Clovis Roundup - February 16, 2023

Faithful donors, make annual book drive happen unofficially FEATURED // PG 14

Clovis R undup C E N TR A L

The

VA L L E Y ’ S

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2023 Vol. 13, No. 20

# 1

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OWNED & OPERATED IN CLOVIS, CA

NEWS PAP ER

Published Every Other Thursday LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, & ENTERTAINMENT

Patterson picks up “Valentines for Vets” from Garfield Elementary students

www.ClovisRoundup.com

From the office of our City Manager

WHAT’S UP CLOVIS?

Check out the buzz around town PAGE 3

FEATURED

California State Parks reminds visitors to use free pass programs, explore the outdoors

John Holt

johnh@cityofclovis.com

PAGE 6

Hi, I’m John Holt, and I am humbled to serve as City Manager for the City of Clovis.

What does a City Manager do?

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup

Assemblyman Patterson pictured with *some* of Ms. Hoffman’s class.

Samantha Golden

sraegolden@gmail.com

EDUCATION

Association of Clovis Educators Psychologists urge CUSD for support PAGE 15

WHAT’S INSIDE

What’s Up, Clovis?

Old Town Clovis Guide Recipe Let’s Talk Clovis Clovis Happenings

3 8-9 10 11 13

February 10, 2023: Ms. Hoffman’s class in room 15 at Garfield Elementary were treated to a special visit and a story from Assemblyman Jim Patterson last Friday, as he stopped by to pick up the Valentine’s Day cards made by

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PERIODICALS

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Assemblyman Patterson shared kind The “Valentines for Vets” program words of gratitude on behalf of the Veterans who receive the cards every was created by Assemblyman Patterson to give tokens of appre- year. ciation to Veterans recovering in “Thank you for this,” Patterson said Fresno’s VA hospital and those to the class, ”and know that you resting in the Veterans Home have sent these cards of appreciation during this holiday of love and and love to people who, when the gratitude.

See VALENTINES, Pg. 5

Having just completed my first year as your City Manager, people often ask what does a City Manager do?

It is important to note that a City

See HOLT, Pg. 5

Clovis Rodeo Association dedicates plaque to Corrie Echeverria Clovis Roundup Staff

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the children.

I have lived in Clovis for 30 years and have worked for the City of Clovis for 23 years. I have had five different positions in the City Managers office during that time.

Family and friends gathered around the Lane Frost statue at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds last Saturday February 11th to celebrate the installment of Corrie Echeverria’s dedication plaque.

Echeverria passed away last year, and is survived by her father and four sisters.

She is remembered fondly by her fellow Clovis Rodeo Association

(CRA) Members, especially by the women involved in running the Tom Stearns Pavillion on the west side of the arena.

“Corrie loved the Clovis Rodeo and came to all of the work days,” CRA Member Carole Linenbach said.

Linenbach remembers when Corrie first began her volunteering for the Rodeo Association, “In the early 2000’s Billy Hedrick introduced her to Caryl DeRade who was the See ECHEVERRIA, Pg. 4

Photo Courtesy of Suzanne Carroll

Family and friends gather by the Lane Frost statue, where Corrie Echeverria's memorial plaque is installed.

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What’s Up, Clovis?

CHECK OUT THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN Photos by Ron Sundquist

A new mascot is in town

Visitors from around the world

Meet Clancy, the new mascot of Old Town Trading, Co. He has some big paws to fill after the passing of his predecessor, Otis.

Alina and Bernardo visiting from Romania and enjoying some time in Old Town Clovis.

Happy birthday "Buttercup"!

New moderator for Veterans meetings

George "Buttercup" Gruner WWII Veteran celebrated his 98th birthday on February 13th.

John Cline is the new moderator for Monday morning Veterans meetings.

Valentine's Day displays to check out around town

Clovis Floral

Madeleine's Bridal

Cozy Cottage

Once Upon A Time

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$2.4 million donated to Clovis Community Cancer Institute J.T. Gomez

jt21gomez@gmail.com

February 9, 2023: 2.4 million dollars were donated by Chris and Michelle Morse to the Clovis Community Cancer Institute on Thursday in a ceremony that took place outside the Clovis Community Medical Center hospital.

“The reason we wanted to donate back to CCI and the Community Center Institute was to be able to bring new cutting edge technology and treatment plans to patients here in Central California,” stated Chris Morse, a cancer survivor himself.

Morse survived a bout with stage-four throat cancer last year as a patient of the CCI. According to The Business Journal’s Alex Scott, his father, who had lung cancer, unfortunately passed away from the disease in 2017.

Michelle, Chris’ wife, disclosed that Morse upon diagnosis was not having any trouble with swallowing, eating, or losing weight.

Thankfully for the Morse family, the cancer survivor was “seeing a nutritionist and swallow expert” from day one with the help of CCI.

At the outset of the creation of the Clovis Community Medical Center, the hospital did not have a single venue for treating cancer patients.

With the creation of the CCI, patients then no longer had to travel to different locations for services such as radiation.

Filling this void became beneficial both “medically and socially” for cancer patients according to Smithgroup, engineers of the 2018 constructed building.

Morse hopes that with this substantial donation, patients will now also “..be able to go home after their treatment and be with their support group or their support system.”

Photo by Valerie Shelton, Clovis Roundup

Clovis Community Cancer Institute.

“They [Chris and Michelle Morse] understand how important it is to be a donor and investor in it [the CCI] so it can help other people and provide the best care right here at home.”

“With this money that Michelle and I are donating, it will allow many more patients to Katie Zenovich, CEO of the Community stay right here in their own backyard to get With this latest donation the CCI hopes to Medical Foundation believes in the importreatment.” tance of having top cancer care in the Valley. bring further cancer treatments as well as

continue to “rival” centers in Los Angeles and the Bay Area according to the Clovis Community Medical Center website.

As Central California’s comprehensive cancer care center, this $2.4 million donation hopes to aid in that assistance.

Clovis Congressman Kevin McCarthy ‘speaks’ with Clovis leaders CLOVIS ROUNDUP STAFF @ClovisRoundup

February 14, 2023: After roundtable discussions with local leaders, Speaker of the House, Clovis Congressman Kevin McCarthy held a press conference in Clovis Veterans Memorial District's front lobby.

At first speaking on topics directly related to the Tulare Ag Expo, McCarthy excluded politics in any form, calling his meetings that day a bipartisan “town hall meeting more focused on farming”.

McCarthy was then asked if he could give any “encouraging words” on the Chinese balloons that were shot down the past week.

“I think that the encouraging word first and foremost is now, that– I think the decision to wait and allow the balloon to fly over the continental U.S. was wrong. I think we should have made the decision to take that balloon down early.” He then stated that the U.S. is now retrieving data from the balloon and is trying to see “...what they have been doing”.

McCarthy was not confident that each balloon had come from China, but said the balloon that was had, “...the ability to go over our military defense locations,” was confirmed Chinese. “[The balloon was] as large as three buses: That was from China.

China actually said it was from there.” As for the other balloons, Speaker McCarthy stated, “..we just don’t know yet.”

McCarthy was then asked how holding a higher title in the federal government, would assist in bringing “more money” to the Valley, specifically the Fresno/Clovis region.

“I think the first thing this area wants is a government that is efficient, effective and accountable. I don’t think their answer is just ‘Bring me money!’”

Regarding the debt ceiling, McCarthy replied, “It’s like giving your child a credit card, and they spend the credit card to the limit. You’re [the federal government] responsible to pay for it, so yes, we’re responsible for our debt, but do you automatically raise the limit above the credit card for your children or do you look at where you’re spending the money and change the behavior?”

McCarthy then echoed the problem isn’t a “revenue” problem, but rather a “spending” problem.

ECHEVERRIA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

committee chairperson for the Tom Stearns Pavillion, and the rest is history.”

During the show, Echeverria could be found in the Pavillion, but she also had a hand in events, parade planning, and merchandise.

“She was always the first one to arrive for any event, and the last one to leave when everything was finished,” Linenbach recalls, “and she always had a kind word to say, loved to laugh, and she loved animals as much as she loved people.”

Echeverria was known for her love of

To finish McCarthy noted the basis of his conversations with Fresno and Clovis communities and stated they spoke on topics such as fentanyl, homelessness, and state versus federal intervention on topics such as water storage.

On water conservation McCarthy pointed to Governor Newsom for allowing water to “go out into oceans” instead of “banking” the water during the recent storms.

McCarthy also promised to look into federal grants to help address local police department personnel shortages.

McCarthy then ended the press conference saying, “Thank you all very much, I appreciate the opportunity and I look forward to continuing a relationship.”

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup

Congressman Kevin McCarthy.

animals, and could often be heard talking about the baby goats she had at home.

“Corrie was an important and dedicated member of the volunteer team in the Tom Stearns pavilion every year at the Clovis Rodeo,” CRA Member Micheline Golden said, “She was a bright light in the suite, and we loved to hear Corrie tell us about her goats and her dogs. She was an important part of the Clovis Rodeo Suites family, and she will be missed.”

Corrie Echeverria’s memorial plaque is on the south side of the platform under the bronze sculpture of famous bull rider Lane Frost, just outside the gate to the Clovis Rodeo Grounds.

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup

Corrie Echeverria Plaque.

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Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 5

Community Spotlight: FFA teen runs small business in Old Town homework, I’m always making stuff.”

CLOVIS ROUNDUP STAFF @ClovisRoundup

February 15, 2024: “I started with almonds at Friday Night Farmers Market here in Old Town Clovis, and from that I saved up and bought my first laser,” said Patrick Palmer, a Clovis High School junior who owns and operates a small business called Little Valley Goods.

For a teen entrepreneur who’s just starting out, Palmer has a keen eye for business advantages.

He pointed out the great location of his storefront in the shop– within view of the front register. “When you’re at checkout in the front of the store, you can see [my display] directly,” Palmer said.

Palmer’s Little Valley Goods business is a Little Valley Goods specializes in laser-cut wood products, both ready-made and custom part of his Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) education through the Clovis ordered.

FFA. “He is extremely hard working,” Ag He’s made items for the Clovis High School Advisor Trevor Autry said, “Patrick Palmer track & field coaches, the Fresno State is a great example of what the Clovis FFA Rodeo Team, Stafford Chiropractic, and program can do for a student.” many more notable local folks.

In addition to his schoolwork and business “I got another order on Friday,” Palmer duties, Palmer is the current President of the shared, “I’m doing baby shower gifts. I’m Clovis FFA chapter and the Sentinel of the also working on a few weddings right now East Fresno Madera Section of FFA. He’s for close family friends and once I get even running for office for the San Joaquin professional pictures done I want to adverRegion FFA this year. tise that more.”

“When I was young I thought it would be The storefront at Eye Candy Boutique, on great to have a small business,” Palmer the corner of Pollasky and 8th, has an abunsaid, “I like to say that FFA not only teaches dance of merchandise at the moment. “When you classroom skills like how to be a good I moved in here, I decided that I wanted student, it also teaches you life skills. I defito keep it as filled up as possible,” Palmer nitely give the credit to FFA.” said, “When I’m not in school or doing With nearly a thousand followers on decided to treat Ms. Hoffman’s class to a personal story, about his adopted son Brian James (B.J.).

VALENTINES

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

time came, they defended our country and the liberties, rights, and privileges of being American citizens so that you can be in a safe, prosperous country.”

Feeling inspired by the moment, Patterson

Patterson told the class how two U.S. Army soldiers found B.J. during Operation Babylift and took him to safety. He also shared that the family celebrated B.J.’s 50th birthday last week.

“Soldiers risked themselves, for this little development projects

HOLT

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Manager is not an elected official and is appointed by the City Council.

Generally speaking, a City Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city and implementing the policies and goals set by the city council.

Some specific responsibilities include:

• Ensuring compliance with state and federal laws

• Implementation of the city’s long-term plans • Managing the city's infrastructure and facilities

In reality, I have nine department heads who oversee approximately 600 employees that run the city and do a wonderful job.

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup

Patrick Palmer, a Clovis High School junior owns and operates Little Valley Goods.

Instagram already, Palmer said that he wants to use his growing platform to help other kids.

Palmer’s ag advisors have encouraged him to learn essential customer service values and public speaking skills with firsthand experience.

Palmer’s SAE education taught him how to easily handle common problems for small businesses– like the rising cost of materials.

“When I do have to buy plywood in bulk, it cuts into my operations costs, which hurts a little bit but it’s better to have it than to

Clovis Roundup C E N T R A L

VA L L E Y ’ S

# 1

C O M M U N I T Y

DONNA MELCHOR Owner/Publisher dmelchor@clovisroundup.com

N E W S P A P E R

55 Shaw Avenue #106, Clovis, CA 93612 Ph: 559-324-8757 Email: info@clovisroundup.com

www.ClovisRoundup.com

Follow us on social media, @ClovisRoundup

BILLY XIONG Operations Manager ads@clovisroundup.com STAFF REPORTERS: Samantha Golden J.T. Gomez Carole Grosch

One major goal for Little Valley Goods is to be 100% valley-sourced. Palmer says he’s at about 50% so far, sourcing his leather and some wood products from the area.

“In the future I want to own my own storefront where I can showcase young entrepreneurs like myself and give them more opportunities."

“For right now, I’m surviving high school.”

guy,” Patterson said. “Every time I get the chance to talk to Vietnam Veterans, I tell this story about BJ because, look what they did, risking themselves picking up this little guy.”

young children who benefit from their sacrifices. The thoughtful and creative cards are very impactful, according to Patterson.

recreational and cultural amenities, such as parks, museums, and performing arts venues, making it a great place to live and raise a family.

Rodeo and the Clovis Botanical Garden, it also has a variety of parks, trails, and other outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as a range of shops, restaurants, and other businesses.

The entire school participated in making over 800 Valentines for Veterans. The point, according to Patterson, is to give our Veterans a handmade gift that came from the

• Robust transportation: Clovis has a well-connected and efficient transportation system, with options for public transit, biking, and walking, which makes it easy for residents to get around and access jobs, services, and amenities.

• Safe and secure: Clovis is a safe city, • Managing the city's budget and financial with low crime rates and a strong sense Why is Clovis a destination of choice? resources of community. It is also well-prepared for People also ask me why the City of Clovis is emergencies and disasters.

• Overseeing the city's departments and a destination of choice. staff • Sustainable and environmentally friendly: I believe our city is a destination of choice Clovis is committed to reducing its envi• Providing information and recommendafor a lot of reasons, but here are a few: ronmental impact and promoting sustaintions to the City Council • Strong economy: Clovis has a diverse and able practices. The city has a variety of • Acting as the chief executive officer of the robust economy, with a mix of small busigreen spaces and encourages environmencity nesses, large companies, and a growing tally friendly transportation options. startup scene. The city has a low unem• Ensuring that city services are delivered in • Good governance: Clovis has a responployment rate and a high median income, an efficient and effective manner sive, transparent, and effective governwhich helps make it a great place to work. ment that is committed to serving the • Representing the city in interactions • High quality of life: Clovis has a high needs of the community and promoting with other government agencies and standard of living, with affordable housthe well-being of all residents. organizations ing options, great schools, and access • Many recreational and entertainment • Managing the city's land use and to healthcare. The city has a variety of options: Clovis is home to the Clovis

The

not,” he said, “Last year, a sheet of plywood would make me about maybe 10 signs and it only cost $25 per sheet, and now it’s up to 35 to 40 dollars.”

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Peg Bos - Let’s Talk Clovis ACCOUNTING SERVICES: Teresa Stevens, CPA (559) 326-7072 teresa@tmstevenscpa.com STORY IDEAS/CALENDAR: Laurann Kanamu calendar@clovisroundup.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE Catherine Kenney info@clovisroundup.com FOR ADVERTISING AND SALES: Office: 559-324-8757 Email: info@clovisroundup.com

“Many of these will be on the bedside,” Patterson said to the students, “many of these will be taken home and put in a special place, and many of these are saved year after year.”

Are we perfect? Certainly not, but the sense of community that we do have creates a unique place where people want to live, work, and play.

We have over 600 dedicated employees who provide world class services to our community. Monthly, I try and go on a ride along with each department.

Last week I rode with a Solid Waste driver who picks up garbage from residential neighborhoods. I spent two hours with him and could not be prouder.

Married, father of three children under ten, prior military, eight years with the city, and six months away from getting his college degree.

He fully intends to move up in the organization here at the city. He is just one of my 600 stories of employees I work with.

Should you have any questions of me, please contact me at johnh@cityofclovis.com.

The Clovis Roundup is a custom publication. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents or any portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited. The appearance of any advertisements in this publication does not constitute support or endorsement for any product, person, cause, business or organization named therein, unless specifically noted otherwise in the advertisement. All costs associated with producing, printing and mailing Clovis Roundup are entirely funded by our advertisers.

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California State Parks reminds visitors to use free pass programs, explore the outdoors

Additionally, all older adults 62 and over can apply for a Limited Use Golden Bear Pass, for off-season access.

Samantha Golden

sraegolden@gmail.com

SACRAMENTO, Calif.— California State Parks, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California Natural Resources Agency are reminding visitors about three new ways to explore the great outdoors for free.

Fourth graders can obtain a free California State Park Adventure Pass to explore 19 select state parks for free for a full school year.

Championed by the First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, whose California for All Kids initiatives support children’s physical, mental and social-emotional well-being, the California State Park Adventure Pass Program expands the opportunity for fourth graders and their families to enjoy the benefits of connecting with nature, each other and their communities.

The pass is valid for one school year. For this school year’s fourth graders, the pass is valid until August 31, 2023.

All Californians can check out a California State Parks Library Pass by using their library cards to access more than 200 participating state park units.

In partnership with the California State Library, State Parks launched the California State Park Library Pass in April 2022 with a total of 5,000 passes distributed to 1,184 public libraries across the state. As part of a three-year pilot program, each library

jurisdiction received an average of at least four special day-use hangtags to circulate, allowing library cardholders to check out the pass for the allotted number of days allowed by the local library.

helping open the window on California’s breathtaking state parks. Just one more great reason to visit your local library – in-person or online.”

Families receiving California Work Opportunity and Responsibility for Kids (CalWORKs), individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and income-eligible Californians 62 and over The Library Pass program is being expanded can apply for the Golden Bear Pass with their smartphone or other web-based device to also include the addition of tribal librarin just minutes and have access to more than ies throughout the state.The program also 200 California state park units. includes grant funds for public libraries to host programs and conduct outreach in their Created in 1977, the Golden Bear Pass communities to promote the passes, state Program was relaunched last spring with parks and the benefits of the outdoors. the goal to directly notify approximately “California’s libraries serve their communi- 300,000 families receiving CalWORKs about their eligibility and the overall health ties in all kinds of ways besides providing benefit of spending time in the outdoors. the books Californians want to read,” said Individuals participating in SSI and low-inCalifornia State Librarian Greg Lucas. come adults 62 and over can apply for “They check out tools, DVDs, provide Golden Bear Passes via online Reserveonline learning you can access 24/7 – even California.com, by mail, or in person. homework tutoring. And now they’re The pass is valid for entry of one passenger vehicle with a capacity of up to nine people, or one highway-licensed motorcycle, at more than 200 participating state park units.

The State of California champions the right of all Californians to have access to recreational opportunities and enjoy the cultural, historic, and natural resources found across the state. Too many Californians cannot access neither public outdoor spaces nor the state’s array of museums, and cultural and historical sites. The state is prioritizing efforts to expand all Californians’ access to parks, open space, nature and cultural amenities. This priority requires focusing funding and programs to expand opportunities to enjoy these places. Doing so advances Governor Gavin Newsom’s strong personal commitment to building a “California for All.” “California is home to more than 200 state parks, and it’s never been easier to visit them,” said California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “These easy-to-use programs give all Californians a chance to experience our world-renowned nature. Sign up for one of these programs or check out a park pass from your local library and discover a new state park this weekend!”

For more information on all three State Park Pass programs, please visit parks.ca.gov/ OutdoorsForAll.

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Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 7

Valley First Credit Union adds Director of Corporate Communications Contributed

Valley First Credit Union

February 8,2023: Modesto – Valley First Credit Union added veteran communicator Daren Williams to the credit union leadership to help reach the range of communities and people Valley First serves.

Williams has more than 35 years of experience working as a communications professional and will serve in a position well-suited to his skills and connection to the community, director of corporate communications.

He will oversee all communications involving the credit union, including a broad and diverse range of business, employee, member, and marketing communications.

“Valley First is growing and our communications needs are rapidly expanding,” said CEO Kathryn Davis. “We are doing amazing things in our community and at the speed we are moving we often miss the chance to tell that story. Daren will be working to spread

the word about the work we are doing in the communities we serve. I cannot think of a more perfect fit to lead our corporate communications.”

Williams has an extensive background in communications, most recently as senior director of Global Communications at the Almond Board of California, which brought him to Modesto five years ago this month.

He will join the leadership team in Valley First’s Modesto headquarters.

“I immediately fell in love with the people and sense of community in Modesto and the Central Valley,” said Williams. “I am fully invested in Valley First Credit Union’s vision to financially improve the lives of our members and to contribute to the economic development of the communities we serve.”

Williams’ previous experience includes 12 years with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association in Denver, 10 years at Fleishman Hillard in Kansas City, and nine years at Agri/Washington, a Washington, D.C.based public affairs firm.

A native Kansan, he began his career working on former Kansas Senator Bob Dole’s 1988 presidential campaign.

Valley First Credit Union serves more than 80,000 members in 12 counties in the southern half of the Central Valley, from Sacramento County to Kern County.

In the past year, Valley First employees attended 165 community events throughout the Central Valley volunteering 1,115 service hours.

The credit union also donated more than $97,000 to local non-profits.

About Valley First Credit Union Valley First Credit Union is a $964 million, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative providing quality financial services to the growing and diverse communities of Calaveras, Fresno, Kings, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Sacramento, Tulare, and Tuolumne Counties.

With eight branches throughout the Central

Photo Courtesy of Valley First Credit Union

Daren R. Williams, Director of Corporate Communications, Valley First Credit Union.

Valley, the credit union is committed to banking with a purpose – to better the financial lives of the people and businesses in the communities we call home. For more information, please visit https://www.valleyfirstcu.org/

EYE-Q Vision Care to welcome New Chief Executive Officer, Sandy Brown Contributed

Eye-Q Vision Care

(Fresno, California – January 24, 2023)

EYE-Q Vision Care, established in 1956 and serving our community with 3 locations, is pleased to announce the upcoming addition of Sandy Brown as Chief Executive Officer.

upcoming retirement, “The Cleeland Chapter is one of growth, innovation and perseverance. EYE-Q has had the honor of having Julie at the helm for 10 pivotal years. During her time as CEO, Cleeland has brought great success to EYE-Q, including accomplishing the expansion of our offices to Clovis, which has become the second busiest office.

Sandy Brown will bring his business acumen to his new role as Chief Executive Officer of EYE-Q. Brown is a ‘learned and accomplished leader,’ and has enjoyed a This leadership transition will be a year-long successful financial advising practice with process and will begin this month.

Merrill Lynch Wealth management.

Mr. Brown will be stepping in as CEO, Additionally, he is a Business Instructor as Julie Cleeland will be retiring from her at Clovis Community College as well as current role as CEO of EYE-Q at the end of holds the position of Pastor of Finance and 2023.

Business Administration at Fresno’s New Covenant Community Church, where he has Board of Directors President, Campbell a proven track record of stewarding finances Waldrop, M.D., stated on behalf of Julie’s for the church and congregation.

Mr. Brown will assimilate into this role as long-time CEO Julie Cleeland begins her journey to retirement.

Photo Courtesy of Eye-Q Vision Care

Eye-Q Vision Care, Clovis location.

To learn more about EYE-Q staff, providers and services, please visit https://eyeqvc.com/.

ABOUT EYE-Q VISION CARE:

EYE-Q is Fresno’s leading comprehensive eye care provider.

Serving Central California since 1956,

EYE-Q has been a pioneer in bringing the latest advancements in eye care to the Fresno area.

EYE-Q is proud to be the first eye care provider in the Valley to perform All-Laser LASIK.

Crossroads Shopping Center changes ownership Center for $10.4 million.

J.T. Gomez

Located on Bullard and Minnewawa, the shopping center was reported to having been February 9, 2023: The Crossroads Shopping under the same ownership since its opening center, a long time mainstay for the acting in 1978. supermarket Dollar General Market, has PACT Capital’s Tyler Sherigan, who served changed ownership. as capital advisor that helped arrange permaIt was reported that a Southern California nent financing for the deal said, “As the family purchased the Crossroads Shopping jt21gomez@gmail.com

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world continues to work through the effects of COVID-19, regional retail centers remain attractive to investors seeking to meet the modern consumers where they live and shop.”

These modern consumers of the Bullard and Minnewawa area will now have to wait to see how possible changes to the area will affect them and how they will deal with this.

According to Edward Smith of The Business Journal, “Throughout the pandemic, grocery-anchored shopping centers have performed better than many real estate classes.”

Time will tell if this will be the same outcome for the Crossroads Shopping Center.

8 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

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Points of Interest A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. 0.

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American Legion Post 147 Centennial Plaza Clovis Chamber of Commerce Clovis Civic Center Clovis Elks Clovis Fire & Police Station Clovis Fire Station No. 1 Clovis Library Clovis Museum Clovis Rodeo Grounds Clovis Senior Activity Center Clovis Veterans Memorial District Community Heritage Center Mercedes Theater/Clark Intermediate Old Town Trail Old Town Water Tower San Joaquin College of Law Tarpey Depot - Visitor’s Center

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, February 16, 2023

Remember to Shop Local, Shop Small, Shop Clovis M C R 10

Old Town Service District

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A1 Lock & Key ABC Pack & Print All American Smog B and H Tire Automotive Shop Boice Funeral, 308 Pollasky Ave, (559) 299-4372 Central Valley Community Bank Classic Catering Clovis Boot & Shoe Repair Clovis Garage Clovis Smogs EECU Finest Sewing Services Halfcocked Gunsmithing Mac’s Tire Pros NAPA Auto Parts

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4th Street Antique Mall 402 Pollasky, (559) 323-1636 4thStreetAntiques.com

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A Secret Garden Avon Bears, Dolls, and More Cigars Limited Clovis Antique Mall Clovis Floral Clovis Sports Cards & Collectibles Country Rose Antiques Cozy Cottage Fifth Street Antiques Frost Oak Creek Creations Goode Ol’ Days Antiques Maxwell House Antiques Once Upon a Time

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Antique and Gift Shops

We will be hosting a Show & Tell,

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Suquie’s Treasures

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3 Oaks Studio

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A Book Barn, 640 Clovis Ave., 297-9052 Clovis Appliance, 602 5th St., 299-6806 Clovis Coin Shop, 442 Pollasky Ave, 326-8464 Comfort Suites Foxtail Gallery Gottschalk Music Center JT’s Music Store Realty Concepts The Perfect Pillow

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Old Town Clovis FARMERS MARKET Every Saturday, 9:00am to 11:30am - Located in between 5th & Bullard.

CRAFT BEER CRAWL March 19th - Sip your way through the best of C Trucks. Get your tickets now!

VINTAGE MARKET & ANTIQUES March 26th - Meet in the street for everything vi collectibles, heirlooms and more. The old Town V

Thursday, February 16, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

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Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 9

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The Foundry Collective Urban Ornaments

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Michaelangelo’s Pizzeria Old Town Saloon On the Edge Coffee Shop Outlaw Tavern

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CLOVIS SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER (559) 324-2750 850 Fourth Street Clovis, CA 93612 H

15. Rodeo Coffee Shop, 535 Fifth St, 299-3750, rodeocoffeeshop.com 16. Roll Me Some - Handcrafted Roll Ice Cream, 530 Pollasky, 825-7204, rollmesomeice.com

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18. Soups and Scoops, 433 Pollasky, 299-9606 19. The Local, 401 Clovis Ave #102, 900-4253 20. Two Cities Coffee Roasters Organic coffee and tea - Rolled Ice Creamery, 608 4th St., 765-4652

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A Little Indulgence Salon and Day Spa Elle Style Bar Fifth Street Salon Hairology Head to Toe Beauty Salon Moxie Salon Re:Treat Color and Hair Design Studio Salon Innovation

Are you a business owner in Old Town Clovis? Advertise with us and have your business listed! For more info, please email info@clovisroundup.com or call 559-324-8757.

Visit our website at www.ClovisRoundup.com or follow us on social media, @ClovisRoundup

s Announcements the heart of Old Town Clovis on Pollasky

California brews, and partake from local Food

intage, antique, refurbished, repurposed, DIY, Vintage Market has something for everyone!

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10 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Recipe

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, February 16, 2023

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FAMILY FEATURES

espite busy lives and full schedules, finding time for regular meals with loved ones encourages connections and conversations that can benefit mental and physical wellbeing. Gathering your family, friends, coworkers or neighbors at least once a week to spend time together over a meal provides opportunities to decompress and socialize.

If you’re looking for a little delicious inspiration, the American Heart Association recommends scheduling one night per week to create a recurring tradition and enjoy favorites such as breakfast for dinner. Recipes like Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos; Huevos Rancheros; and Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls from the Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best, are perfectly suited for sharing while making time to destress at the dinner table.

In fact, according to a study by “Canadian Family Physician,” regular meals at home with loved ones can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel connected with mealtime conversations that allow a chance to unplug and unwind.

Meals don’t have to be elaborate for a successful evening together. Despite the perceived effort involved with preparing a meal, research published in “Preventive Medicine” shows those who have frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, may improve social and emotional well-being.

In addition to the mental and emotional benefits of meals with loved ones, eating together can also encourage healthier choices when better-for-you recipes are on the menu. Dining as a group can provide inspiration to try heart-healthy recipes that include the wide variety of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy protein sources recommended by the American Heart Association to help prevent heart disease and stroke.

To find recipe ideas, conversation starters and more tips for mealtime, visit heart.org/together.

Huevos Rancheros

Servings: 4 Salsa: 1 teaspoon canola oil 1/2 cup diced yellow onion 1/2 cup diced poblano pepper, seeds and ribs discarded 1 small fresh jalapeno pepper, seeds and ribs discarded, minced 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added crushed tomatoes 2 tablespoons water 1/4 teaspoon salt

Huevos Rancheros: 1 teaspoon canola oil 4 large eggs 4 corn tortillas (6 inches), warm 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained 1/4 cup shredded low-fat Mexican cheese blend 1 small avocado, quartered and sliced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional) 1 medium lime, cut into four wedges (optional)

Huevos Rancheros

To make salsa: In medium saucepan over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 2 minutes, or until almost soft, stirring frequently. Cook poblano and jalapeno peppers 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in garlic. Cook 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes, water and salt. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer 5 minutes.

Remove from heat. Cover to keep warm.

To make huevos rancheros: In medium nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat oil, swirling to

Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos

Servings: 4 Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/3 cups liquid egg whites 1 can (15 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained 4 whole-wheat tortillas (6 inches, lowest sodium available) 2 medium avocados, sliced 1/4 cup hot sauce or salsa (lowest sodium available, optional)

coat bottom. Cook eggs 3-4 minutes, or until whites are set and edges are fully cooked.

Place one tortilla on each plate. Top each tortilla with beans and one egg, being careful not to break yolk. Gently top each egg with warm salsa, cheese and avocado slices.

Sprinkle each serving with cilantro and serve with lime wedge, if desired.

Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over medium heat.

In skillet, stir egg whites constantly with rubber spatula to scramble. Cook until eggs are almost set. Add beans, stirring until combined and heated through.

Microwave tortillas on high 45 seconds. Transfer to work surface.

Spread egg mixture in center of each tortilla. Top with the avocado and hot sauce, if desired.

For each burrito, fold two sides of tortilla toward center.

Starting from closest unfolded side, roll burrito toward remaining unfolded side to enclose filling. Transfer with seam side down to plates.

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Servings: 4 1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups) 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed 1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced 1/4 cup chopped green onions 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional) nonstick cooking spray 4 large eggs 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper red hot-pepper sauce, to taste (optional) Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.

Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.

Lightly spray large skillet over medium-high heat with nonstick cooking spray. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle eggs with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg sunny side up into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, if desired.

Egg, Avocado and Black Bean Breakfast Burritos

Thursday, February 16, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

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Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 11

LET’S TALK CLOVIS:

A Look into the 1946 Clovis High’s Cougar’s Growl Newspaper Peg Bos

Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed

The Honorable Phillip Sanchez (1946 Clovis High graduate) was the first editor of the Clovis High Cougar’s Growl newspaper published during the 1946 school year.

Among his many accomplishments, he would serve as US Ambassador to Honduras and Columbia. He became publisher of “Noticias Del Mundo” the Spanish language newspaper that was circulated in 62 US cities.

We have selected Cougar Growl articles that represent the life and times of Clovis High students and the community of Clovis in 1946.

A front page article requested support of the March of Dimes. President Franklin Roosevelt (a victim of polio) established the foundation in 1938 in response to the US polio epidemic.

The 1944 Clovis High war bond drive netted $63,890.30 that would fund a grasshopper plane (light military observation plane), one amphibious jeep and one land jeep. Clovis High collected a grand total of $168,763.95 (war bonds and stamps) during WW II (1941-1946). Fresno County was sponsoring an Old Clothes Drive to help those in need.

Clovis High supported the drive.

An article on war raw materials stated that during the first three years and five months of WW II, the US consumed 375,000,000

tons of iron ore, 187,000,000 tons of coke and 255,000,000 tons of scraps. These amounts equaled our consumption from 1932 through 1939. If the tonnages of iron, coal and scrap were gathered in one location, it would encompass one mile square with a height of 620 feet.

Solom Rizk was the guest speaker at a school assembly. He was born in Syria, his mother died at his birth, he lived through WW I and at age five learned he was a citizen of the United States. His story reaffirmed how fortunate we are to live in America….the land of opportunities.

To make the Honor Roll you had to have two A’s in academic subjects. For Honorable Mention you were allowed one C with the rest of your grades B’s or better.

The status of the honor roll goal (at least 25 percent of every class) was published: Seniors, 20.04%: Juniors, 17.72%: Sophomores, 9.84% and freshmen, 12.98%.

The names of students celebrating birthdays were published each month. The latest gossip of who was dating who and if not why not was published. Dances were held at Notre Dame Hall and at school during noon hour.

Courtesy of Clovis Museum

Clovis High School in 1946.

was their director.

Girl’s fashions were the peplum (made your waist look smaller?), box pleated skirts, high neckline with a false fly front which gave the Chinese look plus ballerina shoes.

The boys wore Levis (seldom washed for the stand alone used look), saddle shoes, bright socks, flashy shirts and brown leather jackets.

Barbara Kemp was president of The Junior Red Cross. The members were busy making The Youth Center met each Saturday night at lap boards, stuffed toys, bounded stories, the old Clovis High gym. The Clovis High wash cloths, games and puzzles. jazz band provided music. Ping-pong, jump Clovis High Principal Paul E. Andrew rope, hot dogs and cokes were available. resigned after 21 years (1925-1946) of leadThe grand march (80-90 participants) was ership. He was known for his punctual attena favorite of the evening. “Deep Purple” tion to the individual student’s problems and closed the event at 11:00 pm. his courteous but firm distribution of disciThe a cappella choir gave concerts at Hammer Field and sang in the Field Hospital on Christmas Eve. Dorothy Carpenter

San Luis Obispo County supervisor.

A portion of an editorial titled “My Government” stated: “When we speak of a government ‘of the people’, we mean that it is composed of average individuals, not of a certain caste or religion. When we speak of a government ‘by the people’ we mean just that---a government manipulated by the people themselves through their representatives. A government ‘for the people’ has a definite purpose: to give to the lay public a voice; to give the common man a chance to become a part of his country.

We can therefore think of no better way to describe our government to a foreigner than that we have when we proudly say that it is a government OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.”

pline that was described as swift with long The 1946 Clovis High students provided us lasting results. Over 1,200 admirers attended a rich heritage. his farewell party. He would later serve as a

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12 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, February 16, 2023

Murdered Selma police officer identified; Suspect booked into jail Contributed by Selma Police @selmapolicecalifornia

February 2, 2023: The Selma Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty on Tuesday has been identified as 24 year old Gonzalo Carrasco Jr.

Carrasco began his career with the department in May of 2021. He is survived by his parents, brother, sisters and girlfriend, who is currently pregnant with their child.

This marks the first line of duty death for the Selma Police Department, which was formed in 1893.

Homicide detectives have booked 23 year old Nathaniel Dixon of Selma into the Fresno County Jail. He faces charges of murder, being a felon in possession of a gun and ammunition and probation violation.

A bail amount of nearly $1.2 million has been set, however, he is currently not eligible for bail due to the probation violation charge.

He is scheduled to appear in court on

Thursday, February 2nd.

Around 11:45 am on Tuesday, a homeowner flagged down Selma Police Officer Gonzalo Carrasco as he was patrolling the 2600 block of Pine Street in Selma.

She alerted him to a suspicious man being on her property. Officer Carrasco got out of his patrol vehicle and tried to contact the man, later identified as Nathaniel Dixon.

As Carrasco approached, Dixon immediately fired several shots, striking Officer Carrasco.

Dixon then took off running while still armed with his gun. A citizen dialed 911 and told dispatchers someone had shot an officer.

Selma Police officers, Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies, Cal Fire firefighters and Selma EMS responded and provided medical aid to Officer Carrasco.

He was transported to Community Regional Medical Center where he was taken to surgery and later passed away.

Multiple officers and deputies responded to

Robbery suspect charged with homicide following victim’s death

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

February 6, 2023: The suspect from a robbery that occurred on December 30, 2022, has now been formally charged with homicide by the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

Clovis Police Detectives continue to work with the Fresno County Coroner’s Office and Fresno County DA’s office regarding this case.

Currently, there are no further updates.

You may recall that Clovis Police Officers arrested 37-year-old Joseph Wright after he beat an elderly male in a parking lot at Clovis/Herndon on December 30, 2022, while stealing his cell phone.

Unfortunately, the victim died at the hospital on January 11, 2023, while being treated.

Today during a preliminary hearing at the Fresno Superior Court, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office filed 1 count of homicide (PC 187) against the suspect, Joseph Wright.

Wright remains in custody at Fresno County Jail.

Photo by Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup

Frank Moore in Old Town Clovis.

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police

Booking photo of Joseph Wright.

Photo Courtesy of Selma Police Department

Selma Police Officer, 24 year old Gonzalo Carrasco Jr.

Photo Courtesy of Selma Police Department

Booking photo of Nathaniel Dixon of Selma.

the area and began searching for the gunman Association is supporting the Selma Police who was described as having a tattoo on his Officer’s Association by establishing a face. memorial fund in which all donations will be given to Officer Carrasco’s family.

Around 12:10 pm, a deputy spotted the suspect near Fig and Sequoia and he was taken into custody.

Dixon's gun was later recovered a short distance from where he was arrested.

From this point, Selma Police requested the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office take over the entire investigation.

Law enforcement is familiar with Dixon.

He has a criminal background, including charges for illegal firearms possession and robbery.

He has served time in prison and is currently on probation as part of California's AB 109 law (prison realignment).

The Fresno County Deputy Sheriff’s

Please send contributions to: Fresno Deputy Sheriff’s Association C/O Selma POA Memorial Fund 1360 Van Ness Avenue Fresno, CA 93721

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to please contact Sheriff’s Detective Richard Antunez at (559) 600-8221 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org.

You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Reference case #23-1223.

Selma Police Department

Thursday, February 16, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

Clovis

Happenings HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT OR AN EVENT YOU WANT POSTED? EMAIL US AT CALENDAR@CLOVISROUNDUP.COM

FEBRUARY Saturday, Feb. 18 NATURALIST SERIES: GEOLOGY Hosted by Sierra Conservancy McKenzie Table Mountain Preserve 22477 Auberry Rd., Clovis, CA 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 18 and Sunday, Feb. 19 THE WEEKEND BLENDER NOT YOUR TYPICAL COMIC CON Sierra Vista Mall 1050 Shaw Ave., Clovis, CA 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 23 CENTRAL VALLEY LEADERSHIP SUMMIT Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 13

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

2770 E. International Ave., Fresno, CA 3 p.m.

Saturday, Mar. 11 CLOVIS’ ALMOST ST. PATTY’S DAY PUB CRAWL Old Town Clovis 453 Clovis Ave., Clovis, CA Check-in 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Mar. 11 OPEN PRESERVE DAY McKenzie Table Mountain Thursday, Feb. 23 Preserve MEET & GREET 2247 Auberry Rd., Clovis, CA Clovis Senior Activity Center 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

850 4th St., Clovis, CA 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Monday, Mar. 13 CENTRAL VALLEY Saturday, Feb. 25 INFLUENCERS CONFERENCE CLOVIS ROTARY 30TH Clovis Veterans CRAB FEED & AUCTION Memorial District Clovis Veterans 808 4th St., Clovis, CA Memorial District 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

808 4th St., Clovis, CA 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Mar. 18 2ND ANNUAL DONUT DOG Saturday, Feb. 25 WALK FUNDRAISER 1924 FIRST STATE BANK Miss Wrinkles Pet ROBBERY MELODRAMA Adoption Center Clovis Museum 85 N. Temperance Ave., 401 Pollasky, Clovis, CA Clovis, CA Performance - 15 minute 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. intervals 11 am. – 1 p.m.

Saturday, Mar. 18 DRIVE THRU MARCH SHREDDING EVENT For Seniors and Caregivers Sunday, Mar. 5 Valley Caregiver Resource WIND SYMPHONY OF Center Parking Lot CLOVIS CONCERT 5363 N. Fresno St., Fresno, CA Paul Shaghoian Memorial 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Concert Hall

Sunday, Mar. 19 CLOVIS COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT Paul Shaghoian Memorial Concert Hall 2770 E. International Ave., Fresno, CA 2:30 p.m.

Sunday, Mar. 19 CRAFT BEER CRAWL Old Town Clovis 453 Clovis Ave., Clovis, CA Sunday, Mar. 26 OLD TOWN CLOVIS STREET FAIRE (Vintage, Antiques & Glorious Junk) Old Town Clovis 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Friday, Mar. 24 thru Sunday, Mar. 26 FRESNO GEM & MINERAL SHOW Clovis Rodeo Grounds 748 Rodeo Dr., Clovis, CA Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

FRESNO STREET EATS Sierra Vista Mall 1050 Shaw Ave., Clovis, CA Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sundays, 11 a.m. – 4 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)

Business & Service Directory TERESA M. STEVENS Certified Public Accountant (559) 326-7072 www.tmstevenscpa.com LANCE E. ARMO Over 20 years exp, Estate planning, Business Law (559) 324-6527

Recycing & Waste Solutions “We’ll handle it from here”

HELP WANTED

(559) 275-1551 www.RepublicServices.com

Clovis Funeral Chapel

Family owned and operated

(559) 252-5000 175 N Clovis Ave www.noblecu.com

1302 Clovis Ave. (559) 298-7536 www.ClovisChapel.com

Neurologist (Community Physicians Group, Inc.; Fresno, CA): Provide care for patients. Salary: $400,000 per year.

Send resume to: Community Health Partners, Attn: Network Development, 45 River Park Place West, Ste. 507, Fresno, CA 93720

ADVERTISE IN OUR CLOVIS ROUNDUP BUSINESS AND SERVICE DIRECTORY NEWSPAPER

STARTING AS LOW AS $50 CALL NOW AT (559) 324-8757 OR EMAIL US AT INFO@CLOVISROUNDUP.COM

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www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, February 16, 2023

Faithful donors, make annual book drive happen unofficially Krystle Nozartash @ClovisRoundup

On January 23, more than 100 books were donated to Weldon Elementary School thanks to the San Joaquin College of Law’s Elizabeth O’Neill Book Drive.

The annual drive has currently been on hiatus since 2020 due to the pandemic.

The books were donated by some loyal donors in the habit of giving children's books to the college during this time of year.

Missy Cartier from the San Joaquin College of Law dropped off more than 100 books from the unofficial Elizabeth O’Neill Book Drive.

"Weldon is always excited to receive books.

We are thankful San Joaquin College of Law gifted us with such a nice assortment of titles and beautiful hardbound copies. Our students were very eager to get their hands on them," Weldon school Librarian, Lisa Palomares said.

She often uses donated books for reading incentives like contests and giveaways during National Library Week in April.

Some books are also donated to teachers to help supplement classroom libraries.

“We are thankful to San Joaquin College of Law and these good-habit givers for supporting the Clovis Unified children,” Palomares said.

Photo Courtesy of San Joaquin College of Law

San Joaquin College of Law’s Elizabeth O’Neill Book Drive.

‘Loretta’s Little Miracles’ assist in petition of CUSD at School Board Meeting “medically fragile/exceptionally disabled children/students are an acute subset of the special needs student population…” and “... require licensed nursing care while being under a Physician’s Order to receive Skilled Nursing Services during the school day and outside of the school setting.”

J.T. Gomez

jt21gomez@gmail.com

February 13, 2023: Parents assisted by Loretta’s Little Miracles, a California Department of Public Health licensed Pediatric Skilled Nursing Facility, will petition the CUSD School Board during the Public Comments section of Wednesday February 15th’s school board meeting.

Parents of “medically fragile/exceptionally disabled children and students” of CUSD will speak to the school board in order to discuss the issue of equal opportunity amongst their children.

It is the claim of Loretta’s Little Miracles that these students are not being granted the same opportunity because they are not receiving before-or-after school care with medical accommodation.

This is in addition to the absence of transportation possibilities to a facility that can “medically and legally” provide care for

disabled children/students.

There have been two requests to be placed on the formal CUSD Board Agenda that have both been denied as of this point, meaning that the CUSD School Board is restricted from the opportunity to openly discuss, address and vote on the issue at school board meetings.

According to Loretta’s Little Miracles,

At January 18th’s school board meeting, nine parents of CUSD students who are medically fragile and/or exceptionally disabled, attended the CUSD Board Meeting, while four parents presented during the public comment section.

@ClovisRoundup

On January 27th the students of Clovis FFA (Future Farmers of America) came together for a community service meeting where they handcrafted 75 dog toys.

When the students arrived at Miss Winkles, it was an unexpected surprise.

"We were so touched when they came in Friday afternoon to donate them to us."

This is one of the many acts of kindness the FFA

Photo Courtesy of Clovis FFA FB page

In addition to this parents will also discuss

has performed.

The FFA also held a food and clothes drive, and donated the remaining donations to the Poverello house in Fresno.

The FFA is a National Youth Organization for high school students that focuses on developing leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture events, competitions, and meetings.

The Clovis FFA was established in 1933 and is housed at Clovis East High School. Their program serves everyone.

Student holding some of the 75 dog toys that were made at a community service meeting.

For this to occur, either a Transportation Policy exemption can take place, or the designation of transportation will have to be listed in a student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP).

Loretta’s Little Miracles claims that to date, the CUSD School Board has not responded to parents on the subject, although the CUSD Board Members “appeared empathetic at the January meeting.”

At the February 15th meeting, parents look to “readdress” their pleas as well as further However, they also claim that CUSD as a their request to have their issue be agendized whole has not spoken to the issue of providin March of 2023. ing an equal level of before or after school They hope to also discuss the possibility that care as provided to other students.

CUSD can provide a “Campus Club ‘like’ The CUSD School Board meeting is held program for their medically fragile child at 1680 David E. Cook Way in Clovis, staffed by a licensed nurse.”

California, and will commence at 6:30 P.M.

FFA donates handcrafted 75 dog toys to Miss Winkles Krystle Nozartash

CUSD providing a “transportation exemption to a licensed medical facility that can provide care that is also within ten miles of the CUSD District Boundaries.”

Wednesday February 15th.

Thursday, February 16, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 15

Association of Clovis Educators Psychologists urge CUSD for support Clovis Roundup Staff

make that happen.”

Speaker six asked the school board to, “Push administration to put them on a front line The February 1st: CUSD school board meet- fight to care for our kids.” ing marked another occasion in which ACE Another concern was brought forth by Psychologists, the Association of Clovis speaker four when they related their Educators, has come to the school board concerns to the pandemic. projecting their importance to both schools and more importantly, students within the “We can all agree we’ve gone through a lot.” school district.

The speaker then went on to speak about school board member Dr. Fogg’s comments School psychologists take the lead in advancing students’ communication skills in from the past in which they claimed he mentioned the toll the pandemic took addition to assisting in their emotional and on everyone whether it was from school behavioral needs. closures, split days, or arts and sports being A group of twelve speakers spoke during the canceled or scaled back. public presentation portion of the meeting “It took a toll on all of us…how can we and voiced their concerns over the unequal pay amongst School Psychologists in CUSD possibly imagine the toll it took on the as compared to neighboring school districts. students?”

ACE psychologists have the training and Each of the twelve speakers mentioned the qualifications ready to combat the toll the importance of school psychology, and used up the full length of their 2-minute time slots pandemic took on students in CUSD, but speaker four stated that they are “overto argue on behalf of school psychologists, whelmed” by the demands and high stress using supporting evidence in the form of that have been placed on their jobs. statistics as well as illustrating why they @ClovisRoundup

believe school psychology is key to child development.

The second to last speaker called on CUSD to recognize their own calling of being “the best they can be” when they said, “Let’s truly be the best and show the community that CUSD is serious about prioritizing the mental and behavioral health of its staff and students and we need your partnership to

With more and more school psychologists leaving to other higher paying districts, those who have stayed are now being asked to keep up with even more of a workload.

One school psychologist stated that they were the only psychologist in a school of 900 students.

Rounding out to around $15,000-$20,000 less gross pay in CUSD per year when

Photo by Daniel Leon, Clovis Roundup

Clovis Unified School District's professional development and health center welcoming area, that was converted from a former ITT Tech building.

compared to Central and Fresno Unified, Clovis Unified School Psychologists had been awarded a 2% raise upon an 8% inflation spike according to speakers.

The school board did take action on a portion of the budget that did not include the ACE Psychologists as according to Associate Superintendent Barry Jager, CUSD must honor the negotiations they are currently having with ACE Psychologists in order to determine where their specific salary schedule will be.

Jager finished his statement to the board by saying that CUSD staff was looking forward to presenting the “powerful” conversations that they’ve been having in negotiations with ACE Psychologists and CSEA,

California State Employees Association, in a move that he called a “tremendous step forward.”

CUSD looks to continue salary negotiations with ACE Psychologists, but when they will come to an agreement is still unclear.

If CUSD decides to find a number that is agreeable, it should mean that CUSD will be paying their school psychologists at a market rate or perhaps even a higher number, meaning they have decided to place an importance on student mental health.

Whether or not they come to that number, ACE Psychologists will continue to fight, just as they proved at this school board meeting, for the satisfaction of some of the district's hardest workers.

CUSD holds school safety meeting evening prior to Clovis West receiving 4th ‘swatting’ call three threats were related to a threat made at Costco over the weekend and have all originated outside of the United States.

J.T. Gomez

jt21gomez@gmail.com

February 9, 2023: Clovis West High School received a third swatting call the afternoon of Wednesday February 8th, and upon this third non-credible call CUSD called for a Community press conference to be held on the Clovis West Campus.

Clovis West and the nearby Fort Washington Middle School have been placed on lockdown for three out of the past four school days.

The calls, which law enforcement believes have not been placed locally, but rather from out of the country, have come in to both Sheriff Department and Fresno PD dispatch centers and have threatened the safety of Clovis West High School going on now three times.

With the third call, CUSD arranged for a “School Safety Informational Meeting” to be held on the Clovis West campus, in order to discuss the situation with the public.

Further questions were answered and can be found on CUSD’s Youtube page.

UPDATE: After this story was published, a fourth swatting call was made, threatening Clovis West High School.

In attendance was CUSD staff, Clovis West staff, as well as Fresno PD, the CUSD Police Department, and the FBI.

Statements were made by Clovis West Principal Eric Swain in which he acknowledged students and staff of both Clovis West and Fort Washington for their “maturity and resilience” in these trying times.

Although the threats may turn out to be non-credible, it is the stance of CUSD and local law enforcement to treat each call as if they were, sending students and staff into lockdown procedures, and essentially ending their day.

After introducing CUSD staff and law enforcement, Swain offered the floor to Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Eimear O’Brien.

“These incidents are without a doubt alarming and they create fear and disruption for your kids, for our team, and for our community.”

O’Brien then stated that CUSD does not take these threats lightly and understands those in the community who want answers to the questions they may have.

A few of these questions were answered by law enforcement including the belief that all

School officials stated the calls came before the start of classes on Thursday, February 9th, and that law enforcement was able to confirm a secure campus, allowing the school to run its normal school day.

“Swatting” calls, simply put as prank school shooting calls, have been an issue across the United States as of recent, as multiple schools in Michigan have also reported these calls coming in as recently as February 7th of this year.

It has also been reported by Education Week that schools in four other districts across California alone were subjects to swatting calls in the past week

Clovis North & Buchanan High Schools announce Letters of Intent signings J.T. Gomez

jt21gomez@gmail.com

On the first day of February, a number of signings were announced by senior athletes from Clovis Unified Schools.

The athletes came from a multitude of activities ranging from Fall to Spring sports. The athletes are as follows: Clovis North High School:

• Bianca Fernandez, Swimming, U.C. San Diego

• Hayden Lambert, Swimming, University of Nevada, Las Vegas • Ashlyn Leath, Cross Country/Track, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo • Daniela Munguia, Cross Country/Trac, Monterey Bay

• Roman Saroyan, Water Polo, Biola University

• Melanie Torres, Water Polo, U.C. Merced Buchanan High School:

• Autianna Buck, Softball, San Francisco State

• Hailey Cooley, Cheer Stunt, Cal Baptist University

• Mark Ensalaco, Volleyball, Menlo College • Nina Navarrette, Track & Field, Biola University

• James Watney, Golf, Saint Mary’s College Clovis High, Clovis East, and Clovis West High Schools will participate in signing ceremonies further in the spring semester.

Photo by Courtesy of Buchanan High School FB

Buchanan hosted their second Signing Day to recognize five student athletes who have committed to continue their athletic career at the collegiate level.

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www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, February 16, 2023

CVMD puts on Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance Samantha Golden

pretend like we know what we’re doing.”

sraegolden@gmail.com

The Heathcotes said they have been together for about 26 years, but some dance partners have met more recently.

The Clovis Veterans Memorial District put on their annual Sweetheart Dance on Sunday February 12th, to a great turnout of excellent Carley Watson, 85, and Dwight Rimuner, 89, met dancing last year in Hanford. Dwight dancers. favors country western style dancing, and Couples and singles alike paired up to dance Carley loves ballroom dance. to The Red River Dutchmen band’s dancing “We met a year ago, and we dance well arrangements– everything from the Beach together, so we go dancing together,” Boys to Glen Miller, from polka to waltz.

Rimuner said. “And we’ve fallen in love,” Plenty of couples shirked the big game this Watson added.

Sunday in favor of spending time dancing in “She lets me hold her hand sometimes,” said their favored styles.

Dwight.

John and Tracy Heathcote were seen swing After a break of two years from the Sweetdancing – East Coast Lindy Hop style, no heart Dance event, newly discovered love less– a style they learned at dance halls in and long-time partners found equal footSanta Barbara, where their romance began. ing on the dance floor on a lovely Sunday John said, “Every other style, we just afternoon.

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup

Swing Dancers at Sweetheart Dance.

Sweetheart Dance snapshots

The Red River Dutchmen band played for the Sweetheart Dance. Alton Schlag who is 87 years old, has been the manager for 20 years.

Table centerpieces and the dance floor.

Young marines stepping out to the small "Big Band" music.

Steve and Lydia swinging at the Sweetheart Dance.

John and Tracy cutting the rug.