Clovis Roundup - February 16, 2023

@ClovisRoundup

R undup

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

Samantha Golden

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

the children.

The “Valentines for Vets” program was created by Assemblyman Patterson to give tokens of appreciation to Veterans recovering in Fresno’s VA hospital and those resting in the Veterans Home during this holiday of love and gratitude.

Assemblyman Patterson shared kind words of gratitude on behalf of the Veterans who receive the cards every year.

“Thank you for this,” Patterson said to the class, ”and know that you have sent these cards of appreciation and love to people who, when the

See VALENTINES, Pg. 5

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?

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. 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

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

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

See ECHEVERRIA Pg. 4

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Assemblyman Patterson pictured with *some* of Ms. Hoffman’s class.

sraegolden@gmail.com

Photos by Ron Sundquist

Floral Madeleine's Bridal Cozy Cottage

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

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

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

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

$2.4 million donated to Clovis Community Cancer Institute

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

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.

“With this money that Michelle and I are donating, it will allow many more patients to stay right here in their own backyard to get treatment.”

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.”

Katie Zenovich, CEO of the Community Medical Foundation believes in the importance of having top cancer care in the Valley.

“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 latest donation the CCI hopes to 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

“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!’”

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.

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.”

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.

CLOVIS ROUNDUP STAFF @ClovisRoundup

Photo by Valerie Shelton, Clovis Roundup Clovis Community Cancer Institute.

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Corrie Echeverria Plaque.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Congressman Kevin McCarthy.

Community Spotlight: FFA teen runs small business in Old Town

homework, I’m always making stuff.”

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.

Little Valley Goods specializes in laser-cut wood products, both ready-made and custom ordered.

He’s made items for the Clovis High School track & field coaches, the Fresno State Rodeo Team, Stafford Chiropractic, and many more notable local folks.

“I got another order on Friday,” Palmer shared, “I’m doing baby shower gifts. I’m also working on a few weddings right now for close family friends and once I get professional pictures done I want to advertise that more.”

The storefront at Eye Candy Boutique, on the corner of Pollasky and 8th, has an abundance of merchandise at the moment. “When I moved in here, I decided that I wanted to keep it as filled up as possible,” Palmer said, “When I’m not in school or doing

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

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:

• Managing the city's budget and financial resources

• Overseeing the city's departments and staff

• Providing information and recommendations to the City Council

• Acting as the chief executive officer of the city

• Ensuring that city services are delivered in an efficient and effective manner

• Representing the city in interactions with other government agencies and organizations

• Managing the city's land use and

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 part of his Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) education through the Clovis FFA. “He is extremely hard working,” Ag Advisor Trevor Autry said, “Patrick Palmer is a great example of what the Clovis FFA program can do for a student.”

In addition to his schoolwork and business duties, Palmer is the current President of the Clovis FFA chapter and the Sentinel of the East Fresno Madera Section of FFA. He’s even running for office for the San Joaquin Region FFA this year.

“When I was young I thought it would be great to have a small business,” Palmer said, “I like to say that FFA not only teaches you classroom skills like how to be a good student, it also teaches you life skills. I definitely give the credit to FFA.”

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.).

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

• 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.

Why is Clovis a destination of choice?

People also ask me why the City of Clovis is a destination of choice.

I believe our city is a destination of choice for a lot of reasons, but here are a few:

• Strong economy: Clovis has a diverse and robust economy, with a mix of small businesses, large companies, and a growing startup scene. The city has a low unemployment rate and a high median income, which helps make it a great place to work.

• High quality of life: Clovis has a high standard of living, with affordable housing options, great schools, and access to healthcare. The city has a variety of

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55 Shaw Avenue #106, Clovis, CA 93612 Ph: 559-324-8757

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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

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.”

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

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

• 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, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. It is also well-prepared for emergencies and disasters.

• Sustainable and environmentally friendly: Clovis is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. The city has a variety of green spaces and encourages environmentally friendly transportation options.

• Good governance: Clovis has a responsive, transparent, and effective government that is committed to serving the needs of the community and promoting the well-being of all residents.

• Many recreational and entertainment options: Clovis is home to the Clovis

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Peg Bos - Let’s Talk Clovis

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BILLY XIONG Operations Manager ads@clovisroundup.com

STAFF REPORTERS: Samantha Golden J.T. Gomez Carole Grosch

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STORY IDEAS/CALENDAR: Laurann Kanamu calendar@clovisroundup.com

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.”

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.”

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

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. 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.

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Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Patrick Palmer, a Clovis High School junior owns and operates Little Valley Goods.

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

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.

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 Library Pass program is being expanded to also include the addition of tribal libraries throughout the state.The program also includes grant funds for public libraries to host programs and conduct outreach in their communities to promote the passes, state parks and the benefits of the outdoors.

“California’s libraries serve their communities in all kinds of ways besides providing the books Californians want to read,” said California State Librarian Greg Lucas.

“They check out tools, DVDs, provide online learning you can access 24/7 – even homework tutoring. And now they’re

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 can apply for the Golden Bear Pass with their smartphone or other web-based device in just minutes and have access to more than 200 California state park units.

Created in 1977, the Golden Bear Pass Program was relaunched last spring with the goal to directly notify approximately 300,000 families receiving CalWORKs about their eligibility and the overall health benefit of spending time in the outdoors. Individuals participating in SSI and low-income adults 62 and over can apply for Golden Bear Passes via online ReserveCalifornia.com, by mail, or in person.

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

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.

Valley First Credit Union adds Director of Corporate Communications

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

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

(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.

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

This leadership transition will be a year-long process and will begin this month.

Mr. Brown will be stepping in as CEO, as Julie Cleeland will be retiring from her current role as CEO of EYE-Q at the end of 2023.

Board of Directors President, Campbell Waldrop, M.D., stated on behalf of Julie’s

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 successful financial advising practice with Merrill Lynch Wealth management.

Additionally, he is a Business Instructor at Clovis Community College as well as holds the position of Pastor of Finance and Business Administration at Fresno’s New Covenant Community Church, where he has a proven track record of stewarding finances for the church and congregation.

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.

February 9, 2023: The Crossroads Shopping center, a long time mainstay for the acting supermarket Dollar General Market, has changed ownership.

It was reported that a Southern California family purchased the Crossroads Shopping

Located on Bullard and Minnewawa, the shopping center was reported to having been under the same ownership since its opening in 1978.

PACT Capital’s Tyler Sherigan, who served as capital advisor that helped arrange permanent financing for the deal said, “As the

4.45 4.60

4.75

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.

Photo Courtesy of Eye-Q Vision Care Eye-Q Vision Care, Clovis location.

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

Old Town Service District

5. Boice Funeral, 308 Pollasky Ave, (559) 299-4372

6. Central Valley Community Bank 7.

Antique and Gift Shops 1.

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 California Trucks. Get your tickets now!

VINTAGE MARKET & ANTIQUES

March 26th - Meet in the street for everything vintage, collectibles, heirlooms and more. The old Town Vintage

the heart of Old Town Clovis on Pollasky California brews, and partake from local Food vintage, antique, refurbished, repurposed, DIY, Vintage Market has something for everyone!

Food and Drink

1. 559 Brewery

2. 500 Club

3. Blast & Brew

4. Bobby Salazar’s

5. Kuppa Joy

6. DiCicco’s Italian, 408 Clovis Ave, 299-3711, www.DiCiccosClovis.com

7. Full O Bull

8. House of Juju

9. Le Parisien Cafe

10. Luna Pizzeria, 349 Pollasky Ave, 299-4141, lunaclovis.com

11. Michaelangelo’s Pizzeria

12. Old Town Saloon

13. On the Edge Coffee Shop

14. Outlaw Tavern

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

17. Salsa’s Cantina

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,

Recipe

FAMILY

Despite 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

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)

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)

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.

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

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Huevos Rancheros

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.

The Youth Center met each Saturday night at the old Clovis High gym. The Clovis High jazz band provided music. Ping-pong, jump rope, hot dogs and cokes were available. The grand march (80-90 participants) was a favorite of the evening. “Deep Purple” closed the event at 11:00 pm.

The a cappella choir gave concerts at Hammer Field and sang in the Field Hospital on Christmas Eve. Dorothy Carpenter

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 lap boards, stuffed toys, bounded stories, wash cloths, games and puzzles.

Clovis High Principal Paul E. Andrew resigned after 21 years (1925-1946) of leadership. He was known for his punctual attention to the individual student’s problems and his courteous but firm distribution of discipline that was described as swift with long lasting results. Over 1,200 admirers attended his farewell party. He would later serve as a

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.”

The 1946 Clovis High students provided us a rich heritage.

Courtesy of Clovis Museum Clovis High School in 1946.

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.

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.

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.

the area and began searching for the gunman who was described as having a tattoo on his face.

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

Association is supporting the Selma Police Officer’s Association by establishing a memorial fund in which all donations will be given to Officer Carrasco’s family.

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

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.

Photo by Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup Frank Moore in Old Town Clovis.

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police

Booking photo of Joseph Wright.

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.

Thursday, Feb. 23

MEET & GREET Clovis Senior Activity Center 850 4th St., Clovis, CA 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.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.

Saturday, Feb. 25

1924 FIRST STATE BANK ROBBERY MELODRAMA Clovis Museum 401 Pollasky, Clovis, CA Performance - 15 minute intervals 11 am. – 1 p.m.

MARCH

Sunday, Mar. 5

WIND SYMPHONY OF CLOVIS CONCERT Paul Shaghoian Memorial Concert Hall

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

Saturday, Mar. 11

PRESERVE DAY

Monday, Mar. 13

CENTRAL VALLEY

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

Saturday, Mar. 18

2ND ANNUAL DONUT DOG WALK FUNDRAISER Miss Wrinkles Pet Adoption Center 85 N. Temperance Ave., Clovis, CA 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Saturday, Mar. 18

DRIVE THRU SHREDDING EVENT For Seniors and Caregivers Valley Caregiver Resource Center Parking Lot 5363 N. Fresno St., Fresno, CA 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

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)

HELP WANTED

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

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.

‘Loretta’s Little Miracles’ assist in petition of CUSD at School Board Meeting

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,

“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.”

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.

At the February 15th meeting, parents look to “readdress” their pleas as well as further their request to have their issue be agendized in March of 2023.

They hope to also discuss the possibility that CUSD can provide a “Campus Club ‘like’ program for their medically fragile child staffed by a licensed nurse.”

In addition to this parents will also discuss

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.”

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.”

However, they also claim that CUSD as a whole has not spoken to the issue of providing an equal level of before or after school care as provided to other students.

The CUSD School Board meeting is held at 1680 David E. Cook Way in Clovis, California, and will commence at 6:30 P.M. Wednesday February 15th.

FFA donates handcrafted

75 dog toys to Miss Winkles

Krystle Nozartash @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

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.

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

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

Association of Clovis Educators Psychologists urge CUSD for support

@ClovisRoundup

The February 1st: CUSD school board meeting marked another occasion in which ACE Psychologists, the Association of Clovis Educators, has come to the school board projecting their importance to both schools and more importantly, students within the school district.

School psychologists take the lead in advancing students’ communication skills in addition to assisting in their emotional and behavioral needs.

A group of twelve speakers spoke during the public presentation portion of the meeting and voiced their concerns over the unequal pay amongst School Psychologists in CUSD as compared to neighboring school districts. Each of the twelve speakers mentioned the importance of school psychology, and used up the full length of their 2-minute time slots to argue on behalf of school psychologists, using supporting evidence in the form of statistics as well as illustrating why they 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

make that happen.”

Speaker six asked the school board to, “Push administration to put them on a front line fight to care for our kids.”

Another concern was brought forth by speaker four when they related their concerns to the pandemic.

“We can all agree we’ve gone through a lot.” The speaker then went on to speak about school board member Dr. Fogg’s comments from the past in which they claimed he mentioned the toll the pandemic took on everyone whether it was from school closures, split days, or arts and sports being canceled or scaled back.

“It took a toll on all of us…how can we possibly imagine the toll it took on the students?”

ACE psychologists have the training and qualifications ready to combat the toll the pandemic took on students in CUSD, but speaker four stated that they are “overwhelmed” by the demands and high stress that have been placed on their jobs. 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

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

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.

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

three threats were related to a threat made at Costco over the weekend and have all originated outside of the United States. 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.

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.

Clovis Roundup Staff

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.

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.

CVMD puts on Valentine’s Day Sweetheart Dance

pretend like we know what we’re doing.”

The Clovis Veterans Memorial District put on their annual Sweetheart Dance on Sunday February 12th, to a great turnout of excellent dancers.

Couples and singles alike paired up to dance to The Red River Dutchmen band’s dancing arrangements– everything from the Beach Boys to Glen Miller, from polka to waltz. Plenty of couples shirked the big game this Sunday in favor of spending time dancing in their favored styles.

John and Tracy Heathcote were seen swing dancing – East Coast Lindy Hop style, no less– a style they learned at dance halls in Santa Barbara, where their romance began. John said, “Every other style, we just

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

Carley Watson, 85, and Dwight Rimuner, 89, met dancing last year in Hanford. Dwight favors country western style dancing, and Carley loves ballroom dance.

“We met a year ago, and we dance well together, so we go dancing together,” Rimuner said. “And we’ve fallen in love,” Watson added.

“She lets me hold her hand sometimes,” said Dwight.

After a break of two years from the Sweetheart Dance event, newly discovered love and long-time partners found equal footing on the dance floor on a lovely Sunday afternoon.

Sweetheart Dance snapshots

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Swing Dancers at Sweetheart Dance.

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

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

Steve and Lydia swinging at the Sweetheart Dance.

Table centerpieces and the dance floor.

John and Tracy cutting the rug.