Winters Express Wednesday, August 9, 2023

Local officer takes action to prevent weapon confusion

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

A Winters police of-

ficer is putting action behind an intention to reduce the likelihood of weapon confusion for officers out in the field, and the Winters Police Department is one of the first agencies to roll out the implementation of the invention.

For the past two years, Winters Police Officer Joe Vegas has been working to create a device that would help police officers to use their support hand to unholster tasers and not their

primary (strong) hand which is generally used for the firearm.

Vegas said he created Primary Guard to serve as a law enforcement training device with the goal to isolate the usage of a Taser device to an officer’s support hand and reduce the likelihood of weapon confusion when in a situation on patrol.

The metal piece attaches to the Taser and can be customized depending on the officer’s primary hand. The idea is that through consistent training with the device, an officer will

develop a trained response to unholster and deploy the Taser only with the support hand.

The initial idea for the training device first began to unfold when Vegas was in the police academy in 2011. He said the 2009 shooting of Oscar Grant by BART Police Officer Johannes Mehserle made major headlines and he questioned how it could “even possibly be that a police officer can mistake a gun for a Taser.”

Vegas said he was talking about it with his father, Augustine

Council steps back on firearm-safety ordinance, focuses on education efforts

By Crystal Apilado and Jacob Hoffman Express staff

Following up on discussions held during the previous meeting, the Winters City Council hosted a first reading on a potential ordinance on safe storage of firearms

intended to be applicable within Winters city limits to keep the city in line with other local cities and the county. The council ultimately opted to table the ordinance for now and focus on firearms safety education efforts. As discussed during the July 18 meeting, Winters Police Chief John P. Miller brought forth a draft proposal for a firearms safe-storage ordinance for

Winters, based off the existing Yolo County firearms ordinance that provides a number of closures for gaps in existing state gun laws that only focus on pistol storage, while Yolo County’s ordinance focuses on long guns, or shotguns and rifles.

Working with council member Jesse Loren, Miller said the draft was developed to be more

See CITY, Page 3

“Gus” Vegas (a former police detective/firearms instructor with the Richmond Police Department).

“It was then, for the first time, that my dad instilled in me the knowledge that I have now that helped me develop Primary Guard,” Vegas said.

One of his dad’s sayings, “Practice doesn’t make perfect, it makes permanent,” set the foundation for the development of the Primary Guard device.

According to Vegas, his father explained that procedural memory is a key factor when an officer is in a high-stress situation and “how you practice is how you perform in the field.”

In 2016, Detective

Gus Vegas was shot and killed while intervening in a domestic violence situation. Joe Vegas said he rededicated himself and became a police officer in honor of his dad, and he joined the Winters PD in 2017.

The 2021 shooting of Daunte Wright by former Minnesota police officer Kimberly Potter put “weapon confusion” to the forefront again for Vegas. He said while listening to a podcast while driving home, he started putting real thought into what could possibly be done.

The knowledge from his past conversations with his dad about weapon confusion, procedural memory and the practice of

training to use a Taser in a supporting hand and a firearm in the primary hand put the pieces into place and Vegas identified a potential solution and he began to put it into action.

Vegas said Police Chief John P. Miller “has always been an advocate for the support hand and to practice controlling the Taser” with the support hand. Vegas began to put in the work to speak with Expert Witnesses (experts in the use of force in police officers) and a neuroscientist to learn more about the theory that isolating the support hand to the Taser, and repetition

See DEVICE, Page 6

School district opens new high school building

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

On Monday, Aug. 14

the community joined Winters Joint Unified School District staff, students and administrators for the grand opening of the Winters High School PE and Music Building.

Board president Carrie Green opened the ribbon-cutting event by thanking the community, construction agencies and people who took part in the support and execution of the project.

“It’s such an honor to be a part of it, to be a part of the community that helped support it. And it’s going to be here for our kids and our children’s children.”

Superintendent Rody Boonchouy called the newest WHS building “a resounding success” as it was delivered on time before the start of school and under budget. Boonchouy credited it as a result of “strong time and resource management, effective collabora-

tion with everyone involved and good leadership.”

“Ultimately, This is a win, a tremendous win for our students of Winters Joint Unified. Particularly towards our focus on education for the whole child. Not only are we growing a legacy of academic excellence, but also learning for the arts and physical wellness,” Boonchouy said. “We know that students are most engaged in learning

See RIBBON, Page 6

Courtesy photo

Winters police officer Joe Vegas created the training device.

Courtesy photo

The Primay Guard law enforcement training device attaches to a Taser with intention to prevent weapon confusion for police officers while they are out on patrol.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Justin Young, Carrie Green, Michael Williams, Rody Boonchouy, Lisa Brown, Kristen Trott, Sterling Davis and Joedy Michael join foces to cut the ribbon for the new Winters High School PE and Music building on Monday, Aug. 14.

Environmental lawsuit settlement fines gas-station

Express staff

The owners of multiple Northern California gas stations, including two in Davis and Winters, will pay $1.1 million to settle allegations they violated environmental protection laws, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office announced Monday.

Yolo Superior Court

Judge David Rosenberg approved the settlement on July 20, resolving the civil case that accused defendants Aasim Corporation, Aasim Enterprises, Inc., Ashraf Ali, Yasmin Ali, Samir Ali, Shafique Bhimani and Mohammed Bilal of failing to follow state laws and regulations governing the operation of their retail gas stations in Yolo, Napa, Alameda, Lake and San Joaquin counties.

Yolo County’s locations include the Chevron at 999 E. Grant Ave. in Winters and another at 1601 Research Park Dr. in South Davis.

According to a District Attorney’s Office news release, owners

owners

“[T]he defendants failed to adequately install, monitor, operate and calibrate important equipment on site designed to detect leaks at the earliest possible opportunity ....”

and operators of underground storage tanks (USTs) at retail gas stations in California are subject to fair but stringent environmental rules and requirements, designed to prevent underground petroleum releases to surface and ground waters.

“Prosecutors alleged that the defendants failed to adequately install, monitor, operate and calibrate important equipment on site designed to detect leaks at the earliest possible opportunity, and also failed to comply with laws regulating hazardous wastes and hazardous materials at the gas stations,” the news release said.

In addition to ordering the defendants to pay $900,000 in civil

Bermúdez regresa como

nuevo director de WMS

Por Crystal Apilado Traducido por Carol Alfonso

penalties and $200,000 in partial investigative and enforcement costs, the settlement imposes a permanent statewide injunction that prohibits them from violating UST and hazardous waste laws and regulations. It also requires them to retain an experienced, independent environmental consultant to assist with future compliance at all stations covered by the judgment.

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig praised the collaboration involved in resolving the case, with investigative efforts from the environmental health departments in Yolo, Napa, Lake and San Joaquin counties and the city of San Leandro, as well as the Hayward Fire Department.

Lake Berryessa water levels down

The water level of Lake Berryessa went down during the past week by 0.51 feet, with a decrease in the storage of 8,987 acre-feet of water, according to Ken Emigh of the Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Aug. 8 the lake

level was 426.09 feet above sea level, with storage computed at 1,298,266 acre-feet of water. Evaporation on the lake averaged 273 acre-feet of water per day. The SID is diverting 469 cubic feet per second of water in the Putah South Canal, with 35 cubic feet per second flowing at the Diversion Dam.

Schools offer free meals for students

Special to the Express

Winters Joint Unified School District will continue to provide free meals to students at Winters school sites for the 2023-24 school year.

Cathleen Olsen,

director of nutrition services, confirmed that Winters JUSD announced the policy to provide free meals is under the National School Lunch/School Breakfast Program. All students will

be served lunch and breakfast at no charge at Winters State Preschool, Waggoner Elementary School, Shirley Rominger Intermediate School, Winters Middle School, Winters High School and Wolfskill Career Academy.

For additional information, contact Olsen at 530-7956109 or colsen@wintersjusd.org. Mail can be sent to Attn: Winters Joint Unified School District, Cathleen Olsen, 909 West Grant Ave., Winters CA 95694.

Los estudiantes de Winters pueden recibir su educación en un distrito escolar pequeño, pero a menudo reciben más cuidado y atención que sus compañeros que asisten a escuelas más grandes. José Bermúdez dijo que la atención y el apoyo personalizado que recibió como estudiante en el Distrito Escolar Unificado de Winters (Winters Joint Unified School District – Winters JUSD) fue una de las cosas detrás de su decisión de seguir una carrera como educador y la decisión de postularse para el puesto de director en Winters Middle School.

Este Agosto, los estudiantes de escuela intermedia tendrán la oportunidad de necesitar a su nuevo director, y Bermúdez traerá de regreso sus experiencias y conocimientos para retribuir a una de las escuelas que lo guiaron en su viaje.

Bermúdez se graduó de la clase del 2001 de Winters High School y fue estudiante de Winters desde que era niño. Como estudiante, dijo que puede recordar innumerables veces que un maestro intervino para ayudarlo a él y a su familia cuando lo necesitaban. Desde cobijas donadas hasta apoyo en el salón de clases, sus maestros estuvieron allí para apoyarlo y animarlo a lo largo de su carrera educativa. “Puedo recordar a todos (mis maestros) haciendo más de lo que se requiere que haga un maestro. Cuando comencé a trabajar como tutor en mi licenciatura, comencé a ver un poco de mí en los niños,” dijo Bermúdez. No siempre planeó seguir una carrera en educación. La familia de Bermúdez emigró al área y, al crecer, sabía que quería ayudar a mantener a su familia. Empezó trabajando en una empresa constructora. Y fue durante sus pausas para el almuerzo, el cuál se encontró en conversaciones con sus compañeros de trabajo hablando

sobre lo que querían hacer con sus vidas. Bermúdez se encontró volviendo a querer ser maestro porque esas eran las personas que siempre lo ayudaron a él y a su familia cuando más lo necesitaban.

José Bermúdez

Sin embargo, sabiendo que ser educador no es una profesión bien pagada, comenzó a obtener un título en negocios.

“Siendo el mayor de una familia migrante, se trataba de ‘cómo puedo ayudar a mi familia,’” dijo Bermúdez. En sus estudios universitarios, se reencontró por casualidad con su primera maestra cuando su familia vino a Estados Unidos y salió a cenar con ella y su esposo. “Salimos a cenar. En la conversación, mencioné que (los maestros) no ganan mucho dinero. Ella dijo: “Trabajo con muchos maestros y no conozco a ninguno que se esté muriendo de hambre. Si esa es tu pasión, hazlo,” dijo Bermúdez. Recibió su licen-

ciatura en estudios liberales, lo que le permitió la flexibilidad para enfocarse en la educación como carrera y comenzó como educador en la escuela primaria César Chávez Elementary School. Eventualmente recibió sus credenciales de administrador y terminó siendo el director de la Escuela Primaria Edwin Markham Elementary School en Vacaville antes de aceptar el puesto en WMS. Este año escolar, Bermúdez quiere asegurarse de que sus estudiantes puedan venir a la escuela, sentirse seguros y encontrar conexiones tanto con el personal como con sus compañeros. “Los estudiantes son los estudiantes. Todos quieren ser ellos mismos, ya sea que sepan lo que es eso o no. Lo más importante que les digo a todos es que los estudiantes buscan establecer una conexión humana con cualquier persona en el campus,” dijo Bermúdez. “Ese es mi enfoque: entran y se sienten seguros y conocen a alguien con quien se sienten cómodos. Se trata del niño en su totalidad. Vuelvo a aquellas personas que me influyeron cuando era niño.”

Dijo que como educador, recibió algunas cartas de un exalumno de sexto grado que compartió sobre el impacto que tuvo Bermúdez en su vida. Para Bermúdez, acababa de hacer su trabajo al tener conversaciones de apoyo con un estudiante, y para el estudiante, marcó la diferencia que necesitaba en ese momento. Bermúdez dijo que ex alumnos lo han invitado a asistir a los hitos de sus vidas.

“Te hace comprender el impacto que Vea WMS, Página 3

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express José Bermúdez comenzó su función como director de la escuela Winters Middle School (WMS) en Julio del 2023.

“Te hace comprender el impacto que puedes tener en su vida, no solo leyendo y escribiendo, sino también como individuos.”

Judge: ‘Time will tell’ how Dominguez case proceeds

By Lauren Keene McNaughton Media

A juror in the Carlos Reales Dominguez competency trial expressed relief Monday that Yolo County prosecutors conceded the former UC Davis student isn’t mentally fit to stand trial.

“I don’t think I had enough information to make a decision,”

Woodland resident

Tim Kinser told The Davis Enterprise following the jury’s dismissal. “We could have had more evidence this week that would have made my decision easier, but I’m glad we didn’t have to go in and deliberate on this.”

Dominguez’s competency trial was slated to resume Monday morning. But last Thursday, Yolo County prosecutors Matt De

CITY

Continued from Page 1

permissive than Yolo County’s existing phrasing, itself more permissive than other similar ordinances in Davis and Woodland, so as to be more in line with how people in the community store their weapons and to focus the ordinance on what Miller and Loren called “crimes of opportunity” such as guns being stolen from vehicles.

As read by Miller, the entirety of the ordinance would require that “all firearms must be secured in a locking container or with an approved trigger lock when left in an unoccupied residence, “all firearms be secured in a locked trunk or in a locked container or equipped with trigger lock and stored out of plain sight when left in an unattended vehicle” and “prohibits all firearms from being left overnight in an unattended vehicle.”

According to Miller, the ordinance would have exceptions for police officers that are on duty, police vehicles, federal officers and military personnel acting

The ordinance would apply a $1,000 fine or six months in county jail, or both for gun owners who left rifles and shotguns in such stated above unsafe situations and would be a misdemeanor under the Winters Municiple Code.

“The Yolo ordinance was the most concise and its for the county itself so we’re talking farm land and so forth. but then we didn’t want to just adopt something that was made in consideration in other things. we thought we wanted safety and protection from crimes of opportunity,” Loren said in regards to how the draft came to be.

The council opened the floor to the public to provide feedback and comments.

A number of community members openly claimed this gun safe-

Moura and Frits van der Hoek announced they agreed Dominguez satisfied one element of incompetency — that he’s unable to assist his attorney in a rational manner.

“At this point there is no longer a dispute as to his competency,” Yolo Superior Court Judge Samuel McAdam told jurors before dismissing them, explaining that Dominguez would be transferred to a state hospital for treatment, “with the goal of restoring his competency.

“From there, only time will tell,” McAdam added. “The law and the facts will dictate how the case goes.”

Dominguez, 21, faces murder and attempted-murder charges for the late April stabbing deaths of “Compassion Guy”

ty ordinance, which is based on existing laws, would be a violation of the US Constitution, while also accusing the proposed ordinance of targeting farmers and people from rural areas.

Resident Chuck Pearce asked for clarification on what the city’s definition of “unattended” was, to which the answer was the vehicle was in the line of sight. Pearce referred to the third part of proposed ordinance’s requirement to not leave a firearm unattended and shared a scenario for council members to consider.

“If I’m going into the store to get a coffee and pay for my gas and I can’t see my vehicle, even though (the firearm is) in a locked case and locked inside my vehicle ... that’s setting me up to put myself in a position where I’m in violation of a criminal act and that’s no comomn-sense gun law,” Pearce said.

Greg Contreras, chair of the Winters Planning Commission, asked council members “is this an area we want to weigh into given he potential cost of defending potention litigation that were to come into the city” in not only challenging the ordinance itself but in paying the cost of enforcing it.

“As with any policy, it’s important to ask the threshold question, Is this something within our scope that we ought to do or in probably the most gun-unfriendly state in the country is it something that should be left to the general rules where they have the capacity to defend the cost of litigating these things that I think the city of Winters really doesn’t have any excess funds at all,” Contreras said.

Contreras stated there are other priorities being asked by the community to address within the city, and that the gun safety storage ordinance “came out of nowhere and I would ask the council the threshold question, do we want to get into this? shoudl

David Breaux and UC Davis student Karim Abou Najm at two local parks, as well as the knife attack on unhoused woman Kimberlee Guillory, who survived, at an L Street encampment.

His public defender, Dan Hutchinson, declared a doubt regarding Dominguez’s competency back in May, and court-appointed psychologist Dr. Juliana Rohrer issued a report that deemed him incompetent.

Prosecutors challenged how Rohrer reached her conclusions, however, and demanded a jury trial on the issue.

In explaining his office’s change in position, De Moura cited the testimony of Rohrer, who had gained additional information, and forensic neuropsychologist Dr. Dale Watson. Both

we leave it to the county or the state?”

Farmer and business owner Chris Turkovich said local farmers, ranchers and hunters use firearms as tools daily in the agricultural setting, and that there are already “laws in the books” at the state that address safety for children and negligent storage of firearms. Turkovich said the proposed ordinance targets the agricultural and hunting communities because the “ordinance spoke strictly on shotguns and long guns, which are precisely the

diagnosed Dominguez with schizophrenia and opined that the mental illness likely obstructed his ability to aid his attorney and understand the nature and purpose of his court proceedings.

Also impacting prosecutors’ decision was McAdam’s court order last Thursday for Dominguez to undergo involuntary medication at the Yolo County Jail, where medical staff say his health has deteriorated since his May 3 arrival. He’s been isolated under suicide watch ever since.

“I’m very happy with what Judge McAdam did,” Kinser said. “I felt that (Dominguez) definitely needed something. Was he incompetent to stand trial? I don’t know, but I knew he needed something.” Hutchinson could

cussion following requests to prevent accidental shootings or firearms that are stolen when they are left unoccupied in a vehicle.

Loren spoke on the reasoning behind the ordinance, noting that it wasn’t the council’s intention to take anyone’s guns away nor restrict access to them, as she herself has been a gun owner in the past.

Loren said she appreciated the robust discussion, saying, “I think that it’s all educational for all of us.”

not confirm Monday whether the medication regimen has begun. Dominguez arrived in court Monday still wearing an anti-suicide smock, but had pulled his hair away from his face, rather than covering it, as it’s been for many of his court hearings.

“That could have been just a ploy, but you still could see the color in his face. There was nothing in there for him,” Kinser said of Dominguez’s prior appearance.

“Today, there was a soul in there, basically.”

Kinser said he found himself frustrated by the testimony of one witness, the head administrator for jail medical provider Wellpath, regarding the three-week delay in administering Dominguez’s first dose of emergency medica-

flected on the discussion brought by presenters from Moms Demand Action and community members before weighing in on his perspective and the desire to provide the community with more education opportunities on safe firearm storage.

tion. She testified during the trial’s first week that although jail tele-psychiatrist Dr. Patricia Tyler recommended the antipsychotic medication on June 21, Dominguez didn’t receive the dose until July 13 due to delays caused by jailhouse protocols.

“In my opinion, his mental status has gone down by the way he’s being treated at the jail,” Kinser said. “There was no accountability there at all. Our system has failed us by not doing what needs to be done.”

Dominguez returns to court on Aug. 17 for further proceedings regarding his state hospital placement procedure.

time and effort into an ordinance without education” in response to accusations that the ordinance wasn’t sufficiently advertised by the city and county.

tools used by farmers, rancher and hunters throughout the region. While handguns — which are by far more problematic when it comes to every statistical category ... were not addressed.”

“So the obvious question is there really a need for a Winters-specific gun law?” Turkovich asked.

Miller provided clarifying information on a number of points regarding gun laws brought up by the public, after several community members questioned why the ordinances focused on long guns rather than pistols and again claiming this was “targeted” against farmers. As Miller reiterated, state law already completely details how pistols and handguns are to be safely stored in the home and in vehicles, and that this ordinance thus covers an area not already covered. He said the difference with the ordinance was to address “unattended” firearms.

Mayor Bill Biasi noted the topic was brought up for dis-

She noted she’s “not anti-gun in any way” and she doesn’t think that they were trying to fix something, but were communicating the values of living within the city of Winters and she saw this as a step toward it.

Kate Laddish shared that she grew up with guns, but that she was in favor of the city having a safe gun-storage ordinance because her family’s guns were stolen by people who had previously been invited into their home and were used illegally. The incident changed their storage practices because “what we thought was safe was really not.”

In response to comments that there haven’t been any recent accidental shooting incidents in Winters, Laddish said if the scope of the search was broadened, they may find recent tragedies in neighboring communities.

“I hope that we wouldn’t need a tragedy in order to take steps to protect ourselves and our neighbors,” Laddish said.

Following public comment, Biasi re-

“At this point, I’m not convinced that Winters needs its own ordinance for the safe storage of guns,” Biasi said. “I can see some of it, but I’m afraid that it’s just going to be an ordinance that’s going to sit on the books and I don’t see it getting enforced.”

Mayor Pro Tempore Albert Vallecillo said, “the intent isn’t to criminalize anybody who takes care of their weapons… that’s not the intent.” Rather, the hope was to “keep the community safe from people who don’t understand or care…we’re not intending to make anyone criminals, but to make our community safe.”

Council member Richard Casavecchia asked how would they define success with the proposed ordinance and voiced that he didn’t know how it would successfully be enforced. Casavecchia said firearms storage laws are “relatively new” and “they don’t have the regulatory history or tradition to be constitutional in my mind.”

Loren said, “what motivates me is having a really safe community, and also educating people” continuing that “I wouldn’t want to put

“I could see it as something for the betterment for Winters, and if I’m in the minority on that, I’m in the minority on that,” Loren said before sharing gratitude for “all of the voices that came out” and the passion that was shared. She said “I think we take a breath on this” and think about “how to bring back something with education as the cornerstone.”

Biasi said he thought the city needed to focus their efforts on providing education and training on gun safety and storage. Loren put support behind the process of partnering with others and working on outreach to the community. Miller said Winters Police Department is already in a partnership with Project Child Safe and a supply of gun locks was at the police station as well as literature and other relevant resources.

Loren said, “I would make a motion that we step back and look at an educational program such as the (Project Child Safe) program and flesh it out at a later date…and put a hold on the ordinance” so the council and community can focus on education and disseminating gun safety resources to the community.

Council members approved the motion unanimously.

“At this point, I’m not convinced that Winters needs its own ordinance for the safe storage of guns.”

Bill Biasi, mayor

Public Safety Report

City of Winters

Fire

Jul. 26: 6:10 a.m., Morgan Street, Water

Flow Alarm

~8:54 a.m., CR 90A, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~3:36 p.m., CR 3, Motor vehicle accident with injuries

~5:18 p.m., Matsumoto Lane, EMS call, – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jul. 27: 2:19 a.m., Matsumoto Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~12:49 p.m., Main Street, Service call –other

~9:58 p.m., Graf Way, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jul. 28: 12:21 p.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jul. 29: 11:09 a.m., Morgan Street, Odor

Investigation

~11:17 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~1:04 p.m., CR 87, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~1:34 p.m., Hwy 128, False alarm or false call – other

~7:44 p.m., Grant Avenue, Public Assist

~9:24 p.m., Fredericks Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~9:41 p.m., Hwy 128, False alarm or false call – other

Jul. 30: 3:41 p.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~6:36 p.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~11:41 p.m., Colby Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Jul. 31: 12:08 p.m., Morgan Street, False alarm or false call –other

~12:15 p.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~7:20 p.m., Main Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Aug. 1: 10:08 a.m., Morgan Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

~9:20 p.m., Baker Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury

Police

Arrest Log

Jul. 30: Lynda Lou-

ise Schroeder (Age 82), Charges: Winters PD misdemeanor warrant of arrest, Disposition: Transported to Yolo County Jail

Report Log

Jul. 26: 10:30 p.m.,

400 Block of Main Street, Verbal Domestic Dispute

Jul. 27: 3:50 p.m.,

400 Block of Anderson Avenue, Audible Alarm

Jul. 28: 9:18 p.m., 10

E. Main Street, Audible Alarm ~9:41 p.m., 100 Block of E. Main Street, Vehicle Tow

Jul. 29: 4:39 p.m.,

400 Railroad Avenue, Audible Alarm

Jul. 30: 4:31 p.m., 700 Block Apricot Avenue, Verbal Domestic Dispute

Jul. 31: 2:40 a.m., 100 Block E. Grant Avenue, Audible Alarm ~5:14 a.m., 400 Block of Main Street, Theft from a vehicle ~6:40 a.m., 400 Block of Main Street, Theft from a vehicle ~11:18 a.m., 700 Block of Matsumoto Lane, Found property

For our editorial policy on crime log entries, see winters express.com/unpub lishing-policy.

How does a group of dolphins decide on something?

They flipper coin.

Years Ago

Dispatches from the Express archives.

145 Years Ago

August 10, 1878

(From the files of The Winters Advocate)

Our Winters people should be on their guard against fire, everything is very dry and should the fire get started nothing could save the town from destruction, as we have no water facilities to check the devouring element.

What we want in Winters by way of a starter is a good grist mill so that the people can get flour and not have to pay more than two and a half or three dollars on a barrel more than they can but it for elsewhere.

Jefferson Davis is rich again. The Court of Appeals of Mississippi has awarded him a plantation which he bought from his brother without receiving a deed, and which his brother afterwards sold to a negro for $300,000. The negro loses whatever he paid.

A man was arrested on Sunday evening for making use of beastly and offensive language before ladies in the parlor of L.W. Hilliker’s hotel.

Professor A. Johnston will begin a protracted meeting on Friday evening, at the Christian Church in the town of Winters.

130 Years Ago

August 12, 1893

J.R. Briggs and daughter, Alma, came up fom Santa Cruz Monday evening, and stopped over here on their way to Woodland.

R.E. Baker and wife, Mrs. Dr. Baker and J. P. Steward and wife, left last Tuesday morning for a visit to the World’s Fair. They will also visit relatives in Missouri and other states before they return.

A delightful party was given by Mr. C.F. Wyer to a number of his friends, on Tuesday evening last, at Margurite Fruit Farm. Following is a list of the guests: Misses Sallie and Annie Baker, Ada Hanson, Mary Goodin, Mattie Humphrey. Dora Robinson, Mrs. Crowley; Messrs. R.L. Humphrey, Marshall Goodin, Dr. Blake, James R. Briggs, Reese Baker, James T. Goodin and W. S. Baker.

The Vacaville and

A man was arrested on Sunday evening for making use of beastly and offensive language before ladies in the parlor of L.W. Hilliker’s hotel. August 10, 1878

Winters Fruit company shipped on Wednesday two carloads of Bartlett pears and one of peaches, plums and grapes. Thursday the company shipped a carload of pears and one of peaches, grapes and plums. Next week they expect to ship three carloads every day.

Little Miss Evadna Fenley reached the eighth milestone in her journey of life on the 8th, and her mother gave her a party in commemoration of the event. Following are the names of those present: Allie Penn, Annie and Stella Hall, Sarah Hall, Leta Martin, Clemmie Culton, Nellie Smith, Ada Bleith, Eva and Marion Rust, Evadna and Everett Fenley and Trustam Hall.

95 Years Ago

August 10, 1928

At the meeting of the Town Trustees Tuesday evening a program for more street paving was given serious consideration. The paving of a 20-foot strip down Fourth street from Main to Grant Avenue and the paving of Grant Avenue from Railroad Avenue to Fourth Street with a possible inclusion of East Main seems to be the program.

Mrs. Helen Pleasants, the Roy Hoskins family and Miss Alta P. Wells of Oakland are visiting in Santa Cruz.

Miss Delight Moore arrived from San Jose this week for a visit with her sister, Miss Marian Moore.

Wilfred Bigelow leaves the first of the week for Berkeley where he will register at U.C. on the opening day, August 16th.

W.S. Baker and daughter, Miss Patty motored to Oakland Saturday. Miss Patty remained for a visit with her grandmother, Mrs. F. Preble and will enter U.C. at the beginning of the fall semester. Mr. Baker returned home Sunday evening.

Baker and son, Shirley returned home yesterday from Chester where they have been vacationing the past few weeks. Joe Raines Griffin and family expect to stay at the popular resort until school opens.

Mrs. Charles Graf has received word from her brother, Floyd B. Scott, stating that he is progressing satisfactorily and will be able to don his Pittsburgh Pirate uniform within the near future. Scott was injured recently when he bumped into a cement fence while racing at full speed for a long fly that developed into a home run in the New York baseball park.

80 Years Ago

August 13, 1943

Mrs. Mary Margaret Revers of Detroit, Michigan, arrived Wednesday on a surprise visit to her father, C.C. Fehl, of the Dry Goods and Variety Shop.

Mrs. L.M. Mermod, who is spending the summer in Berkeley, in company with her daughter, Mrs. Lucy Berg, is in attendance at a Missionary Bible conference at Mt. Hermon.

John Hukill in Army service in the Bay district is having a few days’ furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hukill, and brother, Frank, Jr. who is at home from Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey.

Air Cadet Bill Duncan, in basic training at Merced, had a 24hour furlough with relatives here the first of the week.

Sgt. Kenneth Thurber has written home from North Africa, from a new base that he terms the “jumping off place.” He said it was very hot and that camel trains are frequently seen.

The F.E. Johnston ranch in Berryessa valley is reported as purchased this week by A.G. Streblow, president of the Napa Basalt Rock Col, from the Associated Tidewater Oil Co. Streblow plans to go into extensive stock raising on the property, which includes 3500 acres.

you can expect from us.

You don’t have to travel far for extraordinary service. All the attributes you expect of a good neighbor – personal consideration, understanding, and consistent support

The Pleasants Fulton hunting party was one of the lucky week end parties who brought home a fine 3-point buck. The kill was made by Junior Pleasants on the Pleasants range.

Mr. and Mrs. W.I.

Miss Geraldine Bishop spent the weekend with relatives in Esparto.

File photo

People work on repairing the gazebo in Rotary Park. It was first constructed in 1994 with the volunteer help of Phil Snow, left, and Josh Nelson. Phil and Josh were helped by Augie Gonnella who did the brick work. Watch the Express for more information about the rebuilding of the gazebo.

Legislation would create permanent disaster relief program for farmers

Last Tuesday, Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla, and Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Richdale, announced the introduction of the Agricultural Emergency Relief Act to create a permanent structure at the Department of Agriculture to provide relief for farmers who lost crops due to natural disasters.

While Congress routinely provides relief for farmers impacted by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes, which can cause unnecessary delays in implementation and confusion for farmers.

“California has been ground zero for the impacts of climate change, and farmers and growers in our state and across our

country are seeing the impact of climaterelated disasters on their crops,” Thompson said. “I authored legislation to create the Emergency Relief Program to provide our agriculture community with financial relief to cover disaster-related crop losses, but as climate change continues to worsen, it’s clear that this program needs to be made permanent.

“Proud to have introduced legislation with Senators Feinstein and Padilla and Representative LaMalfa to make the Emergency Relief Program permanent and streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief that deserve.”

The Agricultural Emergency Relief Act would:

• Create a permanent structure of the USDA’s Emergency

Relief Program. The program was originally established through language in the fiscal year 2022 emergency supplemental appropriations bill and received additional appropriations in the fiscal year 2023 omnibus, but has not been formally authorized.

• Include as eligible disasters droughts, wildfires, floods, hurricanes, derechos, excessive heat, excessive moisture, winter storms and freeze events, including polar vortexes.

• Require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment.

• Allow payment calculations to be based on indemnities reported to USDA or on losses in revenue to better accommodate specialty crop growers.

County opens survey on climate plan

The Yolo County Sustainability Program seeks public input on the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) update.

In 2020, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors set the goal of meeting a carbon-negative footprint — removing more carbon from the atmosphere than the county produces — by 2030, with a focus on equity and justice.

The Climate Action and Adaptation Plan aims to be a comprehensive roadmap for what Yolo County will do to meet its green-

house-gas reduction goal and help the community be more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

“When completed, Yolo County’s CAAP will be the most ambitious in the country,” a news release said, “positioning Yolo County as a national leader in community-driven climate action and adaptation planning.”

Filling out the CAAP survey will help county officials design future programs, policies, and other recommendations for how the county can lower emissions and protect natural resources.

The survey is open

County cracks down on nut theft

Express staff

Yolo County Agricultural Commissioner Humberto Izquierdo announced Aug. 1 the opening of the nut-buying period, which will run through April 1, 2024, in accordance with the county’s nut-theft ordinance.

proof of ownership.

Under probable cause, the agricultural commissioner or any peace officer may inspect the commodity and request that proof of ownership be provided. Proof of ownership shall contain the following information:

required.

through Sept. 22. The survey is available in English, Spanish, and Russian:

• For English, go to www.YoloCounty.org/ CAAPEN.

• For Spanish, visit www.YoloCounty.org/ CAAPES.

• For Russian, the address is www.YoloCounty.org/CAAPRU. The results of this survey will inform a series of community roundtables to take place this fall. Meeting dates and times will be set in September. Send questions to Sustainability@YoloCounty.org. For information, visit www.YoloCAAP.org.

In 2014, the Yolo County Board of Supervisors adopted a nut-theft ordinance to assist with the issue of nuts being stolen from orchards and sold illegally. The declaration of the nut buying period, and related proof of ownership requirements, assist the Agriculture, Weights and Measures Department in enforcing the ordinance through compliance checks at places where nuts are sold.

During this period, people in possession of unprocessed nuts (almond, walnut, or pistachio) shall be required to show

• 1. Name, address, telephone number, and signature of the seller

• 2. Name, address, telephone number, and signature of the buyer

• 3. The vehicle license plate number of the seller

• 4. The driver’s license number of the seller

• 5. The weight of the nut commodity purchased

• 6. The date and time of the transaction

• 7. The variety and condition of the nut commodity

• 8. Specific identification of the source of the commodity being sold is

If the seller grew the nuts, they should provide the address where they were grown. If the seller did not grow the nuts, they should provide the name, address, and phone number of the person they got them from, along with the address where they were grown (if known).

The proof of ownership shall be retained with the nut commodity to which it pertains while the commodity is in any person’s possession.

Proof-of-ownership forms may be obtained from the Yolo County Agriculture, Weights & Measures Department, located at 70 Cottonwood St. in Woodland, or at the Yolo County Farm Bureau, located at 69 W. Kentucky Ave. in Woodland. Additionally, the proof of ownership form is available online at www.yolocounty.org/ nuttheft.

Adobe/Stock photo

California almonds from the Central Valley in Yolo County.

Express staff

Classic Car and Truck Show returns to Yolo on Aug. 26

Special to the Express

The Cruisin’ into the Next Chapter Classic Car and Truck Show, a collaboration between the Yolo County Library and the Friends of the Yolo Branch Library, is returning on Saturday, Aug. 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event will take place near the new Yolo Branch Library, 37750 Sacramento St. in Yolo.

This lively gathering welcomes all ages to a captivating and cost-free celebration, showcasing an impressive lineup of classic cars and trucks.

Experience more than just gleaming vehicles, by immersing yourself in the thrilling world of vintage culture, including a youth lowrider bike exhibition, and a fascinating display of antique fire trucks, tractors, and gas engines. Enjoy a variety of delicious food while listening to music performed by live DJ sets provided by Rockwell Sound & Lighting.

There will be free books, balloon twisting, and activities for children.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Yolo Branch Library and the Yolo County Library, the event’s proceeds will support the Yolo Branch Library, serving Yolo, Zamora, Dunnigan and the neighboring communities. This event has been made possible through the support of the Yolo Fire Protection District, Yolo Welding & Fabrication, Yolo Market, Cache Creek High School and a host of other dedicated businesses and residents.

For more event details, visit www. friendsofyololibrary. org or direct inquiries to yolocarshow@ gmail.com. For personal assistance, contact Meg Sheldon at 916-837-9171.

To stay up-to-date on the Yolo County Library, explore www.yolocounty library.org, or connect on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ yolocountylibrary. org.

Buck Ford brings country music to Dixon, Winters

Special to the Express

Buck Ford will perform on Friday at Country Night at the Dixon May Fairgrounds (655 South First St., Dixon).

Ford focuses on keeping that authentic country sound mixed in with his modern-style edginess. His influences include George Strait and Merle

Haggard. He will play Sept. 15 at the Green River Brewing and Taproom, 5513 Putah Creek Rd., Winters.

The Tony Marques Band completes the Country Night bill.

Doors open at 6 p.m. at 655 S. First St. For more information, call 707-6409326.

Learn more at www.buckford.com.

and repetition through training would create that action as a trained response.

One thing Vegas said he “realized about weapon confusion is it’s an element of human error and police officers are human.”

“We’re not saying that we can prevent weapon confusion, but we can reduce the likelihood of it,” Vegas said.

Vegas ran a 30day beta test with 12 police officers at the Richmond PD. Through the beta test, he discovered that the original design did not fit all holsters, and he was able to make an adjustment to give it a universal fit for all holsters.

With a final design that has been patented and trademarked, 100 percent support from the 12 Richmond PD officers that they would utilize the training product, and an endorsement from Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig, Vegas approached Miller about potentially rolling it out in Winters.

Miller said he was in support when Vegas told him “I’ve created a device that is designed to help us Officers reduce the likelihood of weapon confusion.”

Winters PD will begin using the device on Wednesday, Aug. 8 — which is also Vegas’ dad’s birthday. Vegas said rolling the device out on Aug. 8 is intentional to honor his dad’s life and memory.

“People carry their grief and pain — it never goes away. If you’re lucky you find a way to manage and if you’re really lucky you can turn it into some-

thing,” Vegas said. “It was a tragedy in our family and to honor him and become a police officer was one thing. After that — to have this idea of Primary Guard, that he inspired, and use it as motivation and inspiration I feel very fortunate to do that. It helps with the healing which is a long-term thing.”

Vegas said he hopes that the introduction of Primary Guard will serve as common ground for both law enforcement and certain segments of the public who have been asking for something to be done about weapon confusion in police shootings.

“It’s one thing we have control over as police officers — It’s which hand are we going to use for our taser. I want to eliminate as much risk as I can for myself,” Vegas said. “That’s what Primary Guard is looking to do. Provide just one more thing we can do to try and reduce the risk.”

Vegas plans to speak to more law enforcement agencies in Yolo County, and eventually bring the device

RIBBON Continued from Page 1

when they have opportunities to express themselves whether it musically or athletically.”

The new building

WMS

Continuado de la Página 2

puedes tener en su vida, no solo leyendo y escribiendo, sino también como individuos,” dijo Bermúdez.

A Bermúdez le gus-

“People carry their grief and pain — it never goes away. If you’re lucky you find a way to manage and if you’re really lucky you can turn it into something .... It was a tragedy in our family and to honor him and become a police officer was one thing. After that — to have this idea of Primary Guard, that he inspired, and use it as motivation and inspiration I feel very fortunate to do that. It helps with the healing which is a long-term thing.”

Joe Vegas, Winter Police Officer

back to Richmond PD. He is looking to identify agencies who are already advocating the use of the support hand. He is also looking to find an investor in the event that the device rolls out on a larger scale. Primary Guard is currently being manufactured in Nevada and distributed by Vegas.

“It can potentially save a life — why not use it. I just want to

sets behind the gymnasium locker rooms and Student Union building. It houses two classrooms which are dedicated to the WHS music program and serve as the new weight room for the athletics program.

taría fortalecer las conexiones entre WMS y las familias, así como la comunidad. Le gustaría ver una mayor participación de los padres a través de grupos y voluntariado en el campus.

También le gustaría

put it in their hand to show that it’s not about the money. It’s about saving lives,” Vegas said. A portion of the proceeds from all Primary Guard merchandise benefits the National Fallen Officer’s Fund. These efforts are dedicated to Vegas’ father. Learn more about Primary Guard and Vegas’ journey in creating it at www.the primaryguard.com.

Music teacher Michael Willians and WHS athletic director Daniel Ward were both on site at the unveiling alongside new principal Justin Young and assistant principal Dawn Strange.

conectar la escuela con la comunidad a través de eventos en el campus, además de que los estudiantes salgan y hagan cosas en la ciudad.

“En última instancia, se trata de nuestros hijos. Es cómo los ponemos en situaciones en las que pueden crecer y mejorar. Queremos prepararlos para la vida,” dijo Bermúdez.

Courtesy photo

Detective Gus Vegas, Joe Vegas’ father, was a firearm trainer and helped to inspire the foundation for the intention behind the Primary Guard’s purpose in law enforcement.

Wednesday, August 9

Winters Joint Unified School District First Day of School

Wednesdays

Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue

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, August 11

WTC Presents "Much Ado About Nothing", 7 p.m., Winters Community Center, winterstheatre.org, 530-795-4014

Saturday, August 12

WTC Presents "Much Ado About Nothing," 7 p.m., Winters Community Center, winterstheatre.org, 530-795-4014

Monday, August 14

Winters Climate Action Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check cityofwinters.org/climate-action-commission

Tuesday, August 15

CANCELED: Winters City Council Meeting

Upcoming

Monday, August 21

Winters Natural Resources Commission Meeting, 6 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), Check www.cityofwinters. org/natural-resources-commission/

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.)

Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 1-3:30 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.)

Ongoing

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

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

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 Saturday of the month, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5 p.m.), Downtown Main Street. Kiwanis Club of Winters meeting, fourth Thursdays, 6 p.m., Hooby's Brewing

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

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings:

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

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

By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief

Winters’ youngest learners have a new leader when they start school on Wednesday.

Chris Marcoux is the new principal at Waggoner Elementary School and he’s looking forward to the opportunity to help support the growth and success of students and staff.

Marcoux said he first discovered Winters when his wife worked as an instructional coach at the Winters Joint Unified School District elementary school sites a few years ago

“As soon as I walked on the Waggoner campus, it has that feeling. I knew ‘that’s a place that whenever it became an option to be the principal I would apply,” Marcoux said.

Although Marcoux began his journey in the direction of law, he said he had an epiphany while working with youth in an after school program at his local library.

The experience was the seed that projected him down a path toward teaching.

After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in sociology from San Francisco State University, he doubled back and received his elementary school teaching credential.

As an East Bay native, he gained his experience as a math teacher and an instructional coach in the Hay-

ward school district for a few years before heading to work in the Santa Rosa area. Before accepting the role in Winters, Marcoux served as the assistant principal at Foxboro Elementary School in the Travis Unified School District.

According to Marcoux, there are a few things that inspire his drive to work as an educator. A love to help children grow

and learn alongside a passion to help people come together to solve problems and grow themselves.

He said he’s looking forward to bringing his experience and knowledge on instructional practives to help teachers, families and the community work and grow together and support Winters youngest learners as they begin their educational career.

“I’ve always prided myself in learning what are the best practices to support student and teachers, and how do we help all our students and staff in an equitable way,” Marcoux said.

He said with so many new teachers starting or continuing their careers this school year, he wants to ensure they receive the experiences they need and provide them with the resources and opportunities to grow as professionals and be successful.

By Wally Pearce Winters Elder Day Council

Although Germaine Hupe may reside in Davis, her heart and soul belong to Winters — where she’s considered an icon as a proven teacher with over 29 years of proven experience and her work in supporting theater and the arts.

On Monday, Nov. 21, 1932, Germaine was born in tiny Iowa town during the Depression years. She is the oldest of eight children. Like many families during the Depression years, her parents — who were farmers — lost their farm. As a result, Germaine’s family decided to move west so her father could work in the defense industry.

Germaine said during the Depression and World War II, her family — like families where she lived — were poor but didn’t know it. Everyone felt poor because everyone was poor. She said that both her parents and grandparents were very loving and understanding people that taught her a lot. Germaine recalled that many people would come to their backdoor and ask for a meal and her mother always tried to feed them.

Growing up on the farm, Germaine had a pet goat named Billy and a pet calf named Snowball.

Germaine’s family first moved to Nevada for a year and in 1942 moved to Davis. Germaine is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of UC Davis and has a master’s degree from Claremont Graduate School.

Germaine married her loving husband Howard sometime after their blind-date. Due to Howard’s military position as an officer, he was transferred overseas to places like Europe

where both he and Germaine lived for several wonderful years with long-lasting experiences. They were happily married for 59 years before Howard passed away on July 19, 2017, following a courageous struggle against ill health.

Germaine continues to be an integral part of the fabric of Winters. The permanence of Germaine’s enduring presence in the town of Winters moves one’s passion for theater and educating high school students and much, much, more.

Germaine taught at Winters High School for more than 29 years of proven experience. Her qualities as a teacher are brilliant and she continued to thrive year after year. Decades after Germaine taught her English students, they still remember her and call out to her by name. Germaine also taught school overseas such as in the country of Iran from 1969 to 1972.

In 2018, she was

inducted into the Winters Joint Unified School District’s Hall

of Fame.

Germaine and Howard were influential in creating the Winters Theatre Company, along with Linda Glick, Shirley Rominger, and others. As a Shakespearian enthusiast in the educational arena, it only seems fitting for Germaine that she helped produce and write plays in Winters since 1980. She choreographed many creations during her 40 years with the Winters Theatre Company. She has written original plays for the WTC with a special emphasis on melodramas.

Both Germaine and Howard were recognized as Winters Citizens of the Year. Germaine continues to live passionately for the Winters community and embodies the selflessness that Winters is known for.

Considerations to buying a home with a pool

Special to the Express Purchasing a home with a pool can be an exciting prospect, offering the allure of relaxation and recreation right in your backyard. Realtors told Business Insider that inground pools have grown more popular than ever since the pandemic, especially in Silicon Valley. However, it is essential for homebuyers to be well-informed about the responsibilities, considerations and potential implications that come with owning a property with a pool.

Maintenance and upkeep

Pools require regular maintenance to ensure their safety, cleanliness and longevity. Homebuyers need to know or learn about the necessary tasks including pool cleaning, water testing, chemical balancing and equipment maintenance.

Safety regulations

Pool safety is paramount, particularly for households with

children or pets.

Homebuyers should be aware of local safety regulations and codes regarding pool barriers, fencing and safety features such as pool covers or alarms. Arming yourself with this knowledge can help avoid legal issues and provide peace of mind.

Other contributing factors to a secure pool environment are ladders and handrails that are in good condition.

Insurance and tax considerations

Homeowners insurance for properties with a pool may have

CARRION PROPERTIES

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Real Estate

John M. Carrion, Owner/Broker CA DRE #: 00970701

RECIPIENT OF THE YOLO COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS MASTERS CLUB SINCE 2012

SUPER CLEAN custom home just east of Winters on 6.5 acres. HUGE shop. A piece of paradise. Call for more info.

Offered at $1,295,000.

SMALL COTTAGE STYLE HOME on 55+/- acres of English walnuts. Great location and great soil. $1,399,000.

SUPER CLEAN & FRESHLY PAINTED. 5 bed, 3 bath home, walking distance to beautiful downtown Winters.

Low maintenance front and backyards. Seller willing to credit $10,000 toward buyer’s closing costs. Offered at $725,000. Call for details.

5.85 ACRES OF WALNUTS in between Winters and Davis off Russell Blvd. County says you can build on it!

Offered at $550,000. Call for details.

38 ACRES! Beautiful Chandler Walnut orchard. Located just outside of Winters off Putah Creek Road. Very well taken care of. Great producer, Excellent soil, solid set sprinkler system with an ag well. Would make for an awesome building site! Offered at $1,095,000. IN NATOMAS. Super clean 3 bed, bath. Offered at $560,000.

AN ABSOLUTE PIECE OF PARADISE ON 3.26 ACRES!

specific requirements and considerations. Review your insurance policy or consult an insurance agent to understand coverage options, potential increases in premiums and any additional liability protection needed.

Resale value and market appeal

While a pool can

enhance the enjoyment of a property, it can also affect the home’s resale value and market appeal. Some homebuyers consider it a valuable asset while others see it as a liability. Prevu reports that real estate experts say that homes with pools sell for 5 percent to 8 percent more than comparable homes with-

INTERESTED IN SELLING?

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS IN NORTH VACAVILLE!

6 approved lots with separate APN numbers. Final map approved project is ready to move forward. Lots located in area of million-dollar(+) homes. Seller owns 31 water rights. Call today for more details! Priced at $1,199,999.

5 ACRES ZONED INDUSTRIAL. Commercial water and PG&E at lot. Great location on Airport Road close to new housing tract and Trilogy housing tract. Call for details.

out pools. Evaluate local market trends and preferences.

Understand that the maintenance, upkeep and energy costs associated with a pool may affect the overall desirability and potential selling price of the property.

Personal lifestyle

Buying a home with a pool should align with the homeowner’s lifestyle and preferences. Reflect on how often the pool will be used, the climate of the area and the personal enjoyment of

swimming or outdoor activities. Assessing the longterm commitment to pool maintenance, potential privacy concerns and the available space for other backyard activities are other important factors in deciding whether to buy a home with a pool. Purchasing a home with a pool can provide years of enjoyment and relaxation if it aligns with a homebuyer’s lifestyle and willingness to perform the necessary maintenance.

COMING SOON: 1035 Adams Ln., Winters

Darling, 3 bed, 1 bath, one story home on a large lot with lots of fruit trees, newly landscaped and beautiful. List price $489,00. 3967 Central Ln., Winters

Country property 2.5 acres, views, 3 beds, 2 baths, solar, patios,

“Committed to building strong client relationships based on trust, respect and hard work.”

SALE PENDING

Just outside the Winters City limits. This home has it all. Tastefully remodeled great room, includes your own personal bar, and an amazing wood burning fireplace. The outdoor pool area is like a private retreat.Beautiful outdoor kitchen with all the amenities, as well as a full outdoor bathroom and shower. Oh ya, there’s more. The shop is 50X90 and has its own gym area. Plenty of room for the motor home, and or boat. Offered at $2,095,000

Sold! 5 ACRE, 3 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS with a nice horse set 3 stall barn with tack room, outdoor sand arena, fenced and cross fenced, 2/2 bath modular home along with a large shop, custom chicken coop. Home has been completely remodeled in 2017 down to the studs and and reinforcing foundation. All new heating and air, windows, kitchen, appliances, bathrooms, flooring, all eco friendly materials, lots of fruit trees. This is a rare one of a kind property!! Call for appt today!

Sold! ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS FRESHLY

SALE PENDING

IN WOODLAND. 4 bed, 2 bath. Large lot. Great location. Offered at $549,925

GREAT STARTER HOME. 3 beds, 1 bath. New flooring throughout. Close to all schools. Offered at $350,000.

2 BEDROOM 2 BATH HALFPLEX. Close to core downtown. Great court location. Good sized backyard. Offered at $445,000 Call for details!

(530) 795-3834

127 Carrion Court, Winters

Adobe/Stock photo

Purchasing a home with a pool can provide years of enjoyment and relaxation if it aligns with a homebuyer’s lifestyle and willingness to perform the necessary maintenance.

Some homebuyers consider it a valuable asset while others see it as a liability .... Evaluate local market trends and preferences.

Express Yourself

Although we are technically “out” of the pandemic, things are incredibly different. This transition and growing phase from “locked down” to “resuming life as previously run” is not going as smoothly as some of us feel it ought to.

I have heard many people say they cannot wait for things to get back to normal, yet I cannot imagine what “normal” is right now. I’ve seen youths and adults still struggling to identify the feelings they are experiencing.

I’ve seen them faced with the challenge of trying to go back to what it once was.

I believe the direction of growth is only forward. We cannot undo what we experienced, just as we can not un-feel everything that we did.

However, I feel frustrated. In working with different nonprofit organizations there still seems to be a disconnect between the agencies trying to provide a service and the folks they are trying to serve.

Besides a lack of willing volunteers, one of the biggest challenges has been communication. I thought that at this point in time, it would be easier to get the word out.

One can put up fliers around town, publish

in the newspaper, post on social media, and attempt to get a text message tree going –and yet people still complain that they didn’t know about something or hadn’t heard about an event.

In a world that has become so digitized, it is mind-blowing that communication is still an issue that we are struggling with. Getting people to “read things” is not a new challenge though. Getting beyond the headline or opening that email is a longtime struggle.

On the flip side, it’s been fascinating to hear from folks the “how” and “where” they did learn about something.

From an  Express article to the City Manager’s Friday Update to “I heard it from a

See SCRIPT, Page 4

Horoscopes

ARIES (Mar 21/Apr 20) Things that have seemingly been holding you back should be reevaluated this week, Aries. You are looking elsewhere for solutions, when all you need to do is make a few tweaks.

TAURUS (Apr 21/May 21) Taurus, spend time reflecting on things this week, as you may have some difficult decisions to make in the near future. A close confidante can serve as a sounding board.

GEMINI (May 22/Jun 21) Gemini, now is the time to identify your priorities as they pertain to the job. Do you want a career and a company that you stick with? Or, are you satisfied with being a contract worker?

CANCER (Jun 22/Jul 22 ) Prepare for some stressful times ahead, Cancer. It is nothing you cannot survive, but it could throw a wrench in your plans for the time being. Reward yourself with some extra pampering.

LEO (Jul 23/Aug 23) Leo, you may have planned on staying to yourself, in order to knock things off of your to-do list. That simply will not pan out right now. Expect to be surrounded by people.

VIRGO (Aug 24/Sept 22) Virgo, others do not seem receptive to your way of doing things this week. You cannot please everyone, so figure out who you can work with and appeal to those people to get things done.

LIBRA (Sept 23/Oct 23) Libra, you may have to take off the rose-colored glasses for a little while. Although it’s good to have a cheery outlook, a no-nonsense approach will serve you well in the days ahead.

SCORPIO (Oct 24/Nov 22) Scorpio, you could be having doubts about your role in your workplace. Maybe the work isn’t stimulating or the responsibilities too great. If change is happening, do it soon.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23/Dec 21) Sagittarius, something from your past will come back to the surface in the days to come. Maybe it is an error you made or it could be an opportunity that you thought was lost.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22/Jan 20) Think about adding more hobbies or recreational activities to your slate, Capricorn. All work and no play is not healthy for you right now. It’s time to find a greater balance in life.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21/Feb 18) Aquarius, the latest developments on the job have not been encouraging. You are tempted to cut back on your efforts, but you are worried about the implications of that.

PISCES (Feb 19/Mar 20) People who followed you in the past may now confront you with a difference of opinion, Pisces. No need to worry as a healthy dialogue could help the relationship grow.

Getting the word out remains a challenge

Getting people to “read things” is not a new challenge though. Getting beyond the headline or opening that email is a longtime struggle.

‘Back to school’ photo call out

Express staff

‘Tis the season and most families are celebrating as they send their students back to school!

Send us your “Back to School” photos and we will publish some of our favorites in an upcoming edition of the Express

We don’t just want to see students, we want to see staff celebrating

GERMAINE

Continued from Page 1

Germaine and Howard have two sons and two granddaughters — both are college graduates.

Germaine said she recalls that her greatest success is that of a teacher. Her relations with her students crossed decades after they were in her classroom. Germaine said she believes that her mother was a great influence on her. Although Germaine also believes that perfection may be an impression, her mother came very, very close to being a perfect mother. She said she didn’t have just one role model,

the return of students and families enjoying or reveling in the send off.

Send your photo(s) in an email to news@wintersexpress.com.

In the submission include a photo title, your name and contact information, and the names of who is in the photo.

Only original photos will be accepted. Photos with photo

but instead a host of role models, and they were all teachers.

Germaine’s inherent ability to successfully teach our youth and families will live for generations. Her enlightening and inspirational imprint on the lives of others is immeasurable.

Germaine offers some simple advice to our youth, “…be true to yourself and don’t let others push you around.”

She said she would like to be remembered as someone who cared for others and always looked for their best side.

See all eight 2023 Elder Day honorees at https://tinyurl.com/ bddftxvx.

INDEPENDENCE INSURANCE COMPANY

Notice! You have been sued The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days Read the information below You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal p a p e r s a r e s e r v e d o n y o u t o f i l e a w r i t t e n r e s p o n s e a t t h i s court and have a copy served on the plaintiff A letter or phone call will not protect you Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case There may be a court form that you can use for your response You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www courtinfo ca gov/selfh e l p ) y o u r c o u n ty l a w l i b r a r y o r a t th e c o u r th o u s e n e a r e s t you If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form If you do not file your response on time you may lose the case by default and your wages money and property may be taken without further warning from the court There are other legal requirements You may want to call an attorney right away If you do not know an attorney you may want to call an attorney referral service If you cannot afford an a t t o r n e y y o u m a y b e e l i g i b l e f o r f r e e l e g a l s e r v i c e s f r o m a nonprofit legal services program You can locate these nonp r o f i t g r o u p s a t t h e C a l i f o r n i a L e g a l s S e r v i c e s W e b s i t e (www lawhelpcalifornia org) the California Courts online SelfHelp Center (www courtinfo ca gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10 000 or more in a civil case The court s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case ¡ A V I S O ! L o h a n d e m a n d a d o S i n o r e s p o n d e d e n t r o d e 3 0 d í a s , l a c o r t e p u e d e d e c i d i r e n s u c o n t r a s i n e s c u c h a r s u v e r s i ó n Le a l a i n f o r m a c i ó n a c o n t i n u a c i ó n T i e n e 3 0 D Í A S D E C A L E N D A R I O d e s p u é s d e q u e l e e ntreguen esta citación y pape le s legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entreue una copia al demandante Una carta o un llamada telefónica no lo protegen Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta Puede encontrar estos formulari os de la corte y más información en el Center de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www sucorte ca gov), en la biblioteca de leges de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un forumlario de exención de pago de cuotas Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corted le podrá quitar su sueldo dinero a bienes sin más advertencia Hay otros requisitos legals Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente Si no conoce a un abogado, puede l l a m a r a u n s e r v i c i o d e r e m i s i ó n a a b o g a d o s S i n o p u e d e pagar a un abogado es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legals gratuitos de un programa de servicios legals sin fines de lucro Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services ( w w w l a w h e l p c a l i f o r n i a o r g ) e n e l C e n t r o d e A y u d a d e l a s Cortes de California (sucorte ca gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales AVISO:

Por ley la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los cost o s e x e n t o s p o r i m p o n e r u n g r a v a m e n s o b r e c u a l q u i e r recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho c i v i l T i e n e p a g a r e l g r a v a m e n d e l a c o r t e a n t e s d e q u e l a c o r t e p u e d a d e s e c h a r e l c a s o

The name and address of the court is (El nombre y dirección de la corte es):

Yolo 1000 Main Street Woodland CA 95695

The name address and telepho ne number of plaintiff's attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is (El

filters or stickers will not be published. One entry per person. The contest is open to California residents age 14 and older. Entries must be received by noon on Monday, Aug. 21, 2023.

A panel of Express editors will select the winner from all qualified entries. The chosen photographs will be printed in the paper.

MARCOUX

Continued from Page 1

However, being a parent and using that lens is a big inspiration behind what he does.

Marcoux said his son is close to the age where he will soon enter elementary school himself and he reflects back to the parental perspective to make sure he’s providing the opportunities for his students that he would want for his son.

“Waggoner is the headwaters into the school district for most families,” Marcoux said. “I always find myself thinking about him and asking ‘Is this the education-

Courtesy photo

Send us your “Back to School” photos and we will publish some of our favorites in an upcoming edition of the Express

al experience I would like him to have?’”

With the school year kicking off on Wednesday, Marvoux wants students to know there are teachers on Waggoner’s campus “who are working so hard to get ready for them to be on campus” and they will welcome them, will care for them and be thankful for the students to be there.

Marcoux said he is also looking forward to working with the community and families to create new opportunities for students.

“I am eager about how we can strengthen some of the partnerships and how to work together to

make Waggoner a better school and build partnerships in the community,” Marcoux said. “My door is alway open to have a conversation on how to make a partnership and make (Waggoner) a better palace.”

friend” … there are a multitude of ways that people are getting their information. Fliers in storefronts still remain a good way to get the word out — if they’re put up in a timely manner.

I know the position of town crier has gone to Facebook, but maybe we should invest in a real person to help spread the good word around downtown and while walking about. One can work on getting steps in while doing it — it’s a win-win.

I guess the path to pursue is to keep on, keeping on. But if there is a tried and true method that guarantees some real communication success — I’d love to hear the TED Talk on it.

Delightfully delicious Lorenzo’s deli sandwich

Did I go to Lorenzo’s Market deli for the most earth-shattering, life changing and unbelievably tasty deli sandwich on this side of the Mississippi? No, I didn’t. I barged in there because you can’t spell ‘delightful’ without D-E-L-I, and that’s exactly what my sandwich was — alongside being this month’s FLAVOR FAVE!

Tis the season to pickle

Ididn’t realize how much I took for granted growing up in an agricultural region until I moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, for college.

Even in my pre-Winters days, when I was living in South Valle jo, we had fruit trees in our back yard. There was not a lack of fresh loquats, pears, ap ples or blackber ries. But the qual ity of produce in Michigan was not the same.

I resentfully sorted through the produce at Harding’s and Meijer produce sections that featured selections of fruit and vegetables that lacked a vivid smell of fresh and were bland in taste. I ended up working as a server at a TexMex restaurant just so I would have access to avocados and tomatoes that had better flavor.

Over the course of the last two or so years, my front and back yards have turned into a small urban farm where my husband has successfully grown a flourishing amount of vegetables. We have more tomatoes, yellow squash and zucchini than I know what to do with. Our refrigerator and freezer are stocked with pasta sauce.

I have patiently been waiting for the cucumbers and beets to begin growing in unimaginable amounts. However, the slow steady two here and three here have made efforts to pickle them almost agonizing.

Luckily, I’ve been able to turn to the Winters Farmers Market to help fill in the gaps.

If you haven’t made it down to the Farmers Market on Sundays, you’re missing out. Since its launch, the selection of produce and products has only grown.

The other week we picked up some beets, carrots and cucumbers so I could get the next rotation of pickled things ready.

I made the mistake of waiting too long and we were without homemade pickles. For someone who couldn’t stand the

smell or taste of pickles as a child, I sure eat the heck out of the spicy, garlic pickles I make in our refrigerator.

I also have fond memories of jalapeño carrots from San Diego. At my first round of college at the University of LaVerne, a friend introduced me to a restaurant that served freshly made salsa and jalapeño carrots that alternated between which was the hottest. I had yet to find carrots that matched that quality until I attempted my own version at home.

There’s something to be said about crafting your own foods.

Once you get a good recipe and technique down, nothing quite matches those expectations. I guess it’s similar to homemade dishes. No one makes spam taste quite as crispy as my grandma Apilado did and my Aunt Josephina’s nopales recipe is still top notch in my opinion.

I will happily spend an evening making the perfect pickling brew, slicing jalapeño peppers, and crushing freshly grown garlic cloves knowing that within a couple of weeks, I’ll be able to sit on the couch watching a crime docuseries with a jar of something pickled to snack on.

With that said, I have jars of cucumbers, green beans, jalapeño carrots and beets marinating in concoctions inside my refrigerator.

This is my first time attempting to pickle beets and I’m not sure if they will be as satisfying in this first go. But I will learn a thing or two and make adjustments for when my garden beets are ready to harvest. At least that’s the plan.

If you have a to-diefor pickling recipe –and are willing to share – I’d love to hear all about it. And, don’t forget to head out to the Farmers Market this Sunday. Stock up on your favorite local items and try something new. You may be surprised.

I’m not sure what it is about a deli sandwich from Lorenzo’s, but they just make me look forward to them whenever I buy one. Typically, I’ll get one of these bad boys if I’m going up to spend the day at Lake Berryessa or am floating down Lake Solano because they keep well. This time around, however, I got one that’d only survive the ride home.

Like with most deli sandwiches, customization is the name of the game. I started out choosing a sourdough roll as the sando’s foundation.

Then I had some turkey slapped on there followed by a flood of mayo and mustard. Far from finished, I had the sandwich artist load it up with some lettuce, red onions, pickles, pepperoncinis, American cheese, extra avocado, cucumber, sprouts and bacon.

Sure, the ‘cado, cucumber, sprouts and bacon were extra, but — as I always like to mention — the Winters Express spares no expense when it comes to expensing my food-review meals. After I got home, I unwrapped this massive morsel, unhinged my jaw like a snake and took a hefty bite. The sourdough roll was fresh and delicious, and the rest of the sandwich was so stacked, the garnish was darn-near falling out of the sides. Luckily,

I’m a slob and just stuffed it all in my gullet while my cat watched from the side and judged me thus. Go ahead and judge me, Kit Cat — I enjoyed every delicious bite of this deli sandwich and will feel no shame.

At the end of the day, I was fat and happy with my choice. It wasn’t a five-star gourmet experience, and that’s not what I was after either. Every time I order a sando from that deli, I know I’m getting something tasty, well made and relatively inexpensive. The holy trinity for my budget-adhering when it comes to eating out. Luckily for me, the Lorenzo’s deli knows just how to tickle mine and my budget’s fancy and is why I’ve dubbed their sandos this week’s FLAVOR FAVE!

Aaron Geerts/Express photo Lorenzo’s Market’s deli sandwich was so stacked, the garnish was darn-near falling out of the sides.

Crystal Apilado

The perfect pickling brew — sliced jalapeño peppers and carrots.

Crystal Apilado/Winters Express

Since its launch, the selection of produce and products has only grown at Winters Farmers Market, held downtown on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Main Street between Railroad Avenue and Paseo Park.

AYSO offers referee training

Winters AYSO

Special to the Express Winters AYSO is working to kick off the upcoming season of youth soccer by providing a local training for refer-

those who register. Combined with a required online training, this class will provide interested individuals with everything they need to know in order to start refereeing for

cated volunteers to bring the opportunity to play soccer for local youths. For more information on the referee class, contact Eric Jepsen at 530-9029171 or send an email to eric_ jepsen@ yahoo. com.

The Painted Ladies

Gramps Says

PISANI’S ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Vanessa Gonzalez

Vanessa Gonzalez, a freshman at Winters High School, is Pisani’s Athlete of the Week. Gonzalez is on the junior varsity cheer squad and has made a great addition to the team as a flyer. Gonzalez’s coach said she is showing much dedication and potential as a flyer. “She is already executing skills that I typically don’t see until much later in an athlete’s cheering career,” said head coach Sterling Davis. In addition to participating in the WHS cheer squad Gonzalez attends an outside gym to build on her talents.

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SERVING WINTERS SINCE 1959

Even after my careful tutelage it is understandable that the correct pronunciation of our sister city in Spain, Almogía, is still in question. I am sticking with “Almoheeah” with the “g” silent as explained to me by someone who has been there.

This silent letter business reminds me of a story I recently heard:

One day, I asked my English teacher, “Why do we ignore some letters in pronunciation e.g. the letter “h” in “hour” and “honor”?

My English teacher said, “We are not ignoring them; they’re considered silent” … I was even more confused.

During the lunch break, my teacher gave me his packed lunch and asked me to heat it in the cafeteria. I ate all the food and returned his empty container … OK, for those who didn’t get a good laugh, here is the long-

to observe the silent “J” in San Jacinta and say it with strong emphasis on the “J” as if you were saying “jaw.”

Well, that’s understandable as they speak their own language down there and don’t bend the rules.

This reminds me of a story broadcast on the news a few years back.

A Texas woman asked a man wearing a turban where he was from. He responded, “I’m from Iraq,” (pronounced like “Errack”).

She responded, “Oh, you mean Iraq,” (with strong emphasis on the “I”).

Sophie Says

Well, there goes gramps again, with his fetish for the nuances of pronunciation. As

on your left for a row of cottage-style houses painted in a variety of pastel colors.

This is Winters’ counterpart to the famous “The Painted Ladies” in San Francisco. Look them up on the internet and decide which of the Painted Ladies you like best.

One of participants of the informal citizens “pocket park” Ad Hoc committee mentioned that we already have a Spanish Patio Garden in town, and it’s located down the “Back Alley” between the Buckhorn and Chuy’s Restaurant. Sure enough, directly behind Chuy’s you will find a most delightful setting, nestled beneath retractable shade with long eating tables, a large ornate fireplace, potted plants, wall murals and outdoor sofas.

It may be the only Spanish-style garden in the world with an old relic orange delivery van featured on the I love this town.

Courtesy photo

Take the paved Putah Creek Trail east from the Winters Community Center and watch on your left for a row of cottage style houses painted in a variety of pastel colors.

Adobe/Stock photo