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Articles from Woodlander of the Month
February 2010: Curt Richter
Wednesday, March 03, 2010 :: 0 Comments
Curt Richter is a dedicated volunteer for our local Veterans and Veterans Services.  Out of respect for his wishes, we will not tell you how wonderful he is.  He does what he does humbly and without fanfare or notice.  He asked us not to make any fuss or make a write-up about him.  So we will simply leave it at: "Thank you, Curt, for all you do for our community.You are a very special man." 
January 2010: Diana Dearmore
Friday, January 22, 2010 :: 0 Comments

House Manager for the Woodland Opera House, Diana Dearmore, was selected as January 2010 “Woodlander of the Month.”


Moving from the Bay Area to Woodland twenty-three years ago, Dearmore spends much of her time volunteering as scenic artist for many of the opera house productions. She won the Chesley Award “Tekkie of the Year” for the 2008-09 season. The Chesley awards honor theatrical excellence and are named after Gene A. Chesley who was instrumental in the 1980s opera house renovation project.

Dearmore is also currently the president of the Friends of the Library Board, their newsletter editor, book sales co-chair, and annual Mystery Night chairwoman. Dearmore said of her work at the library, “I think that the library is a vital cornerstone in any successful community, and we have a jewel here in Woodland, the oldest operating Carnegie Library in California.

When not making sets at the Opera House or volunteering at the library, Dearmore participates in the Woodland Rose Club, co-chairing the Garden Tour last year, and has the distinction of organizing the very first pet parade for the annual “Stroll through History.”

Dearmore is a graduate of San Francisco State with a BA in Accounting and Finance and credits her neighbors and the historic downtown as the best parts of living in Woodland. “Our neighborhood is like an extended family with lots of potluck parties and everyone willing to help each other.”

“It is very rewarding to volunteer,” said Dearmore. “Find something that you like and get involved. There are lots of opportunities to help. Get your family to volunteer together. It’s a great way to spend time with them while helping others and improving our community.”

The Woodlander of the Month award is presented monthly to residents who provide outstanding service and volunteerism to the Woodland community. Co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor Skip Davies, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
September 2009: Mary Kay Fallbeck
Thursday, October 08, 2009 :: 0 Comments
Aiding children in Vietnam, India, Romania, Latvia, and Thailand, Mary Kay Fallbeck was honored as the September 2009 “Woodlander of the Month.”

Mary Kay was born and raised in Woodland and is the daughter of the late Carolynn Coffman Borst and the late Dick Fallbeck of Woodland. Earning her BA in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations, Mary Kay has travelled the world, helping children.

She founded HOPE Project, a non-profit organization that assists children in developing countries to have access to education. This organization assisted with the founding and construction of a school for the blind in Vietnam. HOPE Project’s current focus is securing funding for 21 scholarships orphans in India who survived the December 2004 catastrophic tsunami.

She chartered a Rotary Interact Club at the American International School in Chennai, India, focusing on working with children in an orphanage, beach cleanups, providing gifts to needy children during the holidays, and working on an “Infant Mortality Reduction” campaign by traveling to rural villages to assist doctors with free examinations and the distribution of medicine.

Mary Kay is also co-creator of and advisor to “NGOs in Action” – a high school focus group that learned the need and importance of non-governmental organizations in developing countries. She was foster parent to 2 children while in Chennai, India; a volunteer art teacher and activity coordinator at an orphanage in Chennai, India; and was a volunteer teacher of orphans and impoverished children in Romania, Latvia, Thailand, India.

Mary Kay has returned to Woodland from her many years abroad, currently working as a 6th grad teacher at Gibson Elementary.

In her own words, Mary Kay speaks of her why community service and volunteerism is important and also shares her late father’s influence on her life:

“On a philosophical/spiritual level, I believe volunteerism is essential in order to fully experience what we are all truly capable of - to give to others with no expectation of something in return. When we give our time to others selflessly, it is the purest form of love. The act of compassion crosses all human boundaries - age, race, sex, politics, and religion. I am a better person when I give my time to others...it opens my heart wider and allows me to love more and enables me to judge less.

On a personal level I think it is important for me because I believe helping others is what my life's journey is about. I first travelled the world for pleasure - the excitement of seeing foreign places, appeasing my curiosity about other cultures. After lots of self reflection I came to the realization that I have not been given the life of comfort and abundance that come from living in Western society just to be a silent observer of the hardships in the world. I feel the comfortable life and all my gifts, talents, and abilities collided with the challenges of underdeveloped countries so I could become a catalyst for change. Once I recognized this I couldn't turn the other way. I believe we all have the power to make change in this world. If each person did just one small thing to make a tiny difference, collectively we would make significant change.

I believe my father, Dick Fallbeck, unknowing demonstrated the importance of being involved in your community and serving others. Since I was a young girl I can remember being involved in different forms of volunteerism due to my dad's affiliations within this community. He was a Shriner, a Rotarian, a Mason, an Elk, former president of the Chamber of Commerce and active in his church. He was the former president of the California Funeral Directors Association and an advocate for the industry. His profession as a funeral director gave him the opportunity to serve others on a daily basis. He never once told me that being active in the community or serving others was something I must do, but it was instilled in me by watching what he modeled and seeing the outcome of his actions - he did make a difference in many peoples' lives. He gave to others selflessly, and it brought him joy to be able to do so. I've been fortunate to be able to do the same...due to my dad I was able to find my bliss at an early point in my life rather than trying to figure it out over the duration of my life. It is a wonderful feeling to have joy in your heart simply from helping someone else out. In the end, we all win when we help others."
 
August 2009: The Redmond Family
Wednesday, September 09, 2009 :: 0 Comments
For the month of August, honoring just one “Woodlander of the Month” was not enough. This time an entire family—the Redmond Family—was honored for their collective service to the Woodland community.

Upon moving to Woodland nearly 20 years ago from Orange County, Pat and Kathy Redmond immediately set out to give back to their new home community. Their belief in public service was also taught to their daughters, Megan and Anya, since the girls were small children.



As a family, the Redmonds have always helped with the community Christmas basket program, the Salvation Army bell ringing campaign, and with a spiritual formation organization that serves youth of all denominations. Kathy remarked that bringing the girls along on whatever volunteer program they were working with at the time was never and issue. “They have grown up performing community service,” said Kathy. “They have never known life any other way.”

Their oldest daughter, Megan, has facilitated a young adult ministry, volunteered at the Woodland Opera House, and has served as a personal assistant to elderly and bedbound people. Now a graduate student at American University, pursuing a Masters in Performing Arts Administration, Megan is the choir manager for the university and hopes to eventually come back to the Woodland area to work in nonprofit administration.

Anya is currently a senior at Pioneer High School, working in the computer lab at Woodland Community College. Hoping to be a librarian someday, Anya is a voracious reader who volunteers at her high school library. She also helps with the Yolo County Backpacks for Kids program, provides animal care for people on vacation, and gives visual arts support to her church.

Pat, who Kathy describes her husband as their family’s “chief cook and bottle washer,” is the youth director for the Woodland United Methodist Church, teaching Sunday school and leading numerous service activities for local youth. He cooks and serves dinner at the Wayfarer Center and for those homebound or recuperating from surgery. He also mentors youth who are experiencing family difficulties.

And the matriarch of the family, Kathy, who in addition to helping Pat with his work with youth, helps with the Department of Employment and Social Services holiday family adoption project, does peer counseling, volunteers with a youth choir, and is the distribution coordinator for Yolo County Backpacks for Kids, which provides school supplies to children in need.

Kathy gives insight to why her family believes in community service. “Life for most families is pretty hectic these days. Serving others, especially those who might be experiencing difficulties in their lives, serves a dual purpose: it lends a helping hand to those who need it, and it serves to remind you to be grateful for what you yourself have. Our lives have a much greater impact on others than we think, and the ripple effect—or the newer ‘pay it forward’ concept—can effect positive change in the world.”

The “Woodlander of the Month” award is given monthly by representatives from the City and County to individuals who provide outstanding service and volunteerism to the Woodland Community. 
July 2009: Barbara Bodkin
Wednesday, July 22, 2009 :: 0 Comments

Nominated by Woodland Mayor, Skip Davies, Barbara Bodkin was selected as the July “Woodlander of the Month.”

It was through her two sons’ love of baseball that Mrs. Bodkin has dedicated herself to community youth sports for nearly 40 years. First asked to score keep for her sons’ Little League teams, Bodkin was asked to join the Little League Board of Directors in 1970 where she held the title of secretary for many years. In 1976, Mrs. Bodkin then joined the Babe Ruth Board of Directors, still actively volunteering 33 years later as overseer of the league snack bar. She has also been the League Tournament Director for the past several years.

Inducted into the Woodland Athletic Hall of Fame seven times, Mrs. Bodkin is the official scorekeeper for Woodland High School’s varsity baseball team. Previous to her 29 years as scorekeeper for WHS, Bodkin was the scorekeeper for Coach Jack Slaven at Douglas Junior High School and for Doyle Pinkston Junior Varsity.

Commending Bodkin’s volunteerism, Mayor Davies said that although Bodkin’s boys have long since grown and been out of youth sports, Barbara has shown remarkable dedication to continuing to help our local kids year after year.

Married to Doug Bodkin for 51 years, Barbara has no plans to stop helping Woodland kids.

“Everyone needs to give back to their community, if only for a few hours,” said Bodkin. “I think it is very important so that programs like Babe Ruth, Cal Ripkin and Little League can continue to grow. It gives the kids good exercise, a way to keep out of trouble, and a place to participate with others. I love volunteering my time to the youth of our community and have found it very rewarding.”

The “Woodlander of the Month” award recognizes outstanding community volunteerism and service to the Woodland community. It is presented by Mayor Skip Davies, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
June 2009: William "Bill" Wagnon
Friday, June 19, 2009 :: 0 Comments

Local chiropractor, William Wagnon, was recently recognized as the June ‘Woodlander of the Month’ for his many years of community service. 



Born in Virginia to a military family, and raised in Sacramento, Wagnon moved to Woodland in 1984 with his wife, Linda, and two of his four children to start a chiropractic business. Wagnon remembers how different Woodland was in those days, a time when it was considered more of a “small farming town” and Main Street still held Foy’s Toy Store and Breit’s Clothing Store with their flamboyantly painted facades

Though Woodland has changed and grown over the last 25 years, Wagnon still loves what he describes as the “Mayberry” hometown feel of the community, half expecting each night to see Andy and Barney in their patrol car cruising down Main Street to keep the town safe. He appreciates how people get involved in the community, and, unlike big cities, people know their neighbors.

“We have wonderful parks for the children, and the youth programs in the Parks and Recreation Department are fantastic,” Wagnon said. “This town supports their sports teams like no other I have lived in. We put out a lot of fantastic athletes for a town of this size. I think the support the whole town gives to our athletes has helped to make them what they have turned out to be. Woodland is just a GREAT little town!”

Now celebrating his 25th year in business, Wagnon has been a big part of the support system he so admires about Woodland. He has been the team doctor for 23 years with the Woodland and Pioneer High Schools’ football programs. He has also coached Little League, is a past president of the Woodland Kiwanis Club, current president of the Woodland Camera Forum, and one of the founding members of the annual holiday Crèche Exhibit.

Wagnon firmly believes that giving back to one’s community does as much for the person who gives, as it does for those who receive. “It is hard to give and serve from the heart,” Wagnon said, “and not feel the blessings it gives to you.”

“Woodland has been a wonderful place to raise our children,” he added. “They still love to come here, and now our grandchildren love to visit. There is something about this town that is just perfect for us. I had thought at one time to sell the practice, but we couldn’t think of somewhere we would feel so at home. Some people feel they are stuck in a town…well, Woodland is stuck with us. Thank you Woodland for all you’ve given to me and my family.”

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes outstanding community service and is presented monthly by Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Matt Rexroad and Duane Chamberlain, and representatives from the City of Woodland.

 
April 2009: David and Kathy Aukes
Saturday, April 18, 2009 :: 0 Comments
David and Kathy Aukes have been named the April 2009 ‘Woodlanders of the Month.’ Both raised in Woodland, the Aukes take pride in being the parents of four sons—Ben, Jake, Patrick, and Zack—and in being local business owners of National Real Estate. Kevin Galart, a former recipient of the WOM award, nominated the couple, stating that in his opinion they are great role models for Woodland.

Galart described the Aukes as dedicated and selfless individuals who are always willing to help local youth without being asked or asking for anything in return. David and Kathy have been organizing and working the snack bars for Woodland Little League and Pioneer High School for over four years. Though their sons have not been in Little League for several years, David and Kathy continue to run the snack bars as a way to give back to Woodland youths.

Sports have been a big part of the Aukes’ life. David has coached YMCA baseball and basketball, Little League, Woodland Patriots baseball, and is currently the President of Pioneer Football Boosters.

Kathy has also coached YMCA baseball and is an at large volunteer for Little League. Additionally, Kathy has been President of the Gibson PTA for six years, a Cub Scout den leader, and is currently the President of Friends of Meals on Wheels.

“We have such a wonderful community,” said Kathy. “Giving back is what allows us to maintain the wonderful activities that we can offer not only to our children, but also to all citizens of Woodland.”

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award is given to individuals who have shown outstanding volunteerism and service to the Woodland community. 
March 2009: Laurel Boyd
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 :: 0 Comments
Laurel Boyd, owner of Sir Speedy Printing in Woodland, was joined by the Mayor of Woodland, Skip Davies, and Yolo County Supervisor Matt Rexroad at a lunch honoring her as March 2009 “Woodlander of the Month.”

Boyd exemplifies the many local businesses that support community organizations, programs, and nonprofits by donating services at a reduced rate or free of charge. Among the many organizations that Boyd has assisted are the local chapter of the Yolo County Women’s History Month program; WAVE, channel 21, Yolo County Backpacks for Kids, and the Yolo County Historical Museum.

Boyd has pulled many “all-nighters” in order to assure that an organization has its printed material ready for its event. What especially sets her apart, however, is her quiet manner as she gives back to the Woodland Community. Though her business has felt the economic bite as much as any other, she has continued to give back to local groups without ever requesting recognition for her donations. When asked why she doesn’t ask for acknowledgement from the groups she assists, she simply says: “No need. I’m just glad to be able to help.” 
February 2009: Carl Martinez
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 :: 0 Comments
Carl Martinez, born and raised in Yolo County and 55-year resident of Woodland, was named February “Woodlander of the Month” for his many years of community service.



Martinez and his lovely wife of 45 years, Louise, were commended by former Woodland Councilmember Neal Peart who attended the lunch in Martinez’s honor.

“Carl is a true gentleman and is one of the most generous, kind person (and friend) you would want to know,” said Peart. “He was one of the original members of the Woodland Fire Support Branch and is the back bone of the organization. He and his wife Louise are always there when help is needed for the community.”

Carl served in the U.S. Marine Corp and later worked for, and is now retired from, the Pepsi Cola Bottling Company when it was located on Sixth and Main streets in Woodland years ago.

Carl has spent many years serving Woodland as a volunteer, including working for the Woodland Care Car, Friends of the Fairgrounds, Springlake Fire District, and Woodland Fire Volunteer Support Branch. In his spare time he enjoys working on the antique fire equipment and preserving Woodland/Springlake Fire Department history for future generations.

Carl commented that we all should be very thankful to live and work in a great place like Woodland. “We are all one big, diverse community; and in community, its neighbor helping neighbor.” 
January 2009: Ken Freeman
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 :: 0 Comments
Ken Freeman, Director of the Regional Small Business Development Center with the Yuba Community College district, is the January 2009 “Woodlander of the Month.”

Though a longtime Yuba-Sutter resident, Freeman spends a great deal of his time working in Woodland with business agencies, non-profits, and city and county departments. The SBDC offers free business consulting to existing and start-up businesses, as well as to those thinking of starting a business.

Presently Ken is working with four local nonprofits to stabilize their organizations, train their leadership, and to provide directions for future growth and funding.

When asked what he likes best about Woodland, Freeman remarked that he is struck by the friendliness and appreciation for any service or assistance given to citizens. “This is a beautiful, friendly, and welcoming city. All the agencies and nonprofits I work with are extremely passionate about helping others, so it makes my efforts easy.”

Freeman, who owns a small farm and cattle ranch, received his master’s degree in Ag economics and a MBA in marketing fro t he University of Nevada, Reno.

“Woodland has so many special projects that warm the heart, and I see so much passion and dedication that is truly inspiring, said Freeman. “ I really hope that as this city continues to grow, it does not lose its small town feel.” Freeman added that he admires the communal support of the local non-profits and encourages all Woodlanders to continue their support of these agencies. 
October 2008: Bill and De Bathe
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 :: 0 Comments
Retired CHP officer Bill Bathe, and his wife, De Bathe, have been selected as October ‘Woodlanders of the Month’.



Huge fans of Woodland’s small town atmosphere, Bill and De moved to Woodland 30 years ago from Riverside County. “We wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of L.A.,” explained De. “We enjoyed the friendly people in Woodland and decided it would be a great environment to raise our family.” And raise a family they did. The Bathes have 7 children, 16 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.

Their sons, Bob and Bill Jr., both played pro-baseball. Bill, Jr. played for the A’s and Giants, hitting a homerun in the 1989 World Series. Bill, Sr. had his own sports tryout and opportunity to play for the NY Giants in 1956, but turned it down, choosing instead to remain in law enforcement.

Not surprisingly, Bill and De gravitate to community organizations benefiting children and youth sports. Their volunteer work includes: little League, Babe Ruth, and Woodland High School Baseball. They have also been members of Legion baseball, the Woodland Baseball Club, and regular volunteers for the local public access channel 21, the WAVE. Several years back they joined the efforts of many in the community to save Hiddleson Pool, and currently they are serving as committee members of the Yolo County Backpacks for Kids organization. De has been the organization’s treasurer for the past two years.

Though both are septuagenarians, the Bathes have no plans to cut back on their volunteerism. “We enjoy being involved with the community, especially when it benefits the children. Everyone should volunteer in some capacity—age should never hold you back.”

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes individuals for their outstanding volunteerism in the Woodland community, presented each month by representatives of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, the City of Woodland, and the Daily Democrat. 
December 2008: Kevin Galart
Friday, December 19, 2008 :: 0 Comments

Kevin Galart was recently presented with the December ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award, which recognizes outstanding community service and volunteerism. Born and raised in Woodland, Kevin has been involved with many volunteer activities over the passed 15 years, mostly centered on youth sports.

Kevin is in his eighth year volunteering for Woodland Little League, serving as league president for the last two years.  He has coached football and baseball at Lee and Douglass Middle Schools as well as at Woodland and Pioneer High Schools.

Woodland City Manager, Mark Deven, who made the presentation speech at Galart’s award luncheon, spoke highly of Kevin’s dedication and coaching abilities.  “Kevin is my son’s coach.  He is so patient with the kids and is exceptionally talented in guiding them and bringing out top performances.  I don’t know of anyone who is a better coach than Kevin.”

Self-effacing and low-key, Galart was somewhat embarrassed about being ‘Woodlander of the Month’, but appreciated the recognition nonetheless.  “I just want to know who nominated me!” said Galart, frustrated that the person who nominated him wanted to remain anonymous.  “I think, however, I know who it is, and intend to nominate them next month.”

When asked why it is important for him to be involved in his community, Kevin responded that he wants others to have the same opportunities or better opportunities than he had. 

“I have learned a lot over the years from many different people in Woodland.  I believe it is my turn to give back.  I think others should be involved because that is what we do in Woodland, and why we have such a great community.”

 
September 2008: Cherie Schroeder
Monday, October 06, 2008 :: 0 Comments

 

Cherie Schroeder, director and coordinator of local and northern regional Foster and Kinship Care Education, has been selected as September ‘Woodlander of the Month.’ This monthly award, co-sponsored by officials representing the City of Woodland and Yolo County, is presented to individuals who have shown outstanding community service and volunteerism.

Assisting foster, kinship and adoptive parents since 1985, Cherie said that she cherishes the strong relationships of the community’s parents and children she serves.

“Serving others gives life meaning and purpose,” she explained. “Leaving a legacy of caring, sharing resources, and making an effort to help [others] makes me feel that I was placed here for a positive purpose.”

In addition to her duties as director and instructional specialist for Foster and Kinship Care Education at Woodland Community College, Cherie has recently expanded her service to include working as coordinator for Foster Care Recruitment and Retention at the Yolo County Children’s Alliance.

Cherie’s dedication stretches far beyond a 40 hour work week, as a great deal of her personal time and finances are devoted to helping local foster children and their caregivers. Currently over 400 infants and youth are in foster care, 65 percent having to be placed over 30 miles from their home of origin due to the lack of local caregivers.

Upon receiving her award, Cheri expressed her appreciation for the support of so many in the community to foster care, including Woodland Community College, Yolo County Department of Employment and Social Services for working diligently to improve standards and better meet the needs of county licensed foster parents, and for the support, financial assistance, and interest of the Yolo County Children’s Alliance, FamiliesFirst, and First 5 Yolo.

“They say ‘it takes a village’ to raise a child; in the case of children placed under the umbrella of protective custody, it takes a community.”

 
August 2007: Christine Shewmaker
Thursday, September 04, 2008 :: 0 Comments

 

Celebrating at a lunch in her honor, plant biologist Christine Shewmaker was named August ‘Woodlander of the Month.’

Members of the Woodland City Council and Yolo County Board of Supervisors are very familiar with Christine’s tireless efforts towards climate change and global warming. Both the City and County have sought Christine’s advice and assistance in raising awareness regarding solar use, energy reduction and alternatives. She is currently an active member of Woodland’s newly formed committee on energy and climate change.



“As a plant biologist and scientist, I am convinced climate change is something we all need to address and with a good degree of urgency,” said Christine. “It has been good to see the steps the City and County have taken and to feel that I have had some part in that. It is one thing to sit in one’s home and say no one is doing anything—it is another to go to meetings and ask in a constructive manner that something be done.”

Christine received her undergraduate degree in 1970 at U.C. Davis in biochemistry and biophysics and her doctorate in biochemistry from Ohio University in 1979. She has lived in Woodland for 20 years and is owner of BluGoose Plant Biology Consulting. When not isn’t inspiring others to ‘go green’ she is producing some green of her own. An avid gardener, she is well known amongst family and friends for her homegrown vegetables and giant pomegranates.

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes those who have shown outstanding volunteerism and contribution to the Woodland community, co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor, Skip Davies; the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
July 2008: Paula Gimenez
Thursday, July 17, 2008 :: 0 Comments

Paula Gimenez has been selected as the ‘Woodlander of the Month’ for July 2008.

Since 1997, Ms. Gimenez has been an integral part of an important volunteer program at the Yolo County Juvenile Detention Facility. Co-Coordinator for the Holy Rosary, Juvenile Hall Ministry, Ms. Gimenez has been key in the management of this program which assists young people who have found themselves at a critical turning point, those who are temporarily detained and who will be making choices about what to do next in their lives.



Services provided by the program include volunteers visiting the minors weekly to listen, playing table games, helping with letters, and generally just showing that somebody cares. The volunteers also make home-baked goods, distributed weekly; they the mend and alter clothing; prepare annual holiday dinners; and secure donations of books and cash donations for haircuts.

Describing Ms. Gimenez as “integral” to the program is an understatement, says Don Meyer, Chief Probation Officer for Yolo County. “She was one of nine caring persons who first stepped up eleven years ago when word went out that the youth detained at the juvenile hall could use some help outside the scope of what hall staff could provide. She is humble about her work, quietly doing it out of her heart and with compassion for those young people who have found themselves at a crossroads.”

Caring for youth has been a life-long endeavor for Gimenez. Growing up and raising a family in Woodland, she has been a 4-H and Brownie Troop leader, parent volunteer for school and youth programs, and a 15 year staff member at Whitehead Elementary School. In her spare time, Ms. Gimenez says her greatest joy is to spend time with her family, daughter Kim Crum, and son, Mike Gimenez, and her five grandchildren.

Of her volunteerism Gimenz commented that she can’t image herself not helping others, saying that it is an opportunity to make a positive contribution to something you yourself enjoy or like to support.

“When one considers the number of kids she and her fellow volunteers have impacted over the years,” said Don Meyer, “it is truly mindboggling, and an example of what one Woodlander can do to improve the lives of others.”

 
April 2008: Willy Truitt
Monday, May 12, 2008 :: 0 Comments

William “Willy” Truitt was selected ‘Woodlander of the Month’ for April, 2008.

Truitt is the managing owner of Amos Metz Rentals.  His company contributes annually $10,000 to $20,000 in the form of free rentals to public and private non-profit community service groups, including the Boy and Girl Scouts, the Woodland Tree Foundation, FFA and 4-H, the Yolo County Fair, and the Woodland Stroll through History.

Woodland Vice-Mayor, Skip Davies, commented that he has always depended on Willy to come through when he needs equipment for the high schools.

Truitt also has provided rental equipment for track improvements at Lee Middle School, the installation of the historic clock in the downtown plaza, and ladders and scaffolding in support of children’s theater.

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes outstanding community service and volunteerism and is co-sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
March 2008: Melissa Daley
Tuesday, April 15, 2008 :: 0 Comments
Founder of the Ark Preschool, Melissa Daley, was recognized recently as March’s ‘Woodlander of the Month’ for her many years of community service.
 
Mrs. Daley, a local public school teacher for 20 years, founded the Ark Preschool for families in need at the Woodland United Methodist Church over two years ago. Daley takes no compensation for her work as the preschool’s fulltime volunteer teacher and director. The Methodist Church family and local agencies such as Yolo Family Resource Center and the Wayfarer Center work to sustain the tuition-free school.
 “We all work together,” said Daley, “helping to ensure that the children are ready to thrive in kindergarten. 
 
“I’m passionate about the preschool; it brings me a great deal of happiness to be learning along with the children and staff.”
 
Children’s programs have a central place for this mother of two. In addition to starting the Ark Preschool, Daley helped launch the Toy Lending Library, a volunteer-run toy lending program at the Woodland Library. She has also served on P.T.A. and School Site Councils at Plainfield and Prairie Elementary Schools for many years.
 
When Mrs. Daley is not working as preschool director, lay leader, and Sunday school teacher at the Methodist Church, she can often be found serving meals and encouragement at the Yolo Wayfarer Center.
 
Friend and fellow volunteer Michael Ashen said of Daley’s volunteerism, “I have been friends with Melissa and her husband, Monty, since 1986. From the beginning of our friendship, Melissa has inspired me by her commitment to helping needy children. She possesses the true meaning of giving back to your community. Knowing Melissa has made me a better person and has taught me to inspire others to give back to their communities.”
 
The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes outstanding community service and is sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad. 
 
February 2008: William “Bill” Ragsdale
Thursday, March 06, 2008 :: 0 Comments

Bill Ragsdale was recognized at a lunch in his honor for his work as District Chairman for Yolo County Boy Scouts.

As Chairman, Ragsdale provides support to 36 scouting units containing 980 youths, boys and girls, from age 6 to age 20. He assists in event coordination, scout training and advancement, as well as helping with the district’s two annual food drives and fundraising.

According to Ragsdale, his volunteerism with the Scouts results in a multiply effect. “My effort grows by that of the other volunteers,” he said, giving the example that over the last six years, the Eagle Scout program has completed 120 service projects in Yolo County, benefiting schools, parks, and nature conservancy.

Bill and his wife, Anne, moved to Woodland in 1986 from the Bay Area. They have enjoyed Woodland’s small town atmosphere and have found volunteering adds value not only to the community, but also to their own lives. “Volunteers have a surprisingly large role in shaping the outcomes of our community,” Ragsdale said. “I enjoy being a part of that.”

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes outstanding community service and is sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
December 2007: Sylvina Frausto
Thursday, January 17, 2008 :: 0 Comments
Sylvina Frausto, community volunteer and activist, was named December 2007’s ‘Woodlander of the Month’. At a lunch in her honor, Mayor David Flory and Yolo County Supervisor, Duane Chamberlain thanked Mrs. Frausto for her many years of service helping immigrants and low income individuals.

Sylvina Frausto, December 2007's Woodlander of the Month

Frausto has organized citizenship classes, motivating others to vote and become more involved in civic issues. She has also worked with the Sacramento Valley Organizing Community Organization, a collaboration of community partners that provide social, legal, and educational assistance. During her 12 years with the SVOC, Frausto has focused a great deal of her time in support of affordable housing issues and fair initiatives for immigrants.

Along with her work with SVOC, Mrs. Frausto is involved with the Community Alliance for Education (CAFÉ), which addresses educational barriers in the community and provides information to parents about how they can become more involved in their children’s education.

Mrs. Frausto is probably best known in the community through her work at Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Working as the parish secretary, she has helped needy individuals with a wide range of issues, including alcohol and drug abuse. Believing community service is everyone’s responsibility, Frausto said of her volunteerism, “All of us are called to solve the problems in our communities to make a better world. It is our job, not just the public officials’.”

The “Woodlander of the Month” award recognizes outstanding community service and is sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad. 
November 2007: Tom Alexander
Tuesday, December 04, 2007 :: 0 Comments

Tom Alexander Recognized as November 'Woodlander of the Month'

Tom Alexander, president of the Yolo County YMCA Board of Directors, is the recipient of the November, 2007 “Woodlander of the Month” award.



A life-long resident of Woodland, Mr. Alexander has been involved with youth activities through the YMCA and Woodland Little League for many years.  “I like to help kids have something to do that they can enjoy and feel good about,” said Alexander. I think we have all benefited by what people and businesses support and volunteer for in our community.”

Alexander is also the representative for the Yolo County YMCA on the YMCA of Superior California Regional Board of Directors. He currently works as an Operating Engineer for UC Davis Operations and Maintenance, Agricultural Services.

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award recognizes individuals who have provided outstanding community service and is co-sponsored by Mayor David Flory, The Daily Democrat, and Yolo County supervisors representing Woodland, Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

Photo: L-R, Woodland Mayor, David Flory; Yolo County Supervisor, Matt Rexroad; Tom Alexander; Kelly Hutchison, Yolo County YMCA Ex. Director; Tom Payne, General Director/CEO of YMCA of Greater Sacramento.

 

 
September 2007: Chris Bencomo
Monday, October 22, 2007 :: 0 Comments

Chris Bencomo is the recipient of the September, 2007 Woodlander of the Month award honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.  

Mrs. Bencomo is the founder of Lee Middle School’s “Parents on Campus” program, a voluntary group of parents who help provide a safe and nurturing school campus environment during the day. 

Bencomo was compelled to foster the volunteer program when in 1999 she and one other parent were all who were on Lee’s campus at lunch.  “We had over 1000 children at lunch with no ratio of adults to properly supervise the kids,” Bencomo said. “It was a scary time for me as a parent to see what was happening at my child’s school.” 

Now the “Parents on Campus” coordinator at Woodland High School, Bencomo continues to assure that students are kept safe. “We are in desperate need of volunteers,” commented Bencomo, adding that parent involvement on school campuses is a great way to get involved in community service. 

“Our schools, our community would suffer without all the wonderful people who volunteer each day.  You can always tell if a community has a good volunteer base the minute you drive into it.”  

The mother of three, Bencomo has a background in elementary education and is also currently the Home Hospital Teacher for the Woodland Joint Unified School District.  She and her husband John, Director of Yolo County Public Planning and Public Works, have lived in Woodland for over 14 years.  

The Woodlander of the Month award is sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory; the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad

 
December 2009: Joel Yoder
Friday, January 22, 2010 :: 0 Comments
Joel Yoder was joined recently by Woodland Mayor, Skip Davies, and Yolo County Supervisor Matt Rexroad at a lunch honoring her as the December 2009 ‘Woodlander of the Month.’



A former employee of the Yolo County District Attorney’s office, Mrs. Yoder and her late husband, Merv, started volunteering at their two boys elementary schools over 30 years ago.

In 2001, Mrs. Yoder began volunteering at the Woodland Senior Center. Part of her duties includes working as the center’s receptionist on Wednesday mornings, and making the phone reservations for the Community Care Car riders on Thursdays. Mrs. Yoder has also assisted at the Senior Center with the Elderly Nutrition Program for the last 8 years, commenting that she really enjoys her volunteer work. “It is very rewarding being a volunteer,” said Mrs. Yoder, “especially in Woodland where there are a quite a few programs that one can help in.”

The ‘Woodlander of the Month’ award is given monthly to a Woodland resident by representatives of the City of Woodland and Yolo County in recognition of outstanding service and volunteerism to the Woodland community. 
November 2009: Clark Field Restoration Committee
Friday, January 22, 2010 :: 0 Comments
Representatives of the Clark Field Restoration Committee received their recognition plaques as Woodlanders of the Month for November at a luncheon held at Ludy’s Restaurant. The group was recognized for their volunteer efforts in restoring 79 year old Clark Field to its former glory.


(Photo: L to R, Mark Aulman, Larry Hoppin, Larry Martinez, Felix DeAnda & Eric Martinez.)

The Clark Field Restoration Committee was formed last February and is made up of civic minded community members and user groups. Together they have contributed over a thousand volunteer hours and used monetary donations to purchase over $30,000 worth of replacement materials. Local business support has provided over $75,000 of in kind volunteer donations to complete a number of projects which include replacement of the 50 year old scoreboard with a 9 inning LED energy efficient scoreboard, removal and replacement of the uneven, barbed wire topped outfield fence with a new green slatted seven foot fence; blacktop resurfacing of the uneven and potholed walkways, and installation of new sprinkler system and baseball sod.

Future projects include replacing a storage shed, safety fence cover for the outfield fence, safety lighting, foul ball netting, backstop repairs, installation of outfield warning tracks, installation of shade covers, repairs of dressing rooms and hot water heaters, snack bar repairs, dugout repairs, new drainage fixtures, replacement of dry rotted flag pole, a triplex mower to maintain the field, and a utility vehicle for field maintenance along with various pieces of equipment.

Committee members include, Larry Hoppin, Larry Martinez, Mark Aulman, Kerry Sachs, Felix DeAnda, Eric Martinez, Gary Traynham, Jack Slaven, Felix Castillo, Frank Eakle, Homer Perez, Lanny Ropke, Jeff Kunz, Ron Pinegar, and Eric Ramirez.

Those wishing to help in the restoration effort by volunteering a service or materials can call (530) 666-8130 or by email at woodlandbaseball@sbcglobal.net. Tax deductible donations can be mailed directly to: Woodland Recreation Foundation - Clark Field
c/o Eric Ramirez; P. O. Box 395;Woodland, California 95776

The Woodlander of the Month award recognizes outstanding volunteerism to the Woodland Community and is sponsored by the City of Woodland, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad. 
November 2008: Stuart Zane and Dane Gallagher
Tuesday, March 17, 2009 :: 0 Comments

Woodland High School students, Stuart Zane and Dane Gallagher were honored as the November, 2008 "Woodlanders of the Month" for their heroism in helping friend and neighbor David Nardinelli apprehend three men who were robbing the Nardinelli home.


As written in the Daily Democrat "Zane and Gallagher took off on foot after the suspects...Gallagher said it took him 10 seconds to chase down his man in front of Woodland Christian High School...Zane immediately recognized the suspect his friend had pinned to the ground  having gone to catechism together in grade school....the other suspect obeyed the command of this catured cohort and stopped running, enabling Zane to catch up to him.  The third suspect was picked up by police several blocks away."

The boys said of their heroism that they were simply doing the right thing.  In addition to being named "Woodlanders of the Month," Zane and Gallagher were honored by the Woodland City Council for their bravery and conduct.

 
October 2007: Rose Bacchini
Sunday, November 18, 2007 :: 0 Comments

Whitehead Elementary School volunteer, Rose Bacchini, recently gathered with friends at a luncheon in her honor, celebrating her acceptance of the October, 2007 “Woodlander of the Month” award. 

A life-long resident of Woodland, Ms. Bacchini has been a Whitehead parent volunteer for nearly a decade. The school’s principal, Bob Garcia, said of Bacchini’s involvement, “She spearheads so many activities with parents and the kids that without Rose, and volunteers like her, so much would not get accomplished.”

In addition to her work at Whitehead, Bacchini is also a volunteer for Yolo County’s Habitat for Humanity as a member of the family selection committee and as an organizer of the annual Indian Dinner for the last several years. Professionally Ms. Bacchini is Program Assistant at the CRESS Center of the School of Education at UC Davis, where she works with K-12 teachers, Healthy Start, and community-school partnerships.

Bacchini commented that being involved in community volunteerism is a way of life for her. “My parents were always volunteers at school and church, so volunteering just seems like the normal thing to do.  Though I’d like to have a deep, philosophical reason, the bottom line is that I have no excuse for doing nothing.”

The “Woodlander of the Month Award” recognizes outstanding community service and is co-sponsored by Mayor David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
August 2007: Randy Russell
Tuesday, September 04, 2007 :: 0 Comments

 

Caledonian Club Vice Chief, Randy Russell, is recipient of the August 2007 Woodlander of the Month award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.

Woodlander of the Month - Randy Russell

Russell was honored for his long-time community service, including his ten years with the Caledonian Club’s Scottish Games, and Woodland’s public access television station, WAVE, channel 21.  Russell has been a volunteer at the WAVE for over 14 years and is currently on its board of directors as Technical Advisor.

When not volunteering at the WAVE, Russell can be seen working with the Hennigan Frisbee K9 dog show.  The Hennigan Frisbee dogs have traveled the world, delighting people with their incredible acrobatic feats. Russell was recently with them at the California State Fair.

Passionate about cooking, Russell plans to represent the Caledonian Club this year in the Chili Cook-off.  “I will make chili with a Scottish flair,” said Russell. “I’ll be using highland beef instead of regular beef.”

Russell can also add that of Girl Scout leader to his list of community service.  During his twenty years with the Girl Scouts, he proudly served as Woodland Cabin Manager and Cookie Manager. Russell said of his volunteerism: “You get out of life what you put into it.  I like to volunteer and help people.  I am a strong believer in giving back to the community.”

The Woodlander of the Month award is sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory; the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
July 2007: Kelly Peart
Tuesday, September 04, 2007 :: 0 Comments

Local resident Kelly Peart was named July 2007’s “Woodlander of the Month.”

Peart was honored for two blood drives she organized to help 10-year-old Sammie Hartsfield, who is receiving chemotherapy treatment for Osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer.  Sammie is the daughter of Chris and Steve Hartsfield, close friends of Peart.

The blood drives in January and in March of this year each brought in over a 100 donors.  Peart plans to organize a third blood drive for Sammie who will need numerous more transfusions while she fights this disease.

The Woodlander of the Month Award, which recognizes outstanding community service, is co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory; the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad.

 
June 2007: Gary Traynham
Saturday, August 18, 2007 :: 0 Comments

Former Daily Democrat Sports Editor, Gary Traynham, is the June 2007 recipient of the Woodlander of the Month award.

“Traynham” and “sports” have been synonymous to community members since he first began working at the Democrat in 1963. Many things in Woodland have changed over the last 44 years, but Traynham’s name on the local sports page was one of the few consistencies.  
 
Gary Trynhan - Woodlander of the Month

Democrat Editor, Jim Smith, said the sports pages of the Democrat have won many awards over the time Traynham has been sports editor.  But entering contests didn’t really reflect Traynham’s primary intent, which was to report on the local community of Woodland and Yolo County. “That’s a very important lesson Gary has taught me,” said Smith. “He’s all about reporting on local events, and whenever I had grand dreams about presenting more news from the state, nation, or world, I’ve always remembered that Gary would sooner publish a story on a local person or local event.  That’s kept me grounded in community journalism.”
 
Referred to as the ‘Yoda of local sports writers,’ Traynham quietly exited the field, retiring from the Democrat on June 1, 2007. Fortunately for us all, he’s promised to come back to toss out a column or two for old-time’s sake.  “Gary Traynham filled the pages of our local newspaper with a view of our community that would not have been possible without him,” says Matt. “His contribution to the culture of Woodland is enormous.”
 
The Woodlander of the Month Award is co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory, the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Duane Chamberlain and Matt Rexroad. The award recognizes those individuals who have provided outstanding contributions to our community.

(above picture, L-R: Woodland Vice-Mayor, Skip Davies, Gary Traynham, Kelly Leibhold, Daily Democrat Publisher, Matt Rexroad)
 

 
May 2007: George A. "Bud" Goding
Tuesday, May 29, 2007 :: 0 Comments

 
Bud GodingGeorge "Bud" Goding is May's Woodlander of the Month.  Bud serves on the Woodland Public Library's Board of Directors and has been an essential component in making the library the fabulous place it is. Congratulations, Bud, and thank you for all your great service to our community.

George was born in Caspar, Wyoming and was a 1967 graduate of Placer High School in Auburn, California.  He spent two years at Sierra Junior College in Rocklin, followed by two years at the University of California, San Diego and two years at the University of Nevada, Reno.  He graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology. He is in his 27th year as a clinical chemist at the Vet Med Teaching Hospital at the University of California, Davis. He has resided in Woodland since 1977 and has been married to his wife Kathleen for 30 years.  They have two sons, Jeffrey and Kevin, both graduates of Woodland High and the University of California, Davis.

Bud has said that: "free libraries are one of the foundations of our society, and after public education the best possible use of tax monies.  Beyond providing books and reading material, our library serves as a focal point for community interaction and learning activities.  Very few public agencies affect our community in so many positive ways as the library."

A note from Paul Miller, Woodland Public Library's Service Director: "Bud has been on the Library Board of Trustees for ten years, and for the last 3 ½ years has been doing his second stint as president. We kid him that he’s president only because he checks out so many books. He’s the best reader on the board, always getting here early before board meetings so that he has time to check out six or seven books.

He has been a strong advocate for a) increasing the percentage of the budget spent on books and other library materials, b) privacy of the records of library users, c) and staff welfare. He is very mindful of staff morale and is determined that every worker here should enjoy her job. He has also spoken often with city management and city council to make sure that the city remembers the importance and popularity of this library to local residents. He runs a good, efficient meeting—though not quite on the Matt Rexroad level. 

During his tenure as president, library use has doubled, both in terms of people walking in the door and in terms of number of items being checked out. The staff has had the wherewithal to do their jobs, and has felt highly appreciated by the library board, especially because of Bud’s attention. His strength of character gives everyone strength in rough times, and his reasonable approach to library trusteeship makes working relationships easy and pleasant.

Bud’s a great guy, and I’m so pleased that he’s getting this attention."

The Woodlander of the Month Award is co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory; the Daily Democrat; and Yolo County Supervisors representing Woodland: Matt Rexroad (3rd dist.) and Duane Chamberlain (5th dist.)

 
April 2007: Becky Robinson
Tuesday, April 24, 2007 :: 0 Comments

 
Becky Robinson
April 2007 “Woodlander of the Month”

Community volunteer Becky Robinson is the first recipient of the “Woodlander of the Month” award, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.

The award is co-sponsored by Woodland Mayor, David Flory, the Daily Democrat, and Yolo County Supervisors, Matt Rexroad and Duane Chamberlain, who represent Woodland under the 3rd and 5th County Districts.

Three years ago, Ms. Robinson started a care package program, gathering items to send to our military troops serving in Iraq.  She has served as a volunteer on the city’s Green Waste Committee; and has been a mentor for many years, providing a strong role model for local youths through community organizations such as CASA, Cache Creek High School, and Yolo Life Christian Group. 

Currently, Robinson serves on the Board of Directors for the Yolo Wayfarer Mission and has recently returned from Louisiana, where she spent a week as volunteer worker helping victims of Hurricane Katrina.

“Becky Robinson is one of the many volunteers who make Woodland a better place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Supervisor Rexroad.

 
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