Clovis Roundup - January 5, 2023

Twenty Twenty-Two ‘In Hindsight’

Councilmember Diane Pearce brings New Perspective to City Council

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

December 16, 2022: No more than a week ago, Diane Pearce recast herself from regular citizen Diane Pearce into Councilmember Diane Pearce. How and why did she accomplish this? “I’ve always had that kind of political bug, I suppose, or at least interest on the side of information and policy.”

jt21gomez@gmail.com

During the past year that was 2022, several events occurred that helped shape the impact that different Clovis institutions had and will have for years to come.

Individuals were honored in

addition to three different elections, and a multitude of events that happened in the Clovis area.

The events that follow for each Clovis institution helped to make up what would be the year of “2022”.

City Government:

-Measure B was passed in the

November elections. Started as a recommendation from the Citizens Advisory Committee that began way back in February, Measure B looks to use a Transient Occupancy Tax to help fund up to $500,000 for Clovis PD.

-Mayor Jose Flores and Councilman

See 2022, Pg. 4

However, what is more out of the ordinary for Councilmember Pearce is the fact that she’s actually on the forefront of politics, one of the faces now, of an entire city. “In terms of actually being a candidate and putting myself out there to serve in public office, that is brand new. That is not something I had ever anticipated, although government and politics was something I was interested in for a long time.”

Something else relatively new to Councilmember Pearce is her residency in the City of Clovis, a topic that came up during her two runs for political office, one in 2022 and her previous attempt in 2020. See PEARCE, Pg. 5

Susan Frantzich honored for 38 years on CVMD Board

On December 8th the Clovis Veterans Memorial District (CVMD) Board of Directors honored Susan Frantzich’s 38 years of board membership and retirement.

On January 12th, her daughter Heather Frantzich will be sworn in as a member of the board.

“It’s definitely bittersweet,” says Heather Frantzich, on taking over her mother’s seat on the board,

Susan Frantzich says that her career on the board actually began in 1981, when Wayne Rohde stepped down, but she was sworn in officially in 1984.

“When I started, the ballroom was 2 basketball courts with pull-down bleachers, Rex was the district manager and he had one secretary

“but I’m blessed and I’m honored to continue that legacy, it really means the world to me.“

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Veterans Memorial District

Susan Frantzich being honored for her 38 years of service.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Mayor Jose Flores stands ready to cut the ribbon officially opening Fire Station 6. Fire Station 6 is the newest public safety building opened in the City of Clovis. (Left to Right; Councilman Drew Bessinger, City Manager John Holt, Mayor Pro-Tem Lynne Ashbeck, Mayor Jose Flores, Councilman Vong Mouanoutoua, Fire Chief John Binaski)

J.T. Gomez

What’s Up, Clovis?

AROUND TOWN

Photos by Ron Sundquist

New Year's Reflections and Resolutions New Year Happenings

1. Jordan and Ana — Reflections: One of our favorite things we did this year was go to an LA All Star Game. Resolutions: To travel more in 2023.

2. Joey — Reflections: I loved spending time with my family and friends and going to church. Resolutions: I want to make a difference with the help of Jesus Christ.

3. Nathan — Reflections: It's nice to be single again! Resolutions: Get into bull riding again and get a good job this year.

4. John — Reflections: Getting the opportunity to record my new single in Nashville. Resolutions: I'm looking Forward to changing lives one song at a time in 2023.

5. Cooper — Reflections: I enjoyed spending time with my Veteran owner. Resolutions: To get more pepperoni treats! 1

Jeff Millard with a canjo diddlibo. There's a new machine in town! Located in Scoops and Soups, come check out the Wowie Zowie.

Mel Mason brings the music back to old town. Mason repaired and restored the piano located in front of On the Edge coffee shop after it had been vandalized.

Old Town coffee group reigns during their weekly meet up.

Bob Whalen stepped down from Clovis City Council and did not seek reelection for upcoming terms

-New members of City Council, Matt Basgall and Diane Pearce, were sworn in December and voted in the November elections

-City of Clovis awarded a 15% raise to the Transit Drivers in July -Fire Station 6 was opened in the Loma Vista Community

-Tarpey elementary was recognized by the City Council for receiving the Civic Learning Award of Excellence from the Judicial Branch of California

-Wilma Tom Hashimoto wins 2022 Fresno County Mother of the Year in March and was recognized in May by the Council -Filmmaker Jeff Aiello was honored at a City Council meeting for his efforts in producing the documentary, Afterburn: The Creekside Fire Documentary

-City Council officially ended emergency services related to Covid-19 in March

Clovis Unified School District: -Clovis Unified battled mask mandates and parent opinions early in the year, quickly providing the option to students to either wear or not wear masks in school. The State of California would then end mask mandates in schools a short period of time later -CUSD would honor both the 2021 and 2022 Students of Promise classes -Teachers in the district were honored for their efforts during “Teachers Appreciation Week”

-The Clovis North Marching Band traveled to New York to play in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

-Betsy Sandoval retired from her position with Clovis Unified after 41 years of service

-CUSD as well elected two new members to their school board; Clint Olivier and Deena Combs-Flores will serve District 1 and District 6

Clovis Community College:

-In May, Clovis Community College held a groundbreaking for their new site. The site will hold their new Applied Technology Building

-President Dr. Lori Bennett announced her retirement earlier in year and served her final year as President of the school through 2022 -Dr. Kim E. Armstrong was elected new President of Clovis Community College which will be effective January 3rd, 2023

-Clovis Community College also partnered with CUSD to provide students the Summer at SEA program, helping Latinx and low income students explore science areas Clovis Chamber of Commerce -The Chamber of Commerce held their annual Big Hat Days for the 84th year -Clovis Fest was a big hit again giving entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their talents and products for the second year in a row Clovis Veterans Memorial District -CVMD holds their Memorial Day Weekend Events including their freedom run and Monday car show -CVMD also hosted their Veterans Day events on November 11th -The 81st Anniversary of Pearl Harbor was remembered in fruition with a special ceremony

-CVMD’s CEO Lorenzo Rios was sworn in as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army at the end of last year, in November of 2021, officially honored by the Clovis Roundup in 2022

Miscellaneous Clovis Events

-Kiwanis Club hosts Freedom Fest for first time since 2019

-Clovis High Softball went on a playoff run that ended in June

-Clovis East Baseball won their first Valley Championship at Pete Biden Field against Central High School

-Clovis High Football Legend and Raiders Star Daryle Lamonica dies at the age of 80 -David Liberta, co-owner of Luna’s Pizzeria in Old Town Clovis passed away in October (photo top right)

-The Clovis Rodeo hosted their 108th

Annual Rodeo, arguably the biggest event in Clovis throughout the year

-Butterfly Gardens, a 75 Unit Supportive Housing development, was officially opened in December. The housing units offer support to its residents who are at risk of homelessness

-Gabe Camarillo leaves the Clovis Roundup after two years of coverage on Clovis sports -Trail Fest takes place in May for the sixth year with plenty of participants biking or hiking Clovis Trails

-The Clovis Botanical Gardens celebrated it’s 20th anniversary

-Clovis native Jenna Prandini wins Gold alongside her teammates in the 4x100 meter relay at the 2022 World Athletics Championship in Eugene

In conclusion, 2022 was a year of plenty of notable events for the community of Clovis. The people of Clovis have come out on the other side of Covid and will now look forward to the new beginnings of 2023.

and one maintenance man.”

Since then, the CVMD has grown both in staff and construction, adding more facilities and programs to serve veterans and active military, and to extend that legacy of service to the greater community.

In a video honoring Susan Frantzich’s years of service that was posted to CVMD’s social media accounts, Chief Executive Officer Lorenzo Rios listed the five memorials the District was able to construct in the time that Frantzich served on the board.

Among them was The Garden of Honor atrium that sits in the center of the main building at CVMD, dedicated to veterans

who gave their lives to serve our country, and the Pinedale Assembly Center Remembrance Plaza, dedicated to the 4,800 Japanese Americans who were interned there in 1948.

“There was always a project underway,” Susan Frantzich said, “so I kept signing on for four more years to see how it would turn out.”

Heather Frantzich was 11 when her mother began serving on the board at CVMD, “As a kid I used to decorate the trees during Christmas, and I helped with all the centerpieces for the veterans’ dinners, I really grew up there.”

Heather Frantzich is the daughter of a Vietnam Veteran herself, and she says that’s part of why CVMD has always been close to her heart.

Moreover, Susan Frantzich believes that her daughter will thrive in her new role on the board of directors.

“She’s been great everywhere that she’s worked,” Susan Frantzich said, “I’m real proud of her, she’s very diligent and she’ll have a lot of new ideas, you can count on her.”

As for what she plans to do for the board, “The shoes I have to fill are huge,” Heather said, “and it’s too soon to tell what’s on my plate right now. I definitely have a lot of ideas but I just need to get in there first, see what’s going on and go from there.”

Meanwhile Susan Frantzich is enjoying her long-awaited and well-deserved retirement at her home in the foothills. “I’ll be 77 next year,” she said, “I want to live out my life the way I started it, on my ranch.”

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Veterans Memorial District Susan with her daughter Heather Frantzich.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup

The SCCCD Board of Trustees joined Dr. Lori Bennett in a groundbreaking for Clovis Community College’s new Applied Technology Building on Monday, May 2nd, 2022

Photo by Clovis Roundup

The annual ClovisFest kicks off with the traditional hot air balloon liftoff at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds just before sunrise on both Saturday and Sunday.

Photo Courtesy of the Liberta Family David Liberta

Clovis City Council Veterans ‘Excited’ for Future of Council

December 15, 2022: The Clovis City Council recently experienced changes in leadership.

Two longtime political leaders in the City of Clovis, Mayor Jose Flores and Councilman Bob Whalen did not seek reelection in the past November elections, leaving two seats open to newcomers of the Clovis City government.

These two newcomers, Matt Basgall and Diane Pearce, have been elected by the people of Clovis and have been officially sworn in as council members. The standing council members, including Mayor Lynne Ashbeck, Mayor Pro-Tem Vong Mouanoutoua, and incumbent Councilman Drew Bessinger, who ran alongside council members Basgall and Pearce, all have the similar experience and enthusiasm when it comes to serving their upcoming terms.

Bessinger will serve until 2026, while Ashbeck and Mouanoutoua will choose whether or not to seek reelection in 2024.

Each council member has looked back to the past to identify what has been good for the public of Clovis while also looking towards the future and anticipating any possible changes that may need to be made.

Councilman Drew Bessinger, who made it clear that he and now former Mayor Flores will remain friends, spoke about what he looks forward to the most when working with the new council as a whole.

“I look forward to being with two new

faces, one of them, I’ve known Matt for over two decades….We have problems that we’re gonna have to deal with, we’re gonna have different perspectives, we may not all agree on every solution, but we all have the same goal, and that’s to help the citizens of Clovis.”

He then went into speaking about a few of those problems that he believes are facing the city of Clovis.

“Like every community, we have a burgeoning homeless issue, we have an understaffed police department, we have an affordable housing crisis that’s being put on cities to fix, unfairly, but that’s kind of the way things go.”

Mayor Pro Tem Vong Mouanoutoua continued the sentiment of Bessinger, talking about how having new members of the City Council can have a great effect in the form of bringing new positions and ideas to the table.

“Having new people with new perspectives, new sorts of experiences, new views is always beneficial to a city like ours. Hopefully we can maintain the type of leadership that those before us have always maintained.”

Looking towards his next term, Mayor Pro Tem Mouanoutoua mentioned that he hopes the council can “...continue to be good stewards and servants of the people. And that we continue to have a servant’s heart.”

Newly elected Mayor Lynne Ashbeck is optimistic that while losing two long standing council members, the newly elected pair

will put forth their new ideas in a move she says can “make a council special”.

“I thimk with new council members it’s sort of the intersection of new ideas which is great, new perspectives, they’ve had recent outreach into the community. I also look forward to continuing the traditions that make our council special.”

Mayor Ashbeck proclaimed that she thinks it’s the “combination” of working well with new members and their new ideas while also honoring those who have come from the past that “have got us to this point”.

On the leaving of Councilman Bob Whalen and Mayor Jose Flores, Mayor Ashbeck revealed, “After sitting next to those two for twenty-one and nineteen years, it’s personally, I will miss them, I will miss the forty years together of knowledge about our city. But for them, the time was right.”

She finished by pointing out that the two served the community for about twenty of

the 110 year history of Clovis, and stated, “They were excellent servants, they were faithful servants, they did an excellent job.”

The perspective change that all three existing council members touched on seems to be a good marking point for where the City of Clovis looks to be headed. With changes coming from inside the council to start, the city now looks at how they can change its ideas into forming not only a more collective bond within its council chambers but also within its city’s residents. All the while, just as Mayor Lynne Ashbeck mentioned, “Keeping in honored tradition” in terms of values instilled in the past, remains another similarity amongst the City Council.

According to their answers, it appears that the Clovis City Council sits between changing perspective and keeping the city’s traditions alive. Just as these “traditions” have endured, the history of Clovis is what stands in the way of whether or not this City Council is able to do so.

PEARCE

Relatively short compared to other political elites in the City of Clovis, Diane has only lived in Clovis going on four years. She explains that her move from Fresno came, “Because of the values that the community promotes and puts out there, we just felt that it really aligned with who we are and what we want.”

To Pearce, this just demonstrates the attraction that is the City of Clovis, and why many would make the move to the town. “I am of the large number of people who have chosen to make Clovis my home more recently than some.”

At least one of those longer-living Clovis residents, Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig, became an outspoken proponent for Councilmember Pearce during her run for office, while also being a person whom she calls “..a friend for a long time.” Knowing that certain members of Clovis can have a certain credibility, like Supervisor Magsig and Mayor Jose Flores, Diane Pearce welcomed the favor of an endorsement saying, “That stamp of Clovis native approval I think really helped in kind of making sure that the people understood that I’m all in on Clovis.”

Councilmember Pearce also offered her thoughts on how the election of 2020 helped her prepare for the battle amongst ten candidates that was 2022.

“I had the opportunity to knock on thousands and thousands of doors of Clovis voters and meet the residents and have some of that experience under my belt. When this opportunity came up, it was just kind of an extension of that first campaign.” Because of this, Diane felt that she had a connection with a lot of the community members and really felt that it gave her a “leg up” on the rest of the candidates.

In speaking about that connection with the community members from both of her election cycle campaigns, she realizes a lot of the problems on the forefront of their minds.

“I know that we do have a public safety issue, and not only is it the most important to people when everything is going well, but it’s one of Clovis’ claims to fame, being ‘Safest in the Valley’.” She explains that whether this means funding for the police department or other public safety avenues such as the fire department, she looks forward to “tackling” these challenges head on.

“The second issue is the homelessness issue, and the difficulty with that topic is: One, you always want to make sure that we’re

addressing those things in a compassionate manner. We are talking about our fellow human beings and treating them with dignity and support.” At the same time, Pearce recognizes that the issue of homelessness can also become worse if “..you don’t handle it at the outset…It’s creeping in and becoming more and more of a problem.”

In order to keep from being “behind the eightball”, Pearce hopes to begin addressing this issue so that the City “...can get a handle on it”.

out her informative interview by remembering those members of the Clovis City Government that have served before her and stated, “Clovis has been critically successful because of the people who have come before, and I feel that it is an obligation to continue that.”

“I’m very excited and humbled and privileged to be able to serve this great community with a fantastic and storied history, but with a future that is just as bright and just as exciting, and I look forward to being a part of it.”

Councilmember Diane Pearce rounded

Photo Courtesy of City of Clovis Newly elected City Councilmember Diance Pearce.

Photo Courtesy of City of Clovis The Clovis City Council is photographed.(left to right) Mayor Pro-Tem Vong Mouanoutoua, Councilman Matt Basgall, Mayor Lynne Ashbeck, Councilwoman Diane Pearce, Councilman Drew Bessinger

23 events to add to your 2023 calendar

MARCH

Almost St Paddy’s Day Pub Crawl

The best of Clovis throughout 2023

December 28, 2022 Here at Clovis Roundup, we’re always on the lookout for Clovis events to both feature and attend. Believe me, there is no shortage.

With multiple events often taking place every day, a person or family can pick and chose the event they do not want to miss out on. However, often this results in "event hopping" as all the events are spectacular.

In the article that follows, you will find a list of 23 activities, events, or otherwise “happenings” throughout the Clovis area that have both taken place in 2022 and look forward to taking place in 2023. We hope you enjoy our list, and feel free to drop some suggestions for the upcoming 2023 year!

JANUARY

Annual Community Breakfast Honoring

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Saturday January 14th, 9:00 am

California Health Services University

Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Salute to Business Awards

Thursday January 26th 11:30 am to 1:30 pm

Clovis Veterans Memorial District

FEBRUARY

Clovis Community Heritage Center

Located at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10-5

Old Town Clovis, March 11th 4:30-9:00 pm

APRIL

Chamber of Commerce’s Big Hat Days Old Town Clovis, April 1-2nd

Clovis Rodeo

Clovis Rodeo Grounds

April 26-30th

Visit the Botanical Gardens 945 N. Clovis 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

MAY

Trail Fest

First Saturday in May

CVMD’s Memorial Day Festivities

Memorial Day Weekend Fun Run on Saturday Car Show and Booths Monday

JUNE

Friday Night Farmers Market

Saturday Morning Farmers Market Runs April-October in Old Town Clovis

JULY

Freedom Fest Fireworks Show

Fourth of July Fireworks Show

Hosted by Clovis Kiwanis Club

AUGUST

Visit the Clovis Museum Located 401 Pollasky Ave

Multiple Car Shows Car shows not only in August but from May through the Summer

SEPTEMBER

Clovis Fest

Hosted by Chamber of Commerce Highlights business inventions/ideas in Old Town Clovis 9/11 Memorial

Located at 3485 Never Forget Lane Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, ceremony on September 11th

Pistachio Party

Either last weekend of September or first weekend in October

One of larger Friday Farmers Market parties in addition to Peach Party

OCTOBER

Clovis PD’s Clovis Night Out David McDonald Park first Saturday in October

Halloween Spooktacular Clovis Veterans Memorial District Halloween ceremony put on by district

NOVEMBER

One Enchanted Evening

Old Town Clovis

CVMD Veterans Day Festivities

Thanksgiving Day Luncheon at Senior Center

Open to all not only Seniors

DECEMBER

Pearl Harbor Remembrance

CVMD hosted event

Christmas Parade

Old Town Clovis

Christmas Tree Lighting Clovis Civic Center

First Monday in December

Here Comes Santa

CVMD Hosted Christmas event

Photo by Adam Solis, Clovis Roundup Clovis Chief of Police Curt Fleming during the 9/11 Memorial.

Clovis Kiwanis and Boy Scouts host Annual Senior Christmas Luncheon

Memorial District on Saturday the 17th, with the help of Boy Scouts of America (BSA Scouts) Troop 60.

Kiwanis

Clovis Kiwanis

Clovis Veteran’s

Shawn Miller, MC for the luncheon and member of the Kiwanis Club of Clovis said,

50 years, with a great turnout, “We’ve been doing this since probably 1975 or 1976, and we serve between 350 and 500 seniors every year.”

“Everything was great, we loved it,” said Robert Garcia, who attended with his family, “I think this is about the fifth year we’ve come to this, and we try not to miss it. As long as we’re healthy, we show up.”

The Kiwanis Club of Clovis has been focused on community service for over 40 years, and they are the charter sponsor of Boy Scouts of America (BSA Scouts) Troop 60.

The BSG Scouts, boy and girl, from Cub Scout to Eagle showed up to the event to serve cookies and coffee, the turkey lunch, and cake for dessert to our community’s seniors.

Scoutmaster Jason Bales said, “I think this is our 20th year helping Kiwanis do this event.”

Bales explained the kind of effort and planning that goes into the event for the BSA Scouts; they get there early and leave late, to do the set-up and tear-down.

The event included holiday music from the “Free Country” band, a performance by Clovis Chorale during the main course, an open dance floor, and a cookie raffle at the end of the afternoon.

UHC Welcomes New President & CEO Justin Preas

President & CEO to lead the organization toward further accomplishments in the years and decades ahead.”

On January 1, 2023 United Health Centers (UHC) welcomes its new President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Justin Preas. Mr. Preas has been with UHC for nearly 18 years since 2005 and has held two previous positions as Chief Operating Officer and most recently as the Deputy CEO before being offered the position of President & CEO by the UHC Board of Directors following the retirement of Colleen Curtis.

UHC Board Chair, Dr. John R. Shantz stated “Justin has been serving as the Deputy CEO for the last 7 years and together Colleen and Justin have worked together collaborating, planning and implementing a management and growth strategy that is second to none in the Central Valley or in the entire state of California.

It is with equal gratitude that we are excited to have Mr. Preas as our new

In his acceptance remarks Mr. Preas stated “I have had the pleasure of working with one of the most talented executive leaders in healthcare today and together with the exceptional team members we have developed together over these many years, I am both confident and excited to continue our path ahead and serve the organization with dedication and hard work.”

Over the last decade, UHC has become one of the largest outpatient health care providers in the Central Valley with nearly 30 health centers, over 1,000 staff, and nearly 200,000 patients while being recognized in the top tier of all health centers in the United States for patient care outcomes.

And as 2023 unfolds, UHC is positioned to open four new locations in the Central Valley including in the city of Visalia and several in Fresno.

Mr. Preas has said the UHC strategic

objectives will continue to expand essential quality and affordable healthcare services to those communities still struggling with access and will incorporate

new specialty services to remain a leader and the best choice in community healthcare well into the future

For many, Tom was a dedicated educator with a gift for sharing his knowledge and a wonderful sense of humor.

On December 26, 2022, Thomas William Ramage passed away at the age of 81.

His final days were spent surrounded by his loving wife, Sandi, and his daughters, Tami, Susan and Holly.

Tom lived his life exactly as he wanted: as the best teacher, husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Tom devoted his life to education, beginning his career at the age of 21 in the Clovis Unified School District and remaining there for 40 years.

It is difficult to overestimate the profound impact that Tom had on his students during his long career.

Perhaps this is best exemplified by the numerous letters, visits and testaments from his students, even decades after he taught them.

For others, Tom offered much-needed encouragement, stability and unwavering support during challenging times.

His dedication to kids extended past the school year, as a camp counselor and director at Bob Mathias/Alta Sierra Summer Camp.

The relationships formed there were truly life-altering, forging decades-long friendships with his camp family, who affectionately know him as “Bobo”. At camp, Tom was greatly admired as a mentor, leader and friend.

Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Dick, and his parents, James and Ruth.

At this time, the family requests that you share your thoughts about Tom on his memorial site at Forever Missed. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a future date.

many

Contributed

Photo Courtesy of Holly Ramage Thomas William Ramage

Photo Courtesy of UHC UHC welcomes new President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Justin Preas.

hosted their annual Senior Christmas Luncheon at the

“The mission of the

is really to serve the community, and this is a portion of the community that we love working with.”

Miller said that the Senior Christmas Luncheon has been put on annually for nearly

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

Photo by Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup

Clovis Chorale preforming during the main course of the Senior Luncheon.

Place fish pieces, skin side down, on one side of prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining pepper. Lightly press feta cheese on top of fish. Pour tomato mixture on other side of prepared pan. Bake, uncovered, 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.

Place salmon on serving plates. Spoon tomato mixture over top.

FAMILY FEATURES

Setting out on a mission to eat healthier starts with creating goals and working to achieve them with those you love. To help make nutritious eating more manageable, call together your family and work with one another to create a menu everyone can enjoy while staying on track.

Connecting an array of recipes that all can agree on starts with versatile ingredients like dairy. Gathering at the table with your loved ones while enjoying delicious, nutritious recipes featuring yogurt, cheese and milk can nourish both body and soul.

For example, the key dairy ingredients in these recipes from Milk Means More provide essential nutrients for a healthy diet. The cheese varieties in Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes and 15-Minute Weeknight Pasta provide vitamin B12 for healthy brain and nerve cell development and are a good source of calcium and protein, which are important for building and maintaining healthy bones.

Meanwhile, the homemade yogurt sauce served alongside these Grilled Chicken Gyros provides protein and zinc.

To find more nutritious meal ideas to fuel your family’s health goals, visit MilkMeansMore.org.

1/2

Bring water to rolling boil and prepare pasta according to package directions for al dente texture, reserving 1 cup pasta water.

In large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in onions, carrots and sweet bell peppers. Saute vegetables about 5 minutes, or until they brighten in color and begin to soften. Add tomatoes, salt, pepper and garlic. Cook and stir 1 minute to allow tomatoes to release juices.

Pour reserved pasta water into skillet, stirring well. Bring sauce to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 3 minutes. Taste sauce and adjust seasonings, as desired.

Transfer drained pasta to skillet along with lemon zest and smoked provolone cheese, tossing well to coat. Serve immediately with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

with marinade. Refrigerate chicken in marinade 30 minutes.

To make yogurt sauce: Stir yogurt, lemon juice, diced cucumber, dill, garlic, salt and pepper. Cover sauce and refrigerate.

Heat grill to medium heat.

Grill chicken over direct heat, about 10 minutes per side, until cooked through. Transfer chicken to cutting board and rest 10 minutes. Thinly slice chicken across grain.

Serve chicken on pita bread with tomatoes, red onion and yogurt sauce.

Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes

15-Minute Weeknight Pasta

Grilled Chicken Gyros

Heroes

Peg Bos Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed

ans that returned to Clovis after the wars.

U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Philmore Bratton (1923-1943) graduated from Clovis High in 1941. He died while fighting in North Africa during WW II. A friend of his recently left a rose near his picture (at the Museum) to honor his memory.

Peggy and Jeff Hubbard lost two of their sons. US Marine Lance Cpl. Jared Hubbard (age 22 years) was killed in November of 2004 by a road side bomb in Iraq. US Army Corporal Nathan Hubbard (age 21 years) was killed in a helicopter crash in northern Iraq in August of 2007. Both men were graduates of Buchannan High School.

USAF Colonel Jack Weyant was born and raised on a family ranch in the Temperance Colony area. He graduated from Clovis High in 1939. He flew 30 missions (23 as formation leader) in his B-24 “Liberator” over Nazi forces. He flew 144 combat sorties (attack by one plane) over Vietnam. He retired in 1972 (30 years 8 month career) and lives in Clovis with wife Marilyn. He was awarded the Legion of Merit on three separate occasions.

Sergeant Ray Richey (family arrived in Clovis 1927) joined the Army in 1943. He fought at Omaha Beach, Normandy, the Black Forrest and the battle of the Bulge. He left the service in 1946 and began building residential homes in 1948. He would build 100 homes in Clovis prior to his 1995 retirement.

Ike Herrera (his family arrived in Clovis in 1919) joined the US Navy at age seventeen in 1943. He survived nine major battles while on the destroyer USS Dewy. He returned to Clovis and established a successful plumbing company and purchased/built rental homes and apartments.

US Army Sergeant Melvin Kirk (1964 Clovis High graduate) was killed (May 3, 1968) in action during his second tour of Vietnam. He was wounded twice prior to his death and was awarded two Purple Hearts in addition to the Silver Star.

B/General George Middleton USAF/ANG (ret) (1923-2008) flew Hump missions (supplies and personnel) across the Himalayas. The Burma Road had been closed in 1942 by the Japanese Army. The flights were dangerous (weather and enemy fire). One thousand men and 600 planes were lost until the road was re-opened in 1945.

George began teaching at Clovis High in 1949 (returned to Air Force 1951-1957) and retired in 1983.

USMC Cpl. Andrew Ruiz graduated from Clovis High School in 1967. He was fourth

generation of Clovis. He had been wounded twice (awarded Purple Heart with Cluster) and was a month away from coming home when a sniper bullet ended his life in South Vietnam.

USMC Major Earl Smittcamp fought in four major invasions in the South Pacific. He was wounded during the landing at the Palau Islands. He returned to Clovis in 1945 and with his wife Muriel (1917-2009) purchased historic (originally homesteaded 1867) 200 acres (Minnewawa between Nees and Shepherd) they began their successful agri-business venture. The couple made generous land donations to Saint Agnes Hospital and CSU, Fresno (Smittcamp Alumni House). Earl and his family remain generous contributors to Clovis.

US Marine Corps Reserve Cpl. Richard Caster graduated from Clovis High in 1950. He was the adopted son of George (Clovis High Instructor) and Grayce Castor. He was mortally wounded on June 6, 1951 in Korea and is buried in the United Nations Cemetery, Korea. Richard was a gifted pianist. Tony Piombino was killed in action while serving on a sub-chaser during the 1944 battle of Normandy. His family owned a lumber trucking business near Blackstone and Gettysburg. His four brothers also served in the War: 2 Navy, 1 Army and 1 Merchant Marine.

USMC Colonel Emil J. Radic (1923-1982) was awarded the Silver Star in 1967 while

serving in Vietnam. He was president of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce from 1976-1982.

We cannot add to their noble service and sacrifice but we can recognize the rich heritage they provided us. We must remain vigilant and protective oft the freedom they preserved.

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Museum USAF 2nd Lt, Philmore Bratton, 1923-1943. 1941 Clovis High Graduate. Killed in action WWII, North Africa.

Clovis Police arrest robbery suspect, victim in critical condition

@ClovisPolice_CA

December 30th 2022: A robbery suspect was taken into custody this morning after he beat an elderly male and stole his cell phone in front of a store near Herndon/ Clovis.

911 calls began coming into CPD communications center just after 8 AM regarding an elderly male lying on the sidewalk, appearing to be injured.

Clovis Police Officers, Clovis Fire, and EMS responded immediately to find the victim with a head injury.

A store employee witnessed the assault and was able to provide a suspect description.

Officers searched the area and located the suspect with the victim’s cell phone, and he was taken into custody without incident.

At this time, it does not appear that the suspect used a weapon.

The 78-year-old victim was transported to the hospital with major injuries where he remains in critical condition.

The suspect has been identified as 37-yearold Joseph Wright of Fresno County.

Wright is facing felony charges in relation to the robbery and battery of the victim this morning.

CPD would like to thank the witnesses who called 911 immediately which allowed their officers to respond and arrest the suspect nearby and tend to the victim.

Clovis Police arrest armed robbery suspects

quickly identify the male suspect.

Detectives located the suspect in his car in Fresno and arrested him without incident.

Do you know who the vehicle burglary & fraud suspect is?

Submit an anonymous tip using our free mobile “Clovis Police” app or call Valley Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-STOP.

Case 22-73363.

On Thursday, December 28th, two suspects were arrested after they robbed a Clovis business using a handgun.

Officers responded to Advance America near Shaw/Peach just before 10:30AM for a report of an armed robbery.

Although no one was injured, employees were shaken.

Officers gathered information on a suspect who entered the business, brandished a handgun, and demanded money.

Employees handed the suspect an undisclosed amount of cash after which the suspect left after getting into a car that was waiting for him nearby.

Using video surveillance inside of the business and city cameras and technology on the street, Officers and Detectives were able to

The suspect’s girlfriend was also arrested after it was determined that she drove the car to and from the robbery.

Following the arrest, a loaded handgun matching the description provided by the victim was located in the suspect’s car.

Detectives also located the clothing that the suspect wore during the robbery in a trash can at a location nearby.

The suspects have been identified as 38-year-old Bekim Eriven and 34-year-old Michele Patton, both of Fresno.

Eriven was booked into Fresno County Jail for several felonies including robbery, conspiracy, and charges related to the firearm because he is a convicted felon.

Patton was booked into Fresno County Jail for robbery and conspiracy.

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police Booking photo of Joseph Wright.

Contributed by Clovis Police

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police Department

Top left, booking photo of Bekim Eriven. Top right, the handgun found in suspect’s car that matched description by a victim. Bottom left, booking photo of Michele Patton. Bottom right, suspect’s clothing found on trash can.

JANUARY

Saturday, Jan. 14

PLATE DECORATING CLASS WITH MAXINE FUENTES

A Book Barn 640 Clovis Ave., Clovis, CA 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 14

FOSSIL SATURDAY WITH STEVE HAMMOND

A Book Barn 640 Clovis Ave., Clovis, CA 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 16

MARTIN LUTHER KING HOLIDAY

Wednesday, Jan. 18

CLOVIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MONTHLY MIXER

The Painted Table 5080 Blackstone Blvd., Fresno, CA 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 19

JOLLY TIMES

Clovis Senior Activity Center 850 4th St., Clovis, CA 8:45 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 21

DINO PAINTING CLASS WITH STEVE HAMMOND

A Book Barn 640 Clovis Ave., Clovis, CA 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 22

ONE HOUR TRAIL RIDE ON THE MCKENZIE McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve 2247 Auberry Rd., Clovis, CA 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 25

CLOVIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCH CONNECT Cool Hand Lukes 955 Shaw Ave., Clovis, CA 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 26 2023 CLOVIS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SALUTE TO BUSINESS AWARDS LUNCHEON Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28 WINTER NIGHT HIKE ON THE MCKENZIE Hosted by Sierra Foothill Conservancy McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve 22477 Auberry Road, Clovis, CA 6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 28 WINTER WONDERLAND WINTER FORMAL HOMESCHOOL WINTER FORMAL Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

FEBRUARY

Wednesday, Feb. 1 CENTRAL VALLEY INFLUENCERS CONFERENCE

Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 25

CLOVIS ROTARY 30TH CRAB FEED & AUCTION Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

ALL MONTH LONG

VIRTUAL JOB FAIRS Check online at HireX for dates and times of Virtual Job Fairs Monthly *Entry-Level *Healthcare *Diversity *Veterans

LITTLE FREE LIBRARY Take a Book – Share a Book Corner of Pollasky and Bullard 555 Bullard Ave., Clovis, CA

CITY OF CLOVIS HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP OFF CENTERNOW OPEN 79 N. Sunnyside, Clovis, CA Tuesday thru Saturday –9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

PLACES TO VISIT

CALIFORNIA 911 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

CLOVIS OLD TOWN

FARMERS’ MARKET

Polasky Ave., Clovis, CA

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

HARLAN RANCH FARMERS’ MARKET

HARLAN RANCH COMMUNITY CENTER 1620 N. Leonard Ave., Clovis, CA Every Wednesday Year-Round 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (weather permitting)

LANCE E. ARMO

Sheriff Margaret Mims Logs Off for Her Final Time

the Kerman Police Department.

Fresno County Sheriff's Office Dispatcher Sheila Ownsbey preformed the duties of Sheriff Margaret Mims special sign-off.

***RADIO TRANSCRIPT BELOW***

Fresno II to all units please hold all radio traffic as we acknowledge final log off for 2A01, Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims. ID 0878.

Her 42 year law enforcement career started in 1980 as the first sworn female officer of

In 1983 she joined the ranks of the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office where her career continued to be marked by firsts – first woman K-9 handler with her K-9 partner Justice, first woman to attain the rank of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, assistant sheriff and sheriff when she was elected as the 25th sheriff of Fresno County in 2006.

She has served with distinction as patrol deputy, property detective, court deputy, sergeant in patrol, in the domestic violence/ sex crime unit, crime prevention, crime analysis, public information officer.

Lieutenant as an area commander, personnel unit, mutual aid coordinator, and Capt of the jail and courts unit.

In her 16 years as sheriff, she has represented the county of Fresno before two presidents of the United States, and stood her ground with against two California governors.

Sheriff Mims, thank you for your dedicated service to the citizens of Fresno County.

You have served the people and law enforcement community with dignity, honor and

professionalism.

Congratulations on your retirement, we wish you continued health and happiness.

Fresno II to all units – at 11:47 on this date, it is with great honor I log off our sheriff. God bless you ma’am.

Fresno II clear.

***A special thank you to Fresno County Sheriff's Office Dispatcher Sheila Ownsbey for handling the duties of this special sign-off***

Auberry Road Goes Into the New Year With Closure

drive cautiously as it’s a narrow and winding two-lane road.

January 2, 2023 As of Tuesday morning, the shoulder parts of Auberry Road in the Alder Springs area still remained closed due to rockslides from excessive rains on Monday, January 2.

Fresno County’s Public Works and Planning RMO are maintaining the closure and working with a contractor to reopen the road as quickly as possible.

In addition State Route 168 remains closed due to a rockslide. Resulting in the only detour route being Tollhouse Road. The county’s RMO is running maintenance vehicles on Tollhouse Road 24-hours-a-day to keep the road open.

However, the public is encouraged not to travel in this area due to the limited roads open and the incoming inclement weather. If necessary drive along Tollhouse Road,

California Highway Patrol is aware this detour is no longer an option for CalTrans’ 168 closure from the rockslides.

***UPDATE***

The County of Fresno Department of Public Works and Planning has determined that the portion of Auberry Road experiencing erosion can be repaired, but it may take up to 14 days depending on weather conditions. In the meantime, Auberry Road, with the exception of the portion in the Alder Springs area where the worksite is, is open to local traffic only.

Again, Auberry Road in the Alder Springs area by the work site is FULLY CLOSED. Only emergency vehicles will be allowed through that portion.

Homicide Suspect Arrested Following Family Disturbance

On the evening of December 21nd an argument between two adult brothers inside of an apartment ended in tragedy when one was stabbed and the other was arrested.

Officers were dispatched to an apartment near Peach/Gettysburg just after 4PM for a reported stabbing.

As officers approached the apartment, they located an adult male with a stab wound to his upper body just outside, and family members nearby.

Officers, Clovis Fire, and EMS attempted life saving measures. Unfortunately, the victim passed away on scene from his injuries.

The suspect was found at the apartment and was immediately detained.

A few other family members, including an infant, were located inside the apartment. However, no one was injured other than the victim.

Clovis Police Detectives’ investigation showed that the 2 adult brothers were arguing, and one stabbed the other with a knife.

The suspect has been identified as 21-yearold David Brewington of Clovis.

He has been arrested and booked into Fresno County Jail for homicide and child endangerment.

The victim has been identified by the Fresno County Coroner’s Office as 23-year-old Elijah Brewington of Clovis.

The infant has been turned over to Child Protective Services (CPS), and Clovis Police Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances of this unfortunate tragedy.

Clovis Roundup Staff @ClovisRoundup

Krystle Nozartash @ClovisRoundup

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police Department Booking Photo of David Brewington.

Photo Courtesy of Fresno County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Margaret Mims Logs Off Final Time.

Photo Courtesy of Fresno County Sheriff's Office Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims.

Photo Courtesy of County of Fresno Fresno County maintaining the closure of Auberry road.

Clovis seniors enjoy "Jolly Times" luncheon

Roundup Staff @ClovisRoundup

At the December Jolly Times Luncheon, attended by about 180 people, attendees were treated to a turkey lunch and dessert, musical entertainment from Clovis Chorale and local bands Top Dollar Dudes and Diamonds after Dark, photo opportunities with Santa Claus, and everybody left with a gift from Santa Claus.

There was also a raffle given away, the prize was a television.

Jolly Times is a monthly luncheon hosted on the third Thursday of every month by the Jolly Times Committee. The cost of attendance is $10 January through November. In December the cost for attendance is $15. The Jolly Times Committee use the proceeds from every other month to purchase gifts for the December event. The Committee and other participants hold a Santa’s Workshop to wrap nearly 200 Christmas presents the week before the December event.

Fresno State Marching Band Closes Out Rose Bowl Parade

January 1, 2023: This year, the annual Rose Bowl Parade held in Pasadena was closed out by none other than the Fresno State Marching Band.

It was announced in October of 2021 that the band would perform and in September of 2022 the band surpassed the $35,000 goal needed to travel to the parade.

The 290-member band participated in the 5.5 mile parade, the 134th in Rose Bowl history.

This was the first appearance by the band in program history.

The band also participates in the Tournament of Roses Bandfest, an opportunity for marching bands to perform a field show showcasing musicianship and pageantry.

Director of the Bulldog Marching Band Steve McKeithen stated, “The Tournament of Roses Parade is the pinnacle of honors

for a college marching band and I am immensely proud of what our student-musicians have achieved…We cannot wait to perform for the hundreds of thousands of people who will line the parade route as we represent Fresno State in ‘The Granddaddy of them All’ the 2023 Rose Parade!”

Dr. Honora Chapman, Dean of the College Arts and Humanities, upon first hearing that the marching band would participate in the parade exclaimed, “We’re so excited that the Bulldog Marching Band will be representing Fresno State in the Rose Parade on January 2…About 50 million people around the world will be able to hear the musical pride of the Valley play. We hope you can join us in Pasadena!”

The band’s performance can be viewed online here at the link below.

https://youtu.be/U1s2ySSBv4I?t=8010

Longtime Respected Fresno State Baseball Coach Mike Batesole Retires

jt21gomez@gmail.com

Legendary Head Coach for the Fresno State Baseball Team, Mike Batesole, announced his retirement on December 30th, two short days before the New Year’s Holiday.

Batesole, finishing his nineteenth season with the Fresno State Bulldogs after the 2022 campaign, was first a head coach at Cal State Northridge from 1996-2002.

Batesole, famously winning the 2008 College World Series National Championship with the Bulldogs, Fresno State’s first and only Men’s Championship, was twice named Collegiate Baseball National Coach of the Year for 2008 and 1998.

The two-time Mountain West Coach of the year in 2016 and 2019 led the Bulldogs to an overall 27-28 record last season.

Besides numerous other coaching accolades including two-time Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Coach of the Year awards in 2008 and 2010, Coach Batesole has had numerous players drafted to Major League Baseball from Fresno State including more recently, Aaron Judge who won the Most

Having

A number of Clovis High School Baseball players have played under Batesole in his 19 year career including current ballplayers, Ixan Henderson (Clovis West), Cooper Bergman (Buchanan), Nathan Baeza (Clovis

West), and Jett Ruby (Buchanan).

Mike Batesole is only the third Head Coach of the Fresno State Baseball Program since 1948, succeeding both previous Head Coaches Bob Bennett and Pete Beiden.

Coach “Bates” will be honored at some point during the 2023 season by Fresno State Baseball at a home game, although the date has not been set as of yet. Batesole leaves assistant coach Ryan Overland to serve as Interim Head Coach for the 2023 season.

Valuable Player award for his efforts in 2022.

multiple awardees direct from his program, Batesole emphasized the student aspect of a student-athlete, with a number of those awards having gone to players for their academic achievements.

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

J.T. Gomez

Photo by Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup Jolly Times December luncheon.

Photo Courtesy of marching.com The Fresno State Marching Band at the 2023 Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif. on January 2, 2023.

Clovis

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Mike Batesole walking off the field after talking with players.

Noon Year’s Eve Party

Household Hazardous Waste Residuos peligrosos domésticos

Un Residuo Peligroso Doméstico (RPD) es cualquier producto dañino, tóxico o inflamable. Esto incluye muchos de los artículos que utilizamos todos los días como químicos para limpieza, baterías, luces fluorescentes, pesticidas y pintura. A pesar del uso común de estos artículos, no se pueden desechar en los contenedores regulares de basura y se debe hacer de la forma adecuada.

El servicio regional del condado de Fresno para residuos peligrosos domésticos puede aceptar RPD residencial sin costo alguno y se encuentra abierto los sábados de 9 a.m. a 1 p.m. Está ubicado en 18950 W. American Ave., Kerman, CA.

container and must be disposed of properly.

The Fresno County Regional Household Hazardous Waste Facility is able to accept residential HHW at no cost and is open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 pm. It is located at 18950 W. American Ave., Kerman, CA.

There are also many locations across Fresno County that can accept certain types of HHW. Information on where to take different types of HHW can be found at the Fresno County Household Hazardous Waste website.

For more information on HHW, call the Fresno County Regional Household Hazardous Waste Facility at (559) 600-4259 or Republic Services at (559) 275-1551.

También existen muchos lugares en el condado de Fresno donde aceptan ciertos tipos de RPD. En el sitio web del servicio regional del condado de Fresno para residuos peligrosos domésticos, podrá encontrar información sobre dónde llevar los distintos tipos de RPD.

Para más información sobre RPD, llame al servicio regional del condado de Fresno para residuos peligrosos domésticos al (559) 600-4259, o a Republic Services al (559) 275-1551.

Many came together to celebrate with friends and toast to the new year at the Noon Year's Eve party held on December 30, 2022 at noon. This annual event is hosted at the Clovis Senior Activity Center.