Miller indicó que Winters se encuentra entre las comunidades de la región que están desarrollando enfoques similares, a medida que las agencias policiales responden al creciente uso de dispositivos de transporte eléctrico. El superintendente Rody Boonchouy afirmó que los directores de las escuelas están monitoreando los dispositivos que aparecen en los aparcamientos de bicicletas escolares, pero señaló que el problema no puede ser resuelto únicamente por el personal escolar. Mantener la seguridad de los estudiantes, añadió, requerirá coordinación entre las escuelas, las familias y las fuerzas del orden, y que las familias comprendan las leyes que rigen los vehículos eléctricos y asuman la responsabilidad de garantizar que sus hijos las cumplan. La ciudad, el Departamento de Policía de Winters y el Winters JUSD planean seguir compartiendo información a través de sus respectivas plataformas de comunicación durante las próximas semanas.
Dónde se permite y dónde está prohibido circular
tricos generalmente pueden circular por carreteras, carriles para bicicletas y ciclovías, sujetos a la ley de California, las restricciones municipales y la señalización. Las motocicletas eléctricas de todoterreno (eMotos) están prohibidas en las ciclovías, a menos que estén específicamente autorizadas. Circular por las aceras está generalmente prohibido, excepto en circunstancias limitadas, como cruzar entradas de vehículos, transitar por zonas de uso compartido designados, evitar un peligro inmediato o caminar con el vehículo. Los usuarios de la acera que utilicen alguna de estas excepciones deben ceder el paso a los peatones y circular de forma segura. Los vehículos eléctricos no pueden circular por parques municipales, zonas de juegos infantiles, terrenos escolares ni el Creek Walk, ni por calles cerradas al tráfico por la ciudad. También está prohibido circular por estas zonas durante eventos especiales cuando hayan restricciones señaladas. En estos casos, los usuarios pueden caminar con sus transportes electricos.
Operación insegura La ordenanza prohíbe operar un vehículo eléctrico de manera insegura. Algunos ejemplos específicos de la ordenanza incluyen: • Infringir las leyes de tránsito. • Exceso de velocidad o maniobras temerarias entre el tráfico. • Transportar pasajeros no autorizados. • Realizar caballitos u otras acrobacias. • Circular en sentido contrario. • Circular en cunetas. • Exceder el límite de velocidad legal, o 20 mph donde no exista un límite estatal. • Agarrarse a vehículos en movimiento. • No ceder el paso a peatones o vehículos. • Circular en senderos prohibidos. • Usar un teléfono
móvil mientras se conduce. • Conducir bajo los efectos del alcohol o las drogas. • Usar auriculares que impidan la audición del conductor. • No usar el casco obligatorio. • Requisitos de casco y edad • Los requisitos de casco dependen del tipo de vehículo eléctrico y la edad del conductor. Toda persona menor de 18 años que opere un vehículo eléctrico cubierto debe usar casco, con excepción de las motocicletas eléctricas todoterreno, que tienen requisitos de casco específicos. Toda persona que opere o conduzca una bicicleta eléctrica de Clase 3, una patineta eléctrica o una motocicleta eléctrica de todoterreno también debe usar el casco obligatorio. Las infracciones relacionadas con el uso del casco conllevan una multa máxima de $25. La ordenanza también prohíbe que cualquier persona menor de 16 años opere una bicicleta eléctrica de Clase 3. El equipo obligatorio incluye una luz delantera blanca después del atardecer, una luz trasera roja o reflector, y el cumplimiento de las normas de equipamiento de California y las características de seguridad del fabricante. Los conductores no pueden manipular la velocidad del dispositivo ni quitar las etiquetas de clasificación.
Aplicación de la ley para menores La ordenanza otorga al Departamento de Policía de Winters herramientas adicionales para hacer cumplir la ley cuando hay menores involucrados. Los padres no pueden permitir a sabiendas que un menor infrinja la ordenanza. La primera infracción puede conllevar una multa de hasta $50, mientras que las infracciones posteriores pueden conllevar una multa de hasta
$100. Cuando se cita a un menor, el dispositivo electrónico puede ser confiscado por al menos 48 horas. Un padre o un adulto responsable debe recoger el dispositivo, pagar las tarifas de confiscación correspondientes y asegurarse de que el menor complete el programa de desvío de seguridad requerido. Miller también indicó que los padres recibirán lo que describió como una amonestación Watson al recoger un dispositivo confiscado. En la reunión del 26 de agosto, explicó que el concepto proviene de las advertencias utilizadas en los casos de DUI y conducción temeraria en California, en las que se advierte a la persona que continuar con el comportamiento y posteriormente lesionar a alguien puede tener consecuencias más graves. En este caso, Miller explicó que la advertencia tiene como objetivo informar a los padres sobre las posibles consecuencias de permitir que sus hijos continúen teniendo acceso a dispositivos ilegales o que los operen de manera peligrosa. “Los padres también recibirán una amonestación, basada en lo que se conoce como una amonestación Watson, que les advierte que si continúan permitiendo el acceso y uso de dispositivos ilegales o los operan de manera peligrosa, causando lesiones, podrían ser considerados como civiles penalmente responsables si se producen dichas lesiones,” afirmó Miller. Miller indicó que el precedente para este enfoque proviene de incidentes ocurridos en los Condado Orange y Benicia. Si el programa de desvío no se completa, el caso puede re-
mitirse al Tribunal de Tráfico Juvenil. Un vehículo electrónico que permanezca sin reclamar durante 90 días puede considerarse abandonado según la ordenanza.
Expectativas del centro escolar
La ordenanza municipal y las normas del distrito escolar son independientes, pero ambas iniciativas se están coordinando. Winters JUSD ha establecido normas para los estudiantes que traen bicicletas y patinetes eléctricos a la escuela, incluyendo el registro de los dispositivos en el centro educativo y la verificación de que los estudiantes tienen la edad legal para utilizarlos. Se espera que los estudiantes caminen con los dispositivos dentro de los recintos escolares y los estacionen en las áreas designadas. El distrito puede imponer restricciones adicionales por motivos de seguridad. En Diciembre del 2025, Winters JUSD también notificó a las familias que los estudiantes que no tuvieran la edad legal para utilizar ciertas bicicletas y patinetes eléctricos no debían traerlos a la escuela. El aviso detallaba diferentes normas según la edad de los estudiantes y el tipo de dispositivo que podían utilizar. Este esfuerzo coordinado refleja un objetivo común entre la ciudad, el departamento de policía y el distrito escolar: ayudar a los estudiantes y sus familias a comprender la ley antes de que se produzca una situación peligrosa, a la vez que se proporciona un procedimiento claro para abordar las infracciones cuando estas ocurran.
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Mold and your health: What you need to know Special to the Express A little mold in the corner of a shower or a musty smell after a rainy week may seem harmless, but mold can affect indoor air quality and personal health. Because mold can grow quietly in damp areas, people may not realize it is present until visible growth appears or symptoms develop. For Yolo County residents, mold can be a yearround concern. Winter storms can bring leaks and excess moisture, while summer air conditioning, irrigation and poorly ventilated bathrooms can create damp conditions indoors. Knowing how mold affects health — and how to prevent it — can help families maintain a healthier home environment.
How mold affects health Mold releases tiny spores into the air that can be inhaled. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says exposure to mold can cause symptoms including nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, eye irritation and skin irritation. People with asthma or allergies may be particularly sensitive to mold exposure, and mold can worsen asthma symptoms. People with weakened immune systems or chronic lung conditions also may face a greater risk of developing health prob-
Photo courtesy MetroCreative
Mold growing on an interior wall can indicate an underlying moisture problem. Controlling indoor humidity and addressing leaks promptly can help prevent mold growth and protect indoor air quality. lems related to mold. Not everyone reacts to mold in the same way. However, persistent respiratory or allergy-like symptoms are worth discussing with a health care provider, particularly when symptoms seem to worsen in a particular indoor environment.
Why moisture matters Mold needs moisture to grow. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends keeping indoor relative humidity below 60 percent, with 30 to 50 percent being the ideal range when possible. Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry areas and spaces around air conditioning equipment can be particularly prone to moisture.
Yolo County’s climate creates some additional opportunities for moisture to enter the home. Winter rains can expose leaks around roofs, windows and doors, while summer air conditioning can produce condensation around equipment and drain lines. Irrigation water that regularly reaches exterior walls can also contribute to moisture problems. A small humidity meter, called a hygrometer, can help homeowners keep an eye on indoor moisture levels.
Simple ways to prevent mold The best way to prevent mold is to control moisture before it becomes a prob-
lem. The CDC and EPA recommend several steps homeowners can take: • Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens and make sure they vent outdoors. • Repair plumbing and roof leaks promptly. • Dry wet areas and materials within 24 to 48 hours whenever possible. • Make sure clothes dryers vent outdoors. • Maintain air conditioning systems and watch for unexplained water or condensation around them. • Keep gutters clear and make sure rainwater drains away from the home. • Avoid allowing irrigation water to regularly spray exterior walls. • Improve air circulation and ventilation when outdoor conditions allow. Regular cleaning of moisture-prone areas, such as showers, sinks and window sills, can also help prevent mold from taking hold.
When mold becomes a health concern Small areas of mold can often be cleaned by homeowners, but larger infestations may require professional assistance. The EPA generally considers areas smaller than about 10 square feet — roughly 3 feet by 3 feet — appropriate for most homeowners to address themselves, provided the underlying moisture problem is corrected.
Anyone cleaning mold should take precautions to avoid breathing in spores. The CDC recommends wearing protective gloves, eye protection and at least a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator during mold cleanup. People with asthma, chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems should avoid participating in mold cleanup, according to the CDC. If mold keeps returning after it has been cleaned, the problem may be more than surface growth. Recurring mold can be a sign of an unresolved moisture problem that needs to be identified and corrected.
A healthier home starts with prevention
Mold is a natural part of the environment, and eliminating every mold spore from a home is neither realistic nor necessary. The goal is to prevent excessive indoor moisture and address mold growth when it appears. For Yolo County families, paying attention to humidity, ventilation and water intrusion — particularly during the rainy season and the hot summer months — can help create a healthier indoor environment. When it comes to mold, prevention is simple: control the moisture, address problems early and protect the air you breathe.
Know the risks and warning signs of heart disease Special to the Express Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States for women, men and people of most racial and ethnic groups, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It often develops gradually, sometimes without obvious symptoms, making prevention and regular health screenings important. The good news is that many factors that contribute to heart disease can be managed. Others, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, but knowing about them can help people and their health care providers better understand overall risk.
Know your risk factors Some heart disease risk factors are beyond a person’s control: • Age: The risk of heart disease increases as people get older. For men, risk generally rises after age 45; for women, risk increases after menopause, around age 55. Changes in the heart and blood vessels that occur with aging can contribute to cardiovascular problems. • Family history: Having a close relative who developed heart disease at an early age can increase a person’s risk. Tell your health care provider if a parent, sibling or other close relative has had a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular disease, particularly at a younger age. • Sex and menopause: Men tend to develop cardiovascular disease at younger ages, but women’s risk increases after menopause. Hormonal changes are one fac-
tor, although age and other risk factors also play important roles. • Race and ethnicity: Some racial and ethnic groups experience higher rates of heart disease and related deaths. These differences are influenced by a combination of factors, including access to health care, socioeconomic conditions, underlying health conditions, family history and other social and environmental factors. Knowing your individual health risks is more useful than relying on race or ethnicity alone. Other health conditions can also increase cardiovascular risk, including diabetes, chronic kidney disease and obesity.
Risk factors you can change Several important risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes, regular health care and, when appropriate, medication. High blood pressure: Also called hypertension, high blood pressure makes the heart work harder and can damage blood vessels over time. Because it often has no noticeable symptoms, having blood pressure checked regularly is one of the simplest ways to identify a potential problem. Smoking and tobacco use: Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces oxygen in the blood and increases the risk of blood clots and heart disease. Quitting can improve cardiovascular health, even for people who have smoked for many years. Avoiding secondhand smoke also is beneficial. High cholesterol: Low-density lipopro-
tein, or LDL, cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup inside arteries. As plaque accumulates, arteries can narrow and restrict blood flow. A cholesterol test can help determine whether levels need to be addressed through diet, exercise, medication or a combination of approaches. Physical inactivity: Regular physical activity helps support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight. Adults should work toward at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, when medically appropriate. Activity does not have to mean going to a gym; brisk walking, cycling, swimming, gardening and other activities that get the body moving can count. Diet and weight: Eating patterns that emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, lean proteins and unsaturated fats can support heart health. Limiting foods high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium also can help manage cardiovascular risk. Maintaining a healthy weight can benefit blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Diabetes and blood sugar: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. People with diabetes can lower their risk by working with their health care team to manage blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Sleep and stress: Poor or inadequate sleep and chronic stress can contribute to cardiovascular risk,
particularly when they make it harder to maintain healthy eating, activity and other habits. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and finding healthy ways to manage stress can be part of an overall hearthealth plan. Oral health: Gum disease is associated with cardiovascular disease, although researchers have not established that gum disease directly causes heart disease. Good oral hygiene, regular dental care and treatment of gum disease are important for overall health.
Don’t ignore the warning signs Risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, but symptoms can be a warning that a cardiovascular problem is already occurring. Heart attack symptoms can include pressure, squeezing,
fullness or pain in the center or left side of the chest. Other warning signs can include pain or discomfort in the arm, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; nausea or vomiting; unusual tiredness; dizziness or lightheadedness; and a cold sweat. Symptoms are not always the same for everyone. Women, in particular, may experience less typical symptoms such as unusual fatigue, nausea, upper back or jaw pain or shortness of breath. Some people may have heart disease without noticeable symptoms at all. If you or someone around you has symptoms that could indicate a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Do not wait to see whether the symptoms go away.
Prevention starts with knowing your numbers Because
several
major risk factors can be detected before symptoms develop, routine health care is an important part of prevention. Ask your health care provider how often you should have your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checked and whether your age, family history or other conditions warrant a cardiovascular risk assessment. Heart disease risk is not an all-or-nothing calculation. Even when a person cannot change certain risk factors, addressing the ones that can be changed can make a meaningful difference. Small, consistent steps — such as walking more, eating a heart-healthy diet, quitting tobacco, taking prescribed medications and keeping regular medical appointments — can help protect cardiovascular health over time.
A6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Continued from Page One TRIBUTE Continued from Page 1
He also recalled the words of retired FDNY Battalion Chief Richard Picciotto, the highest-ranking firefighter to survive the collapse of the North Tower, who opened his account of the day with an old firehouse proverb often recited at fire service funerals: “Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his fellowman.” “It is a sentiment that every firefighter carries, whether in a city firehouse or a rural combination department
TRUSTEES Continued from Page 1
increasing authentic and engaging learning opportunities, and expanding college and career opportunities. The third priority focuses on ensuring support for academic success and Graduate Profile outcomes. “The goals here include strengthening PLC’s around student learning and education innovation plans and supporting staff through professional learning and collaboration,” Boonchouy said.
like ours,” Snyder said. “Twenty-five years later, we have not forgotten, and we will never forget,” he said. “Every firefighter who puts on the uniform inherits a duty that was written in fire on that morning to run toward danger when everyone else is running away.” Snyder said the sacrifice of the 343 FDNY firefighters continues to be reflected in the work of firefighters today. “Their sacrifice lives in every training session, every call, and every young member who joins our ranks
here in Winters,” he said. “That’s what it means for us to carry this legacy forward.” Police Chief John P. Miller also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the courage and selflessness demonstrated on Sept. 11. He remembered the 72 law enforcement officers who died that day, as well as the many first responders who later died from illnesses associated with the attacks and recovery efforts. Miller also recognized civilians who risked their own lives to help others in the Twin Towers
and aboard Flight 93, noting that the actions of ordinary people helped save thousands of lives. The bell-ringing ceremony provided a quiet moment of remembrance for those who died 25 years ago and for those who have died in the years since. For those who remember that morning and for the generations born after it, the ceremony serves as a reminder of the lives lost, the courage shown and the responsibility carried forward by those who continue to serve their communities.
Each candidate will have equal time to answer a variety of topical questions. Topics may include attainable housing, public transportation, the viability of downtown and other issues identified by the community. Members of the public will also have an opportunity to submit questions at the event, which will be addressed as time allows. The candidates are incumbents Richard Casavecchia, Carol Scianna and Albert Val-
lecillo, along with challengers Dave Callison and Kelli Villanueva. The city of Winters election will determine three City Council members to serve fouryear terms. The city has posted candidate information on its elections webpage. The forum is not sponsored by the Winters Joint Unified School District, and Winters JUSD does not endorse any candidate, co-host or candidate position. For more information about the forum, email news@ wintersexpress. com.
He added that chouy noted. tional Coach Kris- classes, while the another important The priorities ten Higgins told school also introcomponent of the also provide a the Board that the duced its CREW priority is measur- framework for school’s focus on terminology as a ing academic and work already un- collaboration was student-friendly Graduate Profile derway at individ- put into practice way to discuss colgrowth. laboration. The fourth priAt Waggonority is “idener Elementary “The goals here include strengthening School, Elementifying implementational tary Support PLC’s around student learning and and operational TOSA JoAnn education innovation plans and efficiencies,” May reported which focuses on supporting staff through professional that students sustaining dishad begun parlearning and collaboration.” trict operations ticipating in while finding dice games, Roll Rody Boonchouy, Superintendent the appropriate and Write activbalance between ities and Countquality programing Collections ming, creating as part of the a competitive dis- ual school sites, from the first day school’s focus on trict for employees including the dis- of school. Staff learning through and ensuring fiscal trict’s Education worked together purposeful play. Innovation Plans. to ensure students solvency. May said the At Winters Mid- participated in school is current“We have to pay our bills at the dle School, Sec- collaborative ac- ly introducing stusame time,” Boon- ondary Instruc- tivities in their dents to materials
and activities they will use throughout the year, with guided activities gradually giving way to greater student choice as students become familiar with expectations. Waggoner is also implementing Next Level Recess, using games to develop skills including turn-taking, patience, communication, cooperation, sportsmanship and problem-solving. The Board voted unanimously to adopt the four priorities for the 202627 school year.
FORUM Continued from Page 1
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Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026 — B1
FEATURES
Inventory reaches 10-year high HOMES, Page 2
A shot at 185 OPINION, Page 4
Tiny worlds, big creativity A&E, Page 6
Thursday, September 17 Winters JUSD School Board Meeting, 6 p.m., School District Office, Zoom Meeting info, check https://bit.ly/4fwmfHK or www.wintersjusd.org 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 Friday, September 18 Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House Music on Main: Nations Trio , 6:30 p.m., Downtown Main Street Saturday, September 19 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 Winters Open Mic Night, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Downtown Main Street, Visit wintersopenmic.org Sunday, September 20 Winters Farmers Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Main Street – downtown Winters, Featuring live music by Bart Vogle, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market Monday, September 21 Winters Community Blood Drive, 2–5:45 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Register at Vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 with code 'SMFM164' Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting, 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/187/Natural-Resources-Commission Tuesday, September 22 Winters Planning Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m.,City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/planning-commission/
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 Farmers Market, Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Main Street – downtown Winters, discoverwinters. com/farmers-market 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: Pioneer Church – Wesley Hall, 205 Russell St., (effective Aug. 1) Monday 6–7 p.m., Tuesday/Friday 7–8 a.m., Thursday 7–8 p.m., and Sunday 9–10 a.m.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Winters High School Class of 2026 graduate Atticus Caligari sits on the memorial bench he crafted in honor of Sharon Bishop during its dedication at the Winters Healthcare Dinner on the Bridge event.
Memorial bench honors Bishop By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
A
new bench overlooking the Winters train bridge now serves as a permanent reminder of a woman who helped make Winters Healthcare’s annual Dinner on the Bridge a community tradition. The memorial bench honoring Sharon Bishop was dedicated during this year’s Dinner on the Bridge fundraiser. Bishop, a longtime Winters Healthcare board member, died suddenly in January 2025 after eight years of service to the organization. The bench was crafted by Atticus Caligari, a Winters High School Class of 2026 graduate, as his Senior Capstone Project. With guidance from his mentor, Jiley Romney, Caligari designed the bench to incorporate several elements meaningful to Bishop, including the iconic train bridge where the annual fundraiser is held, the Winters Healthcare logo and a
nod to Leonberger dogs, which Bishop owned and loved. “I know Sharon was a good person. I heard a lot of good things from you guys, so it felt good to make something for the community and for everyone who ever met her,” Caligari said during the dedication. The bench is positioned in the lawn seating area behind the community center, with a view of the train bridge in the distance. Its placement offers a connection to the setting that meant so much to Bishop and allows visitors to sit and look toward the site of the annual dinner. A poster board displayed beside the bench during the ceremony included a dedication honoring Bishop as “an unwavering champion for our clinic and a passionate believer in bringing people together,” particularly through the annual Dinner on the Bridge event. The dedication noted that the permanent bench will keep her memory close to the
event and the community she loved. Bishop joined the Winters Healthcare Board of Directors in February 2017, bringing years of experience in health care and government. She served as vice president of the board for two years and worked alongside Board President Jenni Jacobs Garcia on the Dinner on the Bridge planning from its inception in 2017. “Dinner on the Bridge is her favorite event,” Jacobs Garcia said. “Now her commemorative bench is there for years to come.” During the dedication, Jacobs Garcia recalled Bishop’s sudden passing and her connection to the fundraiser. “You might remember, if you were here last year, that our friend Sharon Bishop was a board member, and she passed away really suddenly,” Jacobs Garcia said. “We were really sad about that, but we
See MEMORIAL, Page 5
Express Yourself
Riding, playing and living fully By David Springer Special to the Express
O
ne of the major initiatives of the Winters Climate Action Commission has been to promote and facilitate bicycle use in town as a means of reducing vehicle traffic and the resulting carbon emissions. To build excitement for cycling, we sponsored a bicycle criterium on Aug. 22 that was organized by the
Davis Bike Club. One of the observers was intrepid local cyclist and Winters resident Joe Tramontana. One of the race organizers, who knew his reputation, gave him a race number that corre-
Courtesy photo
Joe Tramontana supports riders at a bicycle race. Tramontana, who began riding at age 54, remained an avid cyclist well into his 90s.
sponded to his age. That day, I asked him to reflect on his notable biking accomplishments to include in an Express article. It is with great sadness that I learned he died at the age of 95 on Sept. 9, before he could see this article. Here is the information he provided: “I started bicycle riding when I was 54 years old. I thought riding a bike would give me more strength for snow skiing, which was my passion at the time. At the age of 58, I heard about the Davis Double Century Ride and decided to enter and give it a try. Loved it, and did it eight more times! In 1990, a friend from the Almaden Bike Club wanted to join me in a ride across the U.S. “We rode from Desert Center, California, to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Our ride was 3,200 miles, averaging approximately 80 miles per day. We completed
this ride in 32 days. “I’ve also had the pleasure of riding from the Bay Area to Southern California three times. The most beautiful views, and massive climbs, along Highway 1. In addition, for many years I commuted 36 miles a day to work until I retired. Riding my bike has been one of the great passions of my life!” Joe’s enthusiasm for life carried over to music. In January 2024, he joined the Winters Ramblers string group so that he could learn to play the mandolin he had built years before. We watched him progress to become very accomplished and a great addition to the group. He joined us for the last time a few weeks ago. Joe showed us by example how to stay fit and live life to the fullest. Such an inspiration to us all! —Through “The Climate in Town,” members of the Winters Climate Action Commission share information with local residents about opportunities to help make Winters a greener and more livable city.
B2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Existing-home sales decline as inventory grows National Association of Realtors Special to the Express Existing-home sales decreased 2 percent from July and 1.2 percent from August 2025, according to the National Association of Realtors’ Existing-Home Sales report. The report provides real estate professionals, homebuyers and sellers with data on home sales, prices and inventory. Month-over-month sales held steady in the West and declined in the Northeast, Midwest and South. Compared with August 2025, sales were unchanged in the South and declined in the Northeast, Midwest and West. “Mortgage rates and home sales move in opposite directions, so it’s not surprising to see a mild dip in home buying activity due to
“Mortgage rates and home sales move in opposite directions, so it’s not surprising to see a mild dip in home buying activity due to high mortgage rates.”
This was the first time since November 2019 that inventory exceeded 1.6 million units. • 4.9 months’ supply of unsold inventory, up from 4.6 months in July and 4.6 months in August 2025.
Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist
Median sales price in August
high mortgage rates,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Still, home prices are rising, and existing home sales are actually up 1.6 percent year-to-date through the first eight months of the year. Homebuying demand, despite higher interest rates, is no doubt being supported by rising wages, which grew 3.1 percent in August, along with 643,000 net new jobs added since the start of the year. Job creation and wage growth typically drive housing demand.” The supply of homes
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for sale also continued to grow. The number of months it would take to exhaust the total inventory at the current sales pace increased to 4.9 months, its highest level in more than 10 years. “The ample supply of homes for sale on the market is giving homebuyers better opportunities to negotiate,” Yun said.
National snapshot Total existing-home sales in August • Sales decreased 2 percent from July. • Sales decreased 1.2 percent from August 2025 to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.98 million. The last time sales activity fell below 4 million was in June 2025.
Inventory in August • 1.62 million units: Total housing inventory, up 3.2 percent from July and 5.9 percent from August 2025.
• $429,100: Median existing-home price for all housing types. • The median price increased 1.6 percent from a year ago, when it was $422,400. This marked the 38th consecutive month of year-over-year price increases.
Housing affordability in August The Housing Affordability Index registered at 104.7, up from 101.2 a year ago. Year-over-year affordability improved across all regions: • Northeast: 0.5 percent • Midwest: 1.7 percent • South: 4.5 percent • West: 5.9 percent
Single-family and condo/co-op sales Single-family homes Sales decreased 1.9 percent from July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.62 million, down 1.1 percent from August 2025. The median home
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3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1370 sq ft, built in 1986.
Fabulous Winters Ranch Home built in 2016, sprawling one story home with an extra wide lot, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, formal living room and dining room, office or den, 3 car garage with tons of storage cabinets. Great room style family room and kitchen, fantastic covered patio with ceiling fans, built-in BBQ fully landscaped with low maintenance vegetation. List price $750,000.
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Regional snapshot Northeast • Sales decreased 4 percent from July to an annual rate of 480,000. • Sales were down 2 percent from August 2025. • The median price was $556,900, up 4.3 percent from August 2025.
Midwest • Sales decreased 3.1 percent from July to an annual rate of 940,000. • Sales were down 2.1 percent year over year. • The median price was $340,400, up 3.3 percent from August 2025.
South • Sales decreased 1.6 percent from July to an annual rate of 1.84 million. • Sales were unchanged from August 2025. • The median price was $366,500, up 0.7 percent from August 2025.
West • Sales changed
were unfrom July
Realtors Confidence Index
• 31 days: Median time on market for properties, up from 29 days last month and unchanged from 31 days in August 2025. • 30 percent of sales were to first-time homebuyers, up from 29 percent in July and 28 percent one year ago. • 27 percent of transactions were cash sales, up from 26 percent last month and down from 28 percent in August 2025. • 15 percent of transactions involved individual investors or second-home buyers, up from 14 percent last month and down from 21 percent one year ago. • 2 percent of sales were distressed sales, including foreclosures and short sales. The share was unchanged from last month and August 2025.
Mortgage rates
The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage was 6.67 percent in August, according to Freddie Mac, up from 6.54 percent in July and 6.59 percent one year ago.
Jean Deleonardi Real Estate Services
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1876 sq ft, built in 2007, listed price $589,000.00. MLS#225087212
7 E. Main Street, Suite C, Winters, CA 95694 realtormaria21@gmail.com
Sales decreased 2.7 percent from July to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 360,000. Sales were down 2.7 percent from last year. The median price was $371,600, up 1.5 percent from August 2025.
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Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026 — B3
Sho Local
Winters
Business & Service Directory You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy local and achieve it. Construction
Horoscopes ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, this week calls for a break from your usual fast pace. If you’ve been burning the candle at both ends, your energy reserves will be depleted. Focus on fortifying yourself and your space. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Miscommunication is likely if you rush your words, Taurus. Take an extra breath before responding when someone asks you a question or when addressing emails. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 It’s time to audit where your money is going, Gemini. If you’ve been overspending as a balm to stress, hit the brakes. Look for areas where you can plug any financial leaks. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 The spotlight is firmly on you right now, Cancer. You might feel a sudden urge to change your style, update your resume or shed an old identity that no longer fits. Trust this instinct. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 The universe is asking you to clear out some psychic debris this week. It is a great time for journaling and heavy solo time. If secrets or old resentments bubble up, just let them go. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Your social life is getting a bit of a reality check, Virgo. You might realize that certain friendships have felt a bit one-sided. Seek people who inspire you. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 The spotlight shines brightly on your professional zone this week, Libra. Instead of waiting for recognition, create your own. Update your portfolio or pitch an idea you have been sitting on. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may be craving a breakdown of boredom. If you can’t physically travel right now, satisfy this urge by stretching your mind another way. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 This week drags you into deeper psychological waters than you might care to swim in, Sagittarius. It’s a powerful time for intimacy or understanding behaviors. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Relationships take center stage, Capricorn. If there is an imbalance of power, it will need to be corrected. Approach conversations this week with diplomacy. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, your daily habits are catching up to you. If you’ve been eating poorly or skipping sleep, your body will demand a reset. Focus on micro-habits to get back on track. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Your playful side is begging for attention, Pisces. Make time for hobbies, art or romance that serve no purpose but to bring you joy.
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B4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Express Yourself
How much should I weigh when I grow up?
S
ome people grow at different rates than others. I was 5-foot-2 and 110 pounds as a freshman at Winters High School. By the time I graduated, I was 5-foot-10 or so and 150 pounds. When I got married, I was just under 6 feet, almost as tall as my father. His brother was 6-foot-5 but none of us inherited the tall gene. There were four boys in our family and none of us reached 6 feet. When I took a couple of weightlifting classes at Cal Poly I weighed in at 165 pounds. I gained the freshman 20 and stayed around 185 for a decade or so. Slowly but surely, I kept gaining weight. I think the most I ever weighed was 240 and I stopped stepping on the scale; not my best look. Most of my life I hovered
around 210, and with a little effort I could get down to 200 for short periods of time. Weight shifts, and I found that I am losing strength, too. I was told that it is just part of aging, but I’m in denial. A year ago I started reading about weight loss drugs, GLP-1, that help with how your stomach digests food and appetite suppression. I know people who were on the weekly shots and decided to give it a try. That was last January. I talked to my doctor about it, and he tried to get my insurance to cover it, but with no luck. A few
months went by; Sherri and I were traveling, but finally met with my doctor again. He tried to get me a Medicare prescription, $50 per month, but he told me, with a smile on his face, I was too healthy. There was a daily pill that the doctor ordered for me, but CVS Pharmacy wanted $1,600 per month. I said, no thank you. The doctor ordered the weekly shot form of Zepbound, but CVS wanted $900 per month; again, a big no thank you. All my friends that were taking a GLP-1 told me that it should be around $400 per month, which still sounds like a lot to me. Six weeks ago, my doctor ordered a Zepbound injection pen, 4 doses, from lil-
lydirect.com that cost $405 per month. I still think that is a lot of money, but I’m tired of being heavier than I think I should be. The question I asked myself: How much would I pay to weigh under 200 pounds? A lot it turns out. I’m hoping that the price comes down as more and more people start using GLP-1. According to a healthcare website, 1 in 8 adults are now using some form of GLP-1. The first 10 pounds were easy, and I wondered if it was the weekly shot or just thinking about what I put in my mouth every day. After the first four doses, my doctor increased the amount of the shots to 5 mg, whatever that means. I know someone who takes 2 mg and another who takes 15 mg, so I’m not sure what dose I’ll end up taking. There are side effects, even at the 5 mg level, that you don’t
want to hear about. I’m still losing weight, but I’m not under 200 pounds yet — close, but time is on my side. What is my goal? 185, the same weight as when I got married in 1975. What would make me happy: just being under 200 again, and being able to keep the weight off? I have also lost some height over the years and am now at 5-foot-11 if I stand up straight. There is a question about whether you need to keep taking the shots after you stabilize your weight. I’m not sure about taking shots the rest of my life, but they have changed my eating and drinking habits. Even my blood pressure is lower. Better health through chemistry. Have a good week.
Fall prevention starts with awareness, action By Wally Pearce
fident and connected lives. Talk with your doctor and you’ll learn that falls are the leading cause of injury-related emergency department visits for older adults, the major cause of hip fractures and responsible for more than half of fatal head injuries. Numerous states are now working together to address this growing public health issue, with many working closely with occupational therapy practitioners as key contributors to reducing falls. This year’s fall prevention theme seeks to unite professionals, older adults, caregivers and family members to play a part in raising awareness and preventing falls among older adults. Forty-eight states participated in Falls Prevention Awareness Week last year, joining more than
Opinion
Special to the Express
M
onday, Sept. 21, the first day of fall, marks the beginning of National Falls Prevention Awareness Week. This year, it’s from Sept. 2125, aiming to educate communities that falls among older adults are largely preventable. Falls Prevention Awareness Week uses the recurring core theme “From Awareness to Action” to encourage communities and older adults to turn safety knowledge into daily physical habits. September is all about staying safe, prepared and independent. You’ll also find resources for emergency preparedness, scam prevention, emotional well-being and free programs designed to help older adults live healthy, con-
Letters
70 national organizations, including the American Occupational Therapy Association, as well as other professional associations and federal, state and local agencies. Please consider the following national statistics: • One in four Americans age 65 and older falls each year. • Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult will die from a fall. • Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. • Nationally, falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including more than 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths. • In 2025, the total cost of
fall injuries was more than $50 billion. Medicare and Medicaid shouldered 75 percent of these costs. If falls can be prevented, so can hip, spine and wrist fractures. The medical community also considers vitamin D deficiency a risk factor for both falls and broken bones. Talk with your health care provider about whether vitamin D and calcium supplements are appropriate for you and how much you need. Regular physical activity and exercises that combine weight-bearing, muscle strengthening and balance also can help reduce the risk of falls and improve bone health. The annual Falls Prevention Awareness Week raises awareness about how to prevent fall-related injuries among older adults. National, state and local partners collaborate to educate others about the
impact of falls, share fall prevention strategies and advocate for the expansion of evidence-based community fall prevention programs. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for older adults. Falls threaten older adults’ safety and independence and generate enormous economic and personal costs. However, falling is not an inevitable result of aging. Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based falls prevention programs and community partnerships, the number of falls among older adults can be substantially reduced. Please join the Winters Elder Day Council as we celebrate Sept. 21-25, 2026, as National Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
California needs to invest in community care By Kaci Patterson
Be part of the celebration
Special to CalMatters
Every September, something special happens in Winters. Families gather at Rotary Park, music fills the air, children run from one activity to the next, neighbors catch up, and the smell of carnitas reminds us that some traditions are worth keeping. The Festival de la Comunidad, affectionately known as the Carnitas Festival, is more than an evening of food and entertainment. For 17 years, it has been a celebration of the cultures, families and traditions that make Winters the community we are. This year’s festival returns Saturday, Sept. 26, from 4 to 10 p.m. at Rotary Park. Admission is free, and everyone is invited. But a community celebration like this doesn’t happen without a community behind it. Winters Community Corazón is looking for volunteers to help make this year’s festival possible. There are a variety of jobs and several two-hour shifts available, so there is likely an opportunity that can fit into even a busy Saturday schedule. And here’s the best part: volunteering doesn’t mean giving up your chance to enjoy the festival. Come work a shift, then stay and enjoy the music, dancing, food and family activities. Or come early, lend a hand, and spend the rest of the evening celebrating with your friends and neighbors. Sign up for a volunteer shift at www. signupgenius.com/go/20F0D49AFAB23ABFCC25-65646798-carnitas That is what I love about Winters. We show up for one another. We volunteer at youth events, help our neighbors, support local organizations and come together for celebrations that belong to all of us. If you have ever enjoyed the Carnitas Festival, this is your chance to help make it happen. If you have never volunteered before, this is a wonderful place to start. Please consider giving two hours of your time. It may seem like a small thing, but a community is built one helping hand at a time. Come celebrate with us — and be part of what makes Winters, Winters. SHANNON DUEY Winters Community Corazón volunteer
This commentary was originally published by CalMatters.
D
uring the COVID-19 pandemic, California’s community organizations held their neighborhoods together in ways a decade of grant cycles and state planning never anticipated. According to the California Association of Food Banks, food distribution by its members increased 74 percent between 2019 and 2020, and direct distribution more than doubled, as pantries shifted overnight to drive-thru and walkup models. When official public health campaigns failed to reach immigrant and Indigenous neighborhoods because of language and trust barriers, local organizers stepped in
Opinion as a lifeline. In Ventura County, the Mixteco Indígena Community Organizing Project used Radio Indígena, a station trusted by farmworkers, to translate COVID-related safety information into Indigenous languages. In Fresno, organizations like Centro Binacional translated clinical vaccine information into plain language residents could understand. In South Los Angeles, the Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program, which had spent more than a decade building trust in Black-owned barbershops to screen men for chronic disease, pivoted within days of the shutdown to distribute masks and sanitizer to seniors. No funder wrote a five-year plan for any of this. It happened be-
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20260703 8/24/2026 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: QUAIL POINT HUNT CLUB Physical Address: 29625 COUNTY ROAD 14, ZAMORA CA 95645 Mailing Address: PO BOX 848, KNIGHTS LANDING CA 95645 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. OLIVE HILL KENNELS, 5235 LEISER RD, KNIGHTS LANDING CA 95645 CLASSIFICATION: CORPORATION Starting Date of Business: 8/13/2009 /S/ DAVID MARTIN If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: CEO, OLIVE HILL KENNELS I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal. Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo SEPTEMBER 9, 16, 23, 30, 2026 #91962
cause people showed up for their neighbors, the way they always do when it matters. For generations, government and philanthropy have funded short-term services rather than investing in the organizations themselves. Grants are restricted, project-based and rarely cover the true cost of delivery. The cost of such underinvestment is now becoming clear. Nationally, 95 percent of nonprofit leaders say they’re concerned about staff burnout, and nearly a quarter report losing more staff than usual this past year. In California, a National Council of Nonprofits survey found 4 out of 5 orNOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716, Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code, Section 535 the undersigned, StorQuest Self Storage of West Sacramento 2600 Evergreen Ave., West Sacramento, CA 95691 will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Joshua Bartlett, Rachel Cade, Carl F Renard, Joanna Guerra, Michelle Dalby, Mark Perry To be sold: Misc. household goods, furniture, appliances, clothes, toys, tools, boxes & contents. Auctioneer Company: www.storagetreasures.com. The sale will end on September 24th, 2026 at 10am. Goods must be paid in CASH and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. 9/9, 9/16/26 CNS-4076124# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #91921
ganizations reporting job vacancies, with budget constraints as the top barrier. That’s what happens when community work is treated as a short-term Band-Aid, called on during a crisis, rather than infrastructure to invest in before calamity hits. Real change comes from durable capital and decision-making power inside the communities doing the work, not another emergency fund or a 12-month grant cycle. The same organizations that ran vaccine clinics and food
See INVEST, Page 6 Notice of Lien Sale Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716, Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code, Section 535 the undersigned, StorQuest Self Storage Sac/Ramco 3005 Ramco Street, West Sacramento, CA 95691, will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Giselle Vernon, Ania Gailey, April Godfrey, Anthony Vo. Property to be sold: Misc. household goods, furniture, appliances, clothes, toys, tools, boxes & contents. Auctioneer Company: www.storagetreasures.com. The sale will end on September 24th, 2026 at 10am. Goods must be paid in CASH at site and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. 1490 Storquest Express West Sacramento/Ramco 3005 Ramco St., West Sacramento, CA 95691 (916) 241-8600 9/9, 9/16/26 CNS-4076852# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #91960
Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026 — B5
Sports Warriors rally past Woodland Christian, 31-28 By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer On Friday, Sept. 11, the Winters High School varsity football team went headto-head with Woodland Christian High School for the first time in school history. The Warriors trailed 2015 until late in the third quarter but managed to outlast Woodland Christian for a 31-28 victory, despite being without two of their best players — one sidelined by a pregame injury and another who went down early in the game. “In the second half, we held them to 19 total yards and three turnovers which was huge and allowed us to claw our way back and eventually win the game. More than the outcome, it is the grit and determination that occurred late in the game that will hopefully help us out later in the season,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward. Quarterback Aidan Baylor completed 10 of 12 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown while adding 50 rushing yards. EJ Cruz led the Warriors with 121 rushing yards, while Anthony Passantino was close behind with 107. As a team, Winters finished with 278 rushing yards. “EJ is so intelligent and selfless. It was his idea to use himself as a decoy since Woodland was focusing on him the entire first half of the game. We moved
him around a lot in the second half and gave Tony a lot of carries which really opened up the offense,” said Ward. Carson Alvarado led the Warriors in receiving with 45 yards. Passantino added 37 receiving yards, Ty Mariani had 30, Cruz finished with 17 and Anton Ogando added three. The Warriors’ success on the ground and through the air helped set up several scoring opportunities. Cruz found the end zone twice, while Passantino added another touchdown. With the score remaining close, the Warriors took advantage of opportunities to go for two. Ogando and Alvarado each converted a two-point attempt, while JP Mariani added a successful extra point kick. After struggling to contain a strong Woodland Christian duo in the first half, the Warriors’ defense came out in the second half looking like a different unit. Three interceptions by Baylor, Alvarado and Mariani helped shift the momentum of the game. Alvarado also recorded two pass deflections, while Jacob Valadez added two of his own. “Our defensive backs played great led by Carson who shut down any receiver he covered and had a huge interception and Jacob had some big pass breakups including the game winner,”
Volleyball builds through tough league-opening week By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief The Winters High School varsity volleyball team opened league play last week with road and home matches against Durham and Colusa. The Warriors traveled to Durham on Tuesday, Sept. 8, falling in three sets, 5–25, 13–25 and 11–25. Lexy Penunuri led Winters defensively with 11 digs and 19 serve receptions, while Aylin Molina recorded eight digs and 16 serve receptions. Robyn Wales and Jayde Mathias each had two total blocks at the net, and Taylor Vaughn added a solo block. Winters returned home Thursday, Sept. 10, to face Colu-
sa and fell in three sets, 6–25, 13–25 and 14–25. Penunuri again led the Warriors defensively with eight digs, followed by Molina with five. Although the Warriors did not find the results they wanted on the scoreboard, head coach Jenne Myers said the team continues to make progress as it adjusts to league play. “We continue to adjust and grow each week,” Myers said. “I’m seeing more communication, more team building and more support for one another. There is a lot of Warrior pride happening on this team in ways that don’t always show up on the scoreboard.”
Quarterback Aidan Baylor prepares to make a pass that would set up a Warriors touchdown against Woodland Christian on Sept. 11. KS Winters Photography/ Courtesy photo
said Ward. The defensive line also increased the pressure, with Cruz and Mark Gano each breaking through the Cardinals’ offensive line for sacks. Winters recorded 63 total tackles, led by Anthony Garcia with nine and Cruz with eight. J. Valadez and freshman Tony Passantino each had seven tackles, while Anthony Duarte added six and Tracy Kalish had five. Baylor and Gano contributed four tackles apiece. Garcia, Cruz and Gano each recorded two tackles for loss, while Passantino added one.
The Warriors enter Friday’s game having shown their ability to fight back in a close contest. Their matchup with Woodland will provide another test before they begin their league schedule.
Continued from Page 1 had a bench made in her memory because Dinner on the Bridge is her favorite event.” Jacobs Garcia also thanked Romney and Caligari for bringing the project to life. “We are so appreciative of your hard work in making this a reality for those of us who loved Sharon,” she said. For Caligari, the project offered a way to create something lasting for the community while honoring someone he had heard so much about. The finished bench now has its own place in the community — overlooking the bridge where Bishop spent years helping bring people together, and where her memory can remain part of the Dinner on the Bridge tradition for years to come.
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Woodland is an entirely different beast. They are just a lot bigger school and have a lot more players. They are also very big and physical and have some great athletes. I feel like this will be our biggest game so far and win or lose will go a long way in getting us ready for an extremely difficult league schedule,” concluded Ward.
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“We may not be big but we have very physical and athletic kids and think we are in pretty good shape. As the game went on, we just wore them down physically. They got tired and were beat up in the second half... we fed off of that and think we just kept getting better as the game went on,” said Ward. After making history with their first matchup against Woodland Christian, the Warriors will face another new opponent this Friday when they take on Woodland High School. “Woodland Christian had two of the best players that we will see all year, but
A collection of photos of Sharon Bishop was featured on a poster board alongside a dedication message honoring her years of service to Winters Healthcare.
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REALTY WORLD-CAMELOT WINTERS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Alison Hawkins Alison Hawkins, a Winters High School freshman, is the Realty World – Camelot Winters Athlete of the Week. In her first season on the Warriors junior varsity cheer squad, Hawkins works incredibly hard, and it shows in the strength and execution of her stunt group. “Alison is dedicated and relentlessly positive, facing any challenge with a smile,” said cheer coach Sterling Davis. In dance and sideline, she is always pushing herself to improve, and her energy and expressive performance style make her stand out every time she performs.
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B6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Arts & Entertainment Putah Creek Crawdads play Odd Fellows
Art Farm exhibit opens at Barn Gallery
Special to the Express
in Woodland. A $350 Shovel Now in its 19th Ticket includes year, YoloArts’ a farmland-inArt Farm exhibispired original tion celebrates work of art from the farmlands of the Art Harvest Yolo County and exhibition and the art they infood and drink spire. tastings for four. Roberta Alvarado/Courtesy photo The Art Farm A $50 Premium exhibition and “Reciprocity,” a 2023 photograph by Ticket provides celebration exclusive access Roberta Alvarado. event in October to local food and cisco, Chicago, Napa, are the annual drink in the olive culmination of Yo- Washington, D.C., and orchard. Visitors can loArts’ Art & Ag proj- Sacramento. In 2025, also attend for free to ect. Local farmers are his work was acquired view the exhibitions, invited to open their by the Crocker Art stroll the artisan marprivate landscapes Museum for its perma- ket and listen to live to artists for monthly nent collection. This music. Ticket sales year, he completed his open Sept. 17. For visits. Kicking off the Art “Big Splash” mural at more information, visFarm season is an the Woodland Aquat- it yoloarts.org. exhibition opening ics Center. The Barn Gallery is Valenzuela will at 512 Gibson Road in reception Thursday, Sept. 17, from 5:30 to 8 announce the juried Woodland, at the Gibp.m. at The Barn Gal- prize winners at 6:30 son House and Proplery in Woodland. Vis- p.m. Three artists will erty. Regular gallery itors will see original receive cash prizes viewing hours are artwork by local and for Best in Show, Best Tuesdays, Wednesin Plein Air and Best days and Thursdays regional artists. The exhibition in- in Photography. The from noon to 5 p.m. cludes the Juried Si- reception will also and Saturdays from lent Auction, featuring feature local wine and noon to 3 p.m. Exhibition artwork can also 35 artworks selected refreshments. by guest juror Bryan The Art Farm sea- be viewed online at Valenzuela, a North- son will conclude with yoloarts.org. For information, ern California-based a celebration SaturYoloArts artist whose mural day, Oct. 17, from 2 to contact commissions include 5:30 p.m. at the Gib- at 530-309-6464 or works in San Fran- son House property artfarm@yoloarts.org. Special to the Express
Performers’ Circle will celebrate the beginning of fall as featured performers Putah Creek Crawdads play folk and bluegrass tunes Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Odd Fellows Hall, 415 Second St. in Davis. A favorite in the Yolano-Sacramento region, the original group was founded in 1965 by Ray Coppock, Chip Northup, Cap Thomson and Marc Faye. The current lineup is Kate Laddish on fiddle, guitar and vocals; Wayne Ginsburg on mandolin and vocals; John Rominger on guitar and vocals; David Coppock on banjo and vocals; and Jim Hilliard on upright bass and vocals. The Crawdads cite influences including Woody Guthrie, the Kingston Trio, Kris Kristofferson, Lead Belly, the Carter Family and the Stanley Brothers. They have released two studio albums and play regularly at county fairs, farmers markets, festivals and barbecue joints. This month, they were showcased at the Winters Farmers Market, celebrating its 30th year, and the Davis Picnic in the Park. Performers’ Circle is a free event that welcomes performers of all levels as well as audience
Courtesy photo
Putah Creek Crawdads (from left) David Coppock, Kate Laddish, John Rominger, Jim Hilliard and Wayne Ginsburg. members who simply come to enjoy the performances. No tickets or reservations are required. It is held the fourth Tuesday of each month, except December. The event begins with an open mic from 7 to 8:15 p.m. and concludes with the featured performance from 8:30 to 9 p.m. Signups begin at 6:45 p.m. for short performances, with less than five minutes per act. The emcee this month will be Rod Unema. Masks are welcome at Odd Fellows Hall. For information, visit www.facebook.com/ villagehomesperformers.
Exhibit brings tiny worlds to library Special to the Express Step into a world where the smallest details make the biggest impression when a miniverse exhibit arrives at the Winters Community Library. The exhibit, featuring miniature room boxes and displays filled with tiny treasures, is on display through Saturday, Sept. 26, in the library lobby during regular library hours. The exhibit was installed Aug. 29 through a collaboration of Sacramento-area miniature clubs, including Itty Bitties Miniature Club, Sac Valley Miniature Club, the NorCal Miniature Guild and By Small Design. The displays feature both handmade creations and collectibles, showcasing the artistry and attention to detail that
goes into the miniature-making hobby. Among the many creations on display are “The Prom Dress” by Deb Laue and Carrie Lourenco, featuring a doll recreated from a Norman Rockwell cover, and a miniature jewelry display by Margaret Guidi inspired by the front window of Le Belle Boutique. The examples offer just a glimpse into the variety of miniature art on display. Miniaturists come in all ages and have a wide range of interests. As enthusiasts say, if it happens in real life, somebody is making it in miniature. And while the creations may be tiny, the hobby is anything but limited. The exhibit will culminate Saturday, Sept. 26, with a special afternoon of
miniature-making activities. From 2 to 3 p.m., visitors of all ages can participate in a free Mini Maker Event and create a miniature treasure of their own — no previous experience required. The featured project will be a flower press. The day will also include a meet-andgreet reception, giving visitors an opportunity to talk with some of the miniaturists, enjoy light refreshments and enter for a chance to win prizes. The exhibit and Mini Maker Event are free and open to the public. For those who have never explored the world of miniatures, the exhibit offers a chance to see just how much creativity can fit into a very small space.
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McClain, Troubadours back at Opera House Special to the Express Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadours will return to the Winters Opera House Sunday, Sept. 27, for an evening of music, humor and storytelling. The longtime Winters favorites will perform at 7:30 p.m., blending Americana, country, folk, blues and soulful music with McClain’s storytelling and tongue-in-cheek humor. The show celebrates everyday life, love, family and friendship while keeping the mood light. Their
INVEST Continued from Page 4 banks during COVID also run after-school programs and senior care year-round. But they’re treated as temporary partners instead of permanent infrastructure. The pandemic can feel like a distant
performances combine original songs with stories and humor, creating a show that moves between musical styles without taking itself too seriously. The performance will be held at the Winters Opera House, 13 Main St. Tickets are $45 in advance and $50 at the door. Doors open 30 minutes before the performance, and seating is open. Tickets are available through the Winters Theatre Company at winterstheatre.org.
memory but new pressures are mounting, and the disparities are becoming more visible closer to home. For instance, when the Eaton Fire tore through Altadena in January 2025, evacuation warnings for the historically Black community of West Altadena went out
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hours after warnings reached the rest of the area. The California Department of Justice is investigating whether race, age or disability discrimination shaped that response. Compounding the pattern are federal funding cuts and the rollback of giving focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The reductions are straining organizations that serve Black, Indigenous, immigrant and other communities suffering from under-investment. As we head into a gubernatorial election, the vision that could shape such investments is missing from the conversation. Candidates are debating affordability and public safety, but few are asking if the state will fund community organizations as infrastructure rather than as vendors providing services to the state. Government and philanthropy should provide sustained, flexible funding, so organizations can build capacity ahead of need, with communities given a real say in how those resources are used. The next governor should decide whether the state is finally ready to invest in community care as the foundation of public health, or whether it will keep waiting for service providers to save it — and call that resilience. —Kaci Patterson is founder and chief architect of Social Good Solutions and of Black Equity Collective.