WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 | VOL. 9, NO. 2 | LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED | PUBLISHED EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY | LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, & ENTERTAINMENT
SPORTS
Amazing grace and the wonderful world of the Ortiz baseball Family
CITY NEWS
City of Clovis appoints Scott Fetterhoff as new personnel commissioner
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Clovis dog park meeting gets heated
The City of Clovis held a public meeting in early May to discuss dog parks. The meeting focused on the current timeline for a permanent facility and the possibility of a temporary dog park. PIXABAY
TOMAS KASSAHUN @TomasKassahun
Local officials take part in a groundbreaking ceremony for California Health Sciences University’s new campus site in Clovis, Wednesday, May 9, 2018. BILLY XIONG/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
Medical school breaks ground in Clovis BY DANIEL LEON | Editor-in-Chief editor@clovisroundup.com
the accreditation process has successfully been completed, we hope to matriculate our first class of students in fall 2020,” said Dunn. John Graneto, Dean of the proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine, stated that the new 90,000 square-foot, three-story building will include a student lounge with ample study spaces, a osteopathic skills lab, faculty offices, and professional kitchen for educating students and the community about healthy meal prep. In addition, the building will include a state-of-the-art simulation center, a large classroom with capacity for 300 students, and a second classroom for 200 students, according to Graneto.
See DOG PARK, Pg. 5
Council proclaims May as Mental Health Month BY VALERIE SHELTON @ClovisRoundup
Eat well and exercise—that is the mantra for healthy living we’ve heard since childhood, but equally important to taking care of one’s physical body, is taking care of the mind. According to Clovis city councilmember Lynne Ashbeck, who serves in a professional capacity as the Senior Vice President of Community Engagement and Population See MENTAL HEALTH, Pg. 5
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California Health Sciences University held a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday morning at its new campus site in Clovis with its officials, founders, political leaders, and community partners in attendance. Located on 70 acres in the Clovis Research and Technology Park at Alluvial and Temperance avenues near Highway 168, the new CHSU campus will include labs, classrooms, a student center, a library, an auditorium, along with support buildings. During the ceremony, CHSU President
Florence Dunn congratulated the inaugural class of Doctor of Pharmacy students who will be graduating in 10 days on May 19. “As of February, two thirds of our graduating class had already accepted jobs, and 80 percent of those jobs are right here in the Valley,” stated Dunn. “I’d like to congratulate and thank our inaugural class who enabled the successful creation of our university. You are our legacy.” The University also unveiled design concepts for the first development to be constructed, the CHSU proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine building. “We have launched the CHSU proposed College of Osteopathic Medicine and once
Tempers flared when the City of Clovis held a meeting on May 1 to discuss dog parks. The meeting, held at the Clovis City Council Chambers, gave the public a chance to share their thoughts about a temporary dog park which would be used until the city builds a permanent dog park. “It’s going to be some time before the permanent dog park is built, so we’re asking if you want a temporary one before the permanent one is built,” Clovis parks manager
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Clovis gets two Valley Blueprint Awards Clovis was well represented at the 2018 San Joaquin Valley Blueprint Awards last week with two of its projects receiving awards. The city’s Cottage Home Program was announced as the Award of Excellence recipient in the Downtown Revitalization category while Magnolia Crossing, a senior assisted living facility, received the same award in the Residential Development category. The awards program, in partnership with the Community and Regional Planning Center at Fresno State and sponsored by American Planning Association California – Central Section, recognizes outstanding achievements and practices in the built environment. In 2009, the San Joaquin Valley’s eight regional transportation agencies created the awards program
to encourage quality in planning and development, with the smart-growth oriented 12 Blueprint Principles as the basis. The hope was to provide visual examples of attractive, functional and environmentally friendly projects that could have relevance throughout the San Joaquin Valley. Over 50 projects and individuals have received awards since the program began. The 2018 awards program solicited nominations from throughout the San Joaquin Valley in the following sustainable development categories: residential, commercial, mixed use, downtown revitalization, transportation enhancement, and historic revitalization. Nominations were also sought for individuals who have shown enthusiasm and tenacity in promoting the smart-growth principles.
Clovis Unified students answer call of duty
The City of Clovis picked up a pair of Valley Blueprint Awards this year. One for its Cottage Home Program and another for Magnolia Crossing, a new, fully licensed, assisted living community. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
Bowlero has become an entertainment destination for people of all ages.
Clovis Unified students who have answered the call of duty with their decision to serve in the armed forces upon graduation were honored at the Patriots Dinner, May 2, 2018. CLOVIS VETERANS MEMORIAL DISTRICT
Clovis Veterans Memorial District hosted its second annual Patriots Dinner on May 2 to honor Clovis Unified School District students who have committed to serve in the military upon graduation. Students enjoyed dinner with their families, City of Clovis officials, and local military personnel before invited on stage to be recognized
and presented with certificates. “We hope the families and students feel encouraged, motivated and supported as they begin a new chapter in their lives,” CVMD said in a social media post. “The Clovis Community is here for you and we thank you for your decision to serve and defend our great nation.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOWLERO
Bowlero launches in Clovis Bowlero Corporation, a leader in bowling entertainment, is getting ready to unveil its third Central Valley location in Clovis this weekend. Located at 140 Shaw Ave., the new bowling alley offers a new spin on the traditional bowling alley. The renovated venue (formerly AMF Rodeo Lanes) features 40 lanes of blacklight bowling, soft lounge seating, high definition video walls, and a completely new bar and lounge
area. The venue also includes a state-of-the-art arcade with games like World’s Largest PacMan, The Walking Dead, and Mario Kart DX, among others. The revamped bowling alley’s official launch party is this Saturday, May 19 from noon to 4 p.m. The event is open to the community and will have free bowling, arcade play, food and drink specials, giveaways, and more.
Clovis welcomes Nuovo Terraces by Bonadelle Neighborhoods Local home builder Bonadelle Neighborhoods is nearing completion of Nuovo Terraces, its second community in Clovis. The development of 83 homes on 7.5 acres immediately south of Sierra Vista Mall is branded as a blend of “urban living and old town charm” because of its close proximity to Old Town Clovis, Fresno State and the Old Town Trail. “It’s a property we’ve identified for a while and a property that we think would be really successful for residential homes,” said John Bonadelle, Director of Operations at Bonadelle Neighborhoods. “It was owned by another developer in town that we have a good relationship with, so it worked out fairly well for us when they were ready to sell. When it’s all said and done, it’ll be a nice mixed-use area there with the mall and the apartment complex next door.” The property features Bonadell’s new Legacy Series, which is made up of entirely two- and three-story homes with five floor plans ranging
in size from 1,209 to 1,663 square feet. Every home comes with a covered patio, extra windows for more natural light, an open kitchen with granite countertops and tile flooring, and front yard landscaping with synthetic lawn for less maintenance. “It’s the first time we’re building this Legacy Series in Clovis and we’re starting from the $200,000’s, right now we’re starting at $244,950,” added Bonadelle. The gated community also features an amenity center with a weight room, group recreation room and swimming pool. “We sold most of our [Nuovo Terraces] first releases. I would say we sold about ⅓ of the community so far,” said Bonadelle. “We opened up for sale at the beginning of 2018 and it’s been timed well as we finish up our community and we’ll be moving in our first homeowners in at the end of the month. The homebuyers and the market have received the community well, and so far it’s been successful.”
Nuovo Terraces, Bonadelle Neighborhoods’ latest Clovis development, is underway near Sierra Vista Mall. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
4 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
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CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER . 5
City relaxes RV and boat parking ordinance for peak summer months BY VALERIE SHELTON @ClovisRoundup
Clovis residents who tire of having to go back and forth from their mini storage unit each summer weekend to get their boat or RV will be able to enjoy relaxed restrictions to the city’s recreation vehicle ordinance from Memorial Day to Labor Day. During this timeframe, Cpl. Curtis Shurtliff said the Clovis Police Department often receives numerous calls for service complaining of neighbors’ RVs parked on streets and in driveways, as well as numerous calls from recreational vehicle owners asking an exception be made in the days between frequent weekend getaways for their family. In the past, Shurtliff said, the city has relaxed the ordinance before but that experiment proved too lax. This time around, Clovis PD is trying to compromise with both recreational vehicle owners and their neighbors by allowing RV and boat owners to park their recreational vehicles in their driveway only during the summer months—no parking them on the street in front of their neighbor’s homes. The hope, Shurtliff said, is that this will reduce both calls for service and special requests regarding this ordinance, freeing officers to pursue more egregious violators of other ordinances as well as the real criminals that tend to lurk in the summer as residents leave their homes unattended and go on vacation. “During the summer months, the police department responds to a lot of requests about recreational vehicles parking in driveways, that includes in front of their homes and in their driveways and in front of their houses. The police department has also received numerous requests in these months of people requesting to park their RV or boat or recreational vehicle in their driveway,” Shurtliff said. “Looking at this, we decided that the top peak days in the calendar are from Memorial Day to Labor Day and these are the times that we receive many of these requests. We thought maybe we could relax the vehicle code during these times to allow RVs/boats to be parked in their driveway and in their driveway only. “This has been tried before in the past,
Dog Park
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
Eric Aller said. Not everybody agreed with the idea of a temporary dog park. “I would really prefer going forward with the permanent dog park and not the temporary dog park,” said Michelle Jenkins, who was the most vocal of the residents at the meeting. Jenkins said she started the petition for a dog park a year ago, but didn’t agree with the proposed plan presented at the meeting. As the city presented two possible options for a temporary dog park in Clovis, Jenkins continued to raise questions about both options throughout the presentation. One option for the temporary dog park is Bicentennial Park, located on the northwest
Mental Health CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
Wellness for Valley Children’s Healthcare, one in five adults nationwide experience some mental health challenge in their lives. Those challenges include depression or anxiety brought on by life’s stressors and tough circumstances or a lifelong battle with bipolar, obsessive-compulsive disorder or PTSD. Given this statistic, Ashbeck feels its important to raise awareness about mental health. “It is important when we talk about being
however it allowed persons to park their RVs need to look up each address. Plus, he said, it in the roadway as well which became a huge isn’t necessarily fair as some neighbors just parking problem – and we actually received won’t relent, while others don’t mind at all. more complaints. This time we would like to “The ordinance is the ordinance and what try just relaxing the municipal code to allow is fair for one is fair for all,” Shurtliff said. persons to park their recreational vehicles “This way during these specific days of the (personal trailers, RVs and boats) in their year, someone can park their recreational vedriveway.” hicle so long as it falls Not just any recreationwithin the perimeters al vehicle can be parked we’re requesting in their in the driveway, however. own driveway. It is reThe vehicle must be curally just to allow those rently registered, must be that use their RV or boat kept clean—no flat tires every weekend to park or cobwebs—must not enin the driveway.” croach onto the sidewalk Lynne Ashbeck said or into the roadway, must her concern is that those be parked in the registered with smaller driveways owners’ driveway, and will push the issue and must not exceed 25 feet in if they are cited for enlength. croaching on the sideThe city’s current muwalk, they may try to nicipal code doesn’t allow park in the street. such vehicles to park in “This will allow you driveways at all and the to park an RV or boat in police department not only Lynne Ashbeck your own driveway, so responds to calls for ser- CITY COUNCILMEMBER long as you don’t have vice from neighbors but one of those five-foot its volunteer force is out driveways,” Ashbeck actively patrolling and enforcing the ordi- said. “I can see it escalating. They will figure nance. The first violation is just a warning and out they can’t park in the driveway because most residents, Shurtliff said, comply after their driveway is too short, so they’ll want to the warning, moving their vehicle within 24 park on the street instead. I think that is the to 48 hours. If the boat or RV isn’t moved, he logical progression of one’s brain, so I do said the citation process begins, starting with think we have a number of those neighbora $100 citation, then a $500 citation and then hoods with small driveways where this could a $1,000 citation. In a few cases, the city has present a problem, but I guess we don’t know had to have repeat violator vehicles towed. until we try it.” By relaxing this code, the police department Shurtliff said the police department will will be able to focus on other matters during come back before the council after Labor Day these summer months, when recreational ve- with a report on how the relaxed ordinance hicles are heavily used. worked. If it does reduce calls as hoped, it Councilmembers ultimately agreed to try is likely they will continue to do relaxed enthe experiment of relaxing the ordinance this forcement during the summer months, but if summer, although they expressed concerns there is no real progress, the ordinance will be that some neighbors won’t like it and others enforced as usual in summer 2019. will push the new boundaries. Councilmember Drew Bessinger said he is Mayor Bob Whalen said in an ideal world, hopeful the relaxed enforcement works. he’d like to see recreational vehicle owners “I don’t have a boat, but I’d hate to have to get buy-in from their neighbors, similar to drive it back and forth from the mini storage how one needs permission from neighbors to every weekend when I’m using it, so in that run a business out of their home. But creating spirit I think this is a good idea,” Bessinger an exempt list, Shurtliff said, would make en- said. forcement complicated as officers would then
“This will allow you to park an RV or boat in your own driveway, so long as you don’t have one of those five-foot driveways,”
corner of Sunnyside and Sierra avenues. Jenkins said Bicentennial Park is a concern because it has standing water which could lead to disease for dogs. The second option presented at the meeting was Letterman Park, located on the northwest area of Villa and Barstow. Jenkins said Letterman Park is a bad choice because the skate park nearby can disturb the dogs. “My concern is that they chose dog parks that are going to have issues with both the skate park and the water concern with possible disease for our dogs at Bicentennial,” Jenkins said. “Given that we have no other choices for the temporary and that it’s going to be so close to the permanent, I think it would make sense to just move forward with the permanent dog park.” As Jenkins raised questions about the two options, Aller explained that residents are
welcome to propose other ideas outside of the two options presented at the meeting. Aller said the city proposed the two parks because they are centrally located, some areas of the parks haven’t been used and there are water and restrooms nearby. “We’re going to look at all the options. We want to do what’s best for the community,”Aller said. The temporary dog park would have a small dog area, a large dog area, waste bags, a sign with the rules and a bench, Aller said. Some residents grew weary as Jenkins continued to press the issue. One resident said the city is doing its best to make the best possible dog park and suggested that Jenkins should keep her dogs home if she doesn’t like the parks. The resident’s comment was met with applause from a large part of the crowd. Aller said the public’s concerns will be considered before a final decision is made.
healthy that we talk not only about physical fitness but mental fitness, which is equally important,” Ashbeck said. To raise this awareness, on May 7 Ashbeck brought a proclamation before the Clovis council declaring May as Mental Health Month. Her fellow councilmembers unanimously supported the proclamation. The proclamation states: “Whereas mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and wellbeing; and Whereas all Americans experience times of difficulty and stress in their lives; and Whereas prevention is an effective way to decrease the burden of mental health conditions; and Whereas there is strong
research that diet, exercise, sleep and stress management can help all Americans protect their health and wellbeing; and Whereas mental health conditions are real and prevalent in our nation; and Whereas with effective treatment those individuals with mental health conditions can recover and lead full productive lives; and Whereas each business, school, government agency, healthcare provider, organization and citizen shares the burden of mental health problems and has a responsibility to promote mental health wellness and support prevention efforts; Now therefore be it resolved that the city of Clovis hereby proclaim May 2018 as Mental Health Month.”
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Maude Kirkpatrick Bell, 1895-1959 BY PEG BOS Contributed Clovis Museum
Albert and Ella Kirkpatrick arrived in Clovis in 1895. They rented the upstair rooms of the 1891 Southern Pacific Railroad Depot east of Fourth and Clovis avenues. Ella delivered twins on April 19, 1895. The doctor delivered Maude without realizing it was a double birth and returned to Fresno. Her twin brother was stillborn. Brothers Carl (1897?) and Claude (1903) would follow. Albert was a master carpenter and built his house at 530 Woodworth, south of the 1893 Methodist Church on the southwest corner of Woodworth and Fifth. He would enlarge his home by “sliding/attaching” a four room house that was nearby. He was elected to the first Clovis Board of Trustees in 1912 and served as Recorder and Justice of the Peace. He, dressed in his carpenter’s apron, performed marriages in front of his Pollasky Avenue shop. Maude was a beautiful and talented child. She took piano lessons and would practice for hours. During the evening, her mother would stand beside the piano and hold an oil lamp (no electricity available). Maude became an accomplished pianist. Claude, Maude’s youngest brother, wrote a wonderful article about his family. It was published in “Those Were the Days” that was compiled by CUSD Clovis Adult Education in 1976. Claude recalled that Maude did not learn to ride a bike until she was 16 or so. He would help her balance
Maude Kirkpatrick, 1914 Clovis High graduate.
CLOVIS MUSEUM
but she “wobbled” a lot. One time she left the Methodist Church and lost control as she crossed Fifth and ended up bruised and battered in the thick hedge of Judge Burke’s home on the northwest corner of Fifth and Woodworth. I quote Claude’s remembrance of his brother Carl taking Maude for a ride on his motorcycle: “She wore a tan colored divided skirt, that buttoned down the front. She undid the buttons which made the skirt into
big pantaloons and rode the motorcycle ASTRIDE! She was a member of the Baptist Church (northeast corner of DeWitt and Fourth) and was for a long time its official piano player, playing for the choir and for the congregational singing. Some church member saw her riding the motorbike. They promptly called a deacon’s meeting where a vote was taken whether she could properly be retained as church musician after such disgraceful behavior. She, however, was
only reprimanded and admonished to mend her ways, and was permitted to continue playing the piano for church services.” Claude began his electronic career in 1915 and would eventually teach engineering courses at the University of California, San Diego. Maude graduated as the Valedictorian from Clovis High School in 1914 and after two years at Fresno Normal (now Fresno State), began teaching eighth grade at Clovis Elementary. Brother Claude was in her class and he stated: “I couldn’t call her Maude in class and I didn’t want to call her Miss Kirkpatrick, so I made a great thing of not calling her at all.” She was principal of Nees Colony School for a time and returned to Clovis Elementary as acting principal (did not qualify as principal since she had not graduated from a four year school with a teaching degree). She taught at Clovis schools from 1917-1941. Maude received a note from Frank Bell (future owner of Clovis Lumber Company and Tollhouse Lumber and Mill) on Sept. 29, 1916 requesting her to join him at a W.C.T.U. (Woman’s Christian Temperance Union) function. The organization was founded in 1873 and was the first mass organization that “linked the religious and the secular through concerted and far-reaching reform strategies based on applied Christianity.” Frank and Maude were married on April 26, 1918. She called out “lover” to Frank as she died on July 2, 1959. Their sons, Eugene and John, were active community leaders in Clovis. The Bell family is a part of our rich heritage.
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CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER . 7
Harlan Ranch HOA plans to expand clubhouse BY VALERIE SHELTON @ClovisRoundup
As Harlan Ranch residents continue to wait patiently for a commercial center to be built along Owens Mountain Parkway for their use, the community’s homeowner’s association (HOA) is looking to expand its clubhouse and provide residents with a larger meeting space expansive enough for large-scale events like weddings and retirement parties. According to Harlan Ranch HOA president Brian Burry, the now nearly complete community boasts 1,650 homes and just under 4,000 residents, rendering its current little clubhouse, with a maximum capacity of just 54 people, inadequate. “When Harlan Ranch was only half grown, the clubhouse was really great. But, now that it’s all done, trying to hold events has become difficult,” Burry said. The area surrounding the current Harlan Ranch clubhouse and fenced pool and recreation spot is owned by the City of Clovis and is part of a landscape maintenance district (LMD) area residents contribute tax monies to for the city to maintain. The Harlan Ranch HOA has proposed expanding its current clubhouse into this area. Clovis City Planner Bryan Araki said the proposed expansion is the simplest solution for the HOA to accomplish its expansion goal. “The HOA approached city staff and asked us to look into the possibility of expanding their recreation center area, not only the building but to expand into the yard space outside of it,” Araki said. “Right now, they are constrained to their private area being inside their fenced area that surrounds the pool, so the thought was the HOA could lease space or purchase land from the city to accommodate an expansion. One of the
The entrance to the Harlan Ranch Community Recreation Center, which includes a clubhouse and pool area for residents. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
best scenarios is for the city to outright sell a portion of the open space there to the HOA to allow for this.” The portion of land in question, Araki said, is comparable to about .15 acres and is located immediately southeast of the current clubhouse parking area, adjacent to the recreation center. That particular area is not heavily used, Araki said, as most residents prefer to utilize the larger grass area west of the pool. The sale of this small portion of land would not only benefit those in Harlan Ranch, but the city as well because parks staff would no longer need to maintain it as part of the LMD. The only hitch in the plan is the area’s strict zoning, which as it stands would prevent the HOA from putting a retail style coffee shop inside the expanded clubhouse— one idea Burry said would encourage com-
munity by providing a gathering place for residents. “The HOA has made comments about being able to provide coffee service and pastries and things like that. We would need to work that out,” Araki said. “This is an area that is zoned planned commercial center with the original Harlan Ranch, but it has tight restrictions on the use of the planned commercial center (PCC) zoning. It’s not like a PCC at the mall that allows retail uses so we would need to work those out through this process and bring it back to the council once we get to a point that we have an agreement that is feasible for the city and the HOA.” With or without the coffeehouse option, Burry said the expansion will add great benefit to Harlan Ranch residents. “This area 30 feet east of our building up to 75 feet east would allow us to both ex-
pand our building a little bit to have a larger patio to accommodate a larger group for a wedding or party,” Burry said. “We do 140 family events a year in that little clubhouse so the extra patio area will help out a lot and as you know we maintain it for the city so that will save you some money not having to maintain that section. Regarding the coffee and pastries, that is just meant is for our members to be able to stop by and have a little place to sit around and have discussions, it’s not going to be an open commercial coffee site, just a little gathering site for our members. We appreciate your consideration because it would allow the residents to enjoy more activities in their family center.” Mayor Bob Whalen said he thinks the idea of the coffee site and expanded center will appease residents who have been waiting far too long in his opinion for the last seven-acre parcel zoned for commercial use to be developed in Harlan Ranch along Owens Mountain Parkway and Highway 168. “Every time I meet with the owners of that land, I press them on this issue because I do believe that was a promise made to the Harlan Ranch folks that there would be an opportunity for them to engage in a commercial center with a grocery store and/or coffee shop. That promise remains unfulfilled and that is frustrating for me,” Whalen said. “I believe that Harlan Ranch is really a microcosm of what we hope to have in our larger villages like Loma Vista and Heritage Grove so this is really a proof of concept but until that area gets developed out, we won’t really have that proof of concept. In the meantime, this idea may be an alternative. I know we still need to work out negotiations for a coffee and pastry type of place there, but this may be an opportunity for us to test whether indeed the Harlan Ranch folks are interested in something like this and the HOA is willing to take the risk to do that.”
Clovis welcomes new personnel commissioner BY VALERIE SHELTON @ClovisRoundup
In April, the city council bid farewell to long-term personnel commissioner Kevin Dale and officially appointed Scott Fetterhoff to fill Dale’s vacant seat. Dale was first appointed to the personnel commission in 2007 and dutifully served the city in that capacity for the last 11 years, bringing to the group his expertise as a labor employment attorney. Though Dale has enjoyed his time on the commission immensely, he said it was time for him to pass on the baton and he thinks Fetterhoff will do an outstanding job as his replacement. “Eleven years went by really fast,” Dale said. “By trade, I happen to be a labor employment attorney so I work different sides of the fence from time to time. So, serving on the personnel commission allowed me to gain more exposure to being more of the neutral role and overseeing the cases that came before us. My experience is that the City of Clovis, not surprisingly, is a very well rounded city. I personally witnessed in my role as commissioner how the city is run and one thing is there is not a lot of activity coming before the personnel commission
Scott Fetterhoff (pictured) is taking over Kevin Dale’s seat on the Clovis Personnel Commission. VALERIE SHELTON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
because the city is well run and human resources does a great job. But, when cases did come before the commission, it was always very professional. “With Scott Fetterhoff, I want to assure the city that its in even better hands than it was with me,” Dale continued. “He will do a great job for the city.” The council expressed their appreciation for Dale and his service by presenting him with a plaque of recognition on behalf of the city. As for Fetterhoff, though he is not a Clo-
vis native, he said he is excited to serve the city he has come to love over his last few years as a new Clovis resident. “I grew up in rural northern California in a community that was safe and gave me everything so this opportunity will allow me to contribute something back to the community that I live in now,” Fetterhoff said. Fetterhoff has worked with the local housing authority as its Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development for the last three years. This capacity, he said, is the first in which he’s worked within the public sector in his career and he said he has come to love the position and how it’s helped him grow both on professional and personal levels. In addition to being a Clovis resident, Fetterhoff’s young son attends Clovis Unified schools and Fetterhoff said his parents also reside here. “I’m familiar with Kevin Dale and what he is capable of. So, I’m acutely aware of the size of the shoes that I’m going to try to fill and I really look forward to working with you all,” Fetterhoff said to the council and city staff at a recent meeting. Mayor Bob Whalen said he and General Services Director Shonna Halterman had the chance to interview Fetterhoff and both are
pleased with the choice to appoint him to the personnel commission. “He is very personal and approachable and fair minded, so we are looking forward to having him serve as a commissioner,” Whalen said. In addition to the new appointment, personal commissioners Jerry Schuber, Kari Mercer and Darren Rose were re-appointed to the personnel commission. Two incumbents were also re-appointed to the planning commission, Alma Antuna and Amy Hatcher. Both planning commissioners were grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve. “Thank you for allowing me to continue to serve this beautiful city,” Antuna said to the council. “It has been an amazing experience. The city has the best planning staff and they make our job easy. I love this city and it’s an absolute pleasure and an honor to serve and I’m excited to see our city continue to grow.” “Our planning staff is amazing,” Hatcher added. “It is a great experience and I’m many terms in now and pretty much learn something new every month. I’m looking forward to seeing what the rest of this year holds.”
PAUL DICTOS, CPA
HON. THOMAS M. BOYAJIAN, ESQ.
Fresno County Assessor-Recorder
Former Fresno City Council Member
ROD OLGUIN, PRESIDENT
LARRY SOLAEGUI
ABC Interpreting, Inc.
Businessman
EDWARD C. VALDEZ, ESQ.
DOUGLAS LOW
Attorney at Law
Businessman
Chair, Board of Trustees, Community Medical Centers/Fresno County Administrative Officer (retd.)
HON. GARY YEP
BOB HANDLEY
Mayor Pro Tem, City of Kerman
FUSD (retd)
JAVIER A. ALABART, ESQ.
HON. VICTOR P. LOPEZ
WILLIAM J. KLOMHAUS, J.D.
Mayor, City of Orange Cove
Law Office of Javier A. Alabart
JOSEPH A. IGOA, ESQ.
JOE O'KEEFE, ESQ.
Attortney
Attorney
HON. MARK RODRIQUEZ
BROOKE ASHJIAN, CEO
ENDORSEMENTS
VICKI CROW, CPA
Retired Fresno County Auditor-Controller
MICHELE EARNHART
Vice President, Patient Financial Service
LINZIE L. DANIEL
Attorney at Law
LEROY CANDLER
Transportaion Engineer
City Council Member, City of Fowler
Seal Rite Paving
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8 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
FACES OF CLOVIS
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
How to Afford Your Summer Vacation Plans BY NOBLE CREDIT UNION @NobleCUFresno | Contributed
SIERRA LOPEZ
Student at Clovis Community College ROAD TO CLOVIS: Sierra Lopez is a sophomore at Clovis Community College, she recently transferred to CCC from Old Dominion University in Virginia. FAMILY: “I come from a Mexican-American culture. I have family in Texas, Alabama, here and everywhere really, but this is my home now. [Having family in various places] is fun. Ever since I was little, I would go on flights by myself to visit my mom in Alabama. I love traveling.” PLACE OF BIRTH: Fresno, California FIRST JOB: “[I worked] at the YMCA in Texas. I was a child-watch counselor. It was fun and a good experience.” MAJOR: “My major is biology, I want to emphasize in neuroscience. My sister was diagnosed with MS [multiple sclerosis] about a year ago so I want to help her more in that aspect of it, really understand it and see if we can advance any of the research because there is no cure right now. It’s really hard seeing her go through this, but that’s why I’m [studying] biology. OCCUPATION: “I actually work in the nurse’s office here as a student aid for federal work study. I volunteer at Lincoln Elementary in downtown Fresno, so I do that weekly and I volunteer for Be The Match, a marrow donor registry for blood cancer patients. I organized the registry drive [at CCC] and I also want to start a Be The Match club on campus this fall.” FAVORITE FOOD: “Buñuelos,” a traditional mexican fried dessert often served during the holidays. FAVORITE TV SHOW: “‘The Vampire Diaries.’ I watched all of the [seasons] like 10 times, it’s addicting.” FAVORITE BOOK/AUTHOR: ‘Graceling’ by Kristin Cashore. “It’s the only science-fiction book that I actually read, all the other ones are non-fiction. It has romance in it and magic.” HOBBIES/LEISURELY PURSUITS: “I garden. Sunflowers are my favorite, my lavenders just sprouted and I’m planting azaleas, which are these very pretty bushes of flowers.” INTERESTING FACT: “I was born and raised here [in Fresno]. My junior year of high school I moved to Texas and finished high school there.” FAVORITE THING ABOUT CLOVIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE: “It’s really welcoming. I feel like it’s focused around God, and I really like that.” FAVORITE THING ABOUT CLOVIS: “The Starbucks at Sierra Vista Mall is where I [like to] study because it’s calmer and friendlier there.”
It may be hard to believe, but the official beginning of summer – June 21 – is just over a month away! Chances are, you may already be planning a fantastic summer vacation. Did you know there’s help to make your summer vacation plans more affordable? Summer is a great time to get away and have wonderful experiences – but it can also be a time when people come to regret overspending. This year, before summer starts, visit your local credit union to take advantage of lots of unique services, products, and advice that can keep your summer vacation plans within a sensible spending level. To ensure your summer spending doesn’t get out of hand, here are some tips to make your money go further: Vacation Planning – Your summer holiday (at the beach, the mountains, amusement parks, or national and international tourism) is a worthwhile reason to spend on yourself. When you’re on vacation, you tend to relax and let cares drift away – this can be good for your mind and body. Unfortunately, many people submit to the temptation to overspend. Instead, if you save for your vacation, set a budget, and, with research online, choose a destination or activity you can afford, you’ll enjoy fun memories and rejuvenation without breaking the bank. Use a MyRewards VISA Credit Card – Use a credit card wisely, and you can count on spending with ease and convenience. With the MyRewards VISA from Noble Credit Union, you’ll earn points on every purchase to use for shopping, dining, travel, and accommodations! Noble Credit Union offers the MyRewards Platinum VISA with no annual fee, a super-low APR rate, and loads of rewards options! Look for Bargains – Sometimes, last-minute reservations (for hotels, resorts, even ocean cruises) can provide big savings
PIXABAY.COM
when you book unsold rooms. If you’re willing to take off on a moment’s notice, it’s possible to have a lot of fun for a whole lot less than full price. Use Discount Tickets – Noble Credit Union offers members discount admissions to Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Wild Water Adventure Park, Island Water Park, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Consider a Low Interest Loan – If you’re planning a getaway that’s a bit beyond your means, there’s an alternative to putting it all on your credit card: an unsecured loan from Noble Credit Union. Members can apply for a loan with no fees at an interest rate well below most credit cards. Be Worth More – Joining Noble Credit Union is the way! Noble Credit Union offers no-fee checking and savings accounts with 24/7 online and mobile access, mobile check deposits, unlimited bill pay and a VISA® debit card. You’ll get highly personalized service, and the essential services you need to manage your finances with ease. For more information about membership in Noble Credit Union, visit www.NobleCU.com.
Arts&
ENTERTAINMENT
Sierra Nights Live concert series Taking it to the Streets returns kicks off with Nirvana tribute to Old Town
BY VALERIE SHELTON @ClovisRoundup Sierra Vista Mall’s new summer concert series Sierra Nights Live kicked off Thursday, May 10, with a tribute to 90s alternative grunge band Nirvana. The tribute band aptly named Nearvana set the tone for the series, which Sierra Vista Mall communications director Natalie Khan said will differ from its series of that past by bringing an edgier sound to mall goers and music patrons. “The difference is we went toward more of our 90s alternative, a little bit of grunge in there, and of course we’ll still have an AC/DC tribute band but we want to be a little edgy and more out there,” Khan said. Nearvana bandmates Ron Foster (guitar and lead vocals), Ken Kopkin (drums), and Andy Scher (bass) were more than happy to oblige and introduce the concert series style, opening with hits like “I’m on a Plane.” The trio said when 105.1 The Blaze, the local station partnering with the mall for the series, called and asked them if they’d be the opening act, the Los Angeles-based group couldn’t resist the opportunity to come perform in the Central Valley. They have performed in the area previously at Fresno’s Starline club in the Tower District and said they always experience “mad crowds” when they come to Fresno and Clovis. “Every show has been really successful up here,” Foster said. “I’ve has people come up to me after shows and say ‘thank you so much for doing this, I’ve always wanted to see Nirvana live and had no idea what they would sound like or look like’ so a lot of people love it and it keeps us going. When you get people like that after a show, it just makes you want to get to the next show and do it all over again and make people happy. The crowd response after the shows and how much they love the show and the fact that we brought a live Nirvana show to their town, people just love that and we feed off that.” Nearvana has been bringing the sound of Nirvana to live audiences for the past 10 years—longer than Nirvana was together— traveling as far as Honolulu to do a show. They have even performed in Seattle several times, as well as Kurt Cobain’s hometown of Aberdeen, Washington. Scher said Cobain’s grandfather even came to one of their shows. Before becoming Nearvana, Foster, Scher and Kopkin performed together doing various covers and tributes. In total, they’ve been jamming together over 20 years. The concept for Nearvana all began when Foster went to the skate park with his pal John Silva, who just happened to be Nivana’s band manager. They
The City of Clovis hosted Taking it to the Streets, a design and food festival, in Old Town during Mother’s Day weekend. Guests had the opportunity to tour professional on-street parklet designs throughout Old Town, sample foods from local restaurants, and enjoy live entertainment at the Centennial Plaza. BILLY XIONG/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
BY ALEXANDRIA T. MONTES @ClovisRoundup
Nearvana, a Nirvana tribute band out of Los Angeles, performs during the opening Sierra Nights Live concert at Sierra Vista Mall, May 10, 2018. VALERIE SHELTON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
got to talking about why there was no tribute band for Nirvana on the west coast and that led to Foster’s eureka moment. “I asked John ‘how come there is no Nirvana tribute band here in the western United States?’ and he said ‘I don’t know, you look like Kurt, how about you dye your hair blonde and you go for it’ and a lightbulb went off in my head and that is really how the band started, just having a discussion with Nirvana’s band manager,” Foster said. Kopkin was on board with the idea instantly, having wanted to form a tribute band since Cobain’s tragic passing. “After Kurt passed away there was no way to hear Nirvana live anymore so that is why we thought that music is really great, especially when it is live and loud and powerful. That is something that people aren’t doing anymore so we’re going to do that and keep his memory alive,” Kopkin said. “It is really a way to expose people to what they were like as a live band because that is not an option anymore.” Scher was more than willing to take up the Krist Novoselic persona as bassist as well.
“We’ve been friends for over 25 years and Ron just said ‘hey, let’s start a Nirvana tribute band’ and I’m kind of tall like Krist Novoselic so it worked out pretty well.” A packed crowd at Sierra Vista Mall seemingly agreed as they cheered for Nearvana and chanted along to Nirvana’s most popular hits. The 90s alternative style fun will continue every second and fourth Thursday in May, June and July. Next up on May 24 is Dave’s Not Here, a Foo Fighters Tribute band. Other bands performing this series are Green ToDay: A Tribute to Green Day, Jaded Band, Flannel 90s Band: Alternative and Grunge Rock Tribute, and Fuse Box. In addition to live music, each Sierra Night Live show will be followed by an after party hosted by No Surrender Adventure Park, which will have laser tag game specials, as well as food and drink specials. During the show, there are also numerous food vendor booths and the famous beer garden, hosted by the Fresno Rugby Club. The beer garden opens at 6 p.m. before each show and concerts start at 7 p.m.
ArtHop with SW Parra Date/time: Thursday, May 17, 5-8 p.m. Location: Clovis Regional Library, 1155 5th St.
Concert: Blue Stripes Date/time: Friday, May 18, 8:30-10:30 Location: 356 Tavern, 356 Pollasky Ave.
Concert: Dakota Crossing Date/time: Saturday, May 19, 7-9:30 p.m. Location: On The Edge, 412 Pollasky
Concert: Hump Day Blues Jam Hosted By Richie Blue Date/Time: Wednesday, May 16, 7-10 p.m. Location: Di Cicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave.
Kick 2 Summer BBQ Date/time: Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Location: Clovis Boys & Girls Club, 2833 Helm Ave.
Concert: Vapor Trail Date/time: Saturday, May 19, 8-10 p.m. Location: 356 Tavern, 356 Pollasky Ave.
Concert: Open Mic Music + Brian Smart and the Country Outlaws Date/time: May 17, 7-10 p.m. Location: Di Cicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave. More info: https://bit.ly/2ryib3F
A Starry Night at Camp Date/time: Saturday, May 19, 6-9 p.m. Location: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St.
Concert: John Pemberton Rocks The Lounge Date/time: Sunday, May 20, 5-8 p.m. Location: Di Cicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave.
Zone 9 First Birthday Party Date/time: Saturday, May 19, 12-10 p.m. Location: Zone 9 Brewing Company
Clovis Memorial Run Date/time: Saturday, May 26, 7-11 a.m. Location: Clovis Senior Activity Center
THINGS TO DO IN CLOVIS
Friday Night Farmers Market Date/time: Friday, May 18/25, June 1, 5:30 p.m. Location: Old Town Clovis
On May 12, Old Town Clovis sponsored Taking it to the Streets, where one-of-a-kind “Humitat” parklets were built around the downtown area as a way for guests to engage with local restaurants and shops. This was the first year the festival offered a food sampling component that turned out to be a good twist between unique foods and urban design. Clovis Mayor Bob Whalen kicked off the event by welcoming patrons and encouraging them to experience a “Taste of Clovis” while enjoying the live entertainment and parklets that were converted into more community-oriented spaces. Guests appreciated the ambiance of Old Town while trying great food from featured restaurants. Shira Gordon was a first-time attendee and biked five miles from her place in Fresno to help support her friend who was a competitor at the festival, in addition to savoring a Taste of Clovis firsthand. “It was a fun way to spend an afternoon wandering around, experiencing people’s creative outputs in the parklets and enjoying new food and stores,” Gordon said. Don Waddell, a local chef and Executive Director of the Clovis Culinary Center, stood out at the Centennial Park and passed out stamp cards that were purchased for $10 each. The stamp card featured 10 different restaurants that partook in the Taste of Clovis food program and permitted guests of all ages to enjoy specialty samples from the participating highlighted restaurants. Restaurants like Scoops, Soups & More served root beer floats, while others like Blast & Brew offered fries or Papa’s Place who sampled mac and cheese. Taking it to the Streets had its first festival back in 2016. Gordon didn’t attend the inaugural event then but said, “I would definitely go again in the future.” All proceeds from this event benefit the Clovis Culinary Center.
ClovisEats
The Honest Eater:
Blast & Brew
Andiamo Ristorante Italiano 1275 SHAW AVE., CLOVIS, CA 93612
Delizioso! The scratch-made dishes you can order at this Clovis gem are better than Nonie’s. Everything from Andiamo’s minestrone soup to the entrée staples like lasagna, calzone, spaghetti and fettuccine, is made with pride. Andiamo’s also offers a romantic ambiance for those on a date night—on Friday evening’s, you and your special someone will even be serenaded by an accordion player.
Casa Maria
180 SHAW AVE., CLOVIS, CA 93612
CLOVIS ROUNDUP FILE PHOTO
First of all, let us state for the record that there was no brew consumed although the taps along the wall looked inviting. We were seated quickly and ordered our food: gluten free custom pizza, wings and salads. First to arrive was the pizza (that’s right, before the salads). The pizza was great, with one of the best gluten free crusts we have tried. Next up were the wings. I come here just for the wings. Enough said. Last served were our salads. While we ate salads, the pizza and wings got cold so we requested a
FOOD SERVICE ENVIRONMENT
warm up. Once the waitress came back, we had to stop her from rushing off to request water refills, which had been empty since the pizza arrived. The re-warmed pizza and wings were delish. We recommend Blast & Brew, just remember to request your salad be served first.
Nebi’s Place:
Tasty and affordable
PHOTO BY DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
Nebi’s Place is one of the newest restaurants in Clovis. Located inside the Valero Gas Station on the corner of Third and Sunnyside avenues, they offer a variety of Mexican-American cuisine from burgers, BBQ ribs, tri-tip sandwiches to burritos, quesadillas, and tacos. Great food at affordable prices. Come by and check out their daily specials. Nebi’s Place, 304 Sunnyside Ave., Clovis, CA 93611. Catering services available.
One of the Valley’s authentic Mexican restaurants, you can’t go wrong at Casa Maria. Casa Maria is known for it’s family-friendly atmosphere and their delicious dishes. The enchiladas are some of the best around as Casa Maria prides itself on its homemade sauce. Burritos and tacos are also fan favorites. CURRENT SPECIAL: $5 off your order with a minimum purchase of $20. Coupon below.
Luna Pizzeria
349 POLLASKY AVE IN OLD TOWN CLOVIS
There is no dining experience more romantic than sharing a meal at an authentic Italian restaurant, located in the heart of Old Town Clovis, Luna offers the perfect dim-lighted atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine for your next date night. Luna also has a long history in the City of Clovis and is a local favorite. DINNER SPECIAL: $17 dinner for two. Coupon below.
Rodeo Coffee Shop
535 5TH STREET IN OLD TOWN CLOVIS
Located at 535 5th Street, Rodeo Coffee Shop offers breakfast, lunch and dessert options all at a reasonable price. The Shop offers everyday breakfast staples like omelets, potatoes, hash browns, french toast and biscuits and gravy. CURRENT SPECIAL: $5 off your meal with a purchase of $20 or more. Limited to one per customer Monday thru Thursday. Offer is not valid on holidays. Coupon located on page 11.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 . WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
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Sports A R O U N D
SOFTBALL
T H E
T R A C
PAUL MEADORS Sports Editor paulmeadors@gmail.com @paulmeadors
BASEBALL
Clovis softball dominates TRAC, earns No. 1 playoff seed
Dusty Schramm of Clovis West has been one of the top pitchers in the TRAC, helping lead the Golden Eagles to their first league title since 2012 with a 10-5 record. Schramm has signed to play baseball at the University of Utah after earlier committing to play football at Utah State. PHOTO COURTESY OF SEVERANCE DIGITAL STUDIO
Senior pitcher Danielle Lung of Clovis is 22-0 on the season for the 10-0 TRAC champions. The Cougars are 27-2 overall and are ranked No. 9 in the state by Cal-Hi Sports and earned the No. 1 playoff seed. PHOTO COURTESY OF SEVERANCE DIGITAL STUDIO
Led by a remarkable senior class, the Clovis softball team dominated the TRAC this year with a perfect 10-0 record, outscoring opponents 68-6 and earning the No. 1 seed in the CIF Central Section D-I playoffs. Cal-Hi Sports’ No. 9 team closed out TRAC play with a 9-0 win over Clovis West, finishing the regular season with a 27-2 record as senior Danielle Lung improved to 22-0 on the season with 15 strikeouts, allowing only one hit. Emily Puente and Jordyn Martinez each hit a home run, continuing their back and forth battle for the school’s career home run record of 19. “Danielle has put together one of the best careers in section history,” Clovis coach Mike Noel said. “For every game she’s pitched in, she’s given her team a reSee SOFTBALL, Pg. 17
TRAC TRACK AND FIELD CHAMPIONSHIP GOLD MEDALISTS GIRLS 100m: Lauren Fowler, Buchanan, 12.34 200m: Lauren Fowler, Buchanan, 25.16 400m: Elleyse Wheaton, Clovis North, 58.89 800m: Meagen Lowe, Buchanan, 2:15.43 1600m: Meagen Lowe, Buchanan, 5:08.65 3200m: Sydney Fox, Buchanan, 11:22.09 100m hurdles: Monea Jennings, Central, 15.33 300m hurdles: Monea Jennings, Central, 45.83 400m relay: Buchanan, 48.66 1600m relay: Central, 3:59.86 Shot put: Maren Butler, Buchanan, 42-06 Discus throw: McKenna Chaney, Buchanan, 128-04 High jump: Lauren Card, Buchanan, 5-04 Pole vault: Elizabeth Funk, Clovis West, 12-00 Long Jump: Lauren Fowler, Buchanan, 18-07 Triple jump: 1. Anaya Sperling, Buchanan, 38-03.50 BOYS 100m: Caleb Foster, Clovis North, 10.80 200m: Kurtis Kobzeff, Clovis North, 21.70 400m: Kurtis Kobzeff, Clovis North, 49.63 800m: Andrew Scherf, Clovis, 1:59.09 1600m: Isaiah Galindo, Clovis North, 4:30.66 3200m: Jared Falcone, Clovis East, 9:53.03 110m hurdles: Jake Woods, Clovis, 14.53 300m hurdles: Jake Woods, Clovis, 38.28 400m relay: Clovis North, 41.70 1600m relay: Buchanan, 3:21.87 Shot put: Christian Johnson, Buchanan, 54-11.25 Discus throw: Christian Johnson, Buchanan, 174 High jump: Stanley Cain, Clovis West, 6-06 Pole vault: Nathan Brown, Central, 13-06 Long jump: Caleb Foster, Clovis North, 23-01 Triple jump: Jared Whitt, Clovis North, 47-00.25
Clovis West wins tight TRAC baseball title race Clovis West clinched its TRAC title in a rather unorthodox way – after a loss. The Golden Eagles lost to Clovis 3-1 in the final league game, finishing with a 10-5 record and then had to play the waiting game. Just a 10 minute drive away from Stan Bledsoe Field, Buchanan was at Clovis North where the Bears needed a win to create a co-TRAC title. However, the Broncos won 2-1 in the bottom of the eighth inning
on a wild pitch, securing Clovis West’s first outright league title since 2012. “We weren’t bummed, we knew we at least had a share of the TRAC championship,” Clovis West coach Kevin Patrick said after the game. “I told the team to walk out of there with their heads up, most likely we were going to be the No. 1 or 2 [playoff seed] so we were happy about that.” The Buchanan loss along with the Clovis North win and Clo-
vis East’s 7-6 comeback victory over Central created a three-way tie for second place at 9-6. Clovis, the defending D-I Valley champ, finished at 7-8. The parity throughout league was uncanny. Clovis West received the No. 1 seed in the D-I Central Section playoffs, gaining home field advantage. Clovis North earned the No. 3, Clovis East No. 4, Buchanan No. 5 and Clovis No. 7. On Tuesday, May 8, the Golden Eagles clinched at least a tie
for the TRAC title with an 8-2 win over Clovis behind the solid pitching of Kohl Simas (5 innings, 7 Ks) and the bats of senior center fielder Rodney Wright III (3B, 3 RBIs) and junior shortstop Karson Simas (2-3, 2 RBI). “Honestly it is an amazing feeling – my teammates and I have worked really hard for this moment,” said Wright, the Fresno State football signee. “It’s See CW BASEBALL, Pg. 15
SWIM & DIVE
Samansky leads Clovis West girls to Valley swim title, CN boys win too Clovis West’s Abby Samansky had herself a mighty fine day in the water, breaking four Valley records and leading her team to a streak of 22 consecutive Valley titles at the CIF Central Section D-I swimming championships at Clovis West on May 12. Samansky won the 100 free (49.90) and 200 free (1:47.79) and was the opening leg of the record-breaking relay team in the 200 free (1:35.75) and 400 free (3:29.57). “Going into the meet it was all about confidence,” Samansky said. “You have to know you’re going to perform well, it’s not a question.” The CIF State Swimming and Diving Championships will be held at the Clovis Olympic Swim Complex from May 1819.
Samansky broke Tristin Baxter‘s 2010 record of 1:48.92 and Buchanan’s Stephanie Bartel‘s 2016 record of 50.60. Samansky’s Clovis West teammate Caitlyn Snyder (50.86) was the runner-up in the 100. The Clovis West record setting 200 and 400 freestyle relay squad consisted of Samansky, Jordan Gruce, Lexie Voice, and Snyder. Snyder, a senior, blistered the field in the 50 free with a time of 23.27 to break a 20-year-old record by Kristie Begin (23.55). Clovis North’s Brooke Costella, who also took 3rd in the 100 free, finished 2nd in 23.56. “I didn’t think I was going to be even close to a 23.27 at the end of the year,” Snyder said. “I See SWIM TITLE, Pg. 17
The Clovis West girls swim and dive team won their 22nd straight Central Section D-I title. Abby Samansky broke four section records: 100 and 200 freestyle and 400 and 800 relay teams. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Sports
AMAZING GRACE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . 13
The wonderful world of the Ortiz baseball family
BY PAUL MEADORS | Sports Editor paulmeadors@gmail.com | @paulmeadors
An 8-year-old boy walks home alone at sunset on a dusty road in the Dominican heat, where the humidity is merciless. The boy wipes beads of sweat from his face after a day of playing baseball on a makeshift field, carrying a bat he made from a discarded broomstick and a sock wrapped around a wadded plastic bag he calls a ball. He is wondering if there will be food on the table tonight, perhaps white rice on a plate. He hopes there is fresh water. But no matter, thinks Jose Daniel Ortiz Santos, today was a good day – I got to play baseball. Tengo que jugar béisbol. Ortiz was the fourth of eight children, and he adored his three older brothers, following them like a puppy wherever they went; up a tree to pick fruit, under the tree for some shade to escape the heat, to the market for platanos. His first glove was a hand-me-down from his older brothers (his father could not afford gloves for each of them), but it was a prized possession which he neatly tucked under his pillow every night before bed. His father is very loving, his mother strong and strict but the difficulty the family faced was that they were poor. They lived in a sector in the capital Santo Domingo called Capotillo – a place where 90,000 people live in a space of less than 1.5 square kilometers and has the highest per capita murder rate in the country. For many boys growing up in the Dominican Republic (DR), the baseball field is a sanctuary, an oasis in a country where four million of its 10 million residents live in poverty. But this beautiful island east of Haiti in the Caribbean has been a hotbed of Major League talent since the 1950s. In 2017, there were 749 players on MLB opening day rosters, 92 from the DR. If you follow baseball you know the names: Vlad, Big Papi, Pedro, Pujols, Sosa, Manny, Tejeda, Marichal. Jose Ortiz knows them all. After Vladimir Guerrero was voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in January, Ortiz called and congratulated him. Baseball is also where many worlds converge for Dominican kids. The involvement of family and community. The dream of a better life. The expressive pride of being Dominican. The deep joy of playing the greatest game. Consider this observation by five-time All-Star and DR National Team manager Tony Peña, speaking to the The Kansas City Star: “People in the Dominican are so happy. That’s what I love about my country. People are so poor. They have no money. They live in these little houses. Everybody thinks they must be very sad. But they are not. They are so happy … Our culture is very simple; we love baseball, it’s the only sport we want to play, we are always smiling, when we are
Jose Ortiz, who now lives in Clovis with his family of six, played 19 years of professional baseball, including 10 years in Japan where he hit 135 home runs and won a Nippon Series title in 2011. He played in the Major Leagues in 2000 and 2001 for Oakland A’s and Colorado Rockies, hitting 14 home runs in 449 at-bats and was the Pacific Coast League MVP in 2000 for the Sacramento River Cats. COURTESY OF CREATIVE COMMONS
angry stay away from us but we are a happy people.” Jose Daniel Ortiz Santos was also good – really good – and the feisty boy who would fight anyone in the street quickly turned into Jose Ortiz the man. He was signed by the Oakland A’s at age 17 in 1994 for $2,500, a dynamo of a hitter despite his 5-foot-9 frame, and a slick fielding shortstop. Ortiz arrived in the United States with only the shirt on his back. Literally. His luggage flew off the top of the concho that took him to the airport for the first time, leaving him with no glove, no cleats, no clothes. When he finally arrived in Arizona, the A’s minor league director gave
him $200 for a new wardrobe and a replacement glove. Good luck, kid. Buena suerte, chico. With this inauspicious beginning to his pro career in the rearview mirror, Ortiz was a fast riser in the A’s organization. In his fifth year of pro ball for the Sacramento River Cats in 2000, he was named the Pacific Coast League MVP, hitting .351 with 107 runs, 34 doubles, 24 home runs, 108 RBI and 22 stolen bases. In a nutshell, he was hot stuff, the latest in a long line of brilliant A’s rookies like Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco. Ortiz made his major league debut for the A’s on Sept. 15, 2000 and managed two
hits in 11 at bats. Then next season he won the second base job next to fellow Dominican Miguel Tejeda only to hurt his calf in just his second game, a prevalent theme throughout his career. After only 46 at-bats he was sent down to AAA and was later traded to the Colorado Rockies for Jermaine Dye. The fresh start helped and he made quite an impression, mashing 13 home runs in only 203 at bats. Colorado seemed the perfect place for Ortiz to land, a launching pad for a stadium, the thin air perfectly suited for his powerful right-handed swing. His life and career were lining up perfectly, and another Dominican success story seemed inevitable. Again, Ortiz won the second base job out of spring training. A knee injury would derail his development and Ortiz managed just one home run in 65 games. On Sept. 25, 2002 at the age of 25, and after just 449 Major League at-bats, Ortiz played his last game in the majors. But if a Major League career ending after only two years sounds sad to you, you don’t know Jose Ortiz. A savvy pitcher can throw a nasty curveball. So can life, and Ortiz was not sure what to do now. The best hitters can hit a nasty curveball, so Ortiz kept swinging. But not even he could have predicted that after his release, he would spend 19 nomadic years across 26 stops, taking him from the majors, to Japan, to the Mexican League, to the Independent League, back to Japan, back to the Dominican Republic, and now to Clovis, the latest stop in his great adventure. “Whenever God closes one door, he opens another,” Ortiz says. Sure, but 26? What allows him to remain so hopeful? With him every step of the way is his family – mi familia – an infectiously entertaining, blended, globe-trotting troupe who have experienced a fascinating and sensational life together. Ortiz points to a life-altering decision in 2006, that not only shaped his own life but the lives of future generations. It was then that he discovered what matters most, and that nothing in life happens by mistake.
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I had heard the rumors, the whispers that the Buchanan High School baseball program was getting three new transfers for the 2017 season. The Bears, fresh off their 30-1 national No. 1 ranking season and back-to-back Central Section titles, were about to get even better. Great, opponents surely thought, the rich get richer, just what Buchanan needs – more talent. And get this; all three were sons of a former Major League ball player, one Jose Ortiz. I remembered the name right away, I See ORTIZ FAMILY, Pg. 14
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was a baseball card collector in my youth and invested in a few Jose Ortiz rookie cards, hoping my investment would turn a profit. Surely these boys had that short compact swing like their father and would make an immediate impact on the team. Then I heard the names: Alex, a junior, J.D. and Miguel, both sophomores. Wow, a junior and sophomore twins! we all thought. I had to check them out. I attended a practice at an indoor batting cage in February of 2017 with pouring rain outside. I could hear the Thwak of the bat striking the ball – it was one of the Ortiz brothers. This is gonna be fun to watch, I thought. But, there was a little problem – they had very little experience playing in high-level baseball games. When they were in Japan for six months out of the year there was little time to play in baseball leagues. Sure, they could run, throw and hit but could they do those crucial things in a game situation? Buchanan head coach Tom Donald said the boys struggled with basic in-game concepts like situational baserunning and hitting the cutoff man. However, they’ve become quick studies. In fact, Miguel was offered a scholarship to Cal State Fullerton and verbally committed last summer to play there after impressive performances at showcases. J.D., an outfielder like Miguel, is a full time starter, and Alex has earned regular playing time at second base in his senior season. Ortiz gave up his scouting job on the East Coast to move to Clovis, and recently the Oakland A’s called and offered Ortiz a job in the minor leagues, “I would love to,” he replied, “but I need to be with my boys before they go to college.” In person, the three Ortiz boys are altogether polite, fun-loving yet impeccably mannered, well-spoken, and have excellent grades. They are handsome, athletic, full of colorful stories, are game-changers on the baseball field and off, and sometimes act more like triplets. “There is still an innocence
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
friends were; he had stayed for three periods of lunch. The boys were as popular as their famous father and when Jose hit a home run, the TV cameras seemed to find the kids wearing jerseys with “Ortiz” on the back. After every game in Japan a “Hero of the Game” is honored on the field, and whenever Jose was chosen the boys would cruise past security and join their father on stage. They had become local celebrities in their own right. “They were in the newspaper just as much as me,” Jose said. The boys would be walking around in Fukuoka and people would come up to them and ask “Are you Jose Ortiz’s sons?” and beg for their autographs. Family was certainly a priority and in 2010 Jose was awarded the Father of the Year by a local Japanese newspaper, beating out celebrities and athletes and other famous people. On his days off he would practice baseball with the boys and spend family time together at the aquarium or the beach. They were recognized at restaurants, in the park, at the bank. The family was actually seven with Katterine, the daughter of Jose’s younger brother who Jose adopted as his own and came to live with Annie in 2002 when she was eight. She is considered a daughter and a sister, and to this Jose Ortiz’s sons J.D., Miguel and Alex currently play baseball for Buchanan. The teenagers have day is an integral part of their family, cherlived in Florida, Japan, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. CONTRIBUTED BY ORTIZ FAMILY ished as one of their own. The Ortiz family about them, but not to the extent of the averAnd what do you know, the three boys are was happy. But it almost didn’t happen. age kid their age,” says their mother Annie. so bold in their faith they lead team prayers Miguel is harmlessly eccentric (he likes jelly before games. Who could have ever imagined on his hamburgers and teriyaki sauce on his three Dominicans leading a spiritual charge In 1999, Jose was rising through the miburritos), J.D. is witty and great at imperson- in a community where racial tensions have nor leagues at breakneck speed and through ations, and Alex is astute, the family spokes- known to be elevated? mutual friends he met Annie Acosta, a junior man who had to grow up fast. They have lived The family spent six months out of the lives reminiscent of military brats – who else year in Japan where Jose played for 10 at Fresno State, born and raised in Kerman. can boast living in Florida, Mexico, the Do- years. When they lived in Fukuoka, Japan’s They bonded right away – life on the road minican Republic, Japan, and Clovis by age fifth largest city, Jose and Annie once found for a ball player can certainly get lonely – 17? During spring break I’m invited over for 8-year old J.D. on his hands and knees be- and a friendship began which turned into a a home-cooked lunch (rice, meat, platanos!) hind the video games in the arcade, searching relationship. They would call each other as and listen to and laugh at wonderful and out- for dropped coins to plop into the machines. often as their schedules allowed and Annie landish stories for almost three hours about There was that time in Chiba when the food even brought Jose to meet her family back in the family’s world travels. The table was vendors at the stadium gave the boys free Kerman. Jose fit in well, and her family took beautifully decorated by their 14-year old food because they were so adorable. Annie a quick liking to the ball player, especially daughter Anniesa, a talented artist and an as- once got a call from school wondering why Annie’s brother Chito. Their feelings for each piring writer. Not once did the Ortiz children Miguel wasn’t in class – they found him sit- other were mutual and their relationship was check their phones during the conversation. ting in the cafeteria wondering where all his See ORTIZ FAMILY, Pg. 15
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something that none of us have done here and something Clovis West hasn’t done in awhile so I’m glad we could pull it out for Coach Patrick and the rest of the staff.” Clovis West’s pitching has been a strong point for a team that went 23-7 on the season, led by seniors Kohl Simas, Nick Castro and Dusty Schramm. The pitching staff finished the regular season with a 1.57 ERA. The surprise team this year in the TRAC was Clovis East (19-9, 9-6) under first-year coach Ryan Smith. Last year the Timberwolves went 3-12 in league and 4-11 in 2016. This year they won their last four games, including a two-game sweep of Buchanan, both one-run games; 6-5 and then 4-3 in nine innings. “We had a great group of seniors who really took leadership to a level that this program hasn’t seen in a long time,” Smith said. “From the start in the summer our seniors kept everyone accountable to our team goals. Without solid, consistent senior leadership we don’t put ourselves in a position to win every ball game.” Smith lofts heavy praise upon senior Jared Aguilar: “His teammates would tell you from game 1 through 28 that if we needed a hit, a strike out or a play to made, they would want Aguilar to be the guy.” The Fresno Pacific University signee hit .368, 24 runs, 3 HR, 18 RBIs playing three different positions and was 6-1, with 86 Ks, 16 BB, and a 1.02 ERA on the mound. Leading hitters on the season include Danny Gamez (.367, 16 RBIs) and Casey Durham (.324, 17 runs). Smith also points to the May 10 game against Clovis North when the Timberwolves scored 12 runs combined in the 5th and 6th innings for a 12-8 win as a major turning point in the season. The playoffs begin May 15 with the championship game scheduled for May 26 at 8 p.m. at Rawhide Stadium in Visalia.
The Ortiz family lived in the Dominican Republic from 2014-16, Jose returning to his home country and with his wife, Annie, founding Creations of Love, a non-profit that provided for the needs of local cities. Annie is pictured at the bottom while Jose (seen bending down in truck) works with two of his brothers passing out toys in La Victoria in the providence of Santo Domingo. CONTRIBUTED BY ORTIZ FAMILY
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about to get serious. His story of survival and overcoming obstacles was one that resonated with Annie. However, back in the Dominican Republic and unbeknownst to Annie, there was another woman, Jose’s wife, and they had a son together. His name was Alex, born Oct. 22, 1999. On May 4, 2000, Annie drove to Sacramento to watch Jose play and after the game a teammate came up to her and asked her in Spanish if she knew. Tu sabes. Knew what? She confronted Jose and was told the truth; he had a wife and son back in the DR. That was the first time they cried together, but certainly not the last.
Annie refused Jose’s phone calls for months. But one day she answered and they picked up their friendship which turned into a rekindled relationship. Annie soon became pregnant. Meanwhile, Ortiz’s wife, Miriam, gave birth to Miguel, affectionately called “Miggy” on Feb. 8, 2001. Annie gave birth to J.D. four months later on June 13. Annie then gave birth to their second child together, Anniesa in 2003. Ortiz divorced Miriam in 2004. When you do the math, yes, it’s quite complicated. O, what a tangled web we weave. But the Ortiz family knows how to handle curveballs. What came from a family tree that could have been twisted and gnarled, dripping with anger and jealousy instead has yielded fruit and blessings tenfold, the sweet aroma of blossoms floating with grace, joy and peace.
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Nothing happens by mistake. When Annie Ortiz looks in the mirror, what does she see? Sure, they’ve heard the whispers, the words spoken behind their backs. For years she was riddled with guilt, that age-old tool of the devil that pierces with self-condemnation and shame. She was the other woman. But after she and Jose rededicated their lives to Christ she was washed white as snow, a new creation in the eyes of God. That’s what she sees in the mirror. But what about Miriam? She did what loving mothers do in Latin countries; the parent who can give their children a better life will sacrifice custody, and Miriam knew the boys would have a better life in the U.S.A. While in Florida they lived together in close proximity, however, today, Miriam lives in the DR where a mama’s love for her sons is separated by 3,256 miles. In the eyes of the Ortiz family she is beloved. Annie and Miriam’s hearts started to change when they attended a Bible study together in Florida, Annie translating the Bible message from english to spanish for Miriam. “She forgave me, and even in all my sin and my shame God still has grace,” Annie says, and in humility she washed Miriam’s feet. Amazing grace, how sweet the sound.
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The year was 2005 and Jose felt like he had a lot of baseball left in the tank, holding tight to the dream of getting back to the Major Leagues and reclaiming the once-lofty expectations that now weighed on him like an albatross. He was playing in the Independent League for the Lancaster Barnstormers, hitting .343 with four homers and 25 RBI in only 99 at bats when the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Indians sent big league scouts to check him out. Aaron Boone, the starting third baseman for Cleveland, was struggling and they wanted an upgrade – Jose Ortiz was an option. However, he would tear his bicep in the very game the scouts were in attendance, and the dream was over. After surgery, See ORTIZ FAMILY, Pg. 17
16 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
CENTRAL VALLEY MOTORSPORTS
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 SPONSORED BY
Time to Plan Ahead BY PAUL HINKLE | Contributed @ClovisParknPark
During the spring months there are an abundance of car shows to attend. May is the busiest month, with back-to-back car shows on the weekends. During the second half of June, local car shows start to slow down with one show per weekend. By July there only a handful of local shows around the valley to attend. When the local season slows, a great alternative is to participate in shows out of the area. It is always interesting to see different cars, meet and make new friends. It is also a great way to get out of the valley heat if you travel to the coast. You have several choices of shows to participate in that are outside of the valley. May 25 and 26 is the Golden State Classic Car Show in Paso Robles. Friday night is the cruise down Spring Street and Saturday the car show is held in the park. On June 2 and 3, the Goodguys Summer Get-Together is held in Pleasanton. The Pismo Beach Classic Car Show is also held on the same weekend. Both are long running two-day events that draw large crowds. From June 8-10, the American Graffiti Classic Car Show & Cruise in Modesto takes place. It starts Friday night with a cruise in downtown Modesto. On Saturday and Sunday, it moves to a local golf course for the car show. On June 15-17, the prestigious LA Roadster Show is held. You will see many of the finest roadsters on the West Coast. On the 14th of July, another great show to attend is the Hot Rods, Classic & Cus-
toms Car Show in San Luis Obispo. Arroyo Grande holds its AVCC People’s choice Car Show on July 28. As the summer starts winding down, there’s the Goodguys West Coast Nationals in Pleasanton, August 24-26. Quite a few rodders from the valley will be going to the Wheels ‘N’ Windmills Car Show in Solvang on the 24th and 25th. Friday night begins with a barbeque at Mendenhall Museum of Gasoline and then on Saturday the car show is held in downtown Solvang. This is a show you should put on your must-go-to list. You can end your summer in Cambria at the Pinerado Car Show on September 2.
PAUL HINKLE/CONTRIBUTED
UPCOMING EVENTS: May 19: Clovis Park in the Park May 25: Madera Classic Car Show May 25 – 26: Golden State Classic Car Show, Paso Robles May 25 – 27: West Coast Kustoms Cruisin Nationals May 28: Clovis Veterans Car Show If your club or organization is putting on a car show or motorsports event we are always looking for interesting cars, people and events to share. You can reach Paul Hinkle at clovisparkinthepark@gmail. com, (559) 970-2274 or Eric Hinkle at ehinkle11@gmail.com. Be sure to follow us on Twitter @clovisparknpark and on Instagram @clovisparkinthepark. For more information on upcoming events, past events and articles, go to www. clovisparkinthepark.com PAUL HINKLE/CONTRIBUTED
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 . WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
Softball
Ortiz Family
ally good chance to win.” Consider the facts: Lung, a Fresno State signee, has a 89-9 career record, 1.00 ERA, and 917 Ks in 626 innings according to Central Section historian Bob Barnett. This season she has four no-hitters and 237 strikeouts. She has won two Central Section D-I championships, in 2015 and 2017, and was the winning pitcher in both, throwing a 2-0 no-hitter against Central her freshman year. “Go out and score a few runs, maybe just one, and you probably win,” Noel said about Lung on the mound. “It’s a wonderful gift she’s given us all.” The Cougars have one of the most balanced teams in recent Central Section memory; pitching, solid defense and a mix of power of situational hitting. Another senior, shortstop Tori Mueller, has been a catalyst at the top of the order. In the win over Clovis West, she went 3-5 with two runs and two RBIs. “Tori has really done a fantastic job at the top of the order,” said Noel, who is seeking his 10th overall D-I Valley title. “She’s been on base all year for the middle of the order and her play at shortstop should not go overlooked. She’s turned a lot of tough plays into outs and in crucial times.” In addition to Mueller, the team has received significant contributions from junior Grace Henson, sophomore Allie Puente and seniors Jenna Scarborough and Ashley Kincaid. “We’ve all been playing together for so long that we create a special bond,” said Mueller, who is attending the University of Massachusetts-Lowell next year. “There’s a lot of love there.” Lung agrees. “This senior class is special because the amount of talent there is,” said Lung, who verbally committed to Fresno State her sophomore year. “Most of us have played together for a long time in travel ball. We work very well together.”
his season was over as well. By now, Ortiz was at a breaking point in both his career and spiritual life – something had to give. He wasn’t at peace. In the Dominican Republic, 96 percent consider themselves Catholic or Protestant; the prevailing thought is that God is certainly real. Ortiz believed, and the nudges from God in his childhood ranged from gentle tugs to smack-across-the-face real quick. “I met the Lord when I was little,” he says. “And I knew the only way I could get out of my country is because the Lord allowed it. Deep down I knew he loved me.” Ortiz began to get real. “What are we doing? What are we waiting for? God, I don’t know why this is happening to me but let’s make my wrongs right with you.” He called Annie and cried on the phone and they decided together to follow a higher calling; they prayed and married three months later. “God is good all the time, he restored everything,” Jose said. In 2007, they packed up their bags and returned to Chiba, Japan, this time with a renewed spirit.
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was hoping to go fast but I had no idea that was going to happen.” Clovis also had a great day as senior Shelby Vidmar and junior Averee Preble were double winners individually. Vidmar won the 200 IM (2:10.49) and 100 breast (1:05.99). Abby Mammen won the 100 backstroke (57.73) and Preble in the 100 fly (55.24) and 500 free (4:48.72). Mammen, Vidmar and Preble along with Taylor Anderson won the 200 medley relay (1:47.51). Clovis West dominated in its 22nd straight Valley title with 476 points. Buchanan was second at 315 followed by Clovis 255. On the boys side, Clovis North won its second consecutive D-I title, winning eight of 11 events on the program. Benjamin Forbes, a junior, came away with four wins – two individual and two relay, like Samansky. Forbes won both the 100 (45.66) and 200 free (1:38.73) and led off the Clovis North 200 (1:24.87, Fobes, Bodhi Bowden, Cole Fleming, Michael Jia) and then anchored their 400 free relay (3:07.71, Samuel Taylor, Parker Bell, Bowden, Forbes). Jia won the 50 free in 21.05 and the 100 fly in 48.93 and Bronco teammate Theo Tuggle the 500 free in 4:34.44. Clovis North’s Ethan DePry won the 200 IM (1:53.99), Clovis West freshman Austin Lane won the 100 back (51.19), and his teammate Joaquin Jamieson in the 100 breast (58.14). The team of Lane, Jamieson, Parker Fife and Mason Harris of Clovis West won the 200 medley relay in 1:35.47. Clovis North scored 533, Buchanan 486.5, Clovis West 226.5, Clovis East, 156.5. While Samansky and Forbes had amazing days in the water, there is always a sense of comradery among the swim athletes, especially those involved in club swimming. “It’s the most amazing thing in the world to watch the people you train with, who you know work so hard, be able to do so well,” Samansky said.
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After the 1992 film Mr. Baseball, starring Tom Selleck as an aging MLB player seeking career redemption, playing baseball as a foreigner in Japan has steadily gained steam. Minor leaguers can make more money there than in the states and veterans know it can revive a lagging career. Foreign baseball players find Japan an excellent alternative for to the doldrums of the minor leagues, a chance to revive their career and make a good salary. There have been more Dominican players in Japan than one might think – 109 total – compared to over 600 American players in the history of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Ortiz had an excellent 10-year career (2003-2013) in Japan, homering in his first at-bat on his way to 57 home runs in his first two years for the Orix Blue Waves, the same team Ichiro Suzuki played for. He returned to the U.S. and played Independent ball in 200506 and then tore the cover off the ball in the Mexican League in 2007, hitting .400 with 17 home runs in only 57 games for Saraperos de Saltillo. He returned to Japan and played for the Chiba Lotte Marines (under Bobby Valentine), the Fukuoka Hawks and the Seibu Lions. In all, Ortiz hit 135 HR, had 488 RBIs and hit .271 before hanging up the cleats for good at age 36. He won a Japan Series title in 2011 with Fukuoka, hitting a walk-off tworun home run in the bottom of the ninth to win a game. Ortiz is so well respected in Japan that the Seibu Lions and Fukuoka Hawks offered him scouting jobs after he retired. Like Dominicans, Japanese baseball fans are passionate, standing and cheering and chanting throughout each game. During spring training they could be heard practicing their cheers and chants with trumpets and noisemakers outside the stadium. Led by cheer captains in the outfield, every player had their own chant, known as an ouendan. Ortiz’s, translated, went: “Wow, wow, wow, Jose Ortiz. Wow, wow, wow, Jose Ortiz. Fly to the sky of the Dominican Republic Jose Ortiz! Fly away Ortiz. Go! Go! Let’s go Ortiz!” After each home run, the bat boy (or girl) would wait at home plate with a giant stuffed animal as the prize. Ortiz would often throw them into the crowd or collect them in his locker. TV reporters asked people on the street to name their favorite player. “Ortiz” they would say. The Dominican star was popular, 8,206 miles from his homeland. While Ortiz certainly had a prosperous and lengthy 19-year professional baseball career, he struggled to stay healthy, reaching 500 at bats only once (during his 2000 MVP season in Sacramento). He had two knee surgeries, surgery to repair the ruptured bicep, endured bad hamstrings, a strained oblique and lingering aches and pains. “Some of my friends have asked me ‘what if?’” There’s no ‘what if?’ God gave me a great career,” he says.
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Jose Ortiz played in the Mexican League in 2007 and 2012 in between playing in Japan. Pictured are wife Annie, J.D., Alex, Miguel and Anniese in Saltillo, Coahuila while he played for Saraperos de Saltillo. CONTRIBUTED BY ORTIZ FAMILY
Miguel (age 10 at the time) is seen here at the Yahoo! Dome in Fukuoka holding a copy of the local paper showing his father, Jose Ortiz, celebrating a victory with the Softbank Hawks. Jose is hugging wife Annie in circular photo on right. CONTRIBUTED BY ORTIZ FAMILY
“I was a foreign player in America and I was a foreign player in Japan,” Jose explains. His family understands this well. Think of it, Alex and Miguel are darker complected and full Dominican, whereas J.D. and Anniesa are half Dominican, half Mexican and lighter skinned. How many teenagers can claim being called “Gaijin” (foreigner) in Japan, “Dominican” in the U.S., and “gringos” in the Dominican? The Ortiz kids can, and they embrace it; they have both stuck out and blended in at the same time. “He came out darker because he’s four months older,” J.D. likes to quip when asked about Miggy. The family had a nice system starting in 2009 – six months in a gated community in Florida, then six months in Japan, save for a two month stint in Mexico in 2012. However, In 2014, after Jose officially retired from baseball, the Ortiz clan felt the ultimate calling and moved home to the DR, trading a life of comfort in Florida for the DR and leaving Katterine behind who now had a son of her own. For Jose Ortiz, it was time to give back. He had already bought his mom, sister, and one of his eight brothers a house. Now they entered into a business venture – the banana business – platanos. The Ortiz family set up residence in Santiago, and set up a non-profit called “Creations of Love,” which organized toy and backpack drives, Bible studies, and hosted activities for the local orphanage. They established an open-door policy in their home, Mi casa es su casa, and the kids came in droves. “Being spiritual parents to so many has been the biggest blessing in our lives,” says Annie. “We are able to see the beauty and uniqueness in each child.” And of course, they organized baseball leagues. Jose would serve food to 6-7 people at a time and give kids rides to the field after feeding them before practice. At one point they housed seven boys, treating them like their own sons and making sure they went to
school. The return trip to the DR was special for the Ortiz children as well. Like their father before them, Alex, J.D. and Miguel got the chance to play baseball on those same fields with dirt infields, chain link backstops on top of broken cinder blocks, bases that resembled pillows, metal shacks with broken windows in the background. The boys would send moon-shots into the outfield that disappeared into the hanging branches of weeping willow trees. When they reached home plate they would raise their arms to the heavens, like their father did when he reached home plate after a homer. They do it today for Buchanan after getting a hit. “When we lived in the DR the boys got to see poverty and hospitality on a different scale,” Annie says. “And in Japan they got to see obedience and reverence and kindness. They’ve got to see so many different cultures and their beauty.” Alex adds, “We’ve been raised so quick and so well. At this age right now we have a ton more experience than most kids. We’ve been all over the world and have seen terrible and awful things but good things too.
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Jose does something he hasn’t done once during our almost three hour conversation at his house – he checks his phone. It’s 4:01 and he has a hitting lesson to go to. He’s the founder of OBF, the Ortiz Baseball Factory, giving hitting lessons and managing several travel baseball teams. He gets up from the table and disappears into the hallway, emerging 30 seconds later with a baseball hat on. He still looks like he could mash home runs. He tells me “Thank you my friend,” and heads to the door. Jose Ortiz stops and remembers he has one more thing to do. Five actually. He goes up to each of his family members and kisses them one by one.
18 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
The Big 3: Clovis Community College studentathletes lead the way as first wave of transfers BY DANIEL LEON | Editor-in-Chief editor@clovisroundup.com
Three Clovis Community College soccer players are paving the way as the school’s first group to earn athletic scholarships to fouryear universities. “We are witnessing history here at Clovis Community College in athletics,” said Susan Yates, CCC Director of Athletics. “For the first time – in our second year of the soccer program – we have three candidates that are signing to the four-year system on scholarship.” The trio includes men’s soccer star Juan Gonzalez who signed with local Division II school Fresno Pacific University, and women’s soccer standouts Elisa Soderholm and Maricela Soto who inked with California Baptist University (Division I) and University of Antelope Valley (NAIA), respectively. To celebrate the group’s accomplishments, the college threw a signing day ceremony during its Cinco de Mayo Extravaganza on May 3 with teammates, coaches, family and friends in attendance. CCC started its soccer program two years ago in August of 2016. In that first year, the women finished second in the Central Valley Conference while the men made the playoffs. In Year 2, the women made a jump by winning 15 games and earning a playoff berth. The men’s team competed all season but fell short of making the playoffs in a competitive conference. “This is a strong soccer program in the Valley for both the men and the women,” added Yates. Here’s a breakdown of each student-athlete: Juan Gonzalez Position: Defender School: Fresno Pacific Major: Kinesiology Gonzalez came to Clovis Community College in 2016 after graduating from Bullard High School with five varsity letters. “I’m very excited [to continue my soccer career],” Gonzalez said. “It was nice being part of the inaugural team here at Clovis because you have a lot of people to support you.”
Seated left to right: Clovis Community College soccer standouts Juan Gonzalez, Elisa Soderholm and Maricela Soto post for a group photo with coaches, teammates and the Crush mascot after singing their letters of intent to four-year universities, May 3, 2018. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
When Gonzalez first arrived on campus, he was immediately given responsibilities by being named a team captain. It was a big step at the time, but he filled that role despite being one of the youngest guys on the team. Although he is no longer on the team, Gonzalez looks to continue to lead by example. Being the first to earn an athletic scholarship from the inaugural team is a lot of weight to carry, but he said it should be no problem meeting the expectations that come with it. “I’m always going to have people watching me as I go over [to Fresno Pacific] because they want to see how the first [transfer] did,” Gonzalez said. “It’s a little bit of pressure but I feel I can reflect Clovis very well.” During the ceremony, coach Chad McCarty had a few words to say about his first transfer. “It’s with great pleasure that I announce and recognize the first men’s soccer player in Clovis Community College history to sign a full ride scholarship to a Division II college,”
said men’s head coach Chad McCarty. “Juan is the epitome of the type of athletes we’re trying to get at Clovis Community [College]. On the field he’s tough, he works hard, he’s skillful, he’s a lead-by-example type of guy. Off the field he’s intelligent, he challenges himself, he’s disciplined in the classroom and he’s a fantastic representation for our school.” Elisa Soderholm Position: Forward/Midfielder School: Cal Baptist Major: Nursing A four-time letterwinner at Buchanan High, Soderholm signed with University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee out of high school before transferring to Clovis Community College. During her final year with the program in 2017, she recorded 20 goals on her way to bring voted Central Valley Conference Offensive MVP, one of the first major conference awards won by a Crush women’s soccer player.
Soderholm will now take her talents to California Baptist University, a private school in Southern California. “It feels good, I’ve work really hard for this,” Soderholm said of her athletic scholarship to CBU. “It’s like a weight lifted off my shoulders. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my teammates and my awesome coaches.” Maricela Soto Position: Forward/Midfielder School: University of Antelope Valley Soto, a teammate of Soderholm the last two years, is also moving onto the next level. In her sophomore season with the Crush, the Hoover High product scored eight goals while being named First Team All Central Valley Conference. Soto will be suiting up for University of Antelope Valley, a NAIA school in Lancaster, this fall. “I’m going to bring my heart and give it my all,” Soto said. “I just love to play.”
Ag at Large: Citrus future may be shrunken trees BY DON CURLEE Contributed agwriter1@aol.com
Orange growers and others in the citrus industry, especially researchers, are exploring the possibility of reducing the size of trees that produce their crops. A few have done so already. They can envision harvesting entire orchards without ladders; pickers reaching all the fruit while standing on the ground. Spraying nutritional or crop protection materials can be done with less powerful and less expensive equipment when trees are only head high. Land suitable for growing trees can support two or three times as many as it does now. Any grower accused of dreaming about such outcomes only has to point to the experience of apple growers in Washington who were so willingly overtaken by the move to dwarf trees 60 years ago. Rootstocks that confined the growth of trees budded to them by nearly 100 percent became the rage. Consumers hardly noticed. They had no reason to; only that their beloved, crisp and colorful apple varieties were more plentiful than ever. Growers noticed in major ways, planting twice as many trees in given orchard land and reaping more profitable crops. The industry grew rapidly behind the burgeoning production.
The rootstocks that vitalized the northwest apple industry were developed at two research stations in Great Britain. Concentration of the current effort in California is centered at the University of California’s Citrus Research Center at the Riverside campus. Primary research is being carried forward there by Dr. Georgios Vidalakis, supported by others in the university’s breeding program. An important key in the process is the Citrus Research and Extension Center at the Lindcove station in Tulare County. Dr. Vidalakis reports that some minor dwarfing of citrus trees can be observed by the slow growing citrus rootstock “flying dragon.” Other dwarfing effects due to citrus viroids have been studied carefully through the years, with causes documented. In the 1980s, plant breeders in Florida developed a rootstock that caused significant dwarfing, deepening interest by plant scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A major outgrowth of the phenomenon of dwarfing is the Citrus Clonal Protection Program directed by Dr. Vidalakis. It carefully documents research projects that lead to dwarfing and maintains contact with all elements of the citrus industry that might be involved or affected. In the meantime, one orange grove in eastern Tulare County has produced crops equal to the industry average for many years, picked by workers who easily reach the treetops while standing on the ground. Its proud performance continues each year, whether researchers can define the cause for
Reducing the size of citrus trees could be beneficial to both growers and pickers. PRUNKOVA/PIXABAY.COM
its dwarfing or not. The potential increase in production and other adjustments that dwarfing offers cause all aspects of the citrus industry to pay close attention. Citrus nurseries are among those on the front line of any new materials or methods. Eventual increases in sales volumes attract the attention of economists and others who deal with sales at home and abroad. Packinghouse operators and managers consider needs for expansion, along with equipment designers and manufacturers. Others wonder if dwarfing rootstocks can apply in the grapefruit, lemon and, espe-
cially, tangerine quadrants, where enormous volume increases have already occurred and attracted significant consumer excitement. The Citrus Research Board in Visalia is directing funds to Dr. Vidalakis and others, making sure that all aspects of a potential industry-wide upheaval are charted, supported and maintained. California’s widely respected citrus industry has handled and profited from persistent growth with enviable balance and foresight for more than a century. Its new challenge may be in dealing with smallness. That may require the aplomb of the forever admired Snow White.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 . WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
ACROSS 1. Italian cheese city 6. Fed 9. Rights activist Parks 13. Bitter aloe compounds 14. Octagonal motif in oriental rugs 15. Maple genus 16. Shabby (slang) 17. Chopping tool 18. Shakespeare’s epithet 19. Regain 21. Mega-electron volts 22. Unhappy mood 23. NY pharmacy Duane ___ 25. Metrical foot 26. 1950’s Nash automobile 31. Digits 33. Affectional 34. Engine additive 35. Any small tubular structure 36. Lifted something heavy 41. Liquefied natural gas 43. __ of Avila, Saint 44. 2nd Greek letter
8. Last possible moment 9. Jewish spiritual leaders 10. Central Florida city 11. Any watery animal fluid 12. 198 L Egyptian dry measure unit 20. Prophylactic 24. Before 26. Drench 27. ___ River 28. Disorderly crowd 29. Heat unit 30. Medieval capital of Flanders 32. Fencing swords 37. Weekday (abbr.) 38. Vietnamese offensive 39. Point midway between E and SE 40. Father 45. Assumed the existence of 42. Disjointed 43. Yearly tonnage (abbr.) 46. Actress Rooney 44. Lowest male singing 49. Claudio __, Chilean voices pianist 46. Jacobs, Ribot & Gasol 51. Turkish leader titles 47. Athens’ marketplace 52. Don’t know when yet 48. Contests 53. Rectangular groove joint 50. Gathered fall leaves 59. Mythological birds 54. Three banded armadillo 60. Type or kind 55. A cord necktie 61. White bear 56. Spot on a radar screen 62. Native American group 57. Components considered 63. V individually 64. Author Walker 58. Elm, maple or oak 65. Back talk 66. Doctor of Education 67. Jazz trumpeter Malik DOWN 1. Henry’s last wife Catherine 2. Wings 3. College army 4. Myth (Spanish) 5. Hungarian word for mum 6. Old World lizard genus 7. Dinner jackets
PUZZLE ANSWERS
CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER . 19
Log of Shame BY APRIL BLANKINSHIP | Contributed
April 25, 2018 A man stumbled into a local hospital aggressively asking the triage to see a doctor for pain pills for his long list of aches. He became increasingly difficult to understand and while throwing a fit a bag of illegal paraphernalia fell out of his pocket. Kinda hard to deny you’re an addict when your pipe falls outta your pocket! Wow. April 26, 2018 A liquor store won the battle against unwanted trouble last night when a burglar was unsuccessful in breaking into their store after hours. The money they recently spent in a new security system and a steel security door stood steady while the criminal was caught on surveillance trying to pry their way in! Dear Criminal, store owners know they have liquor and smokes inside and know you want at them. But they have gotten savvy, suckers, and they are protecting their merchandise. So move along, nothing to steal here! April 27, 2018 Officers were alerted around 11pm to respond to a domestic disturbance when an annoyed girlfriend had enough of her looser boyfriends behavior. Police arrived to find the man combative, drunker that a hoot owl and in violation of his parole! Dear Lord, someone explain the domino effect of poor decisions to this man, please! Clearly he is unaware and living in a state of oblivion. April 28, 2018 Two buddies signed up for an additional shift to make some extra money on this lovely Saturday. After getting off work around 4:00 p.m. they headed downtown to get a bite to eat and have a cold beer before heading home. Three hours, 14 shots and several beers later with a bar tab that pretty much equaled their days wage they were arrested for being so drunk they couldn’t find the doors to leave the bar! April 29, 2018 A 16-year-old girl returned home after being reported as a runaway a week prior. There had been some blow up with her parents over the boundaries in her life and she disagreed. However, after spending a few days on the couches of some friends from house to house she realized how much she missed her parents and the life they provide her. She came home with apologies and regrets to grace. Well, and a month of grounding and chores she happily accepted! April 30, 2018 A local grocery store was the victim of theft when a man walked in and took some merchandise off the shelf and walked out. The gentleman was a white male adult with a receding hairline and pretty nice clothes on. He stole a box of 24 Hershey‘s chocolate bars. What the whoo-now? Are men doing the midlife crises thing different nowadays? What happen to just buying a sports car? May 1, 2018 A man called police when he saw a $480 charge on his debit card from a downtown store. Someone had used his debit card number to charge women’s clothing without his consent. He assured police officers he did not need $480 in contour dresses so it was not him that made the purchase! May 2, 2018 Some young kid got the daylights scared out of him when he was arrested by an officer for throwing rocks at light fixtures on Clovis Ave. The officer was on his way to work and saw the kids chucking rocks to smash the bulbs. He calmly parked his truck, got out and walked up right behind the little vandal before he could through the last rock he had in his hand! Surprise! Probably not the best idea right down the street from the police department. May 3, 2018 A man was arrested for stealing shoes at a local department store when an employee realized that he was struggling to contemplate to walk out the door with them. He put the new pair of shoes on and shoved his old pair under a bench and walked around the store for 30 minutes. Just long enough for police to get there and watch him walk out the door when he got brave enough to steal them! Should have thought about it just a little bit longer buddy! May 4, 2018 A concerned mother called police to come out and investigate some very inappropriate text messages amongst her teenager and another one at school. I’m always boggled by this because kids seem to skip a whole lot of steps in the growth process! I mean, you can’t even write a check yet and you’re sending inappropriate texts that is so far out of your league? What the heck are you thinking? Perhaps thinking is one of the steps that missed. *The above Police Logs are loosely based on actual events. The names have been changed to protect the innocent. The circumstances have been created and embellished for your entertainment.
20 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Clovis
Happenings HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT OR AN EVENT YOU WANT POSTED? EMAIL US AT INFO@CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
-MAYClovis: Poetry Writing Classes Wednesday, May 16, 2018 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Place: Clovis Regional Library, 1155 5th St, Clovis, California 93612 Info: Clovis Regional Library, (559) 600-9531 Empty Bowls, Full Hearts Thursday, May 17, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA Info: Renée Nuanes at 559237-3663 ext. 127 or rnuanes@ communityfoodbank.net
Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, Ca Info: (559) 299-0471 Sounds of Freedom Military Band Concert Sunday, May 20, 2018 Time: 2:00 p.m. Place: Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA 93612 Glow Paint Nite Monday, May 21, 2018 Time: 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Place: Di Cicco’s Italian Restaurant 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis, Ca. Info: www.paintnite.com
Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774
Tech Tuesday by IdeaWorks Tuesday, May 22, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA 93612 Info: (559) 840-8749
Kick 2 Summer BBQ Saturday, May 19, 2018 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Boys and Girls Club, 2833 Helm Ave, Clovis, California 93612 Info: (559) 292-2036
Sierra Nights Live at Sierra Vista Mall! Ft. Dave’s Not Here Thursday, May 24, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Sierra Vista Mall Info: (559) 299-0660
CHSU College of Pharmacy Graduation Ceremony Saturday, May 19, 2018 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Hills Community Church, 10590 N. Willow Ave, Clovis, Ca Info: chsu.org/graduation/ Dakota Crossing Live at On the Edge Coffee Shop Saturday, May 19, 2018 Time: 7:00 p.m. Place: 412 Pollasky Ave, Clovis, Ca Info: www.dakotacrossing.net Shred Fest Saturday, May 19, 2018 Time: 9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Rodeo Grounds, 748 Rodeo Dr, Clovis, California 93612 Info: (559) 324-2800 A Starry Night at Camp Saturday, May 19, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Bluegrass in the Park ft. Baloney Creek Friday, May 25, 2018 Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 901 Fifth St (Clovis Veterans Memorial Park), Clovis, Ca
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 Info: Business Organization of Old Town (BOOT) (559) 298-5774 www.oldtownclovis.org
Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA Info: www.fresnocss.com
MEMORIAL DAY
Walk 2 Miles in His Shoes - walk for Keith Hernandez Friday, June 8, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Fresno County Pink Heals, (559) 281-6412
Monday, May 28, 2018
Memorial Day Celebration Monday, May 28, 2018 Time: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Place: Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA 93612 Info: (559) 299-0471 Tech Tuesday by IdeaWorks Tuesday, May 29, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA 93612 Info: (559) 840-8749
-JUNEBluegrass in the Park ft. The Roustabouts Friday, June 1, 2018 Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 901 Fifth St (Clovis Veterans Memorial Park), Clovis, Ca Dakota Crossing Live at Clovis Farmers Market Friday, June 1, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: www.dakotacrossing.net CIF Track and Field Championships Friday, June 1-2, 2018 Time: 12:00 p.m. Place: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Buchanan High School, 1560 N. Minnewawa, Clovis, CA Info: www.cusd.com Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774
Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774
Wine 101 Tasting Class Saturday, June 2, 2018 Time: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Place: Trelio Restaurant, 438 Clovis Avenue #4, Clovis, Ca Info: (559) 297-0783
Clovis Memorial Run Saturday, May 26, 2018 Time: 8:00 a.m. Place: Clovis Senior Center, 850 4th St, Clovis, CA 93612 Info: www.clovismemorialrun.com
4th Annual Hula hō’ike Showcase Saturday, June 2, 2018 Time: 1:00 pm. - 5:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA Info: hulainthesun@yahoo.com 559-593-9033
Glorious Junk Days Sunday, May 27, 2018 Time: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis
FCSS Annual Show & Sale Saturday, June 2-3, 2018 Time: 9:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Bluegrass in the Park ft. Two for the Road Friday, June 8, 2018 Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 901 Fifth St (Clovis Veterans Memorial Park), Clovis, Ca Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774 Sierra Nights Live at Sierra Vista Mall! Ft. Green Today Thursday, June 14, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Sierra Vista Mall Info: (559) 299-0660 Bluegrass in the Park ft. Uncle Euphus Friday, June 15, 2018 Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 901 Fifth St (Clovis Veterans Memorial Park), Clovis, Ca Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774 Fresno State Girls Basketball Skills Camp Monday, June 18-20, 2018 Place: Fresno State Recreation Center, 5010 N Woodrow Ave, Fresno, CA 93710 Info: gobulldogs.com or call Coach Perkins 559-389-1974. Bluegrass in the Park ft. The GrassKickers Friday, June 22, 2018 Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 901 Fifth St (Clovis Veterans Memorial Park), Clovis, Ca Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774
Sierra Nights Live at Sierra Vista Mall! Ft. Jaded Thursday, June 28, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Sierra Vista Mall Info: (559) 299-0660 2nd Annual Hot Raqs Belly Dance Festival Saturday, June 30-July 1, 2018 Time: 10:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Place: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 4th St, Clovis, CA Info: www.hotraqs.com
-JULYINDEPENDANCE DAY Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Freedom Fest Wednesday, July 4, 2018 Time: 4:00 p.m. Place: Lamonica Stadium, Clovis High School, Fowler and Barstow avenues Sierra Nights Live at Sierra Vista Mall! Ft. Flannel Thursday, July 12, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Sierra Vista Mall Info: (559) 299-0660 Peach Party Friday, July 13, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: (559) 298-5774 www.oldtownclovis.org Friday Night Farmers Market Every Friday night till September 28, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town, (559) 298-5774 North American Pole Championships Friday, July 20, 2018 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 Place: Old Town Clovis Info: Business Organization of Old Town (BOOT) (559) 298-5774 www.oldtownclovis.org Sierra Nights Live at Sierra Vista Mall! Ft. Fuse Box Thursday, July 26, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Place: Sierra Vista Mall Info: (559) 299-0660 CHSU Visitation Day Saturday, July 28, 2018 Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12 p.m. Place: California Health Sciences University - CHSU, 120 N Clovis Ave, Clovis, Ca Info: http://chsu.org/visitationday/
Shaver Lake Fishing Report and catch of the day BY DICK NICHOLS Contributed Dick’s Fishing Charters
I am so happy to return to my favorite newspaper, the Clovis Roundup, for another year of reporting the fishing activity at Shaver Lake. I have a great report for you. It has been simply outstanding for over three weeks. In all of my charter trips this year, we have scored limits for everyone on each trip. I love that! The kokanee bite is fast and furious. We have been catching most of our kokanee at depths of 23 to 28 feet deep. Fishing around The Point, Island and Black Rock have been our most productive areas of the lake. Of course, I use mostly my own tackle for kokanee, which includes Dick’s Mountain hoochies, Koke Busters and Trout Busters, all tipped with treated shoepeg corn, behind Dick’s Mountain Blades. But, I have found the orange and clear Apex lure to be a hot item. All tackle is available locally at Valley Rod and Gun. Super happy that good ole Department Of Fish and Game made two plants in
Francisco Rivas, of Clovis, and his friend Juan Pedraza, of Lubbock, Texas, show their catch of quality kokanee during a recent trip with guide Dick Nichols. CONTRIBUTED BY DICK’S FISHING CHARTERS
two weeks of catchable rainbow trout this month. The results have been great for trout fishermen both trolling and from shore. Fishing at depths of surface to 20 feet down with Trout Busters, tipped with crawler and corn behind weighted Mountain Flasher will get you in that area – and has been very effective. Guys like Rick Scheidt, of Clovis, a waiter at Cool
Hand Luke’s and his buddy Steve Carillo, of Fresno, hit the water this past week and collected a couple limits of trout and kokanee along with a very nice trophy trout – an example of people catching fish. Try fishing the Sierra Marina and dam areas out to The Point and Island for best results on trout, that’s where Rick and Steve fished. Shore anglers
have found some nice ¾-pounders from the first plant near the marina. Trout dough bait in rainbow and green have been some of the better bait. Inflated crawlers can also do the job. The Shaver Lake Trophy Trout Project recently made our first of two plants of about 1,000 trophy-sized trout, 3 to 6 pounds. The new arrivals to Shaver have spread fast, with many found near The Island and mouth of Boy Scout Cove at 20 to 25 feet deep. They hit the same tackle that was previously recommended. In fact, most are caught while fishing for smaller trout or kokanee. Bob Bernier, chairman of the trophy plant, said that this string of trout are quick movers as they have been raised in cold water from a river directly into the sandy bottom holding areas. Those who have caught these trophies say they are true fighters and taste good. I recommend that you dust the boat off, pack some tackle and get up here soon to take advantage of one of the best bites in years. I am always here to answer any of your questions, so feel free to text me at (559) 281-6948 or email me at dickchip@ netptc.net. Until our next issue, best wishes in your effort to hook a good one!
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 . WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER . 21
Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Sweet Potatoes
Cedar Plank Grilled Salmon with Sweet Potatoes
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Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Cedar planks with enough surface area for salmon 4 Alaska salmon fillets (4-6 ounces each), fresh, thawed or frozen olive oil spray 1 tablespoon fresh (or 1 teaspoon dried) dill, thyme or rosemary salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste 4 large sweet potatoes, sliced lengthwise into wedges 1/2 tablespoon ground cumin Soak cedar planks for 1-2 hours (or overnight) submerged in water. Remove and pat dry.
Heat grill to medium heat (400 F). If frozen, rinse ice from salmon under cold water; pat dry with paper towel. Spray cedar planks and salmon with olive oil spray. Place salmon on planks; sprinkle with herb, salt and pepper. Place sweet potatoes in bowl; spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle with cumin and salt and pepper, to taste. Toss to coat. Place cedar planks and potato wedges on grill. Cover and cook about 3-4 minutes; turn wedges over and continue cooking until potatoes are soft and cooked. Keep warm. Cook salmon 12-15 minutes, until fish is opaque throughout. Nutritional information per serving: 350 calories; 11 g total fat; 2 g saturated fat; 27% calories from fat; 91 mg cholesterol; 33 g protein; 33 g carbohydrate; 4 g fiber; 277 mg sodium; 36 mg calcium; 1,700 mg omega-3 fatty acids.
FAMILY FEATURES
hether you’re a competitive sprinter chasing a new record or an everyday gym hound looking to get the most from your workout, seafood is among the best foods to support an athletic lifestyle. It not only delivers great-tasting nutrition, but also provides one-of-a-kind health benefits. The combination of lean protein, anti-inflammatory omega-3s and muscle-building nutrients found in Alaska seafood are why it’s a staple for athletes like Ryan and Sara Hall. “We like to incorporate Alaska seafood in our daily diet because it’s a really high quality protein that helps to repair our muscles on a daily basis,” said Ryan Hall, a two-time Olympian and holder of the U.S. half-marathon record. After a run, Sara Hall – a 3,000-meter steeplechase and marathon runner, U.S. national champion and World Team member – relies on seafood as a go-to for low-fat meals with protein and simple-to-digest carbs. Sample these dishes straight from the Hall kitchen, and find more recipes and nutritional values for your favorite seafood at wildalaskaseafood.com.
Miso Halibut with Soba Noodle Stir-Fry
Miso Halibut with Soba Noodle Stir-Fry Pan-Seared Cod over Minted Pea Puree
Pan-Seared Cod over Minted Pea Puree Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes 1/2 cup water 2 pounds frozen or fresh peas, blanched 1 package (0.6-0.7 ounces) fresh mint, leaves only salt, to taste 4 Alaska cod fillets (4-6 ounces each), fresh, frozen or thawed olive oil 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning Add water, peas and mint to blender or food processor; season with salt. Puree until almost smooth. Cover and keep warm. If frozen, rinse ice glaze from cod under cold water;
pat dry with paper towel. Heat heavy, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of fillets with olive oil. In heated skillet, cook cod, uncovered, about 3-4 minutes, until browned. Shake pan occasionally to keep fish from sticking. Turn cod over and sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning. Cover pan tightly and reduce heat to medium. Cook an additional 6-9 minutes for frozen cod or 3-4 minutes for fresh/thawed fish. Cook until fish is opaque throughout. To serve, spoon pea puree onto 4 plates. Top each with cod fillet and serve immediately. Nutrition information per serving: 319 calories; 5 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 13% calories from fat; 65 mg cholesterol; 37 g protein; 34 g carbohydrate; 12 g fiber; 393 mg sodium; 101 mg calcium; 28 IU vitamin D; 200 mg omega-3 fatty acids.
Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes 1 package (12 ounces) prepared soba noodles (or noodle of choice) 4 Alaska halibut fillets (4-6 ounces each), fresh, thawed or frozen 3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided 2 cups roughly chopped bok choy 1 1/2 cups sugar snap peas 1 cup sliced mushrooms 1/2 cup chopped green onion 1/4 cup miso 1 cup water 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce Prepare noodles according to package directions; set aside. If frozen, rinse ice glaze from halibut under cold water; pat dry with paper towel. Heat large, nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of halibut with half of the sesame oil. In heated skillet, cook fish, uncovered, about
3-4 minutes, until browned. Shake pan occasionally to keep fish from stick ing. Turn halibut over; reduce heat to medium and cover. Cook 5-7 minutes for frozen halibut or 2-3 minutes for fresh/thawed fish, cooking until fish is opaque throughout. Transfer fillets to plate; cover to keep warm. Wipe out skillet/wok with paper towel. Add remaining sesame oil. Heat to medium-high then add and stir-fry bok choy, snap peas, mushrooms and green onions. Stir in noodles; turn off heat. Cover and keep warm. In saucepan, blend miso, water and teriyaki sauce. Bring mixture to boil then reduce heat to a simmer and cook 1 minute. Stir sauce into warm noodle-vegetable mixture. To serve, divide and portion mixture into 4 bowls or plates. Top each with halibut fillet. Nutrition information per serving: 571 calories; 15 g total fat; 2 g saturated fat; 22% calories from fat; 56 mg cholesterol; 38 g protein; 71 g carbohydrate; 7 g fiber; 1,643 mg sodium; 77 mg calcium; 219 IU vitamin D; 350 mg omega-3 fatty acids.
22 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
Seniors learn how to stop the scam BY CAROLE GROSCH @ClovisRoundup
On Friday, May 11, the Clovis Senior Activity Center hosted a free and educational Scam Stoppers Workshop presented by Assemblyman Jim Patterson. The goal of the event was to raise consciousness of scams that are perpetuated on seniors as well as others. However, statistics show that seniors are the group most targeted. “We hold these workshops a couple times a year, with about 70 people attending,” said Patterson. “We’re fighting back to resist scams and after getting the training here, you’ll be armed to protect yourself. I’d hate to be a scammer. We’ve heard from a man who came to a workshop, then soon after received a call from a scammer. He knew how to handle it by just hanging up and reported it to us.” Experts spoke, answered questions and handed out information on how to spot and avoid scams. Information tables were manned by representatives of the California Bureau of Automotive Repair, Central Valley Alzheimer’s Association, Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, Valley Caregiver Resource Center, Clovis Police Department, Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse and Contractors State License Board. “Your information is bought and sold,” said Destin Watkins, representing the Clovis Police Department. “It is an unregulated area … don’t put your information out there.” Watkins recommended requesting a credit freeze for added security; the freeze can be temporarily suspended if you want to apply for credit. Another upside of having a freeze in place is the elimination of credit card offers you’ll receive in the mail. “Scams are all designed to make you pan-
Assemblyman Jim Patterson (left) addresses the audience at the Scam Stoppers Workshop held at Clovis Senior Center, May 11, 2018. PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
ic and think emotionally not logically,” said Watkins. “Take a deep breath. Take yourself out of the scenario. What advice would you give someone who might have this experience? Take time to talk with family members or people you trust.” Though schemes are constantly evolving, some common ploys include the Grandparent Scam, where an alleged grandchild desperately needs money; Sweepstakes Scam where money is requested in order to receive “winnings;” and Identity Theft when your financial information is used fraudulently. Not all scams are conducted by phone, mail or over the internet. Cars that have sustained
flood water damage may be re-registered and put up for sale. When buying a vehicle, check under seats and the dashboard for signs of rust or water damage. RED FLAGS OF A SCAM • Insistence you wire money immediately • Ask you not to tell family or friends • Demand that you act immediately • Bad grammar and misspellings • Refusal to stop calling even after you ask they stop • Promise you can win, borrow or make money easily • Hearing the words “free,” “low cost,” act now.”
• Gift cards are requested by the caller SCAM PREVENTION TIPS • Don’t answer the phone if you don’t recognize the number. If it’s important, they’ll leave a message. • Don’t wire money. • Don’t use public Wi-Fi to check financial information or to use a credit card. • Set your privacy settings on social media so strangers can’t see your activities. • Never disclose personal or financial information on the phone, mail or internet. • Do not allow yourself to be pressured. Think it through, trust your instincts. • Be careful who you give your health insurance information to. • Check credit card and Medicare statements to ensure there are no unauthorized charges or services not provided. • Shred documents with identifying information. It’s important scams are reported to law enforcement. The FBI takes reports on all scams at www.ic3.gov. Other agencies that take reports include: • Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at 1-877-382-4357 • Department of Consumer Affairs, 1-800952-5210 • US Postal Inspectors, 1-877-876-2455 • Senior Medicare Patrol, 1-855-613-7080 Do you have sensitive items you need to shred? This Saturday, May 19, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Clovis Police Department is holding a free “Shred Fest” at the Clovis Rodeo Grounds. Not only can you securely dispose of a maximum of 6-8 banker boxes of documents, you can meet the Clovis Police K9s and the chief of police as well as see the Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 . WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM
Clovis West athletic trainer up for national award
Anime-Comic Con invades Clovis TOMAS KASSAHUN @TomasKassahun
BY DANIEL LEON | Editor-in-Chief editor@clovisroundup.com
Joshua Adame, a certified athletic trainer at Clovis West High School, has been named the regional nominee for The 2017–2018 Newell National Athletic Trainer of the Year Award. As the regional nominee, Adame will join other candidates from across the nation to be considered for the honor, which will be awarded later this month. “I’m extremely humbled and grateful to be a part of this opportunity,” said Adame, in his third year at Clovis West. In partnership with Sierra Pacific Orthopedics, The Newell Award recognizes athletic trainers for the service and leadership they provide local athletic communities. Based on examples of service, leadership, and shared experiences from community members, nominees like Adame are selected regionally to be considered for the national award to potentially win $2,500 for their school and $10,000 as the recipient. “The outpouring of support from community members on Mr. Adame’s behalf has been tremendous and certainly well-deserved,” said Richard Lembo, Director of Sports Medicine at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics. “We feel honored to acknowledge his efforts by partnering with The Newell Award to recognize the region’s top athletic trainers for the service and leadership they display while treating our community’s athletes.” A native of Visalia, Adame graduated from College of the Sequoias with an associate of science degree in sports medicine before moving onto Fresno State for his bachelor’s degree in athletic training. Since graduating in 2015, Adame has been actively involved in the sports medicine community, caring for injured athletes and educating future athletic
CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER . 23
Joshua Adame, head athletic trainer for Clovis West High School, is up for a national honor. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
trainers through his work. Nearly 100 shared experiences from community members were received in support of Adame’s regional nomination for the award. Adame, however, doesn’t feel like he’s doing anything special. He goes into work every day with the mindset of doing his job the best way he knows how. “I just show up and do my job every day,” said Adame. “There’s that old saying: ‘it’s not work if you enjoy what you’re doing’ and I couldn’t agree more. I don’t feel like I’m at work when I’m there. Those kids, they make the job worth it. Our coaches and my administration are fabulous to work with. They have my back and they understand where I’m coming from when I’m trying to explain an injury. Showing up to work every day is what put me in this position. I don’t feel like I do anything different than any other athletic trainer out there.”
Comic fans of all ages invaded the Clovis Veterans Memorial District on Sunday to attend the Clovis Anime-Comic Con. The event featured a cosplay contest, as well as plenty of items for sale, including movies, collectable toys and comic books. As part of Mother’s Day, the event also included giveaways for roses and chocolate. “Most people can’t go to the big convention like San Diego, so we bring the convention to them,” said Ziggy Star, one of organizers of the event. Star organized the event with his family, including his 17 grandkids. “I have 17 grandkids, so where I can go and bring 17 grandkids for under 100 bucks?” Star said. “With us, you can.” The event also featured special guests such as Len Smith, who worked as a character designer for Disney. Smith met his fans at the event and signed character art he designed for Disney. Smith said he has relatives in Clovis, but this was his first time visiting. “I was just driving through Old Town,” Smith said. “It’s really nice.” Roxanne Cole came to the event with her mother as a vendor and also took part in the cosplay. “My mom sells sewing stuff and others are with me to sell games, flashlights and more,” Cole said. “I usually attend Comic Con almost every time and sometimes I can’t because I’m at another con.” Mark Vaughan came to Comic Con with the local Star Trek fan club called USS Saroyan. “We come to these events to recruit new members,” Vaughan said. “Our Star Trek
Spider-Man takes a photo with a fan wearing a Green Lantern T-shirt at Clovis Anime-Comic Con held at Clovis Veterans Memorial District, May 13, 2018. PHOTO COURTESY OF @BOSS.MAN.559
club is part of a national organization where each chapter is named after a starship. We like to get together and eat pizza and come to events like this and have a good time.” AJ Sotelo came to the event dressed as Scorpion from Mortal Kombat. “He was one of my favorite characters since I was a little kid,” Sotelo said. “I loved the arcade game and always wanted to dress up as him.” Although this was the first year of Clovis hosting Comic Con, Star said the plan is to do 45 shows around the Valley this year. Upcoming stops for the event will include Porterville, Selma, Modesto and Fresno.
24 . CLOVIS ROUNDUP COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
WWW.CLOVISROUNDUP.COM . WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
City of Clovis unveils counting system along Old Town Trail BY DANIEL LEON | Editor-in-Chief editor@clovisroundup.com
New equipment has been installed to count pedestrians and bicyclists along the Old Town and Dry Creek Trails in Clovis. Prior to Trail Fest on May 5, city officials held a grand opening of the latest Eco-Display counter at the southeast corner of Clovis and Sierra avenues along the Old Town Trail. The other display is located along the Dry Creek Trail at Clovis and Nees avenues. During the ceremony, Clovis Mayor Bob Whalen delivered a statement before running through a green ribbon to mark the official opening. “This was an idea that has been needed and the technology finally caught up to us to a point where we can actually do something as clever as this,” said Whalen. “It takes a lot of people to be able to make something like this happen. There’s a real fun aspect to it but at the same time there’s a real practical aspect in that we get to keep track of who is using our trails for when it comes time for upgrading or how we determine maintenance. When we request grants, the use of the trail is something that they’re going to be really interested in.” The equipment uses special sensors to count and distinguish between bicyclists and pedestrians walking or jogging along the path. The counter displays the number of pedestrians and bicyclists who use the path each day, and also year-to-date. “The citizens of Clovis enjoy riding and walking on the trails, and these new counters are a fun way for city staff to obtain data to ensure that trail users have the facilities and safety resources they need,” said Colleen
Clovis Mayor Bob Whalen (far right) and city officials pose for a group photo next to the newly unveiled trail counter display on the Old Town Trail near Clovis and Sierra avenues, May 5, 2018. DANIEL LEON/CLOVIS ROUNDUP
Vidinoff, Assistant Engineer with the City of Clovis and one of the leaders of the project. The data acquired, which will allow staff to better analyze year-round usage patterns of the trail systems, will also be uploaded on a daily basis to the City of Clovis website for
the public to view. “I’m so happy to get this up and running and let people see themselves counted as they cross the counting line,” Vidinoff added. “They do matter and we’re excited to encourage trial use.”
Both trail counter displays were purchased for approximately $58,000 from Eco-Counter, Inc., a world leader in active user monitoring systems, with funding from Measure C.
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