Clovis Roundup - May 8, 2025

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B.O.O.T. PRESENTS THEIR ANNUAL

Clovis R undup

Clovis Trail Fest provides fun and entertainment

May 3, 2025 – The 9th Annual Clovis Trail Fest took place on Saturday, May 3, providing fun, entertainment, and recreation for participants. The free family event was held along the scenic Old Town and Dry Creek Trails, stretching from Third Street and Clovis Avenue all the way

to Dry Creek Park and Railroad Park.

The event had it all. Over 35+ booths and vendors supplied activities, demonstrations, free water, and snacks for everybody involved. Families of all ages were walking, including their pets, or jogging. People were either riding bikes, skateboarding, on scooters, or recumbent

bicycling. Other unique activities that took place on the trail were bird watching and photography. Including live music at Railroad Park with Gilbert & The Galaxies playing classic tunes and giving out rock and roll stories.

Clovis Police seek help of community on fatal shooting of Caleb Quick

May 6, 2025 — Following their initial press conference on Friday, May 2nd, the Clovis Police Department continues to actively investigate the homicide of Clovis teen, Caleb Quick. Quick, 18, a senior at Clovis Online School and former Buchanan High School student, was fatally shot on Wednesday night, April 23rd, in the parking lot of the McDonald’s at Willow and Nees.

In a significant development, Clovis Police Detectives served a search warrant at

Friday Night Farmers Market makes its return to Old

Town Clovis

Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup

May 6, 2025 – The air in Old Town Clovis crackled with the joyful reunion of neighbors and the promise of a vibrant season last Friday, May 2nd, as the beloved Friday Night Farmers Market burst back onto Pollasky Avenue. Forget a quiet evening –the street pulsed with the lively strumming of Country Rewind, the enticing aromas of local

eats, and the vibrant colors of fresh produce and handcrafted treasures. It wasn't just a market reopening; it was a community exhaling after a long week, ready to embrace the best of local life.

The kickoff event did not disappoint, delivering on the market's reputation as more than just a shopping destination. The air vibrated with the sounds of Country Rewind, who serenaded

Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup
A young strawberry fan grabs the perfect one while his mom grabs a few baskets for home.
Steven Sanchez @ClovisRoundup
See TRAIL FEST Pg. 6
Steven Sanchez @ClovisRoundup
See CALEB QUICK Pg.12
Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup Thousands of people flocked to the streets of Old Town Clovis to celebrate the official start to Rodeo Season in Clovis with the 87th Annual Big Hat Days.
Photo courtesy of Clovis PD The suspect caught on a surveilance camera, entering the McDonald's on Willow and Nees.

attendees with their amazing music, setting a perfect backdrop for an evening of community connection and local flavor.

Wandering through the bustling avenue, visitors encountered a diverse array of vendors showcasing the best of the Central Valley and beyond. Farmers like V Mendoza Berry Farms and Burkart Organics Farm offered tables laden with the freshest seasonal produce, a true testament to the region's agricultural richness. For those with a sweet tooth, Just Simple Ingredients tempted with their homemade pastries and brittles, while 3B Farms G-Nuts presented an irresistible selection of roasted and

candied walnuts.

Beyond the edible delights, the market featured a fascinating mix of artisan vendors. Black Sheep Soap Company offered handcrafted soaps, while The Capns Mushroom Co showcased unique fungi. Blade Buddy Mobile Knife Sharpening provided a practical service, and Hippies and Cowboys beard care offered locally made grooming products. Even your furry friends were catered to with Petropolis present.

Adding a touch of spice and flavor were vendors like Sauce Plus, offering nutritious sauces, and the smoky aromas wafting from Faith and Fire Smokehouse were simply irresistible. For those seeking unique handcrafted items, GIVE culture and The Rose Lab presented

Oklahoma and Arkansas cowboys conquer the coveted Clovis Rodeo Championship

Steven Sandage

@ClovisRoundup

April 28, 2025 — The 111th annual Clovis Rodeo, a jewel in the crown of the Central Valley's Western heritage, once again delivered thrilling competition last week! Among the many talented athletes who gathered at the historic Old Town Clovis rodeo grounds, the team roping event saw Brye Crites of Oklahoma and Tyler Worley of Arkansas rise to the top, claiming the coveted Clovis Rodeo championship title.

Under the California sunshine, with enthusiastic locals filling the stands, Crites and Worley masterfully navigated the demanding four-head average format that the Clovis Rodeo is known for. Their skill and precision were evident as they expertly handled the challenging muleys, made even more intriguing by the strategic heeling barrier. This victory at such a prestigious rodeo speaks volumes about their talent and teamwork.

For Crites and Worley, this significant win in Clovis, earning them $9,170 each, marks a major achievement in their rodeo season and provides valuable

momentum as they continue their journey. Their ability to conquer the unique challenges of the Clovis setup highlights their adaptability and expertise in the arena.

The Clovis Rodeo, a beloved tradition since 1914, continues to draw top talent from across the nation, solidifying its reputation as one of the premier rodeos in California. The five days of action, from the fast-paced barrel racing to the thrilling bull riding, offered something for every fan who came out to celebrate the Western way of life. Beyond the competition, the rodeo's long-standing commitment to supporting local charities further underscores its importance to the Clovis community.

We extend our sincere congratulations to Brye Crites and Tyler Worley on their impressive victory at the 111th Clovis Rodeo! Their success on our hometown stage is a testament to their hard work and skill, and their names will now be etched in the rich history of this celebrated event. We look forward to welcoming more top competitors to Clovis for next year's 112th Clovis Rodeo!

their distinct offerings. Even home improvement needs were addressed with Renewal by Anderson and Clovis Janitorial Outlet present.

Families with young children were delighted by the vibrant Kid Zone, which featured a giant inflatable slide that kept the little ones entertained for hours. This focus on creating a family-friendly atmosphere truly underscores the market's role as a community gathering place.

The success of the opening night clearly demonstrates the enduring appeal of the Friday Night Farmers Market, a tradition that seamlessly blends the agricultural bounty of the Central Valley with the

charming soul of Old Town Clovis. It's a place where neighbors connect, local businesses thrive, and the spirit of community flourishes.

And the fun doesn't stop there! Mark your calendars for this Friday, May 9th, because Old Town Clovis is getting ready to say, "Not Our First Rodeo!" While specific details about the theme are yet to fully unfold, you can expect another exciting evening filled with the same fantastic vendors, delicious food, and lively atmosphere, likely with a touch of Western flair. So dust off your cowboy boots and head down to Pollasky Avenue for another unforgettable Friday night in Old Town Clovis!

Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup Mid Life Crisis performs classic and contemporary hits to the delight of attendees.
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup
Two kids enjoy the inflatable slide in the Kid Zone!
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup A young reptile fan gets to meet a pet snake!
Photo courtesy of Clovis Rodeo Association

Things to know and places to go in Clovis:

An assortment of goodies were exchanged, ranging from coffee and pastries from Traveler’s Coffee. Even the dogs were well fed with treats from Desert Wolf Sweet Shop. Games were provided ranging from cornhole, giant Jenga, soccer, Plinko, and building Legos that put a small on people’s faces.

For an alternate form of exercise, Zumba and Tai Chi demos were offered. Kids got their faces painted. Prizes, raffles, and giveaways like Fresno Grizzlies tickets were given out.

Participants came out to support the Clovis Police Department, Clovis

Fire Department, and American Ambulance at their booths. The event ended just in time before it started to rain.

For Deputy General Services Director for the City of Clovis, Bethany Berube, this being her first time as an official coordinator, the event exceeded her expectations. “I oversee Recreations, Senior Center, and Transit, and this is my first year being a part of the planning for Trail Fest. This year we had a really great turnout which was exciting,” Berube told the Clovis Roundup. “Last year we had about 5,000 participants, and this year it feels like substantially more. It certainly felt like there were a lot of people on the trail today.”

She had her own favorite highlights.

“One of the exciting things that we had for recreation this year was our huge basketball blowup for everyone to come out and enjoy the basketball hoops, so that was fun. We had the dogs from (Central Valley) SPCA that were up for adoption. People always enjoy that. Seeing our Kaiser booth is a big one where people come out to get information about health care.”

People’s reactions, compliments, and joy made it all worthwhile. “I love seeing the smiling faces. I think everyone is just having such a great

time. It’s such a positive event, so it’s great to be out here and be a part of it,” said Berube. “Everyone I talked to said they really love engaging with the booths. That’s what we aim to do out here is to make each of the booths sections have some sort of engaging component for all the families, and they really love that.”

The city’s plan is to make the event even bigger next year for the 10-year anniversary. What they have in store won’t be divulged yet, but their goal is to build off another successful Trail Fest.

Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup A happy family strolls along the trails and takes in the sights.
Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup
The Clovis Botanical Garden booth was a popular stop for the 9th annual Trail Fest.
Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup
Two people sit on the bench and enjoy the lovely day outside on the trails.
Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup Travelers Coffee handing a happy trail lover a fresh cup.

See clearly, live beautifully: discover Unique Optique in Clovis

May 5, 2025 — The dynamic musical force of Dirty Cello, embodied by the talented married duo Rebecca Roudman and Jason Eckl, recently returned to Monkey Dog Coffee on May 4th for their third captivating performance. This intimate show not only reaffirmed their deep connection with the unique Clovis venue but also spotlighted Rebecca Roudman's exceptional vocal abilities and her seamless mastery of both the cello and the violin.

The story of Dirty Cello's special relationship with Monkey Dog Coffee began last summer, as Jason Eckl vividly recounted.

When an outdoor concert was unexpectedly canceled due to the intense Clovis heat, the coffee shop graciously opened its doors, forging a bond of local support that continues to bring the band back. This recent performance as a duo in the cozy setting felt like a heartfelt reunion.

Jason Eckl's engaging storytelling provided a personal and often humorous backdrop to the evening's music, sharing tales from their far-flung adventures, including surreal gigs for wealthy patrons. These anecdotes set the stage for the duo's genre-bending performance, which was elevated by Rebecca Roudman's powerful and emotive vocals. Her voice soared through the intimate space, adding a rich new dimension to their already captivating sound.

Beyond her impressive vocals, Rebecca also showcased her remarkable instrumental versatility. She effortlessly transitioned between the deep, resonant tones of her cello and the bright, expressive melodies of her violin, often switching between the instruments with fluid grace within the same set. This instrumental agility added incredible texture and dynamism to their performance. Their eclectic setlist featured a moving rendition of "House of the Rising Sun," which clearly resonated with the attentive audience. They also delivered a spirited "The Devil

Went Down to Georgia," prompted by a young fan's enthusiastic request, alongside their inventive original

compositions like the lively "Frisky in Frisco" and the assertive "Don't Call Me Honey." Jason's engaging stage presence and his memorable act of becoming a second set of hands to assist Rebecca during one original piece further underscored their collaborative and inventive spirit. The intimate atmosphere of Monkey Dog Coffee allowed for a direct and engaging connection with the audience, fostered by Jason's storytelling and their willingness to take requests. This performance by the core duo of Dirty Cello not only highlighted their exceptional musical talents, with Rebecca's stunning vocals and instrumental versatility at the forefront, but also celebrated the special bond they share with the Clovis community and the unique charm of Monkey Dog Coffee.

To experience the dynamic performances of Rebecca Roudman and Jason Eckl and the rest of Dirty Cello, you can find information about their upcoming shows at DirtyCello. com.

Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup Eager fans stand in line to chat with Dirty Cello and purchase some merch.
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup Jason Eckl stands on a chair to assist Rebecca Roundman in an original piece that wowed the audience.
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup Jason Eckl setting up a chair to assist Rebecca Roundman.

Healthy Breakfast Solutions for Busy Mornings

FAMILY FEATURES

Hustling to get out the door for a busy day may tempt you to skip breakfast but taking a few extra minutes to nourish your body helps ensure you can keep up with the day’s demands. Breakfast is your chance to jumpstart your body. Eating breakfast offers multiple benefits, including providing energy to fuel your day and increasing your ability to focus and make decisions.

A breakfast rich in protein is also important to keep you fuller longer. Eggs may be a frequent option, yet dairy foods can be a good, protein-rich alternative.

If you’re cutting calories, an option like Milk50 contains only 50 calories per serving but the same amount of protein as other dairy milks – 9 grams per serving – along with calcium and vitamin D. This first-of-its-kind product also contains 75% less sugar than skim milk, is lactosefree and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or colors.

A return-to-dairy trend is gaining momentum, with 58% of U.S. adults welcoming dairy back to their diets after being disappointed with the price, taste and heavy processing of plant-based beverages, according to a national survey commissioned by Dairy Farmers of America. Incorporating these real dairy favorites in your morning recipes can be a cinch.

Start your morning with a nutritious and delicious shake like this Vanilla Coffee Protein Shake, which combines cold brew coffee and frozen bananas for a refreshing treat. Or, if you’re craving something a little heartier, mix up a batch of Chai Oatmeal Energy Bites over the weekend or in the evening so you can grab one or two on the go.

Find more breakfast inspiration at milk50.com.

a residence in Fresno on Tuesday morning, May 6th, in connection with the case. During the execution of the warrant, a white Tesla was discovered parked in the garage and subsequently towed for evidence. Authorities had previously identified a white, 2024 or newer Model 3 Tesla as the vehicle that picked up the masked suspect after the shooting.

While no arrests have been made at this time, the investigation remains ongoing. The Clovis Police Department expressed their gratitude to the community for the numerous tips received and continue to encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Reflecting the seriousness of the crime and the community's desire for justice, the reward for information leading to the arrest of the homicide suspect has doubled once again, now standing at $40,000. This increased reward is made possible through the

continued generosity of Valley Crime Stoppers and multiple anonymous donors within the community. As previously reported, law enforcement described the suspect as a light-skinned Hispanic or white male, between 5’10” and 6’0” tall. The suspect was seen wearing an all-black hoodie covering his head, a mask, and carrying a handgun. Police believe the shooting was a “targeted, pre-planned act of violence” after the suspect lingered inside the McDonald’s for approximately 13 minutes, observing Quick, before the fatal shooting in the parking lot before 9 p.m.

Chief Curt Fleming emphasized the department's commitment to the case, stating, “Our number one goal is to keep our community safe... This is the sole thing we’re working on right now. Everything else has taken a back seat and this is our focus.” The Clovis PD is collaborating with Fresno PD, the Sheriff’s Department, the MAGEC Unit, and Madera County in

their efforts.

Valley Crime Stoppers representatives, including president Dale Mendoza and executive director Erica Mataram, reiterated the shocking nature of the crime and the urgency to find the perpetrator.

Anyone with information regarding this homicide or the identity of a suspect is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. Tips can be reported anonymously by

calling Valley Crimestoppers at (559) 498-STOP or by texting "Valley" to 738477. Information can also be provided directly to the Clovis Police Department by calling their Tipline at (559) 324-2459, their non-emergency line at (559) 324-2800, or by sending them a message on social media. The Clovis Police Department assures the community that they will continue to provide updates as confirmed information becomes available.

CROSSWORD

Photo courtesy of Clovis PD
“Through video surveillance we were able to confirm the suspect was picked up in a neighborhood west of Willow by a Tesla that was driven by an unknown driver. It was a 2024 or newer model, a white Model 3,” said police chief Curt Fleming.
Photo courtesy of Caleb Quick GoFundMe
Photo courtesy of Clovis PD The suspect caught on surveilance camera n the McDonalds on Willow and Nees.

Clovis

Happenings

HAVE

May

is Mental Health Awareness Month

Friday, May 9

FRIDAY NIGHT

FARMERS MARKET

Old Town Clovis

Pollasky between 3rd and 7th St.

Music: Rockaholics

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Friday, May 9

BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK

Clovis Veterans Memorial Park 901 5th St.

Music: Apple Fritter Gang 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 10

JEFFERSON 14TH ANNUAL CAR SHOW

Jefferson Elementary School 1880 Fowler Ave. 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11

OLD TOWN FLEA MARKET

Clovis Rodeo Grounds Clovis, CA

Saturday Early Bird:

8 a.m.- 10 a.m.

Saturday General Admin.: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday General Admin.: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Tuesday, May 13 “LET’S TALK CLOVIS” Jesse Mendoza, owner Salsa‘s Cantina & The Local

Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St.

Thursday, May 15

ANNUAL MAYOR’S BREAKFAST 2025

Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St. 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Friday, May 16

FRIDAY NIGHT

FARMERS MARKET

Old Town Clovis Pollasky between 3rd and 7th St.

Music: John Pemberton 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Friday, May 16

BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Clovis Veterans Memorial

Park

901 5th St.

Music: Sycamore Bend

6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 14 thru Sunday, May 18

OLD TOWN MOTORAMA

2025 Hot Rod Coalition

Saturday, May 17

All Day: Old Town Clovis Car Show

Saturday, May 17

2nd ANNUAL WALK & ROLL FOR EDS AWARENESS

32 Alamos Ave. 9 a.m.

Saturday, May 17

CLOVIS FIRE DEPARTMENT FIRE STATION 2

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY & OPEN HOUSE

2300 Minnewawa Ave.

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sunday, May 18

ARMED FORCES DAY AND 250TH BIRTHDAY OF THE US ARMY

Clovis Veterans

Memorial District

808 4th St.

1 p.m.

PLACES TO VISIT

CALIFORNIA 9/11 MEMORIAL

3485 Never Forget Ln., Clovis, CA

Open 365 days a year

COMMUNITY HERITAGE CENTER

3rd and Veterans Parkway

OPEN Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

CLOVIS MUSEUM

4th & Pollasky, Clovis, CA

Open Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CLOVIS FARMERS’ MARKETS

OLD TOWN CLOVIS FARMERS MARKET

Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA

Every Saturday Year-Round 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (weather permitting)

MARKET AT THE PARC

Food Trucks and Farmers Market

Clovis Regional Medical Center Temperance & Herndon Every Monday Year-Round 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

CLOVIS VETERANS MEMORIAL DISTRICT

808 Fourth Street

Open Monday thru Friday 9 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Clovis Veterans Memorial District hosts the 9th Annual Salute to Patriots

May 7, 2025 – The Clovis Veterans Memorial District hosted the 9 th Annual Salute to Patriots Dinner on Tuesday, May 7, for the purpose of celebrating Clovis Unified high school students who’ve chosen to serve their country in all branches of the military. The invitation only eventwelcomed around 21 recruits and their families to honor their oath to answer the call to duty while introducing the families into a support network provided by CVMD. Salad, bread, dessert, beverages, and grazed beef with mashed potatoes and gravy with vegetables were served by Classic Catering. The AUSA Sounds of Freedom Band provided the music. There were 40 retired veterans and 40 active duty members in attendance.

The dinner was hosted by Lorenzo Rios, CEO of the CVMD and the Civilian Aid to the Secretary of the Army. CVMD Board of Directors Don Watnick, August Flach, Heather Frantzich, and Pat Ruth were also present.

An invocation took place that was followed by the Presentation of the Colors from the Civil Air Patrol.

Buchanan High School junior, Haleigh Anderson, performed a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem. The Mayor of Clovis, Vong Mouanoutoua, led the crowd with the Pledge of Allegiance. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Tom Wright, gave opening remarks. Jose Molina, Service to the Armed Forces

Manager of the American Red Cross of Central California, talked about ways for those that will be serving to stay connected with their families. Dr. Marc Hammack, Associate Superintendent of School Leadership of CUSD, commented about the program and its ongoing priority to spotlight the sacrifice made by the local men and women who’ll be in uniform.

All the students were recognized by shaking hands with local dignitaries and then stood on stage with a representative from each of their branch of service while being welcomed by veterans from those branches. Major Daniel Harrison (Army), Major Kao M. Saeturn (Marines), Captain Timothy Walsh (Navy), and Lieutenant Colonel Rory Klepper (Air Force) each gave testimonials about their stories and what serving in the military has meant to them.

Each recruit was given a bag with certificates from Senator Shannon Grove, Fresno County Board of Supervisors, Clovis City Council, Assemblymember David Tangipa, Congressman Vince Fong, Fresno City Council, and the CVMD. Even though they couldn’t be there, Master Sergeant Evelyn Hernandez (Space Force) and Chief Darryl McDonald (Coast Guard) gave video testimonials on what serving in their branch is like and what it can do for those that join.

They were several fun and poignant highlights throughout the evening. The Blue Star Moms who have childern serving in the military were given a special

shout out. The Marine Corps did pushups on stage with Rios participating. Military chants were shouted variously throughout the night.

A male student going into the Marines, it was his birthday, and he joined Harrison, Saeturn, Walsh, and Klepper on stage to sing all the service songs. People in the crowd sang along with a few of them standing up with pride. Afterward everybody sang Happy Birthday to the recruit while he did birthday pushups with other Marines jumping on stage to join him.

After Wright’s closing remarks, they played a “How We Tell Our Military Story” video to conclude the evening. “It was a wonderful night of fellowship and patriotism,” Rios told the Clovis

Roundup.

The event showed why Clovis has a reputation for being a patriotic town and proudly producing a pipeline to the military. “I’m proud of a community that inspires the next generation to be the very best and to serve something bigger than themselves. And where the military is that call I’m really proud to see so many of our youth taking up that challenge,” said Rios, who’s also a veteran with 23 years of service in the Marines and the Army. Rios’ personal message to those going into service: “I challenge them to be their very best. God blessed them with talent... Put all their faith in God and realize that they were put on this earth to do a great thing.”

Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup
Lorenzo Rios (far left), standing with a group of future Army cadets, with Army Major Daniel Harrison (far right).

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