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Volume 143, Number 31 — Locally-owned since 1884
The hometown paper of Teri Murphy
Winters, Yolo County, California, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Community input shapes school City council advances hexavalent chromium plan district facilities priorities By Sonora Slater Express staff writer
EXPRESS
At its Sept. 1 meeting, the City Council approved the next step in the city’s hexavalent chromium compliance plan. The state of California implemented more stringent water supply standards in 2024, setting a limit of 10 parts per billion (ppb) for hexavalent chromium. The deadline for cities the size of Winters to comply is October 2027. Two of the city’s wells already meet the standard, but on their own, they won’t be enough to supply the growing city with sufficient water as projects such as the Farmstead Development continue. In response, the city is working to integrate hexavalent chromium treatment at Well 8, which is currently being equipped as a new well to serve the city. The city now has a detailed plan for which treatment method to implement — strong-base anion ion exchange — and the council’s approval at the Sept. 1 meeting allows the city to move forward with professional engineering design. These documents will likely be needed for the city to apply for grants to help pay for the well treatment, which is currently estimated to cost between $12 million and $21 million. City Manager Jeremy Craig said that the city is currently working to secure funding from the State Water Board and is hopeful for its chances, wanting to be “an example
for how to do this effectively and without hugely financially impacting the city,” but absent outside funding, the final cost for compliance will have to be borne by the city’s water customers. Mayor Albert Vallecillo expressed gratitude that city staff have moved the plan forward so quickly, pointing out that with so many cities in California racing to meet the same deadline simultaneously, there will likely be price-inflating competition for equipment, contractors and state funding — something Winters has hopefully gotten out ahead of. “I think we’re wise to be moving forward at this pace,” Council member Jesse Loren agreed.
Other discussion The council also approved a resolution to form an endowment fund at the Yolo Community Foundation to administer and manage funds from the Richard R. Laguens Living Trust, which is intended to benefit the Winters Community Swim Program for years to come. Laguens taught thousands of children to swim during his lifetime, and although he no longer lived in Winters at the time of his passing, he chose to donate $300,000 to the swim program. The funds will be kept in an interest-bearing investment managed by the Sacramento Regional Community Foundation, with the earnings continuing to fund the program for years to come. The estimated annual percentage available to support the program is 4 percent, or approximately $10,000-$12,000
annually, depending on returns. The council also approved a plaque in Laguens’ honor at the pool, along with the resolution. Once established, others will be able to contribute to the endowment if they wish. The city next agreed to take on annual maintenance of the wetland preserve associated with the Highlands subdivision project. The developer tried and failed to find a nonprofit willing to steward the site, which includes a vernal pool, so the city will take on the responsibility instead in exchange for a one-time $1.1 million payment from the developer to offset costs. The city has already been maintaining the land during the search for a steward, a relatively lowcost task that mainly involves weed abatement once a year. “I wish they found a nonprofit, but this is a good solution,” Mayor Pro Tem Bill Biasi said. Council member Carol Scianna suggested the city add some native, drought-resistant vegetation to the largely empty space. During his report, Craig noted that the new e-conveyance ordinance has officially gone into effect and pointed the community toward an active transportation survey currently available on the city website. The survey will be used to inform an active transportation grant application the city is preparing. It is available in both English and Spanish and will remain open until Sept. 16. The survey is available at www.cityofwinters. org/m/newsflash/ home/detail/196.
Index Features ........................ B-1
We at he r Date
Rain
High
Low
Sept. 2
.00
81˚
58˚
Sept. 3
.00
81˚
61˚
Sept. 4 TRACE
75˚
56˚
Sept. 5
.00
82˚
49˚
Eventos hispanos ....... A-4
Sept. 6
.00
86˚
58˚
Sept. 7
.00
88˚
53˚
Opinion ......................... B-1
Sept. 8
.00
90˚
55˚
Real Estate ................... A-6
Rain for week: TRACE Season’s total: TRACE Last sn. to date: 0.01 in.
Classifieds ................... B-4 Community .................. A-2
Sports ........................... B-5
Winters rainfall season began 7/1/26. Weather readings are taken at 9 a.m. daily by local weatherman Joe Bristow.
By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent Community members have weighed in on what they see as the most important facility needs across Winters Joint Unified School District school sites, with safety, modernization, Waggoner Elementary’s future MPR and kitchen, and student experience emerging as key themes. The feedback came through three community workshops held over the past month as the school district works to update its Facilities Master Plan. Ashley Del Rio, program manager with Van Pelt Construction Services, present-
ed the results to the Board of Trustees at its Sept. 3 meeting. Originally completed in 2023, the Facilities Master Plan is intended to guide the district in prioritizing facility, physical space and infrastructure needs as funding becomes available. “The premise of the facilities master plan is not to identify individual projects, but to really identify what the needs are for the district as a whole across all our campuses,” Del Rio said. The first workshop, held Aug. 5, asked community members to review the existing master plan and identify priorities at each
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Senior Capstone Project shines light on childhood cancer Gold Out Game Friday honors childhood cancer survivors and families By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief For Winters High School senior Sean Wojan, childhood cancer is not an abstract statistic. It is part of his family’s story. Wojan’s younger sister, Blasa, was diagnosed with cancer in 2016 at just 21 months old. Wojan was in second grade and his older brother, Jordan, was in fourth grade. “We were kids ourselves, but we saw how quickly childhood cancer changed our entire family’s life,” Wojan said. During Blasa’s treatment at Sutter Children’s Hospital, she met Baylee, another young cancer patient. Baylee was just 9 months old, and the two girls spent days and weeks together on the hospital’s third floor. Both are now childhood cancer survivors. With this year marking 10 years since his sister’s diagnosis, Wojan chose childhood cancer awareness as the focus of his Senior Capstone Project. One piece of that project is Friday, Sept. 11’s Gold Out Football Game at Winters High School. The junior varsity game begins at 5 p.m., followed by varsity at 7:30 p.m.
Courtesy graphic
The graphic featured on the Gold Out Game T-shirt includes a gold childhood cancer awareness ribbon and the message “Fighting Together, Believing Together.” The community is invited to wear gold in support of childhood cancer awareness, survivors and families affected by the disease.
More than a game Wojan selected Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance as the beneficiary of his project’s T-shirt sales. The organization supports children and families affected by childhood cancer, including families facing many of the challenges his own family experienced. “I also want people to learn about the organization and the resources they provide, not just donate money,” Wojan said. “Sometimes families need support in ways people may not realize, and I want our community to know that resources are available.” The T-shirt order deadline has passed, but Wojan hopes to have QR codes
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school site. Of the 120 responses received, the top priority at Waggoner was the new MPR and kitchen building. At Shirley Rominger Intermediate School, respondents prioritized replacing the old HVAC system. At Winters Middle School, sitewide safety improvements topped the list, with Del Rio highlighting the desire to fully enclose the campus with fencing. At Winters High School, the primary focus was the AG/CTE expansion. Winters JUSD has already secured state funding for the
available at the game for community members who would still like to make a direct donation to Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance. For Wojan, however, the project is about more than raising money or wearing gold. It is an opportunity to honor his sister and Baylee, recognize other childhood cancer survivors and remember children who did not get the chance to grow up. “Behind every statistic is a real child with a name, a family, dreams, and a future they deserve,” Wojan said. He hopes the Gold Out Game will also remind families currently facing childhood cancer that they are not alone. “Most importantly, I want families affected by childhood cancer to know that they are seen, supported, and not alone,” Wojan said.
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A2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Community Collaboration comes to life at Winters Middle School By Jacob Hoffman Express correspondent During its Aug. 20 meeting, the Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees heard Education Innovation Plan updates from each of the district’s four school sites. The plans are part of the district’s broader effort to put its Graduate Profile competencies into practice, with each school identifying specific strategies and goals for improving student outcomes. Each site’s principal also spoke with the trustees about immediate goals for
the beginning of the school year and summarized the professional learning days held Aug. 4-6. At Winters Middle School, Principal Jose A. Bermudez began his presentation with a simple statement that summarized the school’s goals and approach to learning: “At Middle School, we are collaborating.” Last year, WMS staff selected collaboration from the Graduate Profile’s list of competencies as the school’s focus for both students and teachers this year.
“We selected (collaboration) for a couple of reasons, not just for our students, and we see the lack of collaboration that they have, but also as a foundation for our staff.” Bermudez noted that WMS staff like their branding, so they developed “CREW,” an acronym standing for Collaborate, Respect, Engage, and Work Together, with the hope that it will become an ingrained part of how students approach problems and think about their education going forward. “CREW is collaboration,
it’s been included in every communication that I’ve sent so far this year to staff and to families, and hopefully soon you’ll hear your students at home say, ‘Hey, today we CREWed, or we’re CREWing.’” For the 2026-27 school year, Bermudez described the goal for teachers as “100 percent of WMS teachers will design and assess at least one meaningful collaborative learning experience during each instructional unit.” For students, Bermudez said the goal is that “all students will participate in
these experiences, at least 80 percent will demonstrate Level 3 proficiency or higher on the WMS Collaboration Rubric, and positive student responses related to engagement and meaningful learning will increase.”
WMS staff gathered during the first week of August to work together to develop a working definition of what “collaboration” will mean at the school, along with the different levels of the WMS Collaboration Rubric, which is still
See MIDDLE, Page 4
WHS seeks local professionals for College & Career Fair Express staff Winters High School is looking to the local community to help students see what their futures could look like. The school will host its fifth annual College & Career Fair on Friday, Oct. 16, and organizers are inviting local businesses, organizations, public agencies, tradespeople, colleges and career professionals to spend time with students and share what they know. The College & Career Fair will take place from 11:36 a.m. to 12:36 p.m. in the WHS Quad, with booth setup beginning at 11 a.m. “We hope you can join us and be a star for our students,” said Olivia Rodriguez, WHS librarian and
one of the event organizers. The fair gives students an opportunity to visit with people working in different industries, learn about career and educational pathways, and ask questions about what comes after high school. Students will have an assignment to complete based on what they learn from the participants. Rodriguez said students have already expressed interest in meeting people who work in fields such as cosmetology, veterinary medicine and other animal-related careers. They are also interested in handson career paths, including auto mechanics and the trades. That means the fair is not limited to tradi-
tional four-year colleges or office-based careers. A local mechanic, contractor, veterinarian, cosmetologist, farmer, business owner, public employee or other professional may be exactly the person a student needs to meet. “Your experience and time can make a meaningful impact on their future,” Rodriguez said. Participants are welcome to bring information about their college, business, industry or organization, as well as information about jobs, internships, apprenticeships or volunteer opportunities if they are currently recruiting. Swag and giveaways are optional, and participants may bring a
See CAREER, Page 4
WE HAVE OPENINGS AVAILABLE NOW, CONTACT US FOR A TOUR TODAY!
Courtesy photo
Homeowners are invited to share their holiday spirit by opening their doors for the 2026 Winters Holiday Home Tour, Nov. 20-21.
Homeowners sought for Holiday Home Tour Express staff Winters Collective is preparing for its second annual Winters Holiday Home Tour Nov. 20-21 and is seeking local homeowners and businesses to participate in the community fundraiser. The local business organized its inaugural tour last year, raising $10,000 for Meals on Wheels Yolo County with the support of participating homeowners, sponsors, volunteers and community members who purchased tickets. This year’s event
will continue that community-focused effort under the theme Giving Back Across Generations, with proceeds benefiting organizations that support seniors and children in the Winters community. Specific beneficiary organizations will be announced as planning continues. Winters Collective is seeking homes to feature on this year’s tour. Organizers are looking for a mix of homes that reflect the character, creativity and charm of Winters. Homes do not need to be professionally designed or elaborately
decorated. Nominations and recommendations for homes also are welcome.
Local businesses and community partners also can support the event through sponsorships. Sponsorships help offset the costs of producing the Home Tour, allowing proceeds to support its charitable beneficiaries. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities can contact Winters Collective for more information.
Homeowners interested in having their homes featured, as well as businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities, can learn more and sign up at winterscollective.com/ pages/winters-holiday-home-tour. Tickets are available at winterscollective. com.
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Express file photo
In an effort to build self-esteem, these women meet for four weeks in 1998. From left (bottom): Caroline Souza, Susan Sanders and instructor Gloria Marion; (middle) Theresa Sackett, Cyndy Mulhem and Shirley Rominger; (top) instructor Theresa Foster and Jeannie Vaughn. The program was called WOW Speak (Women of Winters) and was offered through the city of Winters Parks and Community Services Department.
130 Years Ago
September 11, 1896 The Winters public schools will open Monday next. The same teachers will be employed as last year, with the exception of Mrs. Joseph Lamme whose place will be taken by Mrs. Minnie DeVilbiss, who will teach the first and second grades. Pupils living outside the district will be charged $10 for the school year. Judge Sims and family are home from Samuels Springs, the Mecca of Winters people. Miss Mary DeVilbiss went to San Francisco Monday to join her sister, Annie, who is visiting friends there. Mrs. E.A. Cook and child and sister, Mary, left Tuesday for a trip to Missouri, where she will visit her parents, and will be gone about two months.
95 Years Ago
September 11, 1931 Thieves continue to busy themselves in the orchard districts. Monday night 14 sacks of hulled almonds were stolen from the L. Richey hulling shed. Winters Farm Bu-
Years Ago Dispatches from the Express archives.
reau will meet at Union schoolhouse Wednesday, September 16, at 8 o’clock. Dr. W.W. Robbins of Davis will talk on the Sugar Beet Industry. Mrs. Maude McArthur and sister, Mrs. Herman Mermod, were joint hostesses at a family party held Sunday in honor of the 14th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Culton. Mr. and Mrs. Frank Judy left Wednesday in company with Elmer Poston of Elk Grove for Boise, Idaho. Jack Bigelow came up from Berkeley to spend the vacation recess with his father, R.B. Bigelow. Misses Betty Waggoner and Evelyn Niemann and Elmore Pearse, Sacramento Junior College students, were home for the holiday vacation.
80 Years Ago
September 13, 1946
H R B & ASSOCIATES INC
Bookkeeping, Payroll, Tax Preparation
Football practice, with Glenn Harper as coach, began Monday at the high school with an unusually large turnout of 38 boys. Walter D. Skinner was elected president of Winters District Chamber of Commerce at a meeting of that organization held Monday night at American Legion hall. Rod Degener presided in the absence of Mr. Skinner who is on his honeymoon. Don, Jim and Claire Rominger, Anna Reiff, Warren Johnston and Marianna Klimas attended the 4-H conclave in Davis during the weekend. Pleasants Valley School opened September 9 with a new teacher, Mrs. Louise J. Pleasants having resigned last year. Mrs. Don Callison (nee Jean Carol Hoskins) is the new teacher. Miss Josephine Rojo, who has been in Salinas the past year, is now employed at Marie’s Beauty Salon.
Picked by Charley Wallace
YESTERYEAR
Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026 — A3
Miss Betty Mae Niemann of Sacramento spent the weekend with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. C.S. Niemann. According to Mrs. W.A. Young, president, the Fortnightly club will assemble for fall and winter schedule September 24, with Rev. W.C. McCalmont, speaker.
45 Years Ago
September 10, 1981 Keri Graf left on Tuesday of last week for Santa Rosa Community College, where she will begin her sophomore year. Brad Graf will begin his first year at Santa Clara University, and his sister, Keely, will return for her last year at the University of California at Berkeley. All three are the children of Al and Kay Graf. Representing Winters in the Buddy Run held on Labor Day are Terry Amick, who helped organize the marathon, and Rudy Rodriguez and John Carbahal who participated in running the 10.6 mile loop. The Mexican community got together early Tuesday morning (at a Mañanitas party) to sing at St. Anthony’s Center for Father Mario Nunez, whose birthday fell
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Lake Berryessa water levels down Express staff The water level of Lake Berryessa decreased by 0.45 feet over the past week, resulting in a difference of 8,068 acrefeet of water storage, according to Cristian Tejeda, Operations at Solano Irrigation District. On the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 8, he reported that the lake elevation was 429.87 feet above sea level, with the water storage behind the Monticello Dam calculated at 1,365,422 acre-feet. The SID released 376 cubic feet per second into the Putah South Canal, with 25 cubic feet flowing into lower Putah Creek at the Diversion Dam. Evaporation from the lake averaged 173 acre-feet of water per day. For more information about services from the Solano Irrigation District or to view the latest updates, visit https:// www.sidwater.org.
Public Safety Report City of Winters
Fire Aug. 26: Quail Canyon Road and Pleasants Valley Road (Vacaville), Mutual aid ~Russell Street and 1st Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Railroad Avenue and Anderson Avenue, Motor vehicle accident ~Edwards Street and Haven Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Aug. 27: Plum Place and Apricot Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Aug. 28: Valley Oak Drive and Eisenhower Way, False alarm or false call (other) ~Almond Drive and Walnut Lane, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Apricot Avenue and Anderson Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Abbey Street and 4th Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~County Road 22 and Highway 16 (Woodland), Station coverage ~Columbia Way and Valley Oak Drive, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Aug. 29: E. Baker Street and East Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Campos Lane and Winters Road, Mutual aid ~Chapman Street and Alley, EMS call – excluding vehicle ac-
cident with injury ~Chapman Street and Alley, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Aug. 30: Southbound Interstate 505 and Putah Creek Road, Motor vehicle accident Aug. 31: Putah Creek Road and McNeill Lane, Mutual aid ~County Road 87 and County Road 25 (Madison), Structure fire ~Rosa Avenue and Hemenway Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury Sept. 1: Grant Avenue and Railroad Avenue, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury ~Jefferson Street, EMS call – excluding vehicle accident with injury
View the Winters Fire Activity and Call Log at https://cityofwinters. org/157/Fire.
Police Report Log
Aug. 27: 11:06 a.m., 900 block of Ireland Street, Battery on a person (misdemeanor) Aug. 28: 5:30 a.m., 100 block of Grant Avenue, Trespassing/ occupying property without consent (misdemeanor) ~7:25 p.m., 10 block of Anderson Avenue, Violation of a protective order (misdemeanor) Sept. 1: 12:42 p.m., 400 block of Anderson Avenue, Criminal threats (misdemeanor)
View the Winters Police Department Arrest and Report Logs, visit www. cityofwinters.org/289/ Report-Arrest-Log
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Award-winning American journalism. Designed in Yolo, manufactured in Solano. Notice: Unless otherwise indicated, all of the stories, articles, pictures, captions and editorials appearing in this edition are © Copyright 2024 The Winters Express, LLC, a limited liability company, all rights reserved.
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Eventos hispanos Ayuntamiento municipal aprueba tecnología de análisis forense con IA para la policía Por Sonora Slater Traducido por Carol Alfonso En su reunión del pasado 1 de Septiembre, el consejo municipal aprobó una resolución que autoriza un acuerdo de un año con Longeye Inc. para el uso de tecnología de análisis forense con inteligencia artificial (IA) por parte del Departamento de Policía de Winters, tras haber retirado inicialmente el punto del orden del día para su posterior debate. La tecnología se desarrolló en respuesta a la enorme cantidad de datos digitales con los que se encuentran los detectives, lo que dificulta, o en algunos casos, hace casi imposible, revisar y analizar de manera eficiente y efectiva todas las pruebas disponibles. Las órdenes judiciales relacionadas con redes sociales suelen generar miles de páginas de datos e imágenes para su revisión, mientras que otros delitos pueden producir cientos de horas de grabaciones de cámaras corporales, así como vídeos de timbres y de negocios. Actualmente, el Departamento de Policía de Winters cuenta con un solo sargento administrativo/ detective, y no hay planes
FAIR Continued from Page 2 pop-up canopy if they have one. The school is also offering two 20minute Career & College Mini-Sessions before the fair. The sessions provide an opportunity for students to hear more in-depth information about a particular career, profession, industry or college before visiting the booths. The first session will run from 10:22 to 10:42 a.m., followed by the second from 10:49 to 11:09 a.m. Presenters are asked to speak for approximately 15 minutes, followed by student questions. A formal presentation is not required; participants can simply talk with students about their profes-
de cambiar esta situación en un futuro próximo. El jefe de policía de Winters, John P. Miller, afirmó que la tecnología permitirá al departamento reabrir casos sin resolver, como un homicidio del 2009 y un caso de persona desaparecida desde el 1984, y potencialmente encontrar nuevas pistas. También puede utilizarse para la traducción de grabaciones de audio o transcripciones y, al igual que la aplicación Grammarly, para ayudar a los agentes a redactar y editar informes. El concejal Richard Casavecchia expresó su preocupación por la reciente creación de la empresa, lanzada el otoño pasado, y señaló los problemas comunes de otros sistemas de IA populares, como ChatGPT y Claude. “No creo que hayan resuelto los problemas de contexto y de atribución de significado donde no corresponde,” afirmó Casavecchia.”Y no estoy dispuesto a arriesgarme a que se equivoque o tenga ideas erróneas, así que no estoy seguro de que debamos confiar en la IA para algunas de las tareas más importantes que realizamos.” El ex-jefe de policía Denton Carlson, ahora emba-
sion, career pathway or college experience. Community members and businesses can participate in the fair, a mini-session or both. Those interested in participating should complete the event registration form at https://bit.ly/2026whscollegecareerfair or email Rodriguez at orodriguez@wintersjusd.org. For Winters businesses and professionals, the fair offers more than an opportunity to promote a business. It is a chance to put a real person behind a career path and help a student begin imagining possibilities they may not have considered. Sometimes, all it takes is a conversation with someone who has already taken the path.
jador de seguridad pública de Longeye, participó en la reunión por Zoom para responder preguntas. Explicó que la empresa cuenta con una solución para evitar estas “ideas erróneas” de la IA, pero no se trata simplemente de un avance tecnológico, sino de un sistema que mantiene al investigador humano como punto de verificación. “El sistema no arrojará un resultado a menos que pueda proporcionar una cita verificable y vincularla con pruebas admisibles en un tribunal,” explicó Carlson. A partir de ahí, el detective puede revisar las pruebas citadas, ver el video o escuchar el audio para confirmar la respuesta del sistema. Por ejemplo, Carlson indicó que si se le preguntara al sistema si un sospechoso prefiere los gatos o los perros, y no hubiera pruebas que lo sugirieran, el sistema admitiría que no podía citar pruebas reales del caso para dar una respuesta fiable. Por otro lado, un ejemplo del sitio web de la empresa mostraba que el sistema, por error, reprodujo un audio de una persona leyendo un pasaje de la Biblia sobre la confesión de pecados, asumiendo que se tra-
taba de una confesión. El detective escuchó el audio y descartó rápidamente el resultado tras conocer el contexto. “No se debe confiar en la IA,” afirmó Carlson. “Sobre todo en el ámbito de la justicia penal, es demasiado importante. Siempre debemos presentar pruebas para su verificación.” Casavecchia también preguntó si existen medidas de seguridad para los datos que pudieran haber sido modificados previamente para engañar a la IA, de forma similar a como los solicitantes de empleo a veces incluyen metadatos en su currículum o carta de presentación para indicar a los sistemas de IA que revisen la información que deben seleccionarla. Carlson explicó que sus sistemas utilizan entre 18 y 24 sistemas de IA diferentes dentro de Longeye para analizar los datos cargados y detectar el uso de IA o cualquier intento de engañar o falsificar registros. El sistema determina si los documentos se crearon con base en información precisa y confiable, y clasifica la evidencia según su precisión. “En cierto modo, las pruebas siempre irán un paso por detrás, pero tra-
bajamos constantemente para actualizarlas,”& afirmó Carlson. Carlson confirmó, tras la pregunta del alcalde interino Bill Biasi, que todas las actualizaciones, que son frecuentes, se incluirán a lo largo del año de vigencia del contrato. Los datos cargados por el Departamento de Policía de Winters no se utilizarán para entrenar ningún modelo de IA de terceros y están protegidos y salvaguardados a un nivel aceptable para el Departamento de Justicia de California y el CJIS. Según Carlson, los datos se almacenarán en la nube, en los servidores de la empresa en Oregón, en lugar de en los servidores locales del Departamento de Policía de Wilmington (WPD). Sin embargo, señaló que otra información policial, como las grabaciones de las cámaras corporales, también puede almacenarse legalmente en la nube siempre que se sigan los protocolos adecuados. El consejo votó 4 a 1 a favor de la resolución que autoriza el acuerdo de un año con Longeye Inc., con el voto en contra de Casavecchia debido a su preocupación por la corta trayectoria de la empresa.
MIDDLE Continued from Page XX
Courtesy photo
Winters Fire Department and Police Department members shared their experiences as first responders with students at the 2025 Winters High School College & Career Fair, answering questions and giving students an opportunity to practice CPR.
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being developed. The second day was dedicated to training with eKadence at Winters High School, a learning management system. Eight classroom teachers, the counselor, administrative team and others attended the training and will bring what they learned back to teachers who were unable to attend. Bermudez said that “it looks like right now about 90 percent of the teachers at WMS are going to pilot or have eKadence this year.” Day three focused on Project Based Learning as a driver for collaboration, with four participants attending a PBLWorks conference this year. The educators then “laid out the year” in terms of projects, with Bermudez saying, “each individual is going to have at least one PBL unit per semester.” Bermudez ended with a summary of the first day of school, noting that teachers encouraged collaboration right away by
having students participate in hands-on activities in every class.
“The enthusiasm was there, and it was a great introduction and honestly it was a great, a great way to start the school year.”
During the question portion of the meeting, Board Trustee Kristin Trott asked Bermudez about eKadence, including whether there had been any confusion among students about the new system, what kind of student and parent outreach had taken place, and what plans for the future looked like.
Bermudez acknowledged that “this year will be messy,” as most students are accustomed to using Google Classroom and Illuminate. He said parent communication had not yet been rolled out because staff members are still being trained, but noted that parent communication features are connected to the system.
“It’s an easier to use system, but it is a new system so there will have to be some time for training.”
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Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026 — A5
Arts & Entertainment A little imagination goes a long way in ‘Pigs is Pigs’ By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief The talent of a storyteller goes far beyond simply reading words on a page. Every inflection, vocal tone, facial expression and intentional movement can transform a collection of words into something that feels very much alive. If you’re ready for something a little different, make plans to head to the Winters Opera House this weekend for Winters Theatre Company’s production of “Pigs is Pigs” and Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories. Directed by Cody Svozil, a cast of six storytellers takes the stage for three staged readings of works by American humorist and author Ellis Parker Butler — and they prove that sometimes, all a good story needs is a great storyteller and an audience willing to use its imagination. I had the opportunity to experience the readers theater production during a preview performance. As a fan of story hours and reading, I can vouch that “Pigs is Pigs” is worth your attention. Butler’s work was published in more than 225 contemporary magazines during the early 1900s, and knowing when these stories were written adds an interesting layer to the experience. The production presents three of his works: “You Folks in the Audience,” “The Revolt” and “Pigs is Pigs.” Without giving away too much, I have to admit that “The Revolt” was my favorite of the three — and it had me expelling unexpected guffaws and bursts of giggles throughout the performance. The one-act play centers
SURVEY Continued from Page 1 AG/CTE project but needs to provide a $3 million district match to complete it. The second workshop focused on how existing district funding could be used, narrowing potential investments into five scenarios. The scenarios ranged from focusing primarily on community priorities or critical facility needs to major classroom modernization, major capital projects and a balanced districtwide plan. Of the 72 respondents, 29.2 percent selected the fifth scenario, a balanced plan incorporating priorities from the other
Two Winters Art & Wine Strolls remain Special to the Express
Ghiewen Malayo/Courtesy photo
The cast of Winters Theatre Company’s “Pigs is Pigs” and Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories poses with guinea pigs during a preview performance. The production runs Sept. 11-13 at the Winters Opera House. on an Academy for Young Ladies, where students are being taught to become courteous and proper wives for their future husbands. Unbeknownst to the headmistress, her latest professor is a militant suffragette with a very different agenda: dismantling the school from the inside and liberating its young students from the stronghold of one of the area’s last old-fashioned women. Cameron Toney is a master storyteller, charming the audience with well-placed quips, clever tones and intentional inflections throughout the reading. Toney sets the audience up for each moment and keeps the story moving at just the right pace. Beril Bulat as Grandma Gregg and JulieAnn Bornales as Susan Jane Jones bring a wonderfully menacing energy to the stage as the head of the school and the undercover suffragette, respectively. I also especially enjoyed the various interpretations of the students by Bulat, Bornales, Quincy Gibbs, Kevin Toole and Trevor Ray. From discussions about the proper etiquette of “ooh-oohing” with men and
four options. Del Rio said the major themes identified through the process included safety, Waggoner’s MPR, campus modernization and student experience. The district held its third and final workshop Sept. 2, the day before the Board meeting, to identify final additions and revisions to the master plan. Among the updates was a three-phase plan for Waggoner. Phase one, which includes the TK building, a new drop-off zone and parking lot, has been completed. Phase two will include the MPR project and kitchen expansion, while phase three will address replacement of the administration building.
what makes men’s work appealing and exciting to the finer points of being a proper bloodthirsty pirate, I couldn’t get enough of the performance choices. “Pigs is Pigs” offers its own brand of fun. From the debate over whether guinea pigs are pigs or domestic pets to the increasingly complicated efforts of various departments and parties to determine who should handle the claim for compensation and payment, audiences will want to keep up with every twist, sarcastic aside and hard lesson along the way. And that may be the real joy of this production: It leaves room for the audience to imagine, laugh and simply enjoy the stories unfolding on stage. Bring your imagination. Bring your sense of humor. And don’t be afraid to laugh out loud. “Pigs is Pigs” and Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories runs for one weekend only, Sept. 11-13, at the Winters Opera House. Details about the show and tickets are available for purchase at www. winterstheatre.org.
Rominger will also have athletic lighting improvements added to the plan, while future district projects will incorporate sustainable energy improvements where feasible and appropriate. Del Rio described the Facilities Master Plan as a “living document” that can be adjusted as needs are identified or change. The school district will now incorporate feedback from the final workshop into a draft of the updated plan. Del Rio said a key goal is aligning the plan with state funding requirements under Proposition 2 so that Winters JUSD can pursue available state funding. Following completion of the plan, the
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district also intends to conduct a comprehensive facilities inventory documenting when facilities were built and when they were last modernized. The updated 2026 Facilities Master Plan will return to the Board for consideration and adoption at a later date.
The Second Saturday Winters Art & Wine Stroll continues its 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 12, beginning at the Winters Museum at 1 p.m., with additional locations open from 3 to 7 p.m. It is the second-to-last stroll of the season. Guests are invited to slow down, stroll and explore while enjoying artist meetand-greets, wine and drink specials, and opportunities to purchase original artwork. Visitors can look for the “Art Stroll” signs and pick up a self-guided postcard map at any participating location to navigate the event. Participating locations include: • Winters Museum, 13 Russell St. Open 1–5 p.m. • Patio 29 Spirits Co., 723 Railroad Ave. • 2nd Chance Furnishings, 18 Main St. • Yolo 365 Artisan Market, 7 E. Main St. • Turkovich Family Wines Downtown Tasting Room, 304 Railroad Ave. • The Blue Oak, 11 Main St. • Berryessa Gap Vineyards Downtown Tasting Room, 15 Main St. • 1st Street Studio Gallery, 305 First St. Additional artwork will also be on display in the third-floor gallery at Hotel Winters, offering even more opportunities to experience local creativity. The event is free to attend. For updates, follow the event online at www.facebook. com/wintersartwinestroll.
City of Winters and Winters Community Corazón — PRESENTS —
2026
Free entertainment for the whole family. Featuring Bonanza King, Jimena La Cielito Lindo, Folklorico de Woodland, Calidanza, and Banda La Marinera. Dance band 7-10 pm
• Carnitas Plates $25 Presale or at the Door while supplies last.
LAST SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 26TH 4:00PM-10:00PM ROTARY PARK
201 RAILROAD AVENUE, WINTERS, CA 95694 For information contact www.winterscorazon.org or Jesse@winterscorazon@gmail.com
A6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Turn an outdoor patio space into a home asset Special to the Express For Western Yolo County homeowners considering a renovation, an underused backyard or patio can represent an opportunity to add functional living space without adding a room to the house. Outdoor living areas have become popular gathering spaces for residents and guests, and a well-designed space can make a home more appealing to prospective buyers. For homeowners considering putting their property on the market, improvements that enhance the usability and appearance of outdoor areas may also help a home stand out. Data from the National Association of Realtors indicates that outdoor improvements can be worthwhile investments,
with a new patio recouping as much as 95 percent of its cost at resale. Homeowners considering an outdoor renovation can look to features such as these when creating an outdoor living area:
Create a protected entertainment space An outdoor TV enclosure can protect a television from weather and debris while allowing homeowners to create a dedicated area for movie nights, sports and other gatherings. Many enclosures for televisions up to 65 inches cost less than $500, depending on the model and features. Consider sound. A large sound system may not be necessary for an outdoor space, but strategically placed speakers or a soundbar designed
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Thoughtful outdoor improvements can enhance a property’s appeal and potentially add value when it comes time to sell. for outdoor use can improve the experience. The appropriate setup will depend on whether the television is mounted on an exterior wall or placed on an outdoor TV stand.
Don’t overlook lighting Outdoor entertain-
ment areas should remain useful after sunset. Ambient lighting attached to a pergola or incorporated into a pavilion can provide illumination without overwhelming the space.
Cushioned outdoor furniture can make an entertainment area feel more like an extension of the home’s interior rather than simply a place to gather around a patio table.
Prioritize comfortable seating
Improve comfort
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A ceiling fan installed in a pavilion or a wall-mounted fan can provide airflow on warm evenings while
making the space more comfortable for residents and guests. For homeowners preparing to sell, the goal does not necessarily have to be creating the most elaborate outdoor entertainment area possible. A thoughtful renovation that improves the appearance, functionality and usability of an existing outdoor space may provide more value than simply adding expensive features. Before undertaking a major project, homeowners may want to consult with a qualified contractor about the scope and cost of improvements and with a local real estate professional about which upgrades are likely to appeal to buyers in the local market. An outdoor living area can be more than a place to watch television. With thoughtful planning, an otherwise underused portion of a property can become an attractive extension of the home’s living space.
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2373 Donner Pass Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95835
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1876 sq ft, built in 2007, listed price $589,000.00. MLS#225087212
PENDING!
1346 Elwood Street, Woodland, CA 95776
3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1370 sq ft, built in 1986.
Jean Deleonardi Real Estate Services
CAMELOT WINTERS Maria D. Rodriguez REALTOR, DRE# 02128223
Cell: (530) 574-5562
SOLD! 142 Acre Ranch
142 Acre Ranch, has been family owned for the last 85 years. Incredible panoramic views, rolling hills with majestic oaks, private and serine. Cottage home features two bedrooms, one bath, well, septic and power. Perfect for orchard, vineyard, or grazing. Fenced and ready for your dream home. Call Jean for more information at 707-684-9351.
SOLD! 953 Kennedy Drive, Winters
Fabulous Winters Ranch Home built in 2016, sprawling one story home with an extra wide lot, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, formal living room and dining room, office or den, 3 car garage with tons of storage cabinets. Great room style family room and kitchen, fantastic covered patio with ceiling fans, built-in BBQ fully landscaped with low maintenance vegetation. List price $750,000.
CLOSED ESCROW! 16546 County Road 87, Esparto CLOSED ESCROW! 925 Charity Lane, Dixon
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Two homes on 30 private acres – the main residence has a one-of-a-kind design, plus there’s a 3-bed farmhouse. Views for miles, pool, sport court, chef’s kitchen. This one you really need to see in person.
Want to take a tour? I’d love to show you around!
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Sandy Vickrey CA DRE #01018341
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Charming custom-built home in an established neighborhood! Features a lovely living room with vaulted ceiling, adjoining den, open kitchen and dining area, two downstairs bedrooms with full bath, plus an upstairs primary bedroom and private bath. Inside laundry, oversized 2-car garage, and a beautiful shaded yard complete this wonderful home. $649,900
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As a local resident of the California community, I am extremely passionate about my hometown and all that its beautiful neighborhoods have to offer. I pride myself on providing my clients with the most thorough, full service experience by creating relationships that extend beyond the sale. Appreciating the diverse culture of California is what makes my job truly rewarding, but seeing the smiles on my clients’ faces when they find the home of their dreams is what makes my job the best. Let’s find your home together.
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CARRION PROPERTIES
Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Real Estate John M. Carrion, Owner/Broker CA DRE #: 00970701
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SALE PENDING! 213 MAIN STREET, WINTERS Rare opportunity to own a charming vintage home in the heart of Winters! Features include spacious bedrooms, updated bathrooms, a sunroom, large laundry room, small basement, and a detached garage with workshop. Relax on the welcoming front porch and enjoy small-town living at its best. Don’t miss this special home! $899,000
SOLD! 416 SECOND STREET, WINTERS
RECIPIENT OF THE YOLO COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS MASTERS CLUB SINCE 2012 CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN. 3bed 2 bath single story home, with a detached garage with a rental unit above it! Super clean! Move in ready! Enjoy the hot summer days in the built in pool! Offered at $599,900. 19 ACRES OF WALNUTS with old house and a couple of out buildings. Offered at $725,000. Call for details. FOR RENT Excellent location, walking distance to downtown. 3 bed 2 bath. $2800. Call Chad for details. FOR RENT. 4 beds, 2 baths. Excellent neighborhood. $3200. Call Chad for details 530-219-7670 SPECTACULAR VIEWS! Build your dream home on this AMAZING 25 acres location just outside of Winters. Shop and horse facilities are already in place. Offered at $789,000. Call for details. 43 ACRES ALONG HIGHWAY 128. Across from Pleasure Cove resort area. Call Chad for details. Offered at $195,000.
RENTED
FOR RENT 1 bed 1 bath. Brand new. All utilities included. Offered at $2000. AMAZING one of a kind property on 1/3 of an acre. Court location, single story, and a backyard OASIS that is absolutely incredible. HUGE built in pool. NO rear neighbors. Offered at $715,000 Call for details.
SOLD
Charming custom-built bungalow in the heart of downtown Winters! This one-of-a-kind home features 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, an open living area, a loft, and a roomy deck off the primary bedroom. Close to downtown shops, dining, and community events! $498,000
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Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026 — B1
FEATURES
Building schools for tomorrow
Warriors win rivalry showdown
One sauce, two meals
OPINION, Page 4
SPORTS, Page 5
FOOD, Page 6
How many native bees can you identify? By Diana Dripps Certified California Naturalist
B Thursdays Eat Well Yolo Food Distribution, first and third Thursdays, 10 a.m. As supplies last, RISE, Inc., 417 Haven St., 530-668-0690, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food Friday, September 11 Music on Main: Eddie Davis & The Notes , 6:30 p.m., Downtown Main Street WTC Presents "Pigs is Pigs" and Other Ellis Parker Butler Stories Opening Night, 7:30 p.m., Winters Opera House (13 Main St., winterstheatre.org Saturday, September 12 Eat Well Yolo Drive – Through Food Distribution, Saturdays, 11 a.m. As supplies last, Winters High student parking lot, off Railroad Avenue, https://yolofoodbank.org/find-food Second Saturday Winters Art & Wine Stroll, 1–5 p.m., Winters Museum 3–7 p.m., Main Street/Railroad Avenue, facebook.com/wintersartwinestroll Sunday, September 13 Winters Farmers Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Main Street – downtown Winters, discoverwinters.com/farmers-market Monday, September 14 Winters Climate Action Commission Meeting, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), For details, check cityofwinters.org/182/Climate-Action-Commission Tuesday, September 15 Winters City Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Council chamber (318 First St.), Zoom Meeting info, check www.cityofwinters.org/ city-council-meetings_/ Wednesday, September 16 Winters Hispanic Advisory Committee, 6:30 p.m., City Hall Large Conference Room (Abbey Street entrance), www.cityofwinters. org/185/Hispanic-Advisory-Committee
Upcoming
Monday, September 21 Winters Community Blood Drive, 2–5:45 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Register at Vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 with code 'SMFM164'
Library Services
Winters Library Open to Public (School in Session), Winters Community Library, Mon/Wed: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., Tue/Thu: 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. , Sat: 1–5 p.m. Teen Tuesday (ages 12-18), Second Tuesdays, 2 p.m., Winters Community Library Bilingual Storytime (ages 0-5), Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m., Winters Community Library Virtual English Conversation Group, Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m., One time registration required: Contact Nancy Pacheco 530-666-8019 or nancy.pacheco@yolocounty.org Mangonada Monday (ages 6-12), fourth Monday, 3:30 p.m. Tech Thursdays, Thursdays, 2-7:30 p.m., call 530-6668005 to schedule an appointment. Bilingual sessions available upon request. Movie Matinee, Fourth Friday, 2-4 p.m., Winters Community Library All You Need is Love Romance Book Club, Second Saturday, 4 p.m., Hooby’s Brewing
ees have been getting a lot of love in recent years. With social media influencers rescuing swarms in videos that garner millions of views, signs imploring us to “save the bees” and books written about the fascinating and intricate social structure inside a beehive, all signs point to the fact that we are growing in our fascination with these little pollinators. But even with all this hype, generally, we know remarkably little about the wide range of bees doing this important work. Most readers will initially think of the honeybee when thinking of bees that need saving. So ubiquitous and beloved are honeybees, Apis mellifera, that most of us would be surprised to know that they weren’t always buzzing around our region. European honeybees were imported into North America by early European settlers in 1622 for their honey-making ability. European honeybees are special in that they are one of only a few bee species that produce honey, but they are far from the only bees doing the work of pollinating. Honeybees, in fact, aren’t able to pollinate many of our native plants or some of our most important cultivated plants, most notably in our region, tomatoes. Tomatoes rely upon wind pollination and the “buzz pollination” of native bumblebees and carpenter bees, a process that involves quickly contracting their wing muscles to create vibrations that release pollen inaccessible to other insects. If you love tomatoes, blueberries, peppers and eggplant, among other foods, you have a native pollinator to thank! Scientists estimate that there are 4,000 species of native bees in North America and more than 1,600 species in California. In my home county of Yolo alone, there are more than 330 species! Even after learning this, I can still only recognize a handful. For the amount of work these tiny creatures do for our survival as humans, how do we not know more about them? Bees are fascinating in their diversity and adaptability, and they are entertaining in their bumbly antics. There are bees the size of an ant (Perdita minima) and bees the size of a sweet summer cherry (Xylocopa sonorina), bees that are fuzzy like tiny teddy bears (Bombus
Tuleyome Tales
Older Adult Programs
Winters Senior Foundation Chair Yoga Class for Seniors, Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall (511 W. Main St.) Cafe Yolo Social Dining, Thurdays, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.), Reservations required 24 hours in advance at 530-662-7035 or welcome@mowyolo.org Winters Senior Foundation Social Gathering, Thurdays, 12:30-3 p.m., Winters Community Center (201 Railroad Ave.)
Ongoing
View the Winters community events calendar at https://bit.ly/WintersCommunityEvents Winters Farmers Market, Sundays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Main Street – downtown Winters, discoverwinters. com/farmers-market Winters Friends of the Library meeting, first Monday, 7 p.m., Winters Community Library, Margaret Parsons Room, wfol.org Winters Fortnightly meeting, second Tuesdays (September thru May), 1 p.m., St. Anthony Parish Hall, 511 W. Main St. Rotary Club of Winters meeting, Thursdays, Noon, The Buckhorn Winters Museum public hours, Thursday thru Sunday, 1-5 p.m., 13 Russell St., historicalsocietyofwinters.org Saved & Sober program, Thursdays, 7p.m., The Rock Church West, 201 Main St. Winters Open Mic, third Saturday, 6 p.m. (sign-ups begin at 5:30 p.m.), Downtown Main Street, Visit wintersopenmic.org 12-Step Bonfire meeting, third Friday, 6:30 p.m. fellowship, 7 p.m. meeting, LuNita Ranch, 8189 Olive School Ln, Winters, Bring a camp chair. Democracy Winters meeting, third Saturdays, 10 a.m.Noon, Meeting details in newsletter, contact info@ democracywinters.org Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: Pioneer Church – Wesley Hall, 205 Russell St., (effective Aug. 1) Monday 6–7 p.m., Tuesday/Friday 7–8
Photo courtesy Tuleyome
A female Valley carpenter bee (Xylocopa sonorina), one of California’s largest native bees, is distinguished by its glossy black coloring and iridescent wings. californicus) and hairless bees that glisten in the sun (Ceratina acantha). Some have fancy stripes (Anthophora californica), and some have long, graceful antennae (Melissodes robustior). There are yellow bees, black bees, red bees, orange bees, and bees that shine with metallic, iridescent green (Agapostemon texanum) and blue (Osmia lignaria). Not only are bees incredibly diverse in their appearance, they also vary widely in behavior, habitat and temperament. There are bees that nest in small family groups and bees that nest alone, bees that cut leaves with the precision of a skilled carpenter, and bees whose mandibles are strong enough to chew through wood. There are bees that have slumber parties in the large blooms of sunflowers (Melissodes agilis) and bees that steal nectar from flowers without pollinating (Bombus occidentalis). The California longhorn cuckoo bee, Triepeolus californicus, doesn’t actually pollinate because it doesn’t need pollen to make its own nest. Instead, it lays its eggs in the nests of other bee species, an example of parasitism in bees.
pollen on their abdomens, those that get their hairs adorably covered in pollen granules, looking like a child who has just eaten a chocolate bar, while others are more refined and place their pollen in organized little pollen packages neatly set aside on their hind legs. Megachile montivaga, or the silver-tailed petal-cutter bee, primarily uses flower petals to build its nests. A species of native bee on the East Coast even uses seashells to nest in! The largest bee species in California is the Valley carpenter bee (Xylocopa sonorina), probably the most recognizable of our native bee species for its sheer size alone. They grow up to 3.2 centimeters in length, and the females are a gorgeous, glossy black with iridescent wings. The males of the species are sometimes called teddy bear bees because they are orange and fuzzy and bumble around looking for a mate. Like many of our native bees, they are solitary, though the female sometimes nests with her daughters to share the workload of tending to the younger generation. To build their nests, they chew small nests in wood,
There are bees that carry
See TULEYOME, Page 5
Express Yourself
Will this be the year we stop changing our clocks?
C
alifornians voted years ago to stop changing our clocks for daylight saving time, and now the federal government is thinking about making it a reality. The House of Representatives passed a bill to stop the practice before we are scheduled to set our clocks back one hour on Nov. 1. The United States Senate can’t decide if it is light or dark outside and hasn’t set a time to vote on anything. I’m not sure if I want that extra hour in the morning or evening, but I would hope that we stop messing with our clocks. The feeling in Washington is to leave our clocks one hour ahead, like we have now. I don’t like presidential executive orders, but if President Trump wanted to try and end daylight saving time, I might actually agree
with him, just this one time. Waiting for Congress to do anything constructive is probably just a waste of our time, but maybe California should join Arizona and Hawaii and just stop interrupting our sleeping habits. As they say, time is running out, so I’m not holding my breath. Winters City Council has passed an ordinance trying to control electric bicycles and electric motorcycles. I read the whole article in the Express, but I’m still confused about the new rules. I like my electric bicycle and I believe that it is a Class 3 e-bike, which means that it
goes up to 28 miles per hour, and I don’t have to pedal if I don’t want to. It doesn’t have a traditional throttle, but it does have a lever to hold if you want to get up to speed without pedaling. I already wear a bike helmet and have a driver’s license, so I should be good to go. The only rule that I would like to see is one where bicycle riders treat stop signs like yield signs and can just slow down as we go through an intersection with no cars coming. When I walk past the elementary school, I notice a lot of e-bikes mixed in with regular bikes in a locked,
fenced-in area. I would like to see every child riding a bike to school, but there are too many helicopter parents that won’t allow their children to get to school on their own. I don’t want to sound like an old man, but times have changed. We probably didn’t need a new bicycle ordinance; the old laws on the books should cover children on bicycles, electric or not. Word would spread fast if the Winters Police Department started ticketing everyone for not wearing a helmet, or checked for a driver’s license for faster e-bikes. The ordinance does allow for the police to hold on to the bike until an adult shows up to claim it, along with a lecture on being a better parent. Again, I’m not holding my breath. Have a good week.
B2 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
This is what award-winning care looks like. When it comes to caring for residents at Atria El Camino Gardens in Carmichael, very little can stand in Cathyren’s way. Whether she’s helping residents fill their prescriptions to every interaction, the Resident Services Supervisor treats each resident like family. With a tenure of 10 years, Cathyren leads a care team that serves 200+ residents. Her excellence in service was recently honored with a California Assisted Living Association (CALA) award, one of only five bestowed across Northern California each year. “Cathyren pours out her heart every day,” says Eleonor, the community’s Assistant Executive Director. “She speaks to residents with compassion and empathy, all while promoting their independence.” Atria’s all-inclusive amenities and robust events calendar bring residents together how to transform a place to live into a true community.
INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
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Atria Covell Gardens 530.298.0180
Atria Grass Valley 530.270.3127
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Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026 — B3
Sho Local
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Business & Service Directory You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy local and achieve it. Construction
Horoscopes ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 It may feel like you’re coming out of the dark and into the light this week, Aries. A weight has been lifted, but there is still some emotional components to work out. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, have a look at the world around you this week instead of just moving forward with your nose to the grindstone. Enjoy a night out with friends and take an active role in the evening. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, question what you hear this week, and do not take all of the information you receive at face value. You might need to read between the lines. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 This is a great week to go out and get things done, Cancer. Even if you feel a little indecisive, don’t sweat the small details. You don’t have to make any great commitments. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, action is the name of the game for you right now. You might notice a sudden burst of physical energy at some point, and that can be channeled into a walk or bike ride. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Take some of the knowledge you have picked up and processed over the past few weeks and spread it around, Virgo. It is time to put your communication skills to work. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Physical stamina is strong for you this week, Libra. Consider working out to release some of that pent-up energy. A sport or hobby can channel it as well. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Take a break from the seriousness that has taken root lately, Scorpio. You’ll find that some upbeat conversations are the way to navigate the waters this week. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 The things you say to others will have a profound effect, Sagittarius. Be mindful of the words you choose. Enjoy a physical group activity. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, your solid footing may become a bit unstable this week. Don’t fret. In fact, infuse a bit of laughter and playfulness into things. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 There is no excuse for laziness this week, Aquarius. Make sure you get out of bed each day and engage in something that gets your body and mind working. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 It is time to take action, Pisces. See how far you can take all of the tasks that are on your to-do list. You may be surprised to find that you accomplish so much.
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B4 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Express Yourself Education innovation: A clear vision, a spectacular team Winters JUSD Board of Trustees
“People beyond our community are watching what is happening in Winters, and that could not make us more proud.”
Special to the Express
A
s a new school year begins, the Winters School Board is filled with excitement, confidence and pride in the future of our district. The innovative work taking place in Winters has been three years in the making. We believe students should not have to choose between being prepared for college, a career, or life in a future that has yet to be imagined. These goals can and should happen simultaneously, so students leave our schools prepared for whatever path they choose. At a recent Board workshop, we reaffirmed our shared vision for educational innovation and our
commitment to preparing every student for the opportunities and challenges ahead. We also renewed our pledge to provide our educators and staff with the support they need to turn that vision into lasting success. That vision is being brought to life by a spectacular team. We want to first recognize our district leadership for their thoughtful work alongside the Board of Education to establish this vision, while taking the time to listen to staff and students throughout the
Letter Local taste event returns The Davis Odd Fellows Lodge is pleased to present the 12th Annual Taste of Davis and Yolo on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026 from 6 to 8 a.m. at 415 Second St. in Davis. Local restaurants, wineries and breweries will provide “tastes” of their products for you to try for $20 and tickets can be purchased at www.davislodge. org. The tastes will be from: Buckhorn Meat Co, Mercado-Davis (formerly Westgate Market), Great Bear Vineyards, Dunloe Brewing, Tommy J’s Grill, Turkovich
Wines, Curry Kabab Paradise, Hunan Bar and Chinese Restaurant, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, North African Passion, Ludy’s BBQ, Delish Pizza,
process. From there, they created the space for each school site to develop its own innovation plan, designed to advance the attributes identified in our Profile of a Graduate through age-appropriate culture, experiences and learning opportunities. Our back-to-school gathering was a wonderful reminder of one of our district’s greatest strengths: our people. The talent, dedication and commitment of our staff was evident throughout, along with a shared excitement for the year ahead. and more. This will be a great evening of delicious food, local wines, craft beers, and community spirits. Come join us, we welcome your support. CAROLE GRAY Davis ODD FellOws lODge, TasTe OF Davis anD YOlO COmmiTTee
FILED IN YOLO COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE Jesse Salinas, Yolo County Clerk/Recorder F20260703 8/24/2026 Business is located in YOLO County Fictitious Business: QUAIL POINT HUNT CLUB Physical Address: 29625 COUNTY ROAD 14, ZAMORA CA 95645 Mailing Address: PO BOX 848, KNIGHTS LANDING CA 95645 Names of Registrant(s)/Owner(s) & Physical Residential Address, State, and Zip: 1. OLIVE HILL KENNELS, 5235 LEISER RD, KNIGHTS LANDING CA 95645 CLASSIFICATION: CORPORATION Starting Date of Business: 8/13/2009 /S/ DAVID MARTIN If Corporation or LLC - Title of Officer Signing: CEO, OLIVE HILL KENNELS I hereby certify that this is a true copy of the original document on file in this office. This certification is true as long as there are no alterations to the document, AND as long as the document is sealed with a red seal. Jesse Salinas, County Clerk/Recorder, State of California, County of Yolo SEPTEMBER 9, 16, 23, 30, 2026 #91962 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on September 22, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider an Ordinance to the City of Winters Planning Commission, amending Title 8 (Health and Safety) to add Chapter 8.22 (Outdoor Lighting Standards) of the Winters Municipal Code. The ordinance is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(B)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, because adoption of the proposed ordinance amendment is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects causing a significant effect on the environment, and this project does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. At the public hearing of the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed ordinance. At any time prior to the public hearing, any person may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to amber.depaola@cityofwinters.org. The Draft Ordinance can be viewed on the City of Winters website https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings or viewed in person during normal business hours in the City Planning Department at 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings at least 24 hours before the hearing. Any challenge to the decision of this project, pursuant to Government Code 65009, may be imited to issues raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City or Winters at or prior to the public hearing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed project, please contact Amber DePaola, Contract Planner at (530) 795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at amber.depaola@cityofwinters.org. 9/9/26 #91956 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on September 22, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") City Council to consider an Ordinance to the City of Winters Planning Commission, amending Section 17.80 (Signs) to Title 17 (Zoning) of the Winters Municipal Code. The ordinance is Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(B)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines, because adoption of the proposed ordinance amendment is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects causing a significant effect on the environment, and this project does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. At the public hearing of the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed ordinance. At any time prior to the public hearing, any person may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 1 st Street, Winters, A 95694 or to amber.depaola@cityofwinters.org. The Draft Ordinance can be viewed on the City of Winters website https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings or viewed in person during normal business hours in the City Planning Department at 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings at least 24 hours before the hearing. Any challenge to the decision of this project, pursuant to Government Code 65009, may be limited to issues raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City or Winters at or prior to the public hearing. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed project, please contact Amber DePaola, Contract Planner at (530) 795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at amber.depaola@cityofwinters.org. 9/9/26 #91957
We are fortunate to have employees who care deeply about their work, about one another and, most importantly, about the students they serve. Their willingness to continue learning, growing and finding new ways to support our students is what makes the work ahead, and the innovation taking place across our schools, possible. There is growing interest in the work being done here. People beyond our community are watching what is NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to satisfy Extra Space's lien, by selling personal property belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated. 975 F St. West Sacramento, CA 95605 on 9/22/2026 @11:00am:Cristine Pope; Breannon Ramirez 3280 Jefferson Blvd. West Sacramento, CA 95691 on 9/22/2026 @11:00am: Lacy Hudspeth; Marcus Paguel 1022 Gibson Rd Woodland, CA 95695 on 9/22/2026 @11:00am: Barbara Kingston; Bonifacio Cruz 19389 County Road 102 Woodland, CA 95776 on 9/22/2026 @2:00pm: alejandro tellez; estela Perez; Alana Gibbs 1100 N 1 st St. Dixon, CA 95620 on 9/22/2026 @2:00pm: George Felton; Sarah Weeks The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. 9/9/26 CNS-4074316# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #91670
happening in Winters, and that could not make us more proud. We know this small district is rich in talent, passion, intelligence and dedication. Together, our educators, staff, students, families and community are demonstrating how today’s educational model can be thoughtfully redesigned to better prepare students for the future. NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716, Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code, Section 535 the undersigned, StorQuest Self Storage of West Sacramento 2600 Evergreen Ave., West Sacramento, CA 95691 will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Joshua Bartlett, Rachel Cade, Carl F Renard, Joanna Guerra, Michelle Dalby, Mark Perry To be sold: Misc. household goods, furniture, appliances, clothes, toys, tools, boxes & contents. Auctioneer Company: www.storagetreasures.com. The sale will end on September 24th, 2026 at 10am. Goods must be paid in CASH and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. 9/9, 9/16/26 CNS-4076124# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #91921
The work ahead is ambitious, but Winters is ready. With a clear vision, an extraordinary team and a community united behind its schools, we believe our district can become an example of what innovative, learner-centered education looks like and what is possible when a community learns and leads together. —The Winters Joint Unified School District Board of Trustees and Superintendent are writing this column to share insights on preparing students for success in college, career and life. Notice of Lien Sale Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Business and Professional Codes #2170021716, Section 2328 of the UCC of the Penal Code, Section 535 the undersigned, StorQuest Self Storage Sac/Ramco 3005 Ramco Street, West Sacramento, CA 95691, will sell at public sale by competitive bidding the personal property of: Giselle Vernon, Ania Gailey, April Godfrey, Anthony Vo. Property to be sold: Misc. household goods, furniture, appliances, clothes, toys, tools, boxes & contents. Auctioneer Company: www.storagetreasures.com. The sale will end on September 24th, 2026 at 10am. Goods must be paid in CASH at site and removed at completion of sale. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. 1490 Storquest Express West Sacramento/Ramco 3005 Ramco St., West Sacramento, CA 95691 (916) 241-8600 9/9, 9/16/26 CNS-4076852# THE WINTERS EXPRESS #91960
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE WINTERS JOINT UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT There will be a public hearing at the regular meeting of the Board on September 17, 2026, to be held at the Winters Joint Unified School District Office, 909 W. Grant Avenue, beginning at 6:00 p.m. regarding the sufficiency of textbooks for instructional materials. The Williams Act mandates that school district governing boards certify compliance with Education Code Section 60119 by holding a public hearing stating that each pupil in the district has sufficient textbooks or instructional materials in specific subjects consistent with the content and cycles of the curriculum frameworks adopted by the State Board of Education 9/9/26 #91909 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on September 22, 2026 or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider a Conditional Use Permit to allow a digital sign for the 1 st Baptist Church located at 512 1 st Street which has an Assessor’s Parcel Number of 003-154-017 pursuant to the Official Records of Yolo County, California. The proposed conditional use permit is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15311 of the (CEQA) Guidelines because it is covered by a Class 11 exemption for on premise signs which will have no cause for a significant effect on the environment, and issuance of the proposed conditional use permit has no potential for causing a significant effect on the environment given the proposed conditions to be imposed on the project. At the public hearing of the Planning Commission, the Commission shall consider all evidence and testimony for and against the proposed conditional use permit. At any time prior to the public hearing, any person may file in writing with the City a statement of his or her objections to the proposed conditional use permit. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 1 st Street, Winters, CA 95694 or to kelly.mumper@cityofwinters.org. The staff report will be available on the City’s website at https://www.cityofwinters.org/194/Meetings at least 72 hours before the hearings. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need a disability related modification or accommodation to participate in the hearing, please contact the Deputy City Clerk at (530) 7954910 at least one full business day before the start of the hearing. For more information regarding this proposed conditional use permit to allow a digital ign, please contact Amber DePaola, Contract Planner at (530)795-4233 (Ext. 114) or at amber.depaola@cityofwinters.org. 9/9/26 #91952
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO WINTERS MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 17.76 LANDSCAPING AND IRRIGATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:30 P.M. on September 22, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the City Council Chambers of the City of Winters, located at 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694, a public hearing will be held by the City of Winters ("City") Planning Commission to consider recommending to the City Council adoption of possible amendments to Chapter 17.76, Landscaping and Irrigation, of the Winters Municipal Code. The proposed ordinance is not a project within the meaning of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 15061(b)(3), of the State of California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Guidelines because the proposed ordinance is covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects causing a significant effect on the environment, and this project does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. The purpose of the public hearing will be to provide citizens an opportunity to make their comments on the proposed project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you may direct written comments to the City of Winters, Community Development Department, 318 First Street, Winters, CA 95694 to davedowswell@cityofwinters.org. In addition, the staff report will be available on the City’s website on September 17, 2026. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you are a disabled person and you need a disability-related modification or accommodation to participate in these hearings, please contact Deputy City Clerk Zorina Treat (530) 795-4910, ext. 101. Please make your request as early as possible and at least one-full business day before the start of the hearing. The City does not transcribe its hearings. If you wish to obtain a verbatim record of the proceedings, you must arrange for attendance by a court reporter or for some other means of recordation. Such arrangements will be at your sole expense. If you wish to challenge the action taken on this matter in court, the challenge may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission prior to the public hearing. Availability of Documents: Copies of the Staff Report will be available on the City’s website www.cityofwinters.org For more information regarding this project, please contact David Dowswell, Contract Planner at (530) 794-6718. 9/9/26 #91930
Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026 — B5
Sports Warriors roll past Rams in football rivalry win By Sydney Andrade Express staff writer On Friday, Sept. 4, the Winters High School varsity football team faced its biggest rival, the Dixon Rams, and came home victorious, 27-7. “Friday’s win marked the fourth straight win over Dixon, which may be the longest winning streak by either team in the two schools’ historic rivalry,” said varsity head coach Daniel Ward. Rivalry games come with added pressure and emotion, but the Warriors responded against Dixon with aggression and skill after a rough opening game the previous week against Rio Vista. “After we went down 7-6 in the second quarter, we played pretty flawlessly after
that. It was the type of football that we have been playing the last couple years,” added Ward. The Warriors’ offensive line, made up of Kaimani Mayes, Juan Gomez, Brandon Herrera, Anthony Garcia and Sean Wojan, helped lead the improved offensive performance. “I think having Sean back, who missed last week due to injury, made a huge difference in the way the offensive line performed,” added Ward. Quarterback Aidan Baylor had a bounceback game, completing 11 of 14 passes for 184 yards and a touchdown pass to EJ Cruz. Cruz also led the Warriors’ rushing attack, carrying the ball 10 times for 137 yards and three touchdowns while adding four receptions for 79 yards
KS Winters Photography/Courtesy photo
Warrior Mark Gano celebrates after recording one of his three sacks in the Warriors’ 27-7 win over Dixon on Sept. 4. He finished with nine tackles. and another touchdown. “He had one of the best offensive games the Warriors have seen in a long time. He’s not a big kid, but he sure plays big and
runs hard. He has become a true dual-threat back and is a very physical runner,” said Ward. Joe Hawkins added 67 rushing yards, while Anthony
Passantino contributed 52 yards. Carlo Bellino Roci added 23 rushing yards, and Baylor chipped in 20. The Warriors combined for 296 rushing yards. In the passing game, Anton Ogando finished with 48 receiving yards, Carson Alvarado added 38 and Passantino had 19. While the offense kept the score climbing, the defense held Dixon to seven points. Hawkins set the defensive tone with an early interception and finished with six tackles. Mark Gano led the team with nine tackles and three sacks. “After a very quiet game last week, Mark was huge for us, especially versus Dixon’s passing game,” said Ward. Anthony Garcia and Cruz each recorded eight tackles, while
Mayes added seven. The Warriors have now won four straight against Dixon and will face a new opponent this week. On Friday, Sept. 11, Winters will host Woodland Christian High School. “To my knowledge, we have never played Woodland Christian before. This is a big game not just locally, but regionally as well, and I am excited that we were finally able to make it happen. Woodland Christian has one of the strongest individual players that we will see all year, so it should be a fun challenge,” said Ward. The Warriors will look to carry the momentum from their rivalry win into Friday’s matchup with Woodland Christian. Let’s pack the stadium and cheer on the Warriors in what is sure to be a very exciting game.
Winters volleyball shows growth heading into league play By Crystal Apilado Editor-in-Chief The Winters High volleyball team showed noticeable growth on the court this week, battling back from an early deficit against Rio Vista and carrying that momentum into their next match against Live Oak. The Warriors fell to the Rio Vista Rams, 3-2, on Sept. 1, dropping the first two sets 2225 and 16-25 before rallying to win the next two, 25-21 and 2624. Rio Vista took the deciding fifth set 15-10. Two days later, Winters opened strong against the Live Oak Acorns, winning the first set 25-18. The Acorns rallied to take the next three sets,
TULEYOME Continued from Page 1 historically in rotting trees, but with habitat loss and our tendency to remove snags and dead wood from our properties, they are often found in pergolas, fence posts or other available wood, sometimes causing them to be seen as a nuisance. The smallest species of bee in the world, Perdita minima, calls California home. This tiny fairy bee grows to only slightly less than
26-24, 25-21 and 25-15, to win the match 3-1. Despite the losses, varsity head coach Jenne Myers said the Warriors' progress is becoming increasingly visible. “The Lady Warriors showed tremendous growth on the court this week,” Myers said. Against Rio Vista, that growth was particularly evident as Winters battled back after dropping the first two sets to win the next two and force a deciding fifth set. The Warriors then carried that fight into their match against Live Oak, coming out strong and taking the opening set. The team continues to adjust to new positions, rotations and defensive responsibilities, but Myers said that work is
2 millimeters in length and pollinates the tiny flowers of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). The size difference between the Valley carpenter bee and Perdita minima is a great visual for the wide range of native bees in our region. Native bees are facing huge obstacles, including habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. Agricultural uses of managed bees have also impacted native bee populations. Many of our native bees are now considered endangered,
beginning to show. “Players are moving their feet, getting to their spots and becoming more confident in their roles,” she said. “Most importantly, they continue to compete, support one another and play with heart.” With noticeable progress on the court, Myers said the Warriors are gaining confidence as they move into the league portion of their schedule. There is still work to do, but the improvement is becoming increasingly evident. Winters hosts Colusa Thursday, Sept. 10, at 6 p.m. The team will then travel to Paradise on Tuesday, Sept. 15, before returning home on Thursday, Sept. 17, to face East Nicolaus.
including four species of native bumblebees (Bombus). This makes protection of lands such as the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument very important for bee conservation. We can do a lot to protect bees in our own yards, too. One of the most rewarding parts of growing native plants in my garden is getting to observe the wide array of bees that visit. There are so many tiny, hardworking pollinators that I never noticed before, or wrote off as
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The Winters High School volleyball team heads into league play with growing confidence after showing progress through a pair of hard-fought matches.
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bees and get to enjoy watching them at the same time? All it takes is some habitat: native flowers, untilled soil, leaf cover, a space free from pesticide use, and a water source, especially on these hot summer days. Photo courtesy Tuleyome
A male Valley carpenter bee (Xylocopa sonorina), nicknamed the “teddy bear bee” for its fuzzy, orange coloring. flies, that with a closer look are all different types of bees doing the life-sustaining work of pollinating the plants around us. Want to see more native bees in your yard or in your neighborhood park? Want to “save” some native
Many of our native bees are solitary and nest either underground in mud nests, in the cavities of dead trees or in hollow stems of plants. Having a little messiness in your garden can make a big difference for native bees. Leaving leaf litter and plant stems to overwinter in your garden may look messy to us, but looks like home to our native bees. Leaving a snag in your yard
when a tree has aged can allow carpenter bees to nest somewhere other than your pergola.
Next time you are out in the garden, take a moment and look closely at the flowers. See who you can find buzzing around. Birders and Pokémon fans, I have a new game for you! How many native bees can you spot? Get excited, because there are so many neighbors that you have yet to meet.
— Diana Drips is a Certified California Naturalist. Tuleyome is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Woodland, California. For more information, go to www.tuleyome. org.
REALTY WORLD-CAMELOT WINTERS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
EJ Cruz EJ Cruz, a Winters High School senior, is the Realty World – Camelot Winters Athlete of the Week. Cruz, a team captain, has rushed for 170 yards and three touchdowns and added 143 receiving yards and two touchdowns this season. Defensively, he leads the Warriors with 21 tackles and five tackles for a loss. “He is one of the best two-way players in the state,” varsity football head coach Daniel Ward said. “EJ is Winters Football at its core. He has put in a ton of work over the last four years and it’s great to see him have so much success early on in the season.”
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B6 — Winters Express, Wednesday, September 9, 2026
The saucy secret is in the ratio
W
e meal plan in our home. With all of my children’s extracurricular activities, my evening meetings, the question of whether all five children — plus friends — will be home for dinner, and the possibility of a riveting game of Dungeons & Dragons happening, we’ve found it helpful and considerably less stressful to know what we’re having for dinner ahead of time. It’s also helped us save a little money on the weekly grocery bill, which is always a win. This week, we turned to my girls for the menu. We’re neckdeep in play rehearsals, so dinner is happening around 8 p.m. One of their requests was musubi. I was happy to oblige, because that meant it was time to whip up a fresh batch of my favorite teriyaki sauce. If you’re not familiar with musubi, think of it as a handheld snack made with a block of warm, pressed rice, a savory protein — most famously a slice of
grilled Spam — and a crisp strip of nori, or seaweed, wrapped around it. Musubi has roots in Japan’s onigiri and evolved in Hawaii, where Spam became one of its most recognizable fillings. There are now countless versions across cultures and countries. Technically a snack, but in our house, anything handheld and substantial enough to count as dinner is a meal. Our version is seasoned steamed white rice and furikaki layered with a slice of Spam marinated in teriyaki sauce, packed into a mold and wrapped in nori. I’ll happily share the full musubi recipe in another column. For now, though, let’s talk about the sauce. I have spent years trying to find a solid teriyaki sauce. Most
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of the recipes I tried were too salty, too bitter, too sugary or simply missing that balance of savory umami and sweetness I was looking for. Earlier this year, while searching for yet another method to the madness, I came across a basic recipe by Shihoko Ura on Chopstick Chronicles. She is my new MVP. Her recipe uses just four ingredients: soy sauce, sake, mirin and sugar. That’s it. Four ingredients, about 20 minutes and a saucepan. The recipe is built around a 2:2:2:1 ratio — two parts soy sauce, two parts sake, two parts mirin and one part sugar. Ura describes it as a simple ratio that can be scaled up or down, and that’s exactly what I love about it. I started experimenting. For my version, I use brown sugar instead of white. I tried regular granulated sugar, monk fruit and brown sugar, and the brown sugar won out for me. I also add sliced ginger root and a couple of smashed garlic cloves because, well, why stop at four ingredients when ginger and garlic are sitting right there? After a little more experimenting, I found that about 15 minutes over a gentle simmer gives me the consistency and flavor
THE DEVILBISS ROOM
Crystal Apilado/Winters Express
A batch of homemade teriyaki sauce can do double duty, turning one recipe into two meals. Here, the leftover sauce becomes teriyaki meatballs served over white rice. I like. The sauce reduces as it cooks, concentrating all those flavors into something that is sweet, savory, salty and deeply satisfying. And I’ve put that ratio to work. I’ve used it in larger batches for saucy teriyaki chicken, smaller batches for musubi and, most recently, teriyaki meatballs. Which brings us back to that late dinner. I used half of this batch to marinate the Spam for our musubi and drizzled a little more over the finished pieces before wrapping them in nori. Then I took whatever sauce was left in the mason jar and turned it into a second meal. For the meatballs, I put frozen meatballs in the slow cooker with about a cup of chicken broth and roughly a half to one cup of the teriyaki sauce. No measuring required — I simply poured in whatever was left after making the musubi. One batch of sauce.
Two meals. And one happily fed family. That, my friends, is my kind of meal planning.
Teriyaki sauce Ingredients 1 cup soy sauce 1 cup mirin 1 cup sake ½ cup brown sugar 1-inch piece ginger root, sliced 2-3 garlic cloves, smashed Putting it together Add all of the ingredients to a saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has reduced by about 30 percent and reached your desired consistency. Strain out the ginger and garlic. Drizzle over your meal or use as directed in your recipe. Allow the sauce to cool, if you have any left, and store it in a container. I use a small mason jar.
Local pairings Want to add a little something to the meal? Like a glass of wine? My favorite pairing
Yolo County Premier Craft Distillery
Cocktail Bar & Lounge
12 Main St. in Downtown Winters OPEN THU-SAT AT 5PM
TASTING ROOM HOURS: Friday 3-9 • Saturday 2-8 • Sunday 1-5 Tastings + Cocktails + Food 723 Railroad Ave., Winters • 530-794-6174 • www.patio29.com
UPCOMING EVENTS 10 TAP ROOM OPEN • 3pm - 8pm SEP
Multi-award winning cold craft beer made onsite can be enjoyed on our outdoor, family and dog friendly patio.
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Buckhorn BBQ Food Truck • 4pm - 8pm
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Taste of Tuscany Pizza Truck • 12pm - 6pm
SEP
Tap room open 12pm - 6pm. Multi-award winning cold craft beer made onsite can be enjoyed on our outdoor, family and dog friendly patio.
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SAN LEANDRO out of Denver, CO 3 PM - 6 PM
SEP
SEP
Tap room open 3pm - 8pm. Multi-award winning cold craft beer made onsite can be enjoyed on our outdoor, family and dog friendly patio.
Buckhorn BBQ Food Truck • 12 pm - 6 pm
2024 Brewery of the Year
27260 HIGHWAY 128, WINTERS WWW.BERRYESSABREWINGCO.COM
Hours: Thu + Fri 3pm-8pm • Sat + Sun 12pm-6pm
is Turkovich Family Wines’s Albariño. It’s crisp and refreshing, with enough acidity to cut through the soy and richness of the protein in both dishes. The fruitiness also plays nicely with the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. Basically, it keeps things from getting too heavy, which is exactly what I want from a wine with this meal. Berryessa Gap Vineyards’s Verdejo would be another good choice. Its bright acidity and fresh fruit work well with the sweet-and-savory combination of the teriyaki without competing with it. Prefer a cocktail? I know I usually do. Keeping with the theme of easy, I’d reach for Patio29 Spirits Co.’s Backyard Beach canned cocktail. There’s no mixing, measuring or digging through the liquor cabinet required. Just grab a four-pack, put one over ice and call it good. Sometimes dinner really can be this easy.
Try roasted veggies Special to the Express
If raw vegetables don’t sound all that appealing, try this recipe from Lines+ Angles. —Metro Creative
Roasted Vegetables with Pignoli Nuts Makes 4 Servings
Ingredients 2 red bell peppers, seeds removed and sliced lengthwise 2 green peppers, seeds removed and sliced horizontally 2 large stalks celery, quartered lengthwise, then horizontally 8 cloves garlic, peeled, whole 2 shallots, peeled, whole 2 portobello mushroom caps, cut into quarters 7 tablespoons olive oil Kosher salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 1/4 cup pignoli nuts Putting it together Preheat oven to 450 F. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and toss until well coated. Transfer to a sheet tray and spread vegetables into a single layer. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Transfer roasted vegetables to a serving dish, sprinkle pignoli nuts over the top and serve.