City shares update on fireworks show, Independence Day happenings
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Although there were fewer people in attendance at this year’s July 3 fireworks event, the heatwave didn’t stop folks from gathering to view the fireworks or from engaging in setting them off.
With music curated by local DJ Barnett Entertainment and a variety of food trucks and vendors, residents and visitors gathered at Dr. Sellers Field, and around the city, to watch the annual City of Winters July 3 Fireworks Show.
Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III said that although Winters fire crews did have one fire to attend to on Thursday evening, there were no fires caused by fireworks.
“We did not have one single call related to fireworks all weekend long,” Snyder said.
However, Winters Police Department officers were kept busy attending to complaints of individuals setting off illegal fireworks.
Police Chief John P. Miller said as of Monday, five administrative citations for illegal fireworks had been given and two criminal citations had been issued for possession of illegal fireworks and setting
them off in a park.
“We had less residents reporting and collecting video/ photo evidence so most were on-viewed by officers or (community service officers),” Miller said.
City Manager Jeremy Craig said that city staff will debrief on the Independence Day weekend events later this week. In response to community questions regarding a drone show, Craig said the city has done the research and
“they are currently cost-prohibitive.”
“Napa did one this year at a cost exceeding $100,000, and Sunnyvale also did one at a cost of $65,000,” Craig said.
“In contrast, we spend around $20,000 on the current fireworks show, and although we expect that to rise next year, it is still well short of the drone cost.”
A full report will be given at an upcoming Winters City Council meeting.
Prop 218 town hall, special school board meeting scheduled
Express staff
The community is encouraged to engage at upcoming meetings.
Prop 218 town hall
Winters Fire Department has scheduled a town hall and invites City of Winters property owners and residents to attend to ask questions and learn more about the Proposition 218 ballot sent out.
The Prop 218 Town Hall event is on Thursday, July 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at
the Winters Fire Department, 700 Main St. Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III said he will lead a discussion on the Prop 218 benefit assessment and will answer community questions. Attendees will also have a chance to meet fire department staff, get a tour of the fire station and see the equipment and trucks on site.
Snyder said he hopes property owners will come to ask questions. Those unable to attend the event can contact Snyder directly with questions or concerns. Snyder is available at the fire station, by phone at 530-795-4131 or email
jack.snyder@wintersfire.org.
School board special meeting
Winters Joint Unified School District scheduled a special school board meeting on Friday, July 12, at 8:30 a.m. in the Winters JUSD board room, 909 W. Grant Ave.
While the meeting is being held in person, members of the public have the option to view the meeting on Zoom at https://wintersjusd-org.zoom. us/j/91863741118.
The agenda lists that trustees are expected to take action on the approval of the Proposition 28 Arts and Music in Schools annual report.
The meeting focus is primarily the Governance Team Workshop, which is facilitated by Terilyn Finders, F3 Law.
The workshop will lead trustees through a governance team evaluation and governance team operational agreements, identify priority areas of focus and determine the 2024-25 board goals.
It concludes with a closed-session conference regarding an anticipated litigation.
The meeting agenda packet is available on www.wintersjusd. org or on the community portal at wintersjusd.diligent.community.
Council approves outdoor cannabis ordinance amendment
By Raymond Purscell Express staff writer
An air conditioned city hall provided the ideal escape from the sweltering heat of the day, allowing city councilmembers to focus on agenda issues including the approval of the outdoor growing cannabis oridinance and pop-up food vendors.
Outdoor cannabis approved
In a 4–1 vote Tuesday night, Winters City Council approved the outdoor personal cannabis ordinance. This ordinance will allow Winters residents to grow their own cannabis plants. The ordinance had
been previously approved by the Winters Planning Commission and then sent to the city council. After discussions that lasted multiple meetings, the council did not have much left to say regarding the ordinance and moved to approve the ordinance with one dissenting, “No” vote from Mayor Bill Biasi.
“The language, I don’t think, is right. I don’t like the idea of it being close to schools or sensitive sites,” Biasi said.
Biasi asked that the ordinance vote be moved from the Consent Agenda to allow any further
See CITY, Page 3
High temps prompts food distribution time change
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Last Wednesday, Yolo Food Bank volunteers passed out fliers notifying Winters residents about the time adjustment for the Wednesday food distribution.
During July, the regular Wednesday food distribution held in the Winters High School student parking lot near the gym will start at 11 a.m.
Whitney Grunwald, Yolo Food Bank Programs Manager, said the earlier start time
is scheduled for the month of July and will change to the normal 3:30 p.m. start time when students return to school in August.
“This is to address the heat that we have been seeing. Our main concern is keeping our recipients and volunteers safe during these hot days, so the decision was made to change this distribution to mornings through July,” Grunwald said. According to Grunwald, if the
See FOOD, Page 3
Teen arrested on sexual assault charges
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Winters police arrested a 19-year-old man on sexual assault charges following a four-month-long investigation. In a social media post, the Winters Police Department stated the alleged victim, a Winters High School student, reported the assault happened at a WHS facility in the fall of 2023.
The suspect, Estaban Arias Garcia, 19, of Winters, was arrested Monday on charges including rape, rape of a minor, assault with intent to rape, sexual battery, kidnapping, false imprisonment, criminal threats, assault with a deadly weapon and assault on school property, according to the post.
“The incident was not reported to school
staff until many months later. School staff reported the incident to the Winters Police Department and an investigation was immediately initiated. Due to the time between the incident and the report, the severity of the allegations, and the sensitive nature of the incident, Winters PD worked closely with the
See ARREST, Page 3
Volume 141, Number 23 — Locally-owned since 1884 Winters, Yolo County, California, Wednesday, July 10, 2024
The hometown paper of Christopher Hansen
Courtesy photo
Troy Barnett, DJ Barnett Entertainment, kept event goers entertained with a patriot musical lineup before and during the July 3 fireworks show.
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express Last Wednesday, Yolo Food Bank adjusted the time of the Winters Wednesday food distribution due to the heat.
Mischief and magic come to the playground stage
Special to the Express
From Manhattan to the Jersey Woods follow the comic misadventures of runaway lovers as they escape their parents and the City, only to find themselves in a magical forest full of playful fairies and ‘rude mechanicals.’
Winters Shakespeare Workshop presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with music and dancing. The performances are on Friday, July 19, and Saturday, July 20 at 8 p.m. in the Winters City Park stage at Fourth and Main streets in Winters.
More than 30 Winters Joint Unified School District students along with actors and musicians from both Winters and Davis are performing in this production, which features a live band and an enchanting dance
team. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a lively evening of sweet music and madcap comedy. Delicious refreshments of baked goods and iced drinks will be available for purchase. WSW is a fiveweek summer acting camp for Winters’ teens sponsored by the Winters Friends of the Library. For more information, visit wfol.org or text 530-204-7601. Park closures
Teen actors have started rehearsals on the Winters City Park stage to prepare for their upcoming performance next weekend. During rehearsals, the stage area and overhead bridge walkway are closed off to the public from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
on Sundays through Thursdays. This will help to keep the actors and other children playing at the park safe during rehearsals.
The rest of the park play area is open and signs will indicate the entrance areas near the stage.
Everybody is welcome to watch as the cast and directing team craft the play. Parents are also available on-site to help answer any questions the public may have about the play or the WSW program.
The basketball and futsal courts and playground play area will be closed during the performances. This prevents sounds from overwhelming the theater experience for attendees and keeps actors and others safe during the show.
Garamendi announces cancer diagnosis
McNaughton Media
U.S. Rep. John Garamendi on Monday announced he has been diagnosed with a treatable form of blood cancer. Garamendi, D-Walnut Grove, said he will continue to work and continue his campaign for a ninth term in Congress. He represented Davis from 2009 to 2022.
“My wife Patti, a leader in the Congressional Families Cancer Prevention Program, ensures I stay vigilant about preventative screenings and care. Freezing abnormal bumps is standard, but a call from my doctor changed everything: ‘When will you be back in California? You need to come in for a series of tests.’ Thus began my journey with early stage Multiple Myeloma, a form of treatable blood cancer.,” Garamendi said in a statement.
“Today, I started my path to remission with chemo-immunotherapy as an outpatient at Kaiser Oncology in Sacramento. With early detection, excellent doctors, and the love and support of Patti, our entire family, my extraordinary staff, and congressional colleagues, I know I’ll get through this while continuing to serve my constituents and advance American democracy. I’m grateful our president initiated the Cancer Moonshot and that California’s efforts in stem
cell research and taxing cigarettes in the 1980s for cancer research have advanced therapies benefiting not only me, but every family dealing with cancer,” the statement added. The treatment is expected to take “a few months,” during which Garamendi said he will continue to work and campaign, but has been told by his doctors “to minimize exposure to Covid-19, flu, and other viruses, so I will limit travel to Washington and public events during the treatment process.” Garamendi is in a Nov. 5 runoff election for the 8th Congressional District with Republican Rudy Rancile, of Fairfield. The election laws require the top two vote-getters from the primary to hold a runoff. Garamendi won 77 percent of the vote in March; Rancile 23 percent.
Yolo County’s placard system enhances food safety and public health
The Yolo County Department of Community Services’ Environmental Health Division held its inaugural Food Safety Forum on June 10, which was attended by dozens of food industry stakeholders, academics, non-profit organizations, and residents. The forum provided updates on how the Environmental Health Division, in collaboration with its
partners, is working to protect and enhance residents’ quality of life by identifying, assessing, mitigating and preventing environmental hazards. To protect residents, Yolo County implemented a placard system in July 2017. This system, praised by residents and business owners alike for its simplicity and effectiveness at the recent forum, uses different colors to make
safety inspection results easily identifiable and to highlight an establishment’s level of accountability for patrons’ wellbeing. The placards are posted in clear view of patrons entering a food facility. Inspection reports are accessible online at www.YoloCounty.org/ InspectionReports or by scanning a QR code on the placards. The color-coded placarding system
communicates inspection results as follows:
• Green (PASS) – No more than one major violation observed, which is mitigated or corrected during the inspection.
• Yellow (CONDITIONAL PASS) – Two or more major violations observed and mitigated or corrected during the inspection, but inspectors will return for a follow-up.
• Red (CLOSED) –Any major violation
posing an imminent health hazard that cannot be mitigated or corrected during the inspection.
“Implementing a food placarding system ensures consistency and serves as an effective communication tool to inform the public about all food facilities in Yolo County,” said Michelle Bilodeau, Environmental Health Program Coordinator. “This initiative em-
powers residents to make informed decisions and feel confident about the safety of their food choices.”
These placards indicate the number of critical risk factor violations a food facility receives during health inspections. There are five major risk factors related to food safety practices within the retail food industry that
See HEALTH, Page 5
File photo Rep. John Garamendi Special to
Attorney’s Office, Yolo County’s Multi-Disciplinary Interview Center, Empower Yolo, and Winters Joint Unified School District to thoroughly and meticulously investigate the incident. The case was submitted to the DA’s Office who reviewed it and advised they would file the charges against Arias,” the Winters PD social media post stated.
Arias was arrested and booked at Yolo County Jail.
Winters Superintendent Rody Boonchouy released a statement to the Winters Express, on the ParentSquare app and the Winters JUSD social media account detailing the school district’s investigation.
“In March of this year, we received a report of a sexual assault, allegedly committed by a student against another student. It was reported that this event occurred at a District facility in the fall of 2023. We immediately made a full report to local law enforcement so that they could begin an investigation. Additionally, District leaders took swift and decisive action and initiated a Title IX investigation, as aligned with District policy. I also want to assure our community that this deeply concerning matter has held and continues to hold, our full attention,” Boonchouy said. “As parents and educators, we know that serving students is a profound responsibility, and their well-being is always our utmost priority.
The information that initiated our District response came to us because a brave student spoke up on behalf of a friend.
This serves as a reminder that we must encourage our students to advocate for themselves and others, and voice their concerns to trusted adults when they believe something may be wrong.”
Boonchouy said he realizes community members may want more information regarding the situation after reading about it on the Winters PD and the Winters JUSD social media posts.
“Please under-
“ The information that initiated our District response came to us because a brave student spoke up on behalf of a friend.”
Rody Boonchouy, Superintendent
stand that we cannot discuss the details of this situation for two important reasons. First, we are in touch with the students and families reportedly involved and must do all we can to protect their privacy rights.
Second, we must maintain the integrity of the investigation process,” Boonchouy said. “Hearing about the possibility of an assault in our District is terribly unsettling for students, families, and staff alike.”
Students or their families who need support or know relevant information to the investigation should contact Jenny Pinedo, Director of Special Education and Student Services at jpinedo@wintersjusd.org or 530-7956100.
“We remain committed to honesty and transparency while honoring the privacy rights of the parties involved. Please know that our constant focus as a school district is to ensure student safety,” Boonchouy said.
On Tuesday afternoon, community members familiar with the suspect began commenting on the Winters PD social media post stating that Arias was in the special education program and questioned if he was assigned an aide. Jenny Pinedo, Director of Special Education & Student Services, told the Express, “Given the legal proceedings with this situation and the confidentiality of student information, we cannot discuss details.”
The Winters PD post said requests for public records regarding the case may be submitted to wipd.records@winterspolice and will be reviewed under the California Public Records Act.
discussion, and for him to be
“No”
Details of the outdoor cannabis growth ordinance can be found on the June 2, city council agenda packet or visit https://bit.ly/4cRk9Be.
NeighborWorks project
An update on the NeighborWorks project was provided Tuesday night by city manager Jeremy Craig, at the request of a Winters resident.
The NeighborWorks project is an affordable housing project as a part of the Highlands area, according to Craig. Talks surrounding a possible partnership between their organization and the city of Winters began in 2022.
Craig mentioned that the initial design that NeighborWorks had put forward is no longer feasible due to post-COVID market conditions.
NeighborWorks and Craig continue to meet and work together with the hope of developing a plan that can meet everyone’s needs.
Pop-up food vendors
A discussion was started on Tuesday night about city-wide regulation of pop-up food vendors. The topics discussed included sanitation, safety, healthy competition and compliance strategies. No official decisions were made.
Some businesses in Winters have
limits on these types of vendors.
“We want it to be safe and we want businesses to thrive,” Councilmember Jesse Loren said.
While concerns among businesses have been raised, not all business owners (or council members) agree that these popup vendors provide unwelcome competition.
uled for Tuesday, July 16 at 6:30 p.m.
A Yolo County/City of Winters 2x2 meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 17, at 4 p.m. in the City Hall large conference room, Abbey Street entrance.
“We want it to be safe and we want businesses to thrive.”
Jesse Loren, councilmember
raised concerns that pop-up food vendors could disrupt their bottom line by providing more competition and in some cases blocking parking space. As a result, some council members entertained putting more
temperature reaches over 105 degrees during the distribution time, the distribution will be canceled for safety reasons.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for YFB’s FreshText alerts, they will receive a reminder the day before the distribution and any updates if a cancelation occurs. FreshText is a free service to keep the public informed about community food distributions.
To sign up (opt-in) for Fresh Text alerts, residents need to text their designated community keyword to 888777.
Community keywords are assigned as:
• Winters residents text “Almond”
• Capay Valley residents text “Walnut”
“I think they exist because they’re addressing a market demand that the other restaurants aren’t,” Councilmember Richard Casavecchia said.
Councilmembers deferred to have the item return to a future agenda.
Upcoming meetings
The next city council meeting is sched-
• Davis residents text “Tomato”
• West Sacramento, Clarksburg residents text “Grape”
• Woodland residents text “Olive”
• North Yolo residents text “Rice”
The remaining Wednesday community food distribution dates this month are on July 10, July 17, July 24 and July 31.
To get food, community members can walk up to the table in the gym parking lot area or drive through the student parking lot entrance on Railroad Avenue. Those who use the walk-up service need to bring a bag, cart or wagon to transport the products.
An additional Winters food distribution occurs on the first and third Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at the RISE, Inc. office at 417 Haven St. This is a walk-up food distribution and residents should expect to
The Winters Fire Department is hosting a Prop 218 Town Hall meeting on Thursday, July 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Winters Fire Station.
Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III said the goal is to answer questions from city property owners about the Prop 218 ballot that was sent out earlier this month.
Ballots are due to the City Clerk by Aug. 6. The initiative’s goal is to provide a temporary fix to funding challenges at the fire department.
Snyder said the funds would help to provide more fulltime career staff and to help replace equipment that is close to reaching its intended lifespan.
transport products from the distribution table to their vehicle or residence.
Other nearby food distributions west of Interstate 505 include:
• Esparto: The first and third Thursday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at the RISE, Inc. office at 17317 Fremont St, in Esparto. This is a walk-up food distribution.
• Madison: The second and fourth Monday of the month at 4 p.m. at the Madison Community Committee Food Closet, 28963 Main St. in Madison. This is a walk-up food distribution.
For more information, call 530-668-0690. For a full listing of Yolo County food distributions, visit www.yolofoodbank.com/findfood. A list of all of the Yolo County food distributions for July is available on the “Find Food” page.
Lake Berryessa water levels dropping
Express staff
The water level of Lake Berryessa dropped by 0.57 of a foot during the past week, with a decrease in storage of 10,483 acre-feet of water, according to Rick Pile of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, July 9, he reported the lake elevation was 435.76 feet above sea level, with water storage behind the Monticello Dam computed at 1,472,203 acre-feet of water. The SID is releasing 601 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 63 cubic feet flowing into Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation on the lake averaged 362 acre-feet of water per day.
Public Safety Report
City of Winters
Fire
The Winters Fire Log will return soon. Check for updates at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.
Police Arrest Log
June 27: Carrion, Andrew Allen (Age 22), Charges: Solano SO Warrant, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail
July 2: Villapando, Mario (Age 33), Charges: Disorderly Conduct-Alcohol, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail Report Log
June 27: 5:01 a.m., 100th block of Main Street, Audible
Alarm
June 28: 3:59 a.m., 100th block of Main Street, Audible Alarm
June 29: 5:06 p.m., 400th block of Grant Avenue, Audible Alarm
~5:43 p.m., 20th block of Main Street, Audible Alarm
July 2: 4:04 a.m., 700th block of Dutton Street, Audible Alarm
~8:32 a.m., 200th block of Martinez Way, Found Property – Bicycles
~10:25 a.m., 1000th block of McArthur Avenue, Outside Agency Assist For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.
New coffeehouse chat start time
Express staff
The Express Coffeehouse Chat is starting earlier due to the high summer temperatures. The new time kicks off with the meet-up on Friday, July 19, at 8 a.m.
The Coffeehouse Chat series is a monthly chance for the community to meet with the city manager, superintendent and other local leaders in a casual setting.
City Manager Jeremy Craig and Superintendent Rody Boonchouy are regular attendees. Ask questions about specific issues and topics or learn more
about them and their hobbies and experiences.
This month, Fire Chief Jack S. Snyder III will join the group to answer questions from the community about the Prop 218 ballot measure. It’s an opportunity to ask questions to the fire chief and city manager about it. At the last city council meeting, Mayor Bill Biasi encouraged council members and the public to come out and get to know each other.
Coffeehouse Chat community events are on the third Friday of each month at 8 a.m. at Steady Eddy’s Coffee Shop.
Charlotte Joyce Apodaca
Lucero passed on to higher ground on July 1, 2024. She was born on March 3, 1943, in Woodland, California. She moved to Davis, California in 1966, where she lived for almost 60 years. She and her late husband Rudy raised four children Rudy, Katherine, Karen, Christine and a godson, Michael. Charlotte is survived by her children, 12 grandchildren, and five siblings. The daughter of farm and factory workers, Charlotte never let anyone’s expectations limit her. She was proud that she, her husband, and her children are all alumni of the University of California system. Charlotte earned a BA in Women’s Studies from the University of California, Davis at age 54 and
Obituaries
Charlotte Lucero
a Master of Social Work from San Jose State University at age 67. She was a longtime student and faculty member of OLLI at UC Davis. Charlotte continued to take classes, and even teach students, until just a month before her death.
Charlotte was a fearless world traveler. At age 60, she volunteered for the Peace Corps and lived in Ecuador for 27 months. She also completed sixteen medical missions to Ecuador and the Philippines. At age 74, she walked eighty miles in six days on the Camino de Santiago in Portugal and Spain.
To sign an online guestbook, visit www.smith-funerals.com.
Services will be on Aug. 5, 2024 at 11 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Davis, California.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her honor to Empower Yolo at www.empoweryolo.org.
Annette Drummond
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Annette Acension Ramos Drummond, a woman who left an indelible mark on our lives. On June 18, 2024, at the age of 60, she completed her beautifully lived life. Filled with love, laughter, and resilience, she was a beacon of light for all who knew her. Annette was a devoted mother, always there for her children, offering unwavering support, wisdom, and love. A friend to many, she was a beloved member of her community, leaving a legacy of generosity, kindness, and humor. She was predeceased by her mother Barbara Cas-
tro Ramos and leaves behind her three children Ashley, Megan, and Jason Drummond; husband Greg Drummond; sister Melecia Ramos; brothers Alberto Ramos and Francisco Ramos; father Alberto Camacho Ramos; along with countless extended family and friends who were touched by her warmth and humor. With heavy hearts, we commemorated her incredible journey and celebrated the love she spread. A memorial service was held in her honor at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church on June 27, 2024.
Express obituary guidelines
Express staff
To publish an obituary in the Winters Express, fill out the information on the “Submit An Obituary” form online at www.wintersexpress. com. The cost is as follows: $250 for up to 250 words, $500 for up to 500 words, $750 for up to 750 words, $1,000 for up to 1,000 words, and $1,500 for up to 1,500
words To publish an obituary longer than 1,500 words, contact Gracie Solano at gracie.solano@mcnaughton.media. Photos are free and encouraged (two photo max). Veterans receive a special American flag visual designation. If you have any questions, call Gracie Solano at 707-427-6922 or email her at gracie.
solano@mcnaughton. media.
Any obituary placed by a private party may, at our discretion, need to be confirmed through a funeral home or mortuary.
Obituaries finalized by noon, on Monday will be published in the next print publication (published Tuesday night, and distributed on Wednesday). All submissions are final.
Yolo County residents can get a WE print and digital subscription combo for $30.
Picked by Charley Wallace
Photo by Charley Wallace
Grand jury calls for more K-9s in Solano law enforcement
McNaughton Media
The 2023–24 Sola-
no County civil grand jury stated that the media has created a false image of police K-9 dogs as being “overly aggressive and out of control.”
“That is not true,” the grand jury report issued June 21 states.
It also states that law enforcement training for the dogs, in the past, “had been aggressively harsh and overly demanding,” and that has been portrayed nationally as “overly aggressive.”
One such story came out in the spring of 2021 when a neighbor of a K-9 training area took a video of a Vacaville police officer punching his dog repeatedly, resulting in that officer being removed from the program. The dog also was removed from the program.
In the end, the grand jury released six findings and corresponding recommendations, one of which states “K-9 officers (should be deployed) only in patrol, detection and search and rescue.” They should not be used, the report states, for crowd control.
It also recommends that “all law enforcement agencies should have at least one K-9 officer per shift,” and
that all retired K-9 officers be provided “with medical insurance coverage at time of retirement, similar to that of the patrol officers.”
Moreover, it recommends one dog per every 15,000 in population. That would mean about 30 K-9 officers throughout the county.
The K-9 units are divided between officers and peer-support dogs – all males. There are 20 officers, six of which are Belgian malinois, four German shepherds and four Dutch shepherds, the four peer-support dogs are Labrador retrievers.
The Solano County Sheriff’s Office has six K-9 officers and one peer-support dog; Fairfield and Vallejo each have four officers, while Fairfield also has two peer-support dogs; Vacaville has three officers and a peer-support dog; and Benicia, Dixon and Rio Vista each has one K-9 officer, the grand jury report states.
The report addresses such issues as dog breeds, initial K-9 training, handler training, K-9 responsibilities, training within specialty services, monthly training, medical care, K-9 activity statistics, K-9 apprehension rates
and end-of-career handling.
In Solano County, the dogs are used for detection of narcotics, explosives, firearms, or articles recently discarded, with 1,475 deployments. The dogs also are used on patrol, with 1,567 deployments. It reported that less than 1% of K-9-involved apprehensions resulted with a dog biting the suspect, the grand jury report states.
It was not clear what time period from which these statistics were compiled.
The findings and recommendations by the grand jury are:
Finding 1: Ongoing in-service training with K-9s and K-9 handlers is currently taking place, but not consistent across all agencies throughout the county. K-9 pre-deployment training has generally been through a third party outside of the law enforcement agency.
In the past, pre-deployment training practices had been a harsh environment for the K-9. Occasionally severe discipline was used to train the K-9 causing the K-9 a high level of stress during and after the training period.
Recommendation 1:
Use an outside agency for pre-deployment
training only if the training facility and trainers are adhering to Peace Officer Standards and Training practices with positive reinforcement. For ongoing in-service training, continue monthly training of the K-9 team through positive reinforcement.
Train for a minimum of 16 hours a month, or 192 hours annually on current skills and new techniques. Elements of the training techniques should be made available to the public.
Finding 2: While there is a retirement plan for the patrol officers, there is no standard K-9 officers retirement plan available. This leaves the K-9 handler to cover all medical costs which may include injuries that occurred while in service.
Recommendation 2:
Provide all retired K-9 officers with medical insurance coverage at time of retirement, similar to that of the patrol officers. Medical coverage must cover both the scheduled routine medical issues and emergency medical services if ever needed. A meal allowance must also be in place for all retired K-9 officers. Create a standardized procedure
Eventos hispanos
in place for handling of retired K-9 officers until end of life. In the placement of a retiring K-9 officer the current handler should be given first choice. In the event that they cannot take on that role, there needs to be a process in place for continued care.
Finding 3: Not all law enforcement agencies within the county have K-9 officers. The law enforcement agencies that do, see multiple benefits of having the K-9 officers on staff. In some cases, an increase in non-confrontational apprehensions is as much as ten times over those of a non-K-9 team.
Recommendation 3:
Increase K-9 officer staffing throughout the county. All law enforcement agencies should have at least one K-9 officer per shift. For the larger agencies, more K-9 officers may be needed to cover all needed situations and areas. K-9 officer/population ratio should be at least one K-9 officer per 15,000 population.
Finding 4: There are only a few peer-support dogs available to assist in emotional and behavioral support within a few agencies. Peer-support dogs play an important role in monitoring
and recognizing the emotional and behavioral needs within high stress events and are able to soothe and support through their calming and caring personalities.
Recommendation 4: Increase peer-support dog staffing. All law enforcement agencies need to have at least one peer-support dog per shift.
Finding 5: K-9 activity and incident tracking throughout the county differs between agencies. Although being tracked, the agencies have adopted their own manner of tracking and documenting. This allows the media to exploit only the rare aggressive activities with little exposure to the positive side of the K-9 officer’s contribution.
Recommendation 5: Activity and incident tracking within the county for K-9 teams need to be consistent. Have K-9 team activity reports readily available to the public. Finding 6: K-9 officers no longer engage in crowd control, as having K-9s in large crowds over-stressed the K-9 officer, causing confusion.
Recommendation 6: Continue using the K-9 officers only in patrol, detection and search and rescue.
El calor de verano provoca cambios en horario de distribución de alimentos
Por Crystal Apilado
Traducido por Carol Alfonso
El pasado Miércoles, los voluntarios del Banco de Alimentos de Yolo Food Bank repartieron folletos notificando a los residentes de Winters sobre el cambio de horario para la distribución de alimentos de los Miércoles. Durante el mes de Julio, la distribución regular de alimentos de los Miércoles que se lleva a cabo en el estacionamiento para estudiantes del Winters High School cerca del gimnasio comenzará a las 11 a.m. Whitney Grunwald, gerente de programas del Yolo Food Bank, dijo que la hora de inicio más temprana está programada para el mes de Julio y cambiará al horario regular de las 3:30 p.m. cuando los estudiantes regresan
Continued from Page 2
contribute to foodborne illnesses:
• Hygiene – Not washing hands or working while sick.
• Food Temperatures – Hot foods must be 135 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and cold foods must be held at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or less.
• Inadequate Cooking – Undercooked foods.
• Contamination –Washing and sanitizing utensils and food contact surfaces.
• Unapproved Food Sources – Foods made in home and/or unpermitted kitchens. There are a handful of retail food facili-
a la escuela en Agosto. “Esto es para abordar el calor que hemos estado viendo. Nuestra principal preocupación es mantener seguros a nuestros destinatarios y voluntarios durante estos días calurosos, por lo que se tomó la decisión de cambiar esta distribución a las mañanas durante el mes de Julio,” dijo Grunwald. Según Grunwald, si las temperaturas superan los 105 grados durante el tiempo de distribución, la distribución se cancelará por razones de seguridad. Se le exhorta a los residentes a registrarse para recibir las alertas “FreshText” del Yolo Food Bank; recibirán un recordatorio el día antes de la distribución y cualquier actualización si se produce una cancelación. “FreshText”
ty permit types that do not receive a color-coded placard. Cottage food operators, who are allowed to make some non-perishable baked goods in a home kitchen, do not receive a placard. Food booths at temporary events do not receive color-coded placards at this time. However, all permitted retail food facilities receive a paper permit, which consumers can always ask to see, and should be posted in a visible area for consumer assurance. For more information, contact the Environmental Health Division at 530-6668646 or visit www.YoloCounty.org/EnvironmentalHealth. HEALTH
es un servicio gratuito para mantener al público informado sobre las distribuciones comunitarias de alimentos. Para optar por registrarse para recibir alertas de “Fresh Text,” los residentes deben enviar un mensaje de texto con la palabra clave de su comunidad designada al 888777.
Las palabras clave de la comunidad se asignan como sigue:
• Los residentes de Winters envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Almond”
• Residentes de Capay Valley envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Walnut”
• Los residentes de Davis envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Tomato”
• Residentes de West Sacramento y Clarksburg envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Grape”
• Los residentes de Woodland envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Olive”
• Residentes de North Yolo envían mensajes de texto con la palabra “Rice”
Las fechas restantes de distribución de alimentos comunitarios de los Miércoles de este mes son el 10, 17, 24 y 31 de Julio. Para conseguir comida, los miembros de la comunidad pueden caminar hasta la mesa (walk-up) en el área del estacionamiento del gimnasio o conducir hasta la entrada del estacionamiento para estudiantes en Railroad Avenue. Quienes utilicen el servicio walk-up deberán traer una bolsa, carrito o carreta para transportar los productos. Se realiza una distribución adicional de alimentos de Winters el primer y
tercer Jueves del mes a las 10 a. m. en la oficina de RISE, Inc. en el 417 Haven St. Esta es una distribución de alimentos sin cita previa y los residentes deben transportar los productos desde la mesa de distribución a su vehículo o domicilio. Otras distribuciones de alimentos cercanas al oeste de la Interestatal I-505 incluyen: • Esparto: el primer y tercer Jueves del mes a las 9:30 a. m. en la oficina de RISE, Inc. en el 17317 Fremont St, en Esparto. Esta es una distribución de alimentos sin cita previa.
• Madison: el segundo y cuarto Lunes del mes a las 4 p.m. en el armario de alimentos del Comité Comunitario de Madison, en el 28963 Main St. en Madison. Esta es una distribución de alimentos sin cita previa. Para obtener más información, llame al 530-668-0690. Para obtener una lista completa de las distribuciones de alimentos del Condado Yolo, visite www.yolofoodbank.org/findfood. Una lista de todas las distribuciones de alimentos del Condado Yolo para Julio está disponible en la página web.
Pan-seared chicken with lemon sauce
With the triple-digit temperatures, the notion of firing up the grill and going outside in the heat or turning the oven on inside was undesirable. The very thought of it felt torturous.
With a few fresh lemons from a friend’s tree and freshly picked cherry tomatoes from our home garden within sight on my counter, I had a hankering for a panseared chicken recipe I had first discovered on itsavegworldafterall.com. That specific recipe was missing some key ingredients that I felt were important, and over time I have found a divine way to cook it that my family enjoys it.
For the record, four out of six family members will eat it – vegetables and all. The other two delicately remove the vegetables and eat the chicken and sauce.
What I enjoy about this recipe this time around is that almost all of the produce in it comes from our garden. The flavors were rich and bold and by braising the chicken meat it does not get overpowered by the citrus.
My method
As usual, I deviate from the recipe. I add in diced onions, a sprinkling of smoked Spanish paprika and turmeric and I braise the chicken in a concoction of lemon juice, garlic and chicken stock. I like the rich depth the spices add to the brightness of the lemon juice. I also appreciate how braising the chicken in the stock keeps it juicy and tender.
Be mindful on the thickness of your chicken. Meaty chicken breasts may not always soak up those flavors and can take longer to cook, thus risking tough and dry chicken. You can also mix it up and substitute in thigh meat for a richer flavor.
Depending on how I’m feeling, I sometimes slice the cherry tomatoes in half and sometimes I’ll leave them whole. It depends on if I want them to cook down into the sauce or if I want them to keep their shape.
If you make this recipe, the choice is yours to make on what you add or don’t add.
Pan-searched chicken with lemon sauce
adapted from itsavegworldafterall.com’s lemon artichoke chicken
Ingredients
Chicken:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts (about 1 lb.)
Salt and black pepper for seasoning
Smoked Spanish paprika and turmeric for seasoning
¼ to ½ cup of chicken stock
1 container of preferred artichoke hearts (preserved in water and drained)
2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved or whole)
1 lemon sliced into wheels (remove seeds)
Lemon sauce:
¼ cup olive oil
1 lemon juiced (2 to 3 tablespoons juice)
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
Putting it together
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika and turmeric. Pan-sear the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken broth. Once it comes to a boil, bring it to a simmer and braise the chicken for about 7 to 10 minutes. This may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken.
Whisk together lemon sauce ingredients while the chicken is cooking. The difference in the chicken stock will depend on the size of your chicken and how saucy you want your sauce.
Flip the chicken and add artichoke pieces, cherry tomatoes, and lemon sauce to the pan. Note: If you don’t want your tomatoes to be too cooked down, you can add them in for the final 5 minutes of cooking. This will cook them enough, but not break it down. Place sliced lemon wheels on top of the chicken.
Continue to braise the chicken for about another 7 to 10 minutes more or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. I served this with the meal with rice. We like to pour the sauce over all of it. But you can serve it with any side of your choice.
Perfect pairings
This month, Turkov-
ich Family Wines and Patio29 Spirits Co. answered my request for what adult beverages to pair with it.
Luciana Moreno Turkovich, winemaker at Turkovich Family Wines, said she would pair this dish with either the Turkovich chardonnay or the barrels select tempranillo. The acidity and citrus notes in the lightly-oaked chardonnay “will complement the lemon sauce, while the body of the wine pairs well with the chicken,” Moreno Turkovich said. The tempranillo grapes have a balanced acidity and red fruit flavors with subtle oak influences, also making it a good match without overwhelming the dish.
Patio29’s Eric Boone suggested pairing the dish with the Yolo County Craft Vodka. According to Boone, a unique feature of this vodka is that “it is distilled from bourbon mash - corn, wheat,
barley and rye.”
“This grain base imparts a distinct, but nuanced character to the spirit, which can best be described as velvety, rounded earth. That character will go hand-in-hand with ingredients like cooked cherry tomatoes and artichokes,” Boone said. He suggested using it in cocktails that also ties in the lemon sauce component of the dish.
Boone shared the recipes for readers to make at home.
Classic Dry Martini (dry)
From Patio29 Spirits Co.
Ingredients
2 ½ ounces Yolo County Craft Vodka ½ oounce dry vermouth 1 to 2 dashes of orange bitters (optional) lemon peel for garnish
Putting it together
Combine vodka and vermouth into a mixing glass with ice and stir until very cold. Strain it into a chilled martini glass. Express the
oils of the
peel over the top, and drop it in.
Vodka Collins (crisp)
From Patio29 Spirits Co.
Ingredients
2 ounces Yolo County Craft Vodka 1 ounce fresh lemon juice ¾ ounce simple syrup club soda lemon wheel and maraschino cherry for garnish
Putting it together
Combine vodka, lemon juice and simple syrup in a shaker. Shake until thoroughly chilled, around 20 seconds. Strain the mixture into a Collins glass with ice, and top with club soda. Garnish with lemon wheel and maraschino cherry.
Share a recipe
Do you have a recipe to share or that you would like to see what our local experts would pair it with?
Send me your recipes to crystal@wintersexpress.com. I may feature it in an upcoming column.
The taste of summer
By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief
Ice cream isn’t the answer to everything, but it does seem to make things better. The heat was making things feel drab. Searing temperatures, being stuck inside to avoid heat-illness, a house full of children and cranky felines who were all tired of being stuck inside made this mom desire a time out away. When I saw Patio29 Spirits Co. was tempting us with an ice cream and spirits pairing, I saw it as a great opportunity to catch up with a friend and enjoy some ice cream. There were two
ice cream flights to choose from and I opted for the Harmon’s flavored whiskey pairings. I boldly declare that whiskey and ice cream do belong together.
Featuring ice cream flavors from Davis Creamery, I enjoyed small tastes of vanilla ice cream with orange whiskey, peanut butter Oreo ice cream with black cherry whiskey, and matcha ice cream with cinnamon whiskey.
Anita Boone did not have to twist my arm to convince me that the small wooden spoon provided indicated that I ought to pour
the whiskey over the ice cream and mix it into a milkshake-like beverage.
If you missed out on this delicious experience, I urge you to try The Ginger Peach cocktail special. Eric Boone assured me it would be there for July and I am looking forward to having it again when my book club meets up next.
The cocktail combines Patio29’s Buckeye Straight Rye with peach puree, lime and ginger ale. I was a bit hesitant with the feat that the peach would be too sweet and the ginger ale too gingery, but that fear was nothing but a negative nuisance that quickly went away. The peach is light, but present. The ginger ale is perfectly balanced, and the lime seems to tie it all together. Let’s not dismiss the whiskey which also plays a crucial role in this recipe.
This cocktail tastes like summer days (without the triple-digit temperatures) and makes up for it on the days that do feel like you’re in a desert.
lemon
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Turmeric gives the dish a golden color that pairs with the flavor of the lemon juice.
Wednesdays
Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Wednesdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue
Thursday, July 11
Prop 218 Town Hall, 6:30–8 p.m., Winters Fire Department, 700 Main St.
VENUE CHANGE: WFoL Gazebo Concert: Los Tres de Winters, 7–8:30 p.m., Winters Opera House, 13 Main St.
Thursdays
Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690
Friday, July 12
Winters JUSD Special School Board Meeting, 8:30 a.m., School District Office Board Room, 909 W. Grant Ave., Zoom Meeting info, check https://wintersjusd.diligent.community
Sunday, July 14
Winters Farmers Market
9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Downtown Main Street, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market
Upcoming Events
Monday, July 15
Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting, 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters. org/187/Natural-Resources-Commission
Tuesday, July 16
Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/
Wednesday, July 17
Yolo County/Winters City 2x2 Meeting, 4 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), check check www.cityofwinters.org/258/2x2-Meetings
Friday, July 19
NEW TIME: Express Coffeehouse Chat, 8 a.m., Steady Eddy's Coffee House Library Services
Winters Library Open to Public (No School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 12–8 p.m., Fri/Sat: 1–5 p.m. Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library Virtual English Conversation Group Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@ yolocounty.org
Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request.
Saturday Matinee, First Saturday, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing
Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Canceled July 17
Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Canceled July 18
Ongoing
Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org
Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September through April), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)
Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn
Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St. Winters Open Mic, third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Paseo Park, Main Street. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Turkovich Family Wines - Boss Lounge, kiwanisclubofwinters@gmail.com
Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org
Walking Meditation, third Sunday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Meet behind the Winters Community Center, 201 Railroad Ave.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: » St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 Main St. (back entrance) Tuesdays, 7-8 a.m. and Fridays, 7-8 a.m.
» Yolo Housing office building, 62 Shams Way: Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. and Sundays, 9 a.m.
Larry Justus retires after 29 years of service at Winters cemetery
By Raymond Purscell Express staff writer
After 29 years, Winters resident Larry Justus will celebrate his retirement from the Winters Cemetery District on July 10. Alongside his friends, family and colleagues, he will receive a plaque and be honored for his achievements within the cemetery as well as throughout the whole of Winters.
Justus moved to Winters in 1972 with his wife. The two of them grew up in Woodland and moved to Winters to settle down and raise a family. Upon moving to Winters Justus took a position as a resident deputy within the Winters Police Department and climbed through the ranks before retiring after 28 years.
During his time with Winters PD, Justus worked in architecture as well, and was a key figure in the building of the Monroe Detention Facility in Woodland.
Next chapter
After he retired from the police force, an old friend of his reached out and asked Justus if he would like to join the Winters Cemetery District.
“Right after I retired I was thinking, ‘What are you gonna do with the rest of your life?’ and John Griffin reached out and asked me to replace him on the board of directors
for the cemetery district,” Justus said.
Justus joined the Winters Cemetery District in 1995 as a trustee on the board
Successor Agency and playing an important role in decision-making. Throughout his time with the board, he has seen tremen-
“It was a challenge at times, but over time it really has become a nice group to work with and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole process.”
Larry Justus
and has since also served as board vicechair and the board chairperson for many years.
Justus’ roles with the cemetery included managing the budget, serving as the board liaison to the Winters
dous growth and improvement within the Winters Cemetery.
“It was a challenge at times, but over time it really has become a nice group to work with and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole process,” Justus said.
One of Justus’ most important contributions to the cemetery was finding a tax error that had cost the cemetery hundreds of thousands of dollars. He was able to fix this years ago and the cemetery has been doing much better since, according to Sheila Carbahal, the district manager of the cemetery district.
“He is very reliable and very honest, he’s going to be missed,” Carbahal said.
During his time on the board, Justus recruited Joe Bristow to join the board as a trustee. Bristow now serves as the board chairperson. Bristow describes Justus as a “great and dedicated guy.”
“You can say he was my mentor,” Bristow said.
When Justus was not working he enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors with friends. He liked to hunt, team rope and spend time on the ranch.
Community engagement
Justus said he was also involved in several recreational community organizations in Winters including the Rotary Club of Winters and the Winters Theatre Company, where he and his castmates would perform Shakespeare and other shows.
In 1977, Justus
See JUSTUS, Page 5
Express Yourself
Celebrating Charlene Tanski, 2024 Elder Day honoree
By Wally Pearce Special to the Express
Charlene Tanski, 93, was born on Sunday, May 3, 1931, in Durham, North Carolina. At that time, the population was around 50,000 people. The biggest news story in 1931 was when gangster Al Capone was sentenced to 11 years in prison for tax evasion.
Charlene said her parents were very loving. Her mother was a homemaker while her father worked outside their home. She said he always wanted to be a singer and an actor and had a wonderful tenor voice. She has one younger sister.
Charlene has one son, two granddaughters and is expecting a great-grandchild in August 2024. Around the age of two, Charlene developed pneumonia and was hospitalized. One of Charlene’s vivid memories at a young age was being in a hospital bed with chipped paint, crying while waiting for her mother to come. Since penicillin wasn’t made available until 1945, Charlene was given blood plasma. Medical treatment for pneumonia in the 1930s, was an antibacterial agent, sulphapyridine. Charlene said her Aunt Elsie,
a registered nurse, worked hard to save her life.
Growing up
She and her family lived in Baltimore, Maryland where she attended school. Growing up, Charlene said her family was poor and had little resources. Her high school career was very important and the happiest part of her life because it provided her with wonderful experiences. She said she had lost her shyness due to involvement in the many activities that Kenwood High
School offered her. Charlene was the editor of her class yearbook and secretary of the student council. She was also in the high school orchestra where she played the violin that her father had bought her. Charlene’s beloved violin was stolen several decades ago and she was very upset. When Charlene was around 17 years old, she started to work for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Washington DC. She worked there for several years. While at the CIA she was given a top priority
clearance, in which she had to go through a comprehensive security process. Charlene worked for Chevron for over 27 years. She worked in San Francisco and later commuted to the Chevron office located in San Ramon.
Charlene said Chevron treated her very well and she appreciated her employment there.
Notable thoughts
During World War II, daily life was a difficult time for Charlene, as it was for so many others. Resources were difficult to obtain due to rationing and a lack of funds.
Her family didn’t reside in the best parts of the city. Charlene said she remembers the attack on Pearl Harbor and how horrible that event was.
Charlene said her love of classical music was in part due to her Aunt Elsie. She has adored classical music her whole life. She and her friend Meghan attend as many concerts, operas and stage plays as they can. Life reflections
Charlene said she came from poverty to become affluent and is an example of the “rags to riches” archetype, which is
See TANKSI, Page 5
Courtesy photo
After 29 years of service to the community, Larry Justus is retiing from the Winters Cemetery District board.
Woody Fridae/Courtesy photo
Charlene Tanski isa 2024 Winters Elder Day honoree.
Safety measures to consider before offering a property as a vacation rental
rentals.
Vacations have changed dramatically over the last several decades. Social media has opened doors to new places, as millions of people are inspired to visit locales they first caught sight of via platforms like Instagram. But it’s not just where people are going that has changed, but where they’re laying their heads when they arrive at their destinations.
The online marketplace for vacation rentals has no shortage of inventory, as popular websites such as Vrbo and Airbnb continue to attract
property owners and renters alike. Property owners may want to consider using a home or apartment to generate some extra money. According to Alltherooms.com, the average annual host earnings on Airbnb in North America exceeded $41,000 in 2021. That income is notable, and it’s undoubtedly one reason why Airbnb reported adding more than one million active listings in 2023.
Property owners must ponder the pros and cons to listing homes via a vacation rental service. Those that decide to go forward can take the following steps as they prepare to offer their properties as vacation
• Hire a home inspector. A certified home inspector is typically hired when individuals enter a contract to purchase a home, but these skilled professionals can be just as useful when preparing to offer a property as a rental. Certified, experienced professionals can identify any potential problems or safety issues with a home that could cause trouble when renting a home down the road. Address any safety or structural issues with a property prior to offering it through a rental service.
• Install new safety devices. New smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, locks on exterior doors, and other safety features should be upgrad-
ed prior to renting a property. In between each rental, test batteries in alarms and detectors to ensure each device is operating at peak capacity. A new security system with external cameras also can reassure prospective renters that a property is safe. Remote locks that allow for keyless entry to a home is another upgrade that can make it more convenient for hosts and renters to access a property.
• Do your insurance homework. Existing homeowners insurance coverage likely will not apply when renting a home as a vacation property. Prior to listing a property for rent, confirm with your homeowners insurance company the coverage you need to ensure you are pro-
tected when renting a home or apartment.
Liability and accidental damage coverage are two of the many variables prospective hosts must consider.
hospital, etc.) should be made readily available to renters. Check supplies before each new group of renters gains access to the property, and restock when necessary.
• Keep emergency supplies on site. A fully stocked first aid kit, functioning fire extinguishers (more than one) and a listing of local emergency responder contact information (i.e., police department, fire department, nearest
Renting a property as a vacation home is a great way to generate extra revenue. But prospective hosts must take steps to protect themselves and their guests before renting a home or apartment.
Property owners must first consider the pros and cons of listing their houses via a vacation rental service
Express Yourself
And the winner is . . .
There were a lot of entries in the Rainfall Contest, which ended on June 30. According to Joe the Weatherman of the US Weather Service, now known as NOAA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, we had 23.30 inches of rain for the season. Our rainfall season runs from July 1 until June 30 each year.
My readers are getting older as some guesses defied logic. I thank them for entering, but we have never had 2.25 inches or 2.2 inches of annual rainfall. On the other end of the spectrum, and I’m assuming that they are new to our area, were the guesses from 59 inches to 70 inches of rain. We don’t live in Louisiana or Hawaii. For the record, Waialeale on Kauai, Hawaii gets around 460 inches per year while Louisiana averages 56.9 inches or 4.8 inches a month.
If you look around, we live in a desert compared to the rest of the nation. Our average rainfall is 21.94 inches coming in just 64 raining days each year.
Andy Danzero gets an honorable mention for his guess of 22.33 inches. He is consistently in the running.
“If you look around, we live in a desert compared to the rest of the nation.”
Growing up in an orchard might give him an advantage. Ralph Anderson was off by just 0.15 inches and there is a dark beer waiting for him the next time he comes into the museum. I’ll remind Tim Ireland, 23 inches, to add a few hundredths to his guess next year.
In second place was Dennis Mattson, 23.21 inches, who has a bottle of Berryessa Gap wine waiting for him at the museum.
The big winner, a repeat from last year, is Joe Trotter’s daughter, Ruff and Tumble Rubee, 23.22 inches. I’m sure the $125 check will go into her college fund and not used for an ice cream party.
Thank you to all that took the time to enter the rainfall contest. I enjoy contests and appreciate everyone
See QUICK, Page 4
Horoscopes
ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20),
Aries, you may be full of more energy than you have had in a while, helping you to sail through all of your tasks this week at a record pace. Enjoy this wave while you ride it.
TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21),
Taurus, heed your body’s messages that it needs some rest right now; otherwise, you may not be up for social engagements that are on the horizon. Pisces comes into your life this week.
GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21),
You cannot hang out with every person who is trying to get a piece of your time right now, Gemini. It’s likely you will need to space out socializing over a few weeks to meet with them all.
CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22),
Cancer, you have been working hard to make professional progress, and it might be time to think about your next step. It could be time to take your talents elsewhere.
LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23), Leo, you are often drawn to unfamiliar experiences that can teach you something new. This week could provide a host of opportunities to try something new.
VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22), It is time to get off the fence and commit to one decision or another, Virgo. Your professional life hinges on your ability to take a path and then stick with it.
LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23), Libra, you might be tempted to accept every invitation that comes your way. However, it is better to be smart about the people with whom you associate. Use every opportunity to network.
SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22), Scorpio, take a look at how things should operate before you hit the floor running. You want to be strategic in how you expend your energy; otherwise, you may experience burnout.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21), You lean toward being one of the more passionate signs in the zodiac, Sagittarius,. That passion will be on full display this week. You’ll wear your heart on your sleeve.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20), Domestic issues come to the forefront, Capricorn. You’re inclined to spend time at home with loved ones. Take this time to work around the house and yard.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18), Aquarius, your popularity is growing and it’s time to get out there and hang with the movers and shakers. Soon even more people will learn who you are.
PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20), Strengthen your ideas with a concrete foundation, Pisces. Only then will your plan come to fruition in the right manner, leading to better success.
that makes an effort to enter. As soon as we get some rain, sometime in November, I’ll start the next contest, unless someone can come up with another contest that I can get the Express to sponsor.
For those worried about my scrub jays, they seem to have flown the coop. Out of the two batches of
eggs, five each time, I think we had two or three hatches. One looked good (lots of feathers) while the other one or two were pretty scrawny. Last week the nest was empty, but the parents kept coming back.
When Sherri was doing some yard work below the nest, the birds dive-bombed her and Willy the dog. She wouldn’t go back outside so I could
video the attacking birds. When I peeked inside the nest there was nothing there. I don’t know what happens to unhatched eggs, and I probably don’t want to know. I’m keeping an eye out for young-looking birds, but they grow up so fast it is hard to tell how old they are. It is just like looking at all the kids walking out of the high school that look like they belong in middle school. Stay cool and have a good week.
IMeet the writer
n modern-day culture, the presence of young columnists has significantly decreased. However, as a young writer, I take immersive pride in writing for my column. This expression of creativity has been a gem in the rough for me. At a young age, I had views of creative writing. And now, years later, to be able to be writing for my local newspaper is a dream come true.
My journey into the creative world began at a young age — get-
ting involved with the Winters Theatre Company at the young age of nine. Finding the treasure of creativity and passion was a true form of joy for me. But, as I grew older into my teenage years, I became aware of the various ways to channel my creativity.
Just a few years later as a young teenager, I became aware of what creativity measures were to my advantage. At 14, I picked up a camera and started photographing the nature that surrounds us in Winters, anything that caught my eye, and candid photos of those around me. What began as a hobby transformed into a job by the time I was 16.
“For me, photography is not dissecting the color, shape, space, composition or depth, but showcasing emotion and the story behind the portraits.”
COMPANY
Date
CITY OF WINTERS
NOTICE OF ELECTION AND MEASURE TO BE VOTED ON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Municipal Election will be held in the City of Winters on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 for the following officers:
Two (2) City Council Members for Full Terms (4 years)
The nomination period for this election begins July 15, 2024. The nomination period closes on August 9, 2024, at 5:00 P.M., unless an incumbent fails to file a Declaration of Candidacy, in which case the nomination deadline is extended to August 14, 2024 (§ 10225, Elections Code of the State of California).
Nomination papers are issued by appointment only. Please call the Office of the City Clerk at (530) 794-6702 to book an appointment.
If no one or only one person is nominated for an elective office, an appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by § 10229, Elections Code of the State of California.
I had a vision to create beyond what is typically inclined to the eye and what is perceived. For me, photography is not dissecting the color, shape, space, composition or depth, but showcasing emotion and the story behind the portraits. While many people turn to Pinterest or other social media platforms for inspiration, I found creative muses for creativity in archives of old magazines and photos. Not only using these aspects, early in my career I found a lot of inspiration in the history of our town, Winters. I often find myself looking into the archives of old photos and learning stories of Winters.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the following measure is to be voted on at the General Municipal Election to be held in the City of Winters on Tuesday, November 5, 2024:
“CITY OF WINTERS SALES TAX MEASURE.
To maintain and improve City services such as 911 emergency response, parks, trails, youth programs; respond to property crimes/thefts/burglaries; retain/attract local businesses; and for general government use; shall the measure establishing a 1¢ sales tax providing approximately $1,200,000 annually until ended by voters; requiring audits, public spending disclosures, funds locally controlled, be adopted?”
July 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. is the deadline for submitting primary arguments in favor of and against a measure. Arguments for City measures must be filed with the City Clerk’s office. Please call the Office of the City Clerk at (530) 794-6702.
The polls will be open between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 8:00 P.M. on Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
STERLING THOMAS Deputy City Clerk Election Official
PUBLISHED ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 10, 2024 7/10 74050
HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Winters will hold a public hearing on Tuesday July 16 2024 at 6:30 p m at 318 First Street Winters CA 95694 to consider the adoption of reports that describe the amount of delinquent water sewer and solid waste charges to be imposed on parcels of property within the City and to be collected on t he property tax rolls for fiscal year 2024-25 The reports are on file in the office of the City Clerk, 318 First Street, Winters CA 95694 and are available for inspection during City business hours
At the hearing, the City Council will hear and consider all objections or protests to the reports and the placement of the charges on the property tax rolls Any persons interested in this matter are encouraged to attend the public hearing or to submit written comments to the City Clerk prior to the hearing Written comments may be mailed or delivered to: City Clerk City of Winters 318 First Street Winters CA 95694 or sent by e-mail to cityclerk@cityofwinters org Sterling Thomas Deputy City Clerk One-Time Publication Dates: 7/3/24 & 7/10/24 #73557
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Winters will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday July 23 2024 at 6:30 p m or soon thereafter at City Hall located at 318 First Street Winters CA 95694 to consider an application for Site Plan/Design Review for a new single-family home to be located at 980 Degener Street (APN 030-407-003) Project applicant Shelly Duenas se eks approval for a new
Being a fifth-generation resident in Winters offers me a keen eye for the historical value. There’s a reason I hold only the history of Winters – it simply has been a cornerstone of my creativity, vision, and inspiration. As an inspired youth, I founded Christian Duran Photography and fully embraced it.
Ayear later after working with a few brands for creative photography, my maturity as an artist flourished.
Shortly after my 17th birthday, I envisioned opening my own store. The dream of selling fashion, goods, and vibrant items took root in my soul, and I was determined to share it with the community.
Seizing the opportunity at such a young age, I opened my store, Christian’s Corner in the Historic Downtown Winters. My shop, brimming with vibrant men’s and women’s fashions, home goods, personal care products, and unique treasures, became my creative sanctuary for years. From traveling to find unique goods and meeting local artists to hosting wellness retreats with my wellness gurus in town, Christian’s Corner embraced every aspect of a “lifestyle boutique.” It was more than a store – it was a space where creativity and community flourished. I write this to share my story, and to push innovation in the creative world as a young artist. As I reflect on my journey, I realize the immense value and gratefulness that comes from my creative passion.
With the significance and impact in today’s evolving cultural landscape, young creatives — writers, artists, photographers
Summer swim team kicks off season
By Logan Chrisp Express staff writer
The Winters Swim Team beat the heat last month by kicking off its season with events on June 14 and June 28.
On June 14, the team met at Bobbie Greenwood Community Swim Center for a timed trial. According to coach Garrett Matheson, this trial was used as a way of determining where the kids were at in terms of ability before the inter-squad meet on June 28.
“It’s a fun way to get them going and kick off the season and everything with our first actual meet because the time trials, I mean, it’s kind of like a meet, but it was more so so we could just get an idea of where everybody was at,” said Matheson.
Across the 17 events, 47 kids participated in the inter-squad swim meet competing against one another after being divided into teams. This meet helped the swimmers get excited to face other teams this summer, but it was also a fun way to drum up team
a common theme in literature and popular culture. Charlene believes that some people who trust in themselves are more likely to have better risk tolerance and make more calculated investments than people with less money. They may also be more likely to experiment with, diversify their holdings, and take measured risks. Others say that prosperous people are more likely to set goals, listing what they want to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly, and being able to say where they want to be in their future. Charlene clearly lives that positive ideology well.
Charlene said that at age 93, she is a survivor.
Charlene has accomplished so much in her lifetime — it would take a unique book to share her amazing story.
Charlene would like to be remembered as someone who was nice and who made a positive difference, and who loved music and her friends.
Today, Charlene enjoys her superb life in her home and surroundings, with family and friends who
“I look forward to the meets coming up and seeing if we can get more kids out there and participating and trying different things that they might not have tried yet that they’re more comfortable with now as they see the older kids participate in them.”
Garrett Matheson, co-coach
spirit in the young athletes.
“I’m really proud of all of the swimmers so far that have come out to these meets, especially the inner squad meet was really cool. We had a lot of fun and I look forward to the meets coming up and seeing if we can get more kids out there and participating and trying different things that they might not have tried yet that they’re more comfortable with now as they see the older kids participate in them,” said Matheson.
Matheson shared highlights from the inter-squad timed trials. Jack Jordling, 13, partic-
ipated in the 50-yard backstroke and 50-yard freestyle events. In the backstroke event, Jordling fell behind to fourth place in the finals and finished second in the freestyle event. However, Jordling competed alone in the over 100-yard Individual Medley. The medley is an event involving multiple different strokes, including the butterfly stroke.
Jordling wasn’t alone in attempting an individual event. Charlie Baugh, 16, was the sole participant in the 50-yard butterfly event.
Matheson said he was impressed with both Jordling and Baugh for attempting these events.
love her dearly, in the City of Winters. The Winters Express is featuring all eight 2024 Elder Day honorees. To see the full list of honorees, visit https://bit.ly/3XYdVeM.
Nominate elders
To recommend a community elder be honored at the 2025
Winters Elder Day event, they must be 90 years old or turning 90 by Dec. 31, 2025. Contact Wally Pearce at 707-249-7975 or email denropro@gmail.com. Members of the Spanish-speaking community should contact Ramon Altamirano at 916-600-6707 or email ramon.altamirano@ aol.com.
“(Jordling) really stood out with his event so I want to give him a shout for that. That was really cool to see him come out,” said Matheson “I was impressed with those two kids. That was something that really impressed me. I know that’s something that a lot of kids stray away from because It involves (the) butterfly.”
Aside from the impressive performances in the events, Baugh helped the younger swimmers feel more comfortable participating in the more intimidating events by way of example. This is one of the things Matheson said impressed him about Baugh’s actions.
MEET
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(and so many more) — are redefining the boundaries of creativity and pushing for innovation. I would encourage any young artist to take a leap, share your creativity with your community, and embrace it. As I continue my journey, I am committed to pushing the boundaries of creativity and inspiring others to do the same.
While the season has only just started, Matheson is excited for the rest of it.
“I’ve been seeing a lot of improvement over the course of this summer so far and it’s really exciting to see everybody get as far and accomplish their goals and everything,” Matheson said.
With a swim meet this Saturday, July 13, Matheson said he is excited for the team to take this new competitive spirit back to the pool against other swimmers.
“I look forward to the meets coming up and seeing if we can get more kids out there and participating and trying different things that they might not have tried yet that they’re more comfortable with now as they see the older kids participate in them,” said Matheson.
The Winters Swim Team has many groups open to varying swimming abilities, registration can be found on its website, wintersswimteam.godaddysites.com.
—Christian Duran is a fifth-generation Winters resident, creative visioneer, photographer, and travel enthusiast. He aims to inspire and engage the community through his lifestyle column. Reach Christian at
experienced a tragedy of his own. While on a routine midnight patrol, he heard shots and rushed to the scene. There he found the body of a fellow officer who had been shot that night and said it was this moment of his life that led him toward introspection and growth. Justus mentions that he believes this event led him toward the life of public service that he is so well
known for today. “That very much changed my outlook on life in general and made me embrace my family and my friends, and I thought very much less often of myself,” Justus said. “Those kinds of things happen in life, if you don’t allow it to form you in some way and if you try to fight it I think it will end up getting you down.”
Justus is optimistic about the future of the Winters Cemetery District and is happy that he has built a strong family and community.
christiandurancontact@gmail.com.
“I think having friends, having family and having a community are important, that’s the true American way,” Justus said.
The Winters Cemetery District board is honoring and recognizing Justus’ impact on their board and in the community on Wednesday, July 10, at it’s regular board of trustees meeting. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at the cemetery office, 415 Cemetery Dr., in Winters. Learn more at www. winterscemetery.org.
Elianna Arce Duran
Elianna Arce Duran, a Winters Middle School sixth-grader, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Arce Duran competes with the Davis Legacy Soccer Club. Coach James Pierce has coached her for the past two years. “Not only is Elianna a very skilled player, but her physical and psychological work ethic is exemplary. She is any coach’s “dream” player in that she gives 100 percent effort in her games and practices, and brings fantastic concentration and maturity of attitude to her team,” Pierce said.
TANSKI
JUSTUS Continued from Page 1
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
Woody Fridae reads honoree Charlene Tanski’s interview at the 2024 Winters Elder Day event on June 29.
Courtesy photo
In 2021, Christian Duran (left) teamed up with Karina Del Toro to launch a spring fashion line and raise funds for a scholarship.
Arts & Entertainment
Big Sticky Mess performs at Rotary Gazebo on July 18
Los Tres de Winters concert moves indoors
By Diane Cary Special to the Express
The Winters Friends of the Library 2024 Summer Concerts at the Gazebo continue with Big Sticky Mess on Thursday, July 18, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Rotary Park, Main Street at Railroad Avenue in downtown Winters. The Davis-based trio are serious players who get down with funky jams, soulful grooves, and a notable jazz influence. They are a light-hearted, fun-loving bunch who put on a fun, quirky, feel-good show. Get a preview their sound at bigstickymusic. com.
Invite your friends and neighbors, bring a blanket or lawn chairs or sit on the grass, sip a cool drink, and enjoy some fine live music on a summer evening. The concerts are free, but donations will be gratefully accepted. Winters Friends of the Library will have refreshments and quality-used books for sale, and all proceeds will support the Winters Community Library.
July 11 concert update High summer temperatures have pushed the Thursday, July 11, Los Tres de Winters concert indoors to the Winters Opera House, 13 Main St. (upstairs). The performance is from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Local favorites Los Tres de Winters will entertain with
Norteño-style music. Their lively music, with accordion, bajo sexto and bass, is a hybrid of Mexican and Spanish vocal traditions with waltzes and polkas brought to Mexico by Czech and German immigrants in the mid-nineteenth century. It evolved in the north of Mexico and is now a favorite style throughout Mexico and the U.S. Check them out on YouTube at https://bit.ly/4eRMx81. Save the date on Thursday, July 25, to hear the modern bluegrass sounds of Welcome West (formerly Mandolin Manny). For more information, visit wfol.org. This year’s concert series is sponsored by Waste Management and Oates Country Store.
Second Saturday Art Stroll on Saturday in downtown Winters
Special to the Express
Visit downtown Winters for a chance to meet local and regional artists during the Winters Second Saturday Art Stroll. The next Saturday Art Stroll is on July 13, from 2 to 6 p.m. Twelve locations are participating and hosting art collections, artist meet and greets or art demonstrations. Most of the locations are offering an Art Stroll wine or drink special for guests.
Participating locations are indicated by a white “Art Stroll” flag out front. Below is a list of Art Stroll locations and featured artists:
• First Street Gallery features the works of eight artists. The July gallery demo is Jan Castle Walker who will work with an oil medium.
• Berryessa Gap’s downtown tasting room is hosting a collection of eight artists. Its July Art demo will feature the gouache work of Rob Bonsolett. Gouache is an opaque water-based medium.
• L’Apero Les Trois will feature graphic designer and illustrator Carolyn Gibbs.
• Hooby’s Brewing hosts Gaye Gamper, a watercolor and oil artist.
• Putah Creek Cafe fatures the work of
Phil Gross.
• Steady Eddy’s Coffee House will showcase the work of mural artist Leslie Molera.
• The Preserve restaurant garden will feature Lettie MacLachlan, a watercolor and acrylic artist.
• Winters Museum will feature Pat Dunn, who does ceramics and basket weaving.
• Turkovich Family Wines’ downtown tasting room will feature the watercolor work of Rosanne Seitz.
• Hotel
•
Visitors Center
Collective or the Winters Visitors Center to get a list of participating art locations.
Local author Matt Stone hosts book signing July 24
Special to the Express
Winters native Matt Stone is hosting a book signing for two of his works on July 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Winters Community Library, 708 Railroad Ave.
Esparto Regional Library hosts programs, events in July
Special to the Express
Community members and children of all ages can enjoy engaging activities at the Esparto Regional Library this month. Save the date for upcoming events. Note that some events are ongoing and have multiple dates.
Game Night
July 15, 22, 29 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.: Join in for an epic game night. We’ll have a wide variety of board games to choose from. Bring your family and friends and let’s have a blast together.
Creek Explorers
From 3 to 4 p.m.: Learn about a new Putah Creek pollinator each week through fun hands-on activities and make and take crafts! Pollinators include Moths (July 16) and Beetles (July 23). This dropin program is free for youth 4 years and up and families.
Life Hacks
July 10 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.: Students! Learn tricks and short-cuts to improve your organizational skills and make your life easier. Have fun while gaining strate-
gies to better prepare yourself for a successful school year.
Paint Afternoon
July 17 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.: Come and enjoy a fun paint afternoon for the entire family, create a masterpiece with your family and take it home.
Disability Pride Storytime
July 24 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.: Join us for a special storytime in honor of Disability Pride Month! This event is perfect for children aged 0 to 5 and their parents and caregivers. Let’s come together to celebrate inclusivity and diversity through the power of stories. Nailed It!
July 24 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.: Can you decorate cookies like a pro? Will you Nail It or Fail It? Join us to compete for the coveted rolling pin trophy and title of Best of the Worst! Participants will be divided by age group. Note: Food at this program may contain or have come into contact with common allergens, including but not limited to wheat, eggs, milk, and nuts.
Shop & Swap July 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Join us for a Clothing Swap event at the library -bring your gently used clothes (pre-sorted by size) that deserve a second life and discover hidden gems from others. Please bring clothing donations to the front desk between Monday, July 22 and Friday, July 26. Any leftover items will be donated! Don’t miss out on clearing out your closet for the new season and picking new-to-you free clothes.
End of Summer Party July 31 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.: Come and enjoy fun activities, music, book talks, and light refreshments for the end-ofsummer Party. For more information, contact library staff in Esparto at 530-666-8005, visit the Yolo County Library at yolocountylibrary. org Filter the Events calendar for “Esparto Regional Library” or connect with the Yolo County Library on Facebook at www. facebook.com/yolocountylibrary.org.
Stone grew up running through the walnut orchards on the outskirts of Winters. He enjoyed creek-bottom summers and ditching school to laze the day away at Lake Berryessa. It’s no wonder that when he became frustrated with society as a young adult that he would flee to someplace that he could trust. Stebbins Cold Canyon had been a favorite hiking place of Stone’s, and it is there, far off the beaten path, that he learned to live all by himself for a year, protected preserve or not. Set within the waving foothills just outside of Winters, Stone’s “My Valley” is a fictionalized retelling of his time spent in humanly-solitude, and of the introspective lessons that he learned during his stay that would stick with him for a lifetime.
Stone’s second book, “The Immortal witness” is a work of speculative fiction the delves into the very morality of civilization itself. A profound exploration of human-
ity’s deepest flaws, woven with timeless themes of compassion and sacrifice. “The Immortal Witness,” though only having been published for a short time, has already received raved reviews from readers.
“My Valley” and “The Immortal Witness” are available through Amazon.com, but Stone will have a small amount available to purchase directly from him after July 15. Books will not be available during the signing according to the library rules of conduct, and copies should be purchased beforehand. For more information, email to authormattstone@gmail.com or visit https://mattstone95694.wixsite. com/matt-stone---author.
Courtesy photo
Big Sticky Mess brings funky jams and soulful grooves to the Rotary Gazebo in part of Winters Friends of the Library’s Summer Concerts at the Gazebo series.
Winters features the works of Jaime Montiel and photography by Woody Fridae on the second floor.
Winters
showcases the work of four local artists, Jacki Stocking, Mona Biasi, Diana Bennett, and Daniel Williams. Stop into Berryessa Gap, The Winters
Courtesy photo
Local artist Marti Walker hosted an art demo at the Berryessa Gap downtown tasting room at the last Second Saturday Art Stroll.
Courtesy photo
Matt Stone, a Winters graduate, is hosting a book signing event at the Winters Community Library for his first two novels “My Valley” and “The Immortal Witness.”