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2026 Youth Day Events Schedule
Friday, April 25
Youth Day Opening Ceremonies
• 5:30 p.m. Ceremony on downtown Main Street. Celebrate the 2026 Grand Marshals, Youth Grand Marshal and the Youth of the Year, Educator of the Year honoree.
Youth Day Cornhole Tournament
• 5:30 p.m. Check-in at Hooby’s Brewing.
• 6:15 p.m. Bags fly. Kick off community fun, Memorial Fun Run early check-in, sponsor a duck, raffle prizes and more.
Saturday, April 27
Rotary Pancake Breakfast
• 7 to 9:30 a.m. at Winters Community Center
• 8 a.m. Youth Day street closures begin.
Michael Bazan Jimenez & Noah Lichwa Memorial Fun Run
• 8 to 10 a.m. at 5 E. Abbey St. (Abbey and Railroad Street)
Kiddie Parade
• 8:45 a.m. Kiddie Parade Registration on Fourth Street.
• 9:45 a.m. Kiddie Parade starts down Main Street
Main Parade
• 10 a.m. The parade route starts at Fourth and Main Street. It will go down Main Street, and turn left at First Street. The route ends at Edwards Street.
Kiddie Faire
• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rotary Park near Gazebo. Games and activities are in the park.
Youth Day Festival
Activities, food trucks and vendors 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rotary Park, and set up along Main Street and Railroad Avenue.
Dunk Tank Mayhem
• 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Dunk Tank Mayhem is a fundraising event featuring local leaders who support youth programs and organizations. Proceeds benefit the Youth Day scholarship fund. The Dunk Tank lineup includes: Winters High School Principal Justin Young,
AYSO Referee Admin Eric Jepsen, Winters Middle School Principal Jose Bermudez, Express Editor Crystal Apilado, WHS Youth Day Club President Hawk Selleck and Winters Educator Danielle Smith.
Parade Awards
• 2 p.m. on Winters City Park stage
Duck Derby event
The 12th Annual Duck Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, at 11 a.m. Sponsor ducks and enjoy family fun activities and treats at Rotary Park. Ducks hit the water at 11:45 a.m.. More details to follow. Adopt a Duck (as available racers last) at https://bit.ly/derbyducks2026.
DUNK TANK MAYHEM SCHEDULE
The Dunk Tank will be set up on Main Street near the Rotary Park Gazebo. Event goers can get 3 balls for $5.
11:30 a.m.
Justin Young, WHS Principal 12 p.m.
Eric Jepsen, AYSO Referee Admin 12:30 p.m.
Jose Bermudez, WMS Principal 1 p.m.
Crystal Apilado, Express Editor
1:30 p.m.
Hawk Selleck, WHS Youth Day Club
2 p.m.
Danielle Smith, Winters educator
Proceeds support the Winters Youth Day Scholarship Fund.
TUEL SELECTED AS FIRST YOUTH GRAND MARSHAL
BY EXPRESS STAFF
Anew tradition will debut at this year’s Youth Day Parade, and fittingly, it begins with a student whose impact already reaches far beyond the field, the classroom and the community she calls home.
Violet Tuel, a senior at Winters High School, has been selected as the inaugural Youth Grand Marshal, a distinction created by the Youth Day Committee to recognize young leaders who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership and dedication to the Winters community.
“A nomination came in for Violet and we were inspired to create this new award,” said Youth Day board member Crystal Apilado. “We’re already putting all of this work into involving local youth more. Students vote on the Youth of the Year. The Youth Grand Marshal opens up the opportunity to include youth who aren’t attending school in
the Winters Joint Unified School District or who are possibly under the radar doing amazing things. We look to our community to nominate adults as the Grand Marshal based on the work they do for youth, why not ask them to recognize youth who are doing amazing work too.”
Rooted in community values
The Youth Grand Marshal title mirrors the long-standing Grand Marshal recognition, which honors adults for sustained contributions to youth and community life. The youth-focused award, however, shifts that lens to the next generation — celebrating students who actively serve others, lead by example and create meaningful impact. Candidates are nominated by community members and selected by the Youth Day Committee based on demonstrated service, leadership, academic effort and strong character. The award is distinct from Youth of the Year, which is schoolnominated and student-voted.
serves as both a youth advocate on the Winters AYSO Regional Board and a youth liaison on the Area 2D board. She is also a certified U.S. Soccer Federation referee, working weekend matches.
Her volunteer efforts include Meals on Wheels deliveries, participation in community cleanups and drives, mural projects and local events. She has also taken on leadership roles as a church youth volunteer and as a cabin leader for Exploring New Horizons.
“I enjoy working with youth and volunteering to help others,” Tuel said. “I became an AYSO youth referee to advocate against youth referee abuse and help prevent it from happening. I am strongly against any abuse towards referees, especially youth.”
Her advocacy has extended beyond officiating. Tuel helped organize a youth soccer festival aimed at increasing access and participation for local families.
other people,” Tuel said. “One who makes good decisions, is patient with others and one who is responsible and respectful. I hope others have role models who are like that as well.”
For Tuel, the idea of community is simple but powerful.
“Community means friends and family who help and support each other no matter the situation,” she said. “Community means feeling safe with one another and having each other’s backs.”
Tuel said she was surprised to learn she had been nominated for the honor.
“I am extremely honored and thankful for the community, and I will wear this title with pride,” she said. “I have been a part of this community, and have been volunteering since I was very young. I will treasure this title and am thankful for the recognition for the hard work and help I have done.”
Together, the honors reflect a shared vision: recognizing both those who have long supported youth and those who are already shaping the community’s future.
Tuel’s selection reflects years of involvement across athletics, leadership and volunteerism.
A four-year varsity athlete in both soccer and track, she has also spent four years on the high school yearbook staff, serving as chief editor and president for the past two years. Her campus involvement includes Link Crew, WHS News Club and Interact Club.
Beyond school, her service expands even further. Tuel has volunteered as a youth referee with AYSO for five years and now
“In a small town, there are people that are involved in multiple organizations, and someone there is always needing any help they can get,” Tuel said. “Everybody knows everybody and I feel safe helping out. Our town is limited without corporate sponsors, so our community is the one to sponsor one another.”
Driven by purpose
Tuel credits her mother as a key influence in her commitment to service.
“She has volunteered alongside me all of my life, and has always cared about helping our community as well,” Tuel said. “She pushes me to do my best, and because of her, I strive to be more responsible, helpful, and determined.”
That foundation has shaped the example she hopes to set for others.
“I want to be the role model who is helpful, kind, and one that cares about
A lifelong soccer player and goalkeeper, Tuel plans to continue both her academic and athletic career at Solano College, where she will study media and communications and compete on the women’s soccer team. She hopes to transfer to a four-year university before pursuing a career in public affairs with the U.S. Air Force.
“I’ve loved writing ever since I was young,” Tuel said, noting her passion for yearbook, photography and design. “I can’t wait to continue it in my future.”
As the first Youth Grand Marshal, Tuel sets the tone for what the recognition represents: not just achievement, but impact.
“I’d like to encourage people to pursue and accomplish the goals and dreams they have in life,” she said. “I hope to make an impact by showing that any small or big action to help others isn’t left unnoticed. By helping others we build a strong community.”
“If
A SHARED HONOR, A PARTNERSHIP IN SERVICE
BY JACOB HOFFMAN
In an already extraordinary year, one more rarity will visit Winters: the title of Grand Marshals of the Youth Day Parade will be shared.
That rarity is less unusual than it might appear. This year’s Grand Marshals, Zach and Sterling Davis, are a husband-and-wife team who have each — and together — made an indelible impact on the youth of Winters.
Among their many contributions, the Davises co-founded the Winters Youth Basketball League, coached at Winters High School and volunteered for Winters Combined PTA events. Sterling also serves as a trustee on the served on the Winters Joint Unified School District school board
“Their consistent service, leadership, and genuine care for Winters youth embody the spirit of Youth Day,” their nomination letter reads. “Zach and Sterling are wonderful role models, and their contributions deserve recognition.”
The Davises shared about what the
honor means to them, what inspired their volunteer work and what it has taught them about their community and themselves.
Sterling expressed their shared gratitude, noting the honor of being chosen in a community like Winters, where so many give their time.
“For both of us, it’s incredibly humbling because the volunteer work we do is not about being recognized, and in our community with so many people who volunteer and give back to the kids, it feels astounding to be chosen amongst so many worthy people.”
For the Davises, volunteering began the way it does for many: by recognizing a need and stepping in to help fill it.
Zach traced his path to youth volunteering and local sports to dissatisfaction with his oldest daughter’s experience in a basketball program.
“I thought quite honestly, something should be done,” Zach said, “and maybe I could do something better than what was being offered.”
sports and service, noting that his father introduced him to basketball at a young age and modeled volunteerism.
“When I moved to Winters in high school, I lived with a family (Debbie and Ben Geerts) who were also highly involved in their kids’ lives and community, and that too was inspiring for me. I always noticed the strong connection with volunteerism in Winters.”
As a cheer coach for more than nine years, Sterling emphasized the relationships and mentorship she has built with students as a key motivation.
She shared examples ranging from a former cheerleader calling her late at night when stranded with car trouble to a student asking her to attend a soccer game because her parents never did.
For Sterling, those moments “spoke everything about the reason why coaching … what makes being a part of kids’ lives so meaningful. Those are the things that stick out and push me to keep doing this year after year.”
Another major motivator, the Davises said, is the example they can set for their own children, the youth they serve and the broader community.
makes you feel more of a connection to where we are living, it sets an example for our daughters so that when it becomes time they’ll want to give back whatever it is they are capable of doing, and seeing there is a positive impact.”
The Davises’ impact spans a wide range of efforts. Sterling has served as a capstone mentor for 13 student projects, including the creation of the Pink Out football breast cancer awareness game and Find a Cure Night. She also coached Winters Junior Warriors cheer for three years and served on the Winters PTA board for two years. Zach has been an assistant coach for the WHS varsity girls basketball team for three years and has mentored two seniors through WYB capstone projects.
The Davises closed with a message about the importance of volunteering and the accessibility of giving back, regardless of scale.
After meeting with the city, he and Sterling organized a new Winters Youth Basketball League for elementary-age children.
“For me, it was seeing something that wasn’t being done so well, and it kind of lit a fire inside of me to fill the void of something that wasn’t being currently offered.”
Zach also pointed to early influences in both
“I like to think I’m setting an example for our own kids, and for the kids on our teams that we’re working with,” Sterling said, reflecting on her own transition from being supported by her community to giving back. “I didn’t know it at the time, but I realized that, as it was my turn to step into my community, that this stuff happens because of the hardworking people, like my previous coaches, or the different people who I saw as models, and if I don’t get to say it to these kids, I want to show it to them.”
Zach agreed.
“I think also getting involved also
“I think that’s what we want our community to know that it doesn’t have to take a lot to volunteer. You don’t have to be creating youth organizations from the ground up or coaching for nearly a decade or serving as an elected official to make a difference, it can just be offering the skills that you have,” Sterling said.
“It’s something that I’ve told people who have asked us how we are able to be doing everything that we are,” Zach added. “This is what we are telling them — that it is possible, it’s just something that you have to be prepared for,” he said, emphasizing communication, shared calendars and meal preparation.
“We know that volunteerism can be a high commitment, and we hope that what we’re doing will allow someone else to want to do it also.”
and Zach Davis
WINTERS YOUTH DAY ACROSS GENERATIONS
BY EXPRESS STAFF
The history of Winters Youth Day, originally compiled by students in the late 1960s and provided to The Winters Express by parade officials, spans more than nine decades of community tradition. Later summaries covering 1968–1990 and 2011–2018 were compiled by Mike Sebastian. In recent years, Express staff have continued that work, updating earlier accounts with additional detail drawn from archived Express articles collected by Tom Crisp and preserved in the two Winters Youth Day scrapbooks maintained by the Historical Society of Winters.
Origins & Growth of Winters Youth Day (1933–1999)
Founding (1933)
Winters Youth Day began April 29, 1933, through the vision of Rev. C.P. Barkman and Winters High School Principal Dr. A.M. Herron. They believed young people should be given opportunities to develop civic responsibility while also enjoying social and recreational activities. The first celebration combined a parade, games, a picnic and a citizenship program, establishing a tradition centered on youth leadership and community involvement.
Pre-war Years and Revival (1934–1949)
Early celebrations featured horsedrawn entries, school competitions and prominent guest speakers, including university leaders and state officials. By the late 1930s, Youth Day had grown into a major community event, drawing large crowds and expanding its program offerings.
The celebration paused during World War II, returning in 1946 with renewed energy. Postwar Youth Days saw record attendance, large parades stretching miles through town and the introduction of new traditions such as the Boy Scout Camporee kickoff. Community participation surged, and the event reestablished itself as a
signature
Winters tradition.
Growth and Youth Leadership (1950s–1970s)
Through the 1950s, Youth Day attendance climbed into the thousands, with expanded programming that included concerts, hobby shows, athletic events and evening entertainment. The Kiddie Parade tradition began in 1952, adding a new layer of youth participation.
A major shift came in 1960 when Winters youth took on leadership roles in planning and organizing the event, guided by local mentors. This transition strengthened the event’s core mission of civic engagement.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Youth Day continued to grow with larger parades, new contests and expanded community involvement. Events such as talent shows, watermeloneating contests and even a greased pig contest reflected the evolving and spirited nature of the celebration. Attendance regularly reached 7,000 or more, underscoring its importance to the region.
Expansion and Community Tradition (1980s–1990s)
In the 1980s, organizational leadership shifted to the Winters Chamber of Commerce, helping stabilize and expand the event. Youth Day grew into a multi-day celebration with the addition of a carnival and increased community sponsorship. Traditions such as the Youth Day Sweetheart, parade grand marshals and themed festivities became firmly established.
The 50th anniversary was celebrated in 1986, honoring founding families and long-standing contributors. Youth Day also marked milestones in representation, including the election of its first female Youth Day mayor in
By the 1990s, Youth Day had evolved into a full-scale community festival featuring parades, talent shows, sporting events and family activities in City Park. New additions such as the Kids Faire, expanded contests and community showcases reflected the town’s continued commitment to youth engagement. Despite changes over time, the event remained rooted in its original purpose: celebrating and empowering the youth of Winters.
Educator of the Year
As the celebration continued into the modern era, one tradition that grew in importance was the recognition of local educators who shaped and supported Winters youth. The Educator of the Year award became a meaningful part of Youth Day honors, highlighting individuals whose dedication extended beyond the classroom and into the broader community.
Because these educators deserve recognition, the following is a list of Winters Youth Day Educator of the
1988.
1983 - Youth Day city council staff on Winters Fire Truck
1978 - Sweetheart Levada Russell and Mayor Andrew Skaggs
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Year recipients. There are gaps for 2014, 2017, and 2018, and it is unclear whether the award was presented during the two years Youth Day was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Further review of records is needed to confirm those years.
If you know any of the missing names—or if you are a past recipient and notice an error—please email the editor.
Winters Youth Day Educator of the Year recipients:
2000: Pam Scheeline
2001: Jack Delbar, Gary Pitek
2002: Laurie Helm
2003: Polita Gonzales
2004: Kent Benson
2005: Liz Coman
2006: Vickie Catalan
2007: Gloria McCreary
2008: Diane Grimmard
2009: Jim Stark
2010: Matt Baker
2011: Courtney Caruso
2012: Raena Lavelle
2013: Olivia Rodriguez
2014: Name not yet confirmed
2015: Matt Biers
2016: Laurie Helm, JoanE Jussell, Woody Fridae, Kari Mann
2017: Name not yet confirmed
2018: Name not yet confirmed
2019: Jeff Sims
2020: No event (COVID-19 pandemic)
2021: No event (COVID-19 pandemic)
2022: Donnie Whitworth
2023: Andrea Hurst
2024: Sue Bridge
YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE
2025: Michael Williams
2026: Daniel Ward
Youth Day: Year-by-Year
The following years reflect both the continuation of longstanding traditions and the continued evolution of Youth Day.
2000: Sunny weather and a relaxed atmosphere made Youth Day 2000 one of the best. After opening ceremonies the night before, residents gathered for the Rotary Club pancake breakfast at the Community Center. The Kiddie Parade and main parade followed along Main and First streets, featuring marching bands, floats, and high-stepping horses. Grand Marshals Jeff Hesemeyer and Dianne Beaton, Honorary Grand Marshal Jack Graf, and Youth Day Educator of the Year Pam Scheeline rode in the parade. The sweetheart float, themed “Peter Pan,” carried 2000 Sweetheart Natalia Franco and her court. Heather Halk served as Youth Day mayor. City Park featured the Kids Faire, climbing wall, food vendors, and games, while Little League games and family picnics rounded out the day.
2001: A cool breeze gave way to warm weather for the 65th annual Youth Day. Sweetheart Edith Rodriguez and her court were introduced at opening ceremonies, along with Grand Marshal Germaine Hupe, Honorary Grand Marshals Richard and Evelyne Rominger, and Educators of the Year Jack Delbar and Gary Pitek. Youth Day officials included Mayor Jimmy Ramos; council members Joie Rodofda, Krystal Majorvas, Jennie Little, and Brandi Vigil; Judge Mike Paschoal; City Clerk
2012: Youth City Attorney Emily Laredo and City Attorney John Wallace
Jenaye Shepard; Fire Chief Jessie Svozil; City Manager Jill Fox; Police Chief Jordan Romney; Treasurer Christina Lopez; Chamber of Commerce representative Adam Mills; City Attorney Liliana Aredondo; Community Service Director Melanie Stocking; and Public Works representative Elaine Medina.
2002: Cool temperatures in the 60s marked this year’s Youth Day. Opening ceremonies included recognition of Chairman Mike Sebastian, Grand Marshal Frank Ramos, Educator of the Year Laurie Helm, and Sweetheart Jenaye Shepard. Students participating in a mock city council meeting included Mayor Brandi Vigil; council members Sara King, Beth Curry, and Amanda Balough; City Attorney Krystal Majorvas; City Manager Elaine Medina; Treasurer Joie Rodolfa; City Clerk Jenaye Shepard; Judge Chris Majorvas; Police Chief Jordan Romney; Fire Chief Jose De
ceremonies.
2004: A “record” number of pancakes were served at the Rotary Club breakfast on a beautiful Youth Day morning, according to member Charles Wallace. Grand Marshal Susan Southworth, Honorary Grand Marshal Phil “Flip” Ritchie, and Sweetheart Beth Curry were recognized at opening ceremonies. Kent Benson was named Educator of the Year. City officials included Mayor Chad Stocking; council members Jordan Shugart, Jackie Correa, Kaely Romney, Marty Sackett, and Megan White; City Clerk Mallory MacLaughlin; Judge Kristin Lucero; and Treasurer Richard Atherton.
La Cruz; Community Services Director Jill Fox; and Public Works Director Jessie Svozil. Topics discussed included city beautification, the high school parking lot, and sports funding.
2003: Although rain was forecast, clear weather prevailed. About 660 people attended the Rotary pancake breakfast, with an estimated 1,400 pancakes served. Youth Day officials included Mayor Maggie Brewer; City Clerk Krystal Majorvas; Treasurer Richard Atherton; Judge Sabrina Brunning; Police Chief Jacob Nelson; Fire Chief Chris Carrion; City Attorney Jessie Svozil; Community Services Director Megan White; City Manager Katelyn Cummings; Public Works Director David Wentling; and council members Joie Rodolfa, Marissa Garcia, Flavio Guimaraes, and Mike Sellers. Grand Marshal Harold Anderson, Honorary Grand Marshals Kay and Al Graf, and Educator of the Year Polita Gonzales were recognized at opening
2005: Balmy weather accompanied Youth Day 2005, themed “Garden of Our Youth.” Leticia Rodriguez and Piedad Junoz were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Guillermo Figueroa won the Youth Day talent show. Gloria Marion was honored as grand marshal, and Liz Coman was named Educator of the Year. Kaely Romney served as mayor, with council members Sarah Warren, Jackie Correa, and Sarah Cooper. Winters Cub Scout Pack 600 won the Sweepstakes Award for best float.
2006: After weeks of rain, clear skies arrived in time for Youth Day, themed “Celebrating Youth Generation by Generation.” Katie Hill won the talent show with “Chain of Fools.” Jackie Stocking and Jacob Thorne were named sweetheart and sweethunk. John Lopez was grand marshal, Peg Dozier honorary grand marshal, and Vickie Catalan Educator of the Year. Tyler Cross served as
mayor, with council members Ozzy Arce, Sarah Warren, and Savannah Waldron. The Rotary breakfast served nearly 750 people, and the parade featured more than 100 entries. Winters Friends of the Library won the Sweepstakes Award.
2007: Warm weather marked Youth Day 2007. Opening ceremonies included the talent show, where Ashley Jordan and Mattie Long took first place performing “Beautiful.” Kelsey Fox and Mat Catalan were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Gloria McCreary was Educator of the Year. Grand Marshal Mike Sebastian was honored for his longtime involvement with Youth Day, and Mae Martin, who witnessed the first Youth Day, was honorary grand marshal. Events continued throughout the day at City Park. First Northern Bank won the Sweepstakes Award for its pirate-themed float.
2008: The 72nd Youth Day carried the theme “Safari to Success.” The band “Green River,” made up of Joey Sanders, Steven Lanfranco, and Nick Hawley, won the talent show with “Crossfields of Gold.” Ari Ruiz and Cody Campos were named sweetheart and sweethunk. Diane Grimard was Educator of the Year. Karen Benson-Neil was grand marshal, and Kathy Skaggs was honorary grand marshal. A memorable parade moment included a marriage proposal from a participant in armor. The Winters High School Class of 2010 won the Sweepstakes Award with a safari-themed float.
2009: Blue skies and temperatures in the low
YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE
70s marked Youth Day 73. Grand Marshal Manuel Garcia was honored at opening ceremonies for his years of service to youth baseball. Peggy Narducci was named honorary grand marshal.
Jameson Shugart served as mayor, while Anna Solorio and Robby Emery were named sweetheart and sweethunk.
Jim Stark was Educator of the Year. Talent show winners Christyna Lopez and Raenne Ramos performed “A Thousand Miles.” Sweepstakes Awards went to Moms on Cowpeds and the Winters High School Class of 2010 for entries reflecting the theme “Wild West Youth.”
2010: Youth Day 74 featured picture-perfect weather. Opening ceremonies were held at the Community Center, where parade chairman Mike Sebastian presented plaques to Grand Marshal Bruce Rominger, honored for his service to the Winters community as a farmer, philanthropist and mentor.
Juanita Skaggs was recognized as honorary grand marshal. Matt Baker was named Educator of the Year. Winters Parent Nursery School won the Sweepstakes Award for its float, themed “Let Your Youth Shine Through.” After the parade, the Buckhorn celebrated its 30th anniversary downtown with live music and special menu offerings. BryanBraker Funeral Home debuted the Bryan-Braker Railroad, a model train for children to ride.
2011: The parade was led by Winters business owners and philanthropists John Pickerel and Melanie Bajakian, recognized for their years of service to the community, as grand marshals. Courtney
Caruso was named Educator of the Year. Youth Day Mayor Polette Gonzales led the festivities alongside Mayor Woody Fridae. Youth city council members were Alexandra Balasek, Brandon Masteller and Elliot Herrera. Youth Day was recognized with a proclamation from Assemblywoman Lois Wolk and Yolo County Supervisor Mariko Yamada for its years of service to the Winters community.
2012: Winters music director Lynne Secrist led the 76th Youth Day parade and was honored for her dedication to the school district’s music program. Mayor Woody Fridae and Youth Day Mayor Kevin Lane led the council delegation. The Youth Day sweetheart was Katie Clark, and the sweethunk was Isaac Asak. Vickie Southwick, 91, attended for the first time since participating in the inaugural Youth Day parade in 1933.
2013: The 77th Youth Day parade was led by Grand Marshals Don and Tracy Calvert, longtime community volunteers. Olivia Rodriguez was named Educator of the Year. Mayor Cecilia AguiarCurry introduced Youth Day Mayor Nicholas Muldong. Youth city council members were Ka’eo Drumright and Paola Calderon. Youth Day royalty included Sweetheart Yvette Valadez and Sweethunk Ty Spalding. The parade hosted the 2013 California
2012: Nut Cart racers zoom down Main Street
2009: Moms on Cowpeds peform for the crowd
Sunday-Tuesday: 8am-8pm
Wednesday: 8-3pm
Thursday-Saturday: 8am-8:30pm
Buckorn Steakhouse
Monday-Thursday: 4-8:30pm
Friday-Saturday: 4-9:30pm Sunday: 3-8:30pm
State Horsemen’s Association Championship Parade, attracting entries from across California, and featured 75 entries.
2014: The 78th Youth Day parade was led by Winters Little League volunteers Chris, John and Mark Rodriguez, who continued the program started by their father, Rudy Rodriguez. Youth Day Mayor Fernando Cortes and Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry welcomed attendees, joined by youth city council members Ignacio Ochoa and Micaela Tweedt. The Youth Day sweetheart was Alex Cushman, and the sweethunk was Jake Ivory. The theme, “May the Youth Be With You,” brought a fleet of stormtroopers to the parade.
2015: Youth Day honored Tawnya McCracken Martin as grand marshal for the 79th parade, recognizing her volunteer work with FFA, 4H and other organizations.
Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and Youth Day Mayor Edgar Chavez led council members
YOUTH DAY AT A GLANCE
Emily Ferreira, Mariah Castillo, Brooke Little and Sarah Hagy. The Youth Day sweetheart was Isabel Angel, and the sweethunk was Chris Kays. The parade featured 60 entries.
2016: The 80th anniversary celebration was a major success. The parade was led by Grand Marshals the Thomas Sisters, recognized for their contributions to the Winters community. Mayor Cecilia Aguiar-Curry and Youth Day Mayor Emily Ferreira led the procession, joined by council members Mariah Castillo, Jolie Cintas, Nataly Hernandez and Valeria Serratos. The year also marked the retirement of Mike Sebastian as parade chairman after 35 years.
2017: The 81st Youth Day parade was led by Winters Junior Warriors founders Rudy and Shelly Baylor, recognized for their contributions to youth sports. Mayor Wade Cowan and Youth Day Mayor Emily Ferreira led the council delegation, joined by Nataly
Hernandez and Andrea Gonzales. The sweetheart was Kenya Gallo, and the sweethunk was Devon Muldong. The parade marked the 75th appearance of the Yolo Post 77 American Legion Color Guard and the final year for announcer and former chairman Gilbert Sebastian, who retired after 45 years. The parade featured 58 entries.
2018: The 82nd Youth Day parade was led by the Project Playground Committee as grand marshals. The city council was represented by Mayor Wade Cowan, Youth Day Mayor Andrea Gonzales, and council members Nataly Hernandez, Ian Lopez, Itzel Rodriguez and Kyle Gardener. The Youth Day sweetheart was Karina Del Toro, and the sweethunk was Moises Garcia. Former parade chairman Mike Sebastian marked 40 years as parade announcer and committee member. The Autos for Autism Car Show was added to City Park festivities.
2019: Superheroes of all ages gathered for a sunny Youth Day, themed “Super Youth — The Heroes of the Future.” The Duck Derby was postponed to May due to high water levels in Putah Creek. The Winters JUSD Hall of Fame float took first place, featuring inductees Patty Rominger, Germaine Hupe, Gloria Lopez and Tom Pearse. Mike Sebastian served as parade chairman, and Winters Elementary School Principal Greg Moffitt was
grand marshal. The Youth Day council included Mayor Andrea Gonzalez; Mayor Pro Tem Nataly Hernandez; Secretary Victor Angel; City Manager Yolanda Covarrubias; City Clerk Itzel Rodriguez; Police Chief Celeste Garcia; Fire Chief Jackie Ayala; Treasurer Ian Lopez; and City Councilmember Jorge Luis Fernandez.
2020: Amid the coronavirus pandemic, and with state and county mandates not allowing events, the Youth Day committee made the difficult decision to cancel the 84th Youth Day celebration.
Since the first Youth Day in 1933, this marked the first cancellation since World War II. To keep the focus on youth and maintain the spirit of Youth Day, the committee awarded four $500 scholarships to Winters High School Class of 2020 seniors.
2021: Although plans were in place to return in 2021, the Youth Day committee again opted to cancel the celebration. The committee cited local and state mandates, which created significant challenges for planning gatherings, as well as the impact of the pandemic on
small businesses and vendors. To continue supporting local youth, four $500 scholarships were awarded to members of the Winters High School Class of 2021.
Winters High School continued the tradition of selecting a Sweetheart Court. The 2021 WHS Youth Day sweetheart was Liliana Balderas, and the sweethunk was Jesus Chavez. The Sweetheart Court included Kimberly Garcia (Class of 2024), Madeline MacMahon (Class of 2023), and Celeste Garcia (Class of 2022).
The Winters Express launched “Family Fun Week” to help keep the spirit of Youth Day alive, hosting a family movie night and a downtown duck hunt.
2022: Following a two-year pause due to the pandemic, the 84th Winters Youth Day celebration returned in 2022 with the theme “Youthfully Ever After.” Festivities began Friday, April 29, with a Downtown Winters Duck Hunt and Duck Derby.
Opening ceremonies were held across the creek at Green River Brewing & Taproom,
2023 - Girl Scouts greet the community
YOUTH DAY AT A
GLANCE
where Youth Day Committee
President Mike Sebastian honored Jenny Ramos as grand marshal. Donnie Whitworth was recognized as Educator of the Year. Brooklyn Mariani was named sweetheart, and Atanacio Garcia Jr. was named sweethunk. Lupita Tovar served as Youth Day mayor, and Lexi Hellinger as youth city manager.
Saturday, April 30, featured the return of the Rotary pancake breakfast, the kiddie and main parades, park activities, and the WHS alumni baseball game.
2023: The 85th Winters Youth Day celebration nearly did not take place due to a lack of volunteers during the early planning stages. However, community members stepped up to support the Youth Day Committee, and the Kiwanis Club of Winters took on organizing the annual Duck Derby. The theme was “Grow Youthful.”
Youth Day Committee
President Mike Sebastian honored Carol McMastersStone as grand marshal.
Winters High School teacher
Andrea Hurst was named Educator of the Year. Serena Husted was selected as sweetheart, and Luca Navarette as sweethunk. Lupita Tovar served as Youth Day mayor, and Angelica Michel as youth city manager.
2024: The 86th Winters Youth Day committee set out to return the event to its roots, prioritizing student involvement in planning and celebration through collaboration with the school district and the city. Planning was well underway at the start
of the school year, but the unexpected death of longtime parade chairman and president Mike Sebastian created challenges as committee members adjusted without his leadership and institutional knowledge.
With the support of additional community volunteers and a commitment to carrying forward his vision, the event moved ahead successfully. The inaugural Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall brought youth council members back into a hands-on learning environment, including demonstrations from the Winters Police Department, Winters Fire Department, and the city’s Public Works Department. Students also participated in a Youth City Council meeting, where they approved agenda items to create a “Report a Pothole/ Pavement Emergency” form on the city website and to direct Winters Police Department staff to develop a program on drug prevention and student resources.
The theme was “Youth: The Musical.” Mike Sebastian was named honorary grand marshal in memoriam. Winters Middle School teacher Sue Bridge was selected as Educator of the Year through a districtwide vote. The traditional royal court was replaced with a Royal Ambassador marketing program, with Alison Gamboa and Karen Covarrubias serving as ambassadors. Eden Miller was Youth Day mayor, and Mikenzie Hapworth-Eldridge served as youth city manager. During the Youth City Council
meeting, Treasurer Vidali Ceja served as acting city manager. Julian Bermudez served as the first Winters Middle School council member.
2025: The 87th Winters Youth Day event saw another shift as Kiddie Fair activities were moved to Rotary Park. The theme was “Youth Around the World.” Winters High School music teacher Michael Williams was named Educator of the Year, and Eden Miller was named Youth of the Year through a districtwide vote. The Youth of the Year award was revived after previously being discontinued. Danielle Smith was selected as grand marshal, and John Donlevy was named honorary grand marshal.
The Winters Youth Civic Engagement Program expanded with the inaugural Youth Board of Trustees, alongside a Youth Trustees Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unified School District modeled after the Youth Civic Engagement Day at City Hall.
The Youth Board of Trustees included Sophia Valeriano, Carmella Wroten, and Gracie Zaragoza; Superintendent Madelynn Kendrick; Director of Technology Services Leo Lanfranco; Director of Facilities and Maintenance Antonio Romero; Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Cyrus Laughter; Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Galilea Ramos; Director of Nutrition Services Meadow Davis;
Director of Human Resources
Athziry Lopez; and public input speakers Abbey Carrion and Paige Gerard.
The 2025 Youth City Council included Mayor Eden Miller; council members Serena Husted and Hawk Selleck; City Manager Aydarri Seth; City Clerk Valentine Soriano; Fire Chief Fernanda Blanco Delgado; Public Works Director Jackson Bronson; and Police Chief Guadalupe Pedraza Mejia.
The Duck Derby was held in June due to high water levels in Putah Creek.
Your Youth Day Memories
The Winters Express invites community members to share their favorite Youth Day photos, whether from this year’s celebration or years past. Photos may be emailed to news@wintersexpress.com
. Submitted photos may appear in upcoming Youth Day coverage and publications. Please include the year the photo was taken, the names of those pictured and any additional details or context to help preserve the history of the event.
2025: Inuagural Youth Civic Engagement Day at Winters Joint Unified School District
2024: The Interact Club float paid tribute to Mike Sebastian, long-time Youth Day Chair
Coming Up - Our 2026 Plays
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A Chorus Line
The poignant, provocative and exhilarating Tony and Pulitzer prize winning musical.
Directed by Shane Robert
May 22 - June 7, 2026
LitFest 7
Poetry and storytelling by local and regional wrtiers.
June 28, 2026, 6-8pm
FREE ($10 donations requested)
Seeking submissions at winterstheatre@gmail.com
Romeo
and Juliet
Shakespeare’s tragedy of “star-crossed lovers.”
Directed by Andrew Fridae
July 21 - August 9, 2026
Pigs Is Pigs & Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories
Dynamic and entertaining staged reading of “Pigs is Pigs” and other works by Butler, one of the wittiest authors of the early 20th century.
Directed by Cody Svozil
September 11 - 13, 2026
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
A holiday classic by Barbara Robinson, the heartwarming and hilarious story of mayhem when “the most awful kids in history” are in the annual church Christmas pageant.
