Clovis Roundup - July 6, 2023

CUSD announces new Athletic Director for Buchanan High

R undup

City of Clovis crowned one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Nikki McCabe mnick1717@gmail.com

July 3, 2023 - Clovis residents may

Livability, their

list of top 100 best places

@ClovisRoundup

home.

A total of one hundred cities were ranked on the list. Everywhere from Flower Mound, Texas to Clifton, New Jersey were analyzed based on the cities’ advantages and disadvantages.

Livability and Applied

Geographic Solutions (AGS) measured information from 100 data points from different categories. Factors such as economy, housing, cost of living, amenities, transportation, environment, safety, education and health were all considered and impacted the ranking of the list.

See CLOVIS, Pg. 4

Renee Mathis City of Clovis Planning and Development Services Director

Clovis Culinary Center celebrates five years of growing local eateries

Nikki McCabe mnick1717@gmail.com

June 27, 2023 - “From Recipe to Reality.” That is how the Clovis Culinary Center describes their mission to provide support for a community of food entrepreneurs. For five years now, the center has welcomed and nurtured those with dreams of expanding their food businesses. The center provides space at their commercial kitchen

for cooking and creating a service to their customers.

The center has also been shown to be a place of networking and connecting with opportunities for marketing their business.

Several entrepreneurs gathered at the center June 27th to celebrate and represent their business venture.

Kris Marshall, Operations Manager

Photo courtesy of VisitClovis.com

The famous "Gateway to the Sierras" sign hangs above Clovis Avenue.

What’s Up, Clovis?

CHECK OUT THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN

Hot Raqs Middle Eastern Dance and Music Festival is the Best in the West

Dog of the Week

Gut Bucket Base

Eagle Head Canes

Fourth of July

Photos by Ron Sundquist

Don Lenz can be seen taking measurements of Jim Johnson, right, for an eagle head cane. Don carves these canes for veterans, which can take up to a year to make.

The dance and music festival came to town June 23-25. Hot Raqs celebrates the community and offers a supportive and active learning environment for artists and students.

Jenna, Kitchen Manager for On the Edge coffee shop, proudly displays her hand lettered sign featuring July events.

The Old Town Clovis coffee group celebrates the holiday morning together. Several members dressed up for the holiday, as seen with dog Triker and his owner, Jeff (bottom).

Clovis VFW Post 3225 can be seen selling fireworks at their fireworks stand that was located on Clovis between 2nd Street and 3rd Street.

Jeff Millard played the "gut bucket base" at the Saturday Old Town Clovis Farmer's Market. Peter Emerson can be seen playing guitar behind Jeff.

April, whose owner is Rachel, is the Dog of the Week!

Clovis Chamber hosts 2023 Leadership Summit

Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

June 22, 2023 - The Clovis Leadership Summit was held at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District.

The Summit was organized by the Clovis Chamber of Commerce, and this year it featured Women in Business. The Women in Business speaker portion ran from 2-5 p.m. A new feature this year was the Business, Food & Wine Expo which began immediately following the conclusion of the keynote speaker’s speech.

City of Clovis Mayor Lynne Ashbeck gave a brief speech and introduction for Fresno County District Attorney Lisa A. Smittcamp. During Ashbeck’s speech, in reference to what it means to be a leader, she stated that, “It’s about service.”

Mayor Ashbeck also offered high praise of the D.A. and spoke of Smittcamp’s humanity as an important part of her character.

Lisa Smittcamp walked to the center of the stage to speak clearly and powerfully. Our D.A. had this to say about leadership: “If you’re going to be an effective leader [. . .] you have to balance following and leading.”

Smittcamp was both professional and

CLOVIS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

According to Livability, "Clovis is a warm, welcoming community with highly rated schools, exceptional quality of life and a relatively low cost of living for the San Joaquin Valley. With a sunny climate and proximity to natural wonders, Clovis residents enjoy a relaxed California lifestyle.”

Livability listed Clovis as one of the only two cities in California to make it on the

personal in her speech. One of the many memorable parts of her speech was her motto, “Work hard and be nice.”

The next speaker was none other than Fresno beloved KSEE 24 News Anchor, Stefani Booroojian.

The long-time news anchor offered insight into her career: the things she has learned, the places she has been, the people she has met, and the work she has done for our community and beyond. The body of her speech also included an incredible highlight reel of her career over the last 40 years.

Following a brief intermission, the Clovis Chamber of Commerce’s Priscilla Montell introduced keynote speaker Cynthia Johnson.

Cynthia Johnson is a marketing and branding professional, author, entrepreneur, and international keynote speaker.

Johnson spoke to the importance of building your personal brand, how A.I. can be a tool to make your job easier, how irreplaceable human thinking is, how creative every job is, and how pivotal it is to ask for things in your career.

The Clovis Leadership Summit’s Business, Food & Wine Expo showcased a vast variety of local businesses. Restaurants, catering,

packed list.

Clovis received a calculated score of 722, with the highest score of 877 being given to Johns Creek, Georgia. Clovis scored high in categories such as transportation, environment and economy.

The environment in Clovis is a big reason why the city was placed on the list. Livability highlights the cities’ Urban Greening Master Plan, which is dedicated to ensuring improvement in air and water quality.

Also the city's Urban Greening Master plan

people together with food because that is the point of food right, it brings everyone together.”

breweries, wineries, products, and services. The Business, Food & Wine Expo was an opportunity for members of the community

focuses on creating more bicycle transportation and taking care of green spaces for overall environmental health.

Fun spots to go and see in Clovis were also highlighted such as Old Town Clovis and restaurant ‘House of Juju’.

Readers get the chance to learn about typical Clovis Weather, school systems, and places for employment.

The purpose of this listing is to serve as a resource for those looking to relocate and explore an area that serves their particular

to connect, talk, laugh, eat, drink, and network.

interests.

Mayor Lynne Ashbeck gave a statement upon the Clovis achievement, "It seems the rest of the country is finally learning what we have known for a long time- the City of Clovis is a fantastic place to live, work, and play! We are very proud of the city that our community founders, amazing residents and hardworking business owners have built over many years.”

After reading this, don’t be surprised if the city of Clovis' population increases…

of Clovis Culinary Center believes the assistance is crucial for their group of clients.

“They know how to do the cooking, they know how to put ingredients together and make it something beautiful,” said Marshall. “That doesn’t always come with the knowledge of how to run a business.”

Marshall said before the center, there was no place for entrepreneurs in the area to receive assistance. Marshall enjoys watching the food entrepreneurs that come to the center achieve growth.

“I think it is such a competitive industry and it shouldn’t be. Everyone loves to eat. I love to see that growing community of bringing

In the span of five years, under 100 businesses have benefited from the center.

Local business ‘Dad’s cookies’ received help from the center during the pandemic, and now have their own brick and mortar.

Lisa Segura works with her husband Miguel of 20 years to create authentic Mexican cuisine dishes under their business, ‘Miguel’s Salsa’. The husband and wife duo have been running their business with the center for three years.

Segura believes what they have learned from the center is essential.

“We did not come from a culinary background at all,” said Segura. “I came from

retail and my husband came from business to business sales. We have support all around us so we learned how to cater, we learned how to cook things on a larger scale. We learned how to use a certified kitchen, and that is a challenge on its own.”

Segura said she has gained skills in business development and learned to network with other small businesses. Segura believes what they have achieved is all due in part to the center.

“Without the Clovis Culinary Center I couldn’t have made it this far without them so definitely keep watching the Clovis Culinary Center and who is coming out of there.”

Amber Hollis works with her wife Lenore to create their naturally flavored fruity

drinks they offer from, ‘Afrodisiacs’. Hollis has used the center’s space for the past six months and uses the commercial kitchen to produce, store, and distribute their products.

“We started off trying to do it at home, and we noticed that there would be a lot of distractions and not a lot of room for us to create our products and store our products,” said Hollis.

“Here at the culinary kitchen, it eliminated all of that chaos…”

Hollis is thankful for the center’s resources and hopes other entrepreneurs take advantage of it.

“It really helps. It is a small based community, but there are multiple resources out there for you to grow and expand your business.”

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup City of Clovis Mayor Lynne Ashbeck.

David Tangipa to run against former Congressman George Radanovich for Clovis Assembly Seat

June 20, 2023 - David Tangipa, a field representative for Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig announced last week that he would be running for the termed-out State Assembly seat in 2024. That Assembly seat is currently held by former Fresno Mayor Jim Patterson R-Fresno.

Running against Tangipa will be former congressman George Radanovich. Radanovich, R-Mariposa, stated in a news release, “Crime, the cost of living, homelessness, failing schools, and an infrastructure unable to meet our water and transportation needs are all the result of failed leadership in Sacramento.”

Tangipa, born in Sacramento and currently working in real estate for Modern Broker Inc., made his home in the Clovis area after playing football for Fresno State. He stated that the race for the assembly seat is “..about the future of California. Not about Radanovich or anyone else…This is about California needing to take a new step into the future.”

The Assembly seat covers north Fresno, Clovis, and several mountain communities including Tuolumne, Madera, Calaveras, Mariposa, Inyo and Mono counties. Current Assemblyman Jim Patterson has already given his endorsement to Tangipa.

Upon this endorsement, Tangipa tweeted, “I’m here to work and @JimPatterson559 supports my effort to carry on his fight for Common Sense for California.”

Radanovich received an endorsement from former Assemblyman Frank Bigelow, R-O’Neals who had one term of eligibility remaining, but decided not to run against

With a staff of over 60 employees, we fulfill our mission by integrating the Planning, Building, and Engineering Divisions within one Department.

Renee Mathis and I am the current Planning and Development Services Director here at the City of Clovis.

While I am new to this position (just over two years now) I have over 20 years of experience working at the City in the Planning and Development Services Department.

The Planning and Development Services Department is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the vision of our General Plan unfolds in a responsible and sustainable manner.

A General Plan sets the vision, values, and comprehensive framework for managing efficient and effective growth in a city.

As the front-line defender of our General Plan, this dedicated Department is at the forefront of all development occurring in our city, working to ensure we remain vibrant, livable, and economically prosperous by meeting the needs of all our residents today and for generations to come.

The Planning Division is responsible for developing and implementing the General Plan, Specific Plans, Master Plans, and the Development Code. Everyday this Division is processing both current and long-range planning projects while ensuring a thorough environmental analysis of each.

The Building Division is charged with providing minimum standards that protect public health, property, and the welfare of the community through the regulation of design, construction, quality of materials, use occupancy, accessibility, and maintenance of buildings and structures.

The Engineering Division is responsible for providing professional engineering and solution-oriented services that facilitate sustainable growth in our local economy and that enhance our citizens quality of life. This Division is also responsible for the management and efficient delivery of our Community Investment Program.

Email: info@clovisroundup.com www.ClovisRoundup.com

Patterson in 2022. He served as Assemblyman from 2012-2022.

Tangipa also has the endorsement of Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni, former Sheriff Margaret Mims, Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp, and William Bourdeau, Executive Vice President of Harris Ranch.

The Community Investment Program represents a major portion of the total recommended annual budget for the City of Clovis because it is devoted to improving the physical infrastructure that supports and sustains continued community development in the areas of general government facilities, sewer, water, parks, community sanitation, and housing and community development.

Some of the key challenges facing the Planning and Development Services Department are managing growth and development in a way that carries out the vision of the General Plan, while balancing the needs of our community, remaining affordable, protecting our natural resources, and preserving our unique small-town character.

Clovis has been successful at overcoming these challenges by working closely with residents, businesses, developers, and community groups to understand their needs and priorities, as well as partnering with other organizations and agencies to leverage resources and expertise.

This includes requiring green building practices, supporting alternative transportation

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Peg Bos - Let’s Talk Clovis

ACCOUNTING SERVICES: Teresa Stevens, CPA (559) 326-7072 teresa@tmstevenscpa.com

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE Catherine Kenney info@clovisroundup.com

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

In a photo on the front page of David Tangipa’s website he is joined by Clovis dignitaries Nathan Magsig, Clovis Councilwoman Diane Pearce, and Clovis Unified School Board Members Clint Olivier and Deena Combs-Flores.

options, and requiring the use of renewable energy sources.

By assisting businesses in their efforts to secure planning permits and approvals, the Planning and Development Services Department also supports economic development and job creation in our community.

As the Planning and Development Services Director for our city, I am committed to ensuring that our community grows and develops in a responsible and sustainable manner.

This requires a comprehensive approach to planning and development that balances the needs of our community with the need to protect our resources and preserve our unique character.

By working closely with residents, businesses, developers, and community groups, as well as leveraging partnerships and technology, we will continue to create a vibrant, livable, and economically prosperous city that meets the needs of all our residents today and well into the future.

Cheers, Renee

The Clovis Roundup is a custom publication. Reproduction by any means of the entire contents or any portion of this publication without written permission is prohibited. The appearance of any advertisements in this publication does not constitute support or endorsement for any product, person, cause, business or organization named therein, unless specifically noted otherwise in the advertisement. All costs associated with producing, printing and mailing Clovis Roundup are entirely funded by our advertisers. To show your appreciation of their support, we ask you to consider patronizing these businesses and services as the need arise.

Photo courtesy by David Tangipa for Assembly David Tangipa, running for the 8th Assembly District.

Central Valley Veterans present ‘Veterans Game Fest' fundraiser

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 933 are hosting a new kind of fundraiser coming up next week that may attract a unique kind of audience.

The Veterans group will be hosting a “Veterans Game Fest” in which games will be played throughout the entire weekend of July 7th-9th.

Created by Alex Fabros and held at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, this Veterans Game Fest will include games such as Dungeons and Dragons, “Team Yankee” a military board game, and “Age of Sigmar” a fantasy wargame.

These few examples will be alongside the likes of other role playing, fantasy, historical and military games in addition to other card games.

The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 933 sponsors Veterans Game Fest 2023 to raise funds for its Junior ROTC program scholars, returning veterans at Fresno State University, and other veterans' rehabilitation programs.

100% of the net proceeds will be used for these programs.

Junior ROTC scholars will be present at the event volunteering their time either hosting games or helping out with other tasks. On the listed attendees, Brent Burdine, leader of the Game Fest says, “Some are board games, some are variety, and they belong to different clubs and things. They kind of all got together to say, ‘Hey we can kinda have a gaming convention’.”

Burdine also hopes that with the proposed success of this year's event, Chapter 933 can hold a similar event next year.

With any success, funds raised in terms of registrations to games, attendance, and purchases of food and drink which will be supplied at the Game Fest, will provide the Junior ROTC program with scholarships for future opportunities.

Tickets to the event cost $25 for a day pass and $40 for an entire weekend pass. With even a two day attendance, a $40 ticket pays at a discount compared to the $25 day pass. There will also be raffle prizes and other opportunities to win prizes.

Tournaments will be held during the weekend, and Burdine expects plenty of spectators for these events. “I think part of it [why people show up] is simple curiosity. If you don’t know what sort of games you like or are interested in, we have a wide variety of games.”

“This is open to the public, and with our clubs and our leagues, these aren’t anything secret or exclusive. They’re all open to the public anytime.”

Brent Burdine hopes that the public will take the time next weekend July 7-9th to come out to the Veterans Memorial District and embark in something that may be even a bit foreign to them.

Knowing that attendees will be accepted with open arms however is a positive for both Burdine and the Veterans Game Fest as a whole.

“We’ll have flyers and an information table, and hopefully [the public] can make connections to local game shops.”

The Veterans Game Fest begins Friday July 7th from Noon-10:00 PM, continues on July 8th from 9 AM-10 PM, and concludes on Sunday July 9th from 9 AM-6 PM.

To register, host a game, or host a tournament, please visit the Veterans Game Fest website at www.vetgamefest.org.

Rotary Park closes for second time due to continued coyote encounters

Nikki McCabe

Over the past few weeks, Rotary Park attendees have experienced sightings and encounters with coyotes in the area. These encounters resulted in a temporary shutdown of the park located at Barstow and Villa, followed by it reopening about one week later.

Now due to continued coyote activity in the area of the park, it will remain closed until further notice. The coyote was first spotted in the area in June and has continued to make appearances. As a result, out of caution for the safety of all those who enjoy time in our parks, Rotary Park will be closed while we continue to monitor the situation.

The gates still hold signs warning of coyotes being present in the park. The city of Clovis has set up traps throughout the park, but the coyotes are still suspected to be in the area.

Eric Aller, Parks Manager for the city of Clovis has been in communication with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Together they decided it was best to have the temporary shut down to assess the situation at Rotary.

Now he believes it is safe to enter the park as long as the public is aware of the presence of the wildlife species.

Aller said the incidents with coyotes in the area are out of the ordinary. “It's a new thing for us,” said Aller. “We’re not used to it. A lot of communities, especially down in Los Angeles that are up against the foothills, have a lot of coyotes in their communities. But this is kinda new for us and new for Clovis.”

Rajae Rader is a mother living in Clovis and said she encountered the wild animal while on a walk with her family earlier this month near the Pacific Grove Apartment Complex. “My son made a loud cry and all of a sudden when I turned around a coyote came running toward us,” said Rader.

Rader’s father-in-law had a flashlight with a strobing capability and used it to ward off the coyote.

“I had my brother in law grab my son and we had a flashing light so we flashed that and slowly backed away and we yelled at it and it ran away,” said Rader.

The incident has left the Clovis mother worried about her family and the safety of her 1 year old son. “Definitely nervous to take my son out, I will not be walking with him to take out my trash at night for sure,” said Rader.

Rader was not the only one who experienced an encounter with the wild animal. Hailie Jepsen was on her routine walk at Rotary Park with her 8 month old Shi Tzu, Beau when she saw the coyote approach her dog. “Right when the coyote and I made eye contact he bolted towards Beau,” said Jepsen.

“I just ran at the coyote, I was screaming and trying to wave my hands. This coyote takes another lunge and it grabs Beau but luckily just by the harness, it tries yanking him off.”

Thanks to bystanders nearby in the park, the coyote was chased away before the attack could escalate. Jepsen said Beau received no injuries, but suffered some minor muscle soreness. Jepsen is glad her and Beau survived the ordeal but still feels shaken from the incident.

“I've had incidents with coyotes out in the country before, but it's never been anything where the coyote isn’t afraid of a person. I think that’s scary. The incident in itself was really scary just because Beau is 8 months old and he’s like my whole world. Knowing what a coyote could do and knowing that he could have been gone in seconds and just hurt and killed right there, was really scary.”

Ken Paglia, Public Information Officer for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, said the situation has not escalated to what would be considered a public safety issue as of yet due to the fact no humans have been attacked or sustained injuries from the coyote.

“They have adapted to the urban landscape statewide. It is a really tough issue because they can be aggressive in certain situations, they can go after pets, not all the time but it can happen,” said Paglia. Paglia wants people to know that the Department prohibits capturing and relocating coyotes because it will not resolve the issue.

“The research shows if you try to relocate a coyote, take it and release it somewhere else, they will usually come back to their home base and travel back. If you remove a coyote, then oftentimes another coyote will take that coyote's place.”

Paglia urges the community to remember when you see a coyote, to haze without harming them. “If you come across a coyote you can make a lot of noise, you can yell, you can throw rocks. If they go on a walk they can bring a personal alarm device or some sort of noise deterrent. If you know there are coyotes in your community, then find another route to walk, keep your distance, but don’t be afraid to haze the coyotes without harming them. You are letting the coyotes know that there is a boundary.”

Christopher DeTar, Human-Wildlife Conflict Specialist with Fish and Wildlife said Clovis

residents should know despite the danger they pose, coyotes are a valuable animal species in nature and the environment. “Coyotes can provide ecosystem service in a multitude of ways,” said DeTar.

“They are primarily carnivorous and consume a large quantity of rodents. This free pest control benefits both homeowners and farmers by reducing property damage and the spread of disease. Coyotes are also scavengers and will clean up carrion (deceased animals).”

Hailie Jepsen commented on the recent reopening of Rotary Park. She said she still doesn’t feel it is safe for people to go to the park until the coyotes leave the area. “It feels like I can’t even walk outside my front door with Beau because there could be one of the coyotes. I won’t be returning back to Rotary unless someone deals with this situation.”

If you see a coyote in your neighborhood, you can contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and make a Wildlife Incident Report (WIR). You can also reach out to the Clovis Police Department’s Clovis Animal Services at (559) 324-2450.

Local filmmaker makes movie magic for viral proposal

Nikki McCabe

mnick1717@gmail.com

July 3, 2023 - Tremendum Pictures, a valley film company located in the Fresno area, is known for their horror hits such as “The Gallows” and "Held”. But one of its founders showed off his romantic side recently in a video he posted to his social media.

On June 23, filmmaker Chris Lofing took his girlfriend, Andrea Barron, to Maya Cinemas for a screening of DC’s “The Flash”. In the theater auditorium, Lofing excused himself from his seat and left his girlfriend to watch the rest of what appeared to be the film, but really was a special gesture.

Lofing teamed up with his fellow co-workers of Tremendum and crew members from the actual DC film “The Flash”, to put together a short film of Lofing taking on the role of Marvel character Captain America, but with a much different mission.

In the film, Lofing received permission to continue his plan from Barron’s father who took on the role of Director Barron in the form of a hologram. Lofing addressed Barron from the screen, “Andy, my less epic, less cool counterpart here has something to ask you…”

It was lights, camera, action for Lofing who appeared from the side of the theater ready to get down on his knees, and propose for marriage. Barron said yes to the proposal

and both embraced, as a packed theater filled with Lofing’s friends, family, and movie-goers clapped and congratulated the happy couple.

Lofing said the proposal reflected the couple’s passion and appreciation for cinema.

“So obviously as a filmmaker, I love movies haha…,” said Lofing.

“Me and my production company, Tremendum Pictures have always had a great relationship with Maya Cinemas and when I approached them with the idea, they were very supportive and helpful.”

The filmmakers shot the entire scene of Lofing in an alley located in downtown Fresno. Lofing said he was able to put everything together in two days.

“I basically had a month to plan and complete it after asking her parents’ permission in late May,” said Lofing. “She was coming to Fresno for the first time in June, so I had to scramble while juggling other movie projects.”

Barron said she was overjoyed and shocked at the same time during Lofing’s proposal.

“When I saw it was him on the big screen, I’m pretty sure my heartbeat was just going up as I heard him saying he had something to ask me,” said Barron. “Even after the proposal, the movie, and the pictures I was like wait, did we just get engaged?”

“I already knew I wanted to marry him, so it was not something I needed to think twice about.”

Lofing not only got the girl of his dreams, but also went viral on tik tok. A tik tok user shared the proposal video on the popular app, and so far received over one million views.

The couple has made plans for an early November wedding, but still face some

hurdles. Barron currently lives in Saltillo, Mexico and are both trying to cover expenses for the wedding, travel, and immigration expenses.

Lofing has set up a gofundme for assistance. Lofing said on his gofundme page, “If any of you out there can throw a few bucks at this gofundme that I’m setting up, man we’d sure appreciate it. This starving artist I know would surely appreciate it!”

Photo by Clovis Roundup Yellow caution signs can be seen posted at Rotary Park warning of coyotes.

Photo courtesy of Chris Lofing, Instagram Chris Lofing proposed to his girlfriend, Andrea Barron, to Maya Cinemas.

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Clovis Chamber of Commerce

Clovis Civic Center

Clovis Elks

Old Town Service District

Antique and Gift Shops 1.

FARMERS MARKET - FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Friday evenings, starting May 5th, from 5:30 PM Clovis on Pollasky between 3rd & 7th. The Old Town produce, with wonderful food selections and live foodies.

Saturday mornings from 9:00am to 11:30am. Located

PEACH PARTY - JULY 14, 2023

The annual event takes place during the Friday Night foods and treats.

to 8:30 PM. Located in the heart of Old Town Town Market Friday vibe is as fresh as the live music from our very own local artists and Located on Pollasky between 5th & Bullard.

Night Farmers Market. It features peach recipes,

Boutique, Clothing, Accessories

1. Autumn Psalm

2. D A Designs Dancewear

3. Heart’s Delight

4. Ivy and Lace

5. Jackson Jewelry

6. Lulu’s Boutqiue

Food and Drink

1. 559 Brewery

2. 500 Club

3. Blast & Brew

4. Bobby Salazar’s

5. Kuppa Joy

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

7. Full O Bull

8. House of Juju

9. Le Parisien Cafe

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

11. Michaelangelo’s Pizzeria

12. Old Town Saloon

13. On the Edge Coffee Shop

14. Outlaw Tavern

15. Rodeo Coffee Shop, 535 Fifth St, 299-3750, rodeocoffeeshop.com

16. Roll Me Some - Handcrafted Roll Ice Cream, 530 Pollasky, 825-7204, rollmesomeice.com

17. Salsa’s Cantina

18. Soups and Scoops, 433 Pollasky, 299-9606

19. The Local, 401 Clovis Ave #102, 900-4253

20. Two Cities Coffee Roasters Organic coffee and tea - Rolled Ice Creamery, 608 4th St., 765-4652

Hair Salon and Spas

1. A Little Indulgence Salon and Day Spa

Elle Style Bar

Recipe

Dial Up Flavor with S U mmer Favorite S

(Family Features)

Turn up the heat this summer and spice your way to delicious warm-weather recipes by using subtle ingredients that bring out bold flavors in your favorite foods. Adding a taste-enhancing option to your repertoire - TajÌn Fruity Chamoy Sauce - can make your summer get-togethers the talk of the neighborhood.

Cool off while enjoying mildly spicy dishes. Made with 100% natural chiles, lime juice, sea salt and a hint of apricot, TajÌn Fruity Chamoy Sauce offers a unique sweet-andspicy flavor without too much heat. Perfect for drizzling over fresh fruits and veggies like mango, pineapple, watermelon and more, it’s also commonly used to bring fruity, subtle spice to a wide variety of recipes including beverages and snacks, like smoothies, mangonadas, ice pops and cold drinks.

For example, in this Savory Mango Chamoy Daiquiri, the apricots create a fruity, tangy flavor that’s a nice, refreshing twist on a

traditional drink.

Bringing a touch of heat to summer cookouts can be a breeze with mild hot sauces added to dishes like these Spiced Pork Ribs, which can be created start-to-finish in the oven or taken outside to sear on the grill. Just a handful of ingredients are required to season the ribs to spicy perfection before wrapping them in foil and letting your oven do the work.

The key ingredient for the right touch of subtle heat without being overwhelming is TajÌn Mild Hot Sauce, a unique, flavorful addition to your cabinet that pairs well with savory snacks like tortilla chips, chicken wings, pizza and even micheladas. The lime is what makes it different from other hot sauces.

Made with 100% natural mild chiles, lime juice and sea salt without added sugars or coloring, it can be enjoyed by the whole family as a versatile way to enhance favorite foods with a mild but wild flavor.

Savory mango chamoy DaqUiri

Total time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

Rim Glass:

2 tablespoons TajÌn Fruity Chamoy

Hot Sauce

2 tablespoons TajÌn Cl·sico Seasoning

Drink:

4 tablespoons TajÌn Fruity Chamoy

Hot Sauce, divided

1 cup frozen mango cubes, plus additional for garnish, divided

1/3 cup natural syrup

3 ice cubes

1/3 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon TajÌn Cl·sico Seasoning, for garnish

• To rim glass: Rim glass in chamoy hot sauce then seasoning.

• To make drink: Blend 3 tablespoons chamoy hot sauce, mango cubes, syrup, ice cubes and orange juice.

• In glass, pour remaining chamoy hot sauce.

• To serve, garnish with additional mango cubes and sprinkle with seasoning.

Both recipes can be easily enhanced with a simple concept: just pair TajÌn Cl·sico seasoning with either or both of the sauces to create unique flavor combinations, a tasty “mix it” tactic to add to your warm-weather menu and make it uniquely yours.

Find more recipes that crank up the heat this summer by visiting TajÌn.com/us.

SpiceD pork ribS

Total time: 3 hours, 10 minutes

Servings: 6

2 racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs

1/4 cup TajÌn Cl·sÌco Seasoning 1/4 cup TajÌn Mild Hot Sauce, plus additional for serving, divided 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons brown sugar lime wedges, for serving mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving (optional)

• Rub ribs with seasoning. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight in refrigerator.

• Preheat oven to 300 F. Combine hot sauce, oil and brown sugar; brush over both rib racks.

• Line baking sheet with double layer of aluminum foil with enough overhang to wrap foil around ribs.

• Lay ribs, bone side down, on foil-lined baking sheet. Wrap foil around ribs and seal. Place on baking sheet.

• Fill large baking dish or roasting pan with 2 inches of boiling water. Place on lower oven rack to keep ribs moist as

they bake. Place ribs on middle oven rack.

• Bake 2 1/2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and just starting to fall off bone.

• Preheat broiler. Unwrap ribs and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 4-6 minutes on middle oven rack, or until lightly charred and caramelized.

• Serve with lime wedges and additional hot sauce.

• Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed white rice, if desired.

The William Walter Shipp pioneer family

one year for their families, bought sheep and settled their families at Big Dry Creek.

Peg Bos Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed

William Walter Shipp (1834-1900) was born in Kentucky. He moved to west Mississippi and became a successful cotton grower.

William joined the Confederate Army in 1862 and served until the Civil War ended in 1865.

In 1868, William decided to join a party of Mississippi friends to relocate to California. He had married Mary Jane Strother in 1838. Three of their five children (Mattie and Willie died in infancy), Eliza, George and John, accompanied their parents on the trip. Major Thomas Nelson and family and D.C. Sample, age 19, were part of the group that traveled over 23 days from Mississippi to New York by train, from New York to Panama by steamer, and across the Isthmus by train and steamer to San Francisco.

The families were left in Vacaville as Major Nelson and Shipp toured the San Joaquin Valley and points south to Los Angeles to decide on their future homes. They returned to Vacaville, purchased food and clothing for

They lived in an adobe house on the Blasingame ranch for six months while William filed government land claims for $1.25 per acre. He would eventually own 2,320 acres that would produce wheat, barley and graze sheep.

After selling his Big Dry Creek ranch in 1887, William moved his family to Fresno. He purchased two city blocks on the corner of McKenzie and Diana and built a new home. The family raised two milk cows, chickens, horses, raised alfalfa and an orchard at their new location.

In 1900, William was fatally injured when returning to Fresno from his San Joaquin River sheep ranch. His mule team was struck by the Valley train while he was crossing the Blackstone and Valley Road intersection.

William’s son George Robert (1865-1959), began working with his dad’s flock of sheep at the age of 8, earning the reputation of “expert sheep man.” At 15, he took charge of the sheep on the range, and in 1887, acquired ownership of them.

He bought 3,200 acres on the old home stead on the San Joaquin River, bought ranches near Reedley and a 30-acre vineyard ranch in the Scandinavian Colony. When sheep were excluded from the Forest Reserve, George entered the cattle business.

George hunted for 74 years, never missing a hunting season, and was credited with bagging a deer each time. He married Abbey Webster in Los Angeles on June 17, 1891. They raised two children, Georgie and Harold.

Abbey taught school at the old Fresno Hawthorne School and also at the Mississippi School, a quarter mile north of Little Dry Creek, between present-day Behymer and Perrin avenues. The main portion of the school was moved to 304 Harvard in Clovis by J.M. Heiskell, who had donated the land for the school. The historic building remains a residence today.

William’s son John M. Shipp (1867-1947) graduated from Pacific Methodist College at Santa Rosa in 1886 and began working with his father. In 1891, he purchased 3,000 acres near Clovis and raised sheep until he changed to cattle in 1907.

In, 1891 John and Frank Bell were challenged by two sheep herders as they tried to move their sheep across the junction of Goddard Creek and the San Joaquin River. The angry challengers, one who drew a pistol and the other a knife, threatened and advanced toward John and he shot and killed both. A trial was held on Oct. 30, 1891 and after a short deliberation, the jury returned a verdict of “not guilty” and ruled it as justifiable homicide.

John owned a summer range at the Blaney Meadows on the South Fork of the San Joaquin River that could support 500 grazing cattle. He was a charter member of the Fresno County Cattle Raisers Association and the California Cattle Growers Association.

On June 28, 1894 at Academy, John married Mary Maud Sample, daughter of pioneer D.C. Sample. Mary was also a graduate from Pacific Methodist College at Santa Rosa. The couple raised two daughters, Margaret and Sally.

The Shipps left us a rich heritage.

Police Officer Randy Gens retires after 28 years

June 29, 2023 - Police Officer Randy Gens retired in front of family, friends, co-workers, City Administration, and City Council. Officer Randy Gens has served the community as a member of the Clovis Police Department for 28 years, taking on an increasingly greater amount of responsibility during his nearly 3-decade career. Officer Gens served in Patrol, Youth

Undercover illegal fireworks detail nets 4 arrests

Services, Traffic as a motor officer, and Narcotics. In addition, he served in many ancillary assignments such as CSI, the Collision Reconstruction Unit, Crisis Negotiations, a bicycle patrol officer, a ZERO electric motorcycle officer, a driver’s training instructor, and (MRAP) Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle and Mobile Command Vehicle (MCV) operator. Congratulations, Officer Gens, and we wish you well in your retirement! Thank you for your service.

Madera Sheriff’s Office K-9

Police Dog ‘Odin’ Found in Clovis

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

July 3, 2023 - It was the early morning hours of Sunday July 2nd that a Madera County Sheriff’s officer went missing, that officer being K-9 Police Dog, Odin. What started with a city wide search in the Clovis/Fresno area ended late that evening when Clovis resident Camryn Escoto returned home. Escoto noticed Odin hanging around in her backyard, one of the few areas that the dog decided to stay after being spotted on several other doorbell cameras in the area of Herndon and Chestnut. Odin was found at Escoto’s house near Clovis and Ashlan. Upon arriving and finding Odin, Escoto decided to take her own German Shepherd puppy for a walk. Escoto reported that Odin, a fellow German Shepherd, walked alongside them. “He’s way too powerful for me. He just continued on his walk with us. I didn’t want to get too close to him because I didn’t know his temperament.”

After their impromptu walk, Escoto, not knowing that the dog was a K-9 trained officer, posted on her Next Door app to see if anyone was missing a dog. That is when messages came flooding in, letting her know that this indeed was a missing K-9.

“I’m happy I could help them locate their dog. I really don’t have much to say because I know how they feel; the feeling of not knowing where your dog is at, [or] if they’re even alive.”

The Madera County Sheriff’s Office posted a thank you to Camryn Escoto and to all who helped locate the dog.

“We cannot thank Ms. Escoto enough for her swift response reporting Odin’s location. Our community has proven once again what a truly tight knit, compassionate, supportive place it is, and we are proud to serve each of you. We feel fortunate and grateful for this outcome, and once again thank all of those who helped the extensive search efforts today.”

Those included in the extensive search

efforts were about 20 deputies deployed directly by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office. Commander Bill Ward said, “We were knocking on doors and checking different areas.”

Odin originally had escaped from his 6-foot kennel and scaled a 6-foot fence from his handler’s home at around 4 AM Sunday morning near Cedar and Bullard. He then traveled to the aforementioned area of Herndon and Chestnut before being found at Escoto’s home near Clovis and Ashlan.

This comes as a reminder for the public to be on the lookout for our furry friends this fireworks season. Plenty of instances, even in the case of a police dog, occur in which animals go missing, and just as Escoto, the hero of the day mentioned, “The longer that they’re gone, the longer the hope starts diminishing.”

Odin should be returned to his handler and hopes to get back to work in the coming future.

June 29, 2023 - Clovis Police Detectives working undercover and using social media, arrested 4 suspects for selling and possessing illegal fireworks.

All 4 suspects were booked into Fresno County Jail without incident. Local law enforcement and fire agencies, including Clovis Police & Fire Departments, will

be out in force this weekend to ensure everyone has a safe Independence Day weekend.

Illegal fireworks can include sky rockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial shells, firecrackers and other types that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner.

To report illegal fireworks in Clovis, use our free mobile app or call our non-emergency phone number at (559) 324-2800.

Contributed Clovis Police Department

Photo courtesy of Clovis Police Department Office Randy Gens stands next to his 25 year of service plaque.

Photo courtesy of Madera County Sheriff's Office, Facebook Camryn Escoto, seen here with Madera K9 Odin.

Photo courtesy of Clovis Police Department, facebook

A variety of seized illegal fireworks.

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

Clovis Happenings

SUMMER IS HERE

COOLING CENTER

INFORMATION

SIERRA VISTA MALL

Monday thru Saturday from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sunday from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

CHUKCHANSI GOLD’S

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Saturday, July 8 – Chiquis [Latin Grammy-winning recording artist]

Saturday, July 29 – George

Thurgood and the Destroyers [Bad All Over the World Tour –50 Years of Rock]

Saturday, August 26 – Sweden: The Music of ABBA [with the Australian Bee Gees Show: A Tribute to the Bee Gees]

Saturday, September 16 –

Julian Torres [Sings the music of Juan Gabriel, Vicente Fernandez and More]

Saturday, September 23 –Dustin Lynch [Country Music Award winning recording artist]

Friday, July 7; Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9

VETERANS GAME FEST Vietnam Veterans of America Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis CA

Friday - 12 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Saturday – 9 a.m. - 10p.m. Sunday – 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday, July 7

BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Dos Valley Trio Clovis Veterans Memorial District Liberty Park 901 5th St., Clovis, CA

6 p.m. until dusk

Wednesday, July 12

WAKE UP CLOVIS – BLAZE YOUR BRAND TRAIL Clovis Community College

Herndon Campus

390 W. Fir Ave., Clovis, CA

7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Friday, July 14

BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK Bluegrass Element

Clovis Veterans Memorial District Liberty Park

901 5th St., Clovis, CA

6 p.m. until dusk

Friday, July 14

FRIDAY NIGHT

FARMERS MARKET PEACH PARTY

Old Town Clovis / Pollasky

5:30 p.m.to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 15

CLOVIS TOY-ANIME-COMIC CON

Clovis Elks Lodge

535 Woodworth Ave., Clovis, CA

Kids 10 an under FREE

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Wednesday, July 19

KIDS SUMMER FUN AT THE MUSEUM Dry Creek Museum 401 Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA SCIENCE

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Friday, July 21

KIDS SUMMER FUN AT THE MUSEUM Dry Creek Museum

401 Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA

CRAFTS

9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Friday, July 21

BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK

Sugar Pine

Clovis Veterans Memorial District

Liberty Park

901 5th St., Clovis, CA

6 p.m. until dusk

ALL MONTH LONG

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKUP

Clovis Senior Activity Center

850 4th St., Clovis, CA

Mondays, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

FRESNO STREET EATS

Sierra Vista Mall

1050 Shaw Ave., Clovis, CA

Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Sundays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

LITTLE FREE LIBRARY

Take a Book – Share a Book

Corner of Pollasky and Bullard

555 Bullard Ave., Clovis, CA

CITY OF CLOVIS

HAZARDOUS WASTE DROP OFF CENTER

79 N. Sunnyside, Clovis, CA

Tuesday thru Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

PLACES TO VISIT

CALIFORNIA 911 MEMORIAL

3485 Never Forget Ln., Clovis, CA

Open 365 days a year

COMMUNITY HERITAGE CENTER

3rd and Veterans Parkway

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

CLOVIS MUSEUM

4th & Pollasky, Clovis, CA

Open Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

FRIDAY NIGHT FARMERS MARKET (FRIDAY NIGHTS THRU OCT. 27)

Old Town Clovis Pollasky & 5th 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

CLOVIS OLD TOWN FARMERS’ MARKET Polasky Ave., Clovis, CA

Every Saturday

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

HARLAN RANCH

FRESH MARKET/ HARLAN EATS HARLAN RANCH COMMUNITY CENTER

1620 N. Leonard Ave., Clovis, CA

Every Wednesday Year-Round 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (weather permitting)

Southpaw Sports Cards Holds First Trade Night

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

June 23, 2023 - Southpaw Sports Cards, a trading card company held their first ever “trade night”, at Crow & Wolf Brewing Company over the weekend.

Crow & Wolf Brewing Company, out of Clovis, was available to be the first location for Southpaw Sports’ first event, but hopes are that it’s not the last.

“We’re hoping to do this every month. Maybe stay here, maybe move around, we haven’t really decided yet,” said Will Robinson, owner of Southpaw Sports.

Robinson pointed out the modest amount of card shows in the Central Valley and stated, “We just kinda said, ‘How can we get people out here?’, and combined things that we like, food, beer, cards and this is what we got.”

The Central Valley food truck association, Fresno Street Eats had partnered with Southpaw Sports and was present at Crow and

Wolf Brewing Company alongside them with their food trucks.

The collaboration was named “Rip N’ Sip Trade Night” as patrons not only were allowed to trade sports cards and beyond, but had food and beverage items readily available.

Not only was Fresno Street Eats present, but also Mikey Keene, transfer quarterback for the Fresno State Bulldogs Football team was also at the Crow & Wolf Brewing Company.

The former University of Central Florida (UCF) signal caller was signing autographs and taking photos with future fans.

Fresno State alumni football stars Dwayne Wright and Paul Williams also attended the trade night, meeting with fans both past and present.

Will Robinson then expressed, “We’re having a really good response here already.

I think it’s a pretty cool event. We’ve looked at a few other places and we’ll just see how

this one goes and kinda go from there.”

The owner of Southpaw Sports hopes to remind the public that, “[Trading] Cards are great for the whole family. They’re kind of making a comeback. We’ve got something for everybody, high-end, low-end, Pokémon for the kids. Just bring the family out and have a good time.”

Happy Birthday to a notable Clovis resident

Nikki McCabe mnick1717@gmail.com

July 2, 2023 - If you ever walk or drive by the west side of Pollasky Avenue between Fourth and Fifth Streets in Old Town Clovis, you can expect to find a statue of not any ordinary cowboy.

The life-size figure is none other than Deputy Sheriff ‘Festus Haggen’ from the hit western television series ‘Gunsmoke’. This is how Clovis remembers the late actor and

singer, Ken Curtis who liked to call Clovis home.

Curtis had lived in Clovis with his wife Torrie since 1980. He passed away in 1991, the day after he made an appearance at the annual Clovis Rodeo.

His birthday was on July 2, so he would be celebrating a 107 year old legacy of his work on television and music he liked to share with the world.

Before starring in ‘Gunsmoke’, Curtis is also known for singing with the Tommy Dorsey Band after Frank Sinatra had left to fly his solo career. Curtis continued his career with many low budget western productions and films.

Local artist Samantha Cowen sculpted the masterpiece and donated it to the city of Clovis in 1992.

The scruffy deputy still stands at his corner in Old Town, making sure everyone follows the letter of the law.

Southpaw Sports is located out of Fresno but they do not have an official location that they work out of.

The public can follow them on social media platforms to keep up on future events.

Instagram: @southpawsportscards

Facebook: @Southpaw Sports Cards

Pine Flat Dam spillway expected to release water within days

Nikki McCabe mnick1717@gmail.com

June 30, 2023 - Due to rising summer temperatures, more snowmelt is expected to increase water flows to the reservoir. The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USAC) plans to use the spillway at Pine Flat Dam within the next week. Releasing water will normally take place when Pine Flat Lake reaches levels higher than 85 percent, with a limit of 1 million acre feet of water.

USACE does not expect water levels to reach too high.

The agency follows The Water Control Manual (WCM), which helps them determine the operations for flood control. They refer to this when considering space left in reservoirs, irrigation demands, and predict water supply and snowmelt inflows which

helps reduce the potential for downstream flooding.

The amount of water set to flow from flood and irrigation release is estimated to be 10,350 cubic feet of water per second. Releases through the outlet works will help reduce the outflow so it won’t go faster than the expected rate. Over the next few months, the gated spillway will continue to release water until water drops below 85 percent of normal capacity.

USACE will monitor water releases with local and state agencies to assist flood control and help lessen the impact of potential flooding that could take place.

The agency wants the public to know that, “Our number one priority continues to be the life, health, and safety of the public.”

The Kings River remains unsafe due to strong rushing waters and will be closed. No plans have been set for a reopening.

The hourly water management release data for Pine Flat Dam can be found at: https://www.spk-wc.usace.army.mil/fcgibin/hourly.py?report=pnf.

For Fresno County Emergency Alert Registration, please visit: https://www. co.fresno.ca.us/departments/public-health/

Clovis woman identified in Pine Flat lake boating accident

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

June 26, 2023 - Neva Marlene Klomp, 67, of Clovis was identified as the woman who died in a boating accident at Pine Flat Lake on Friday June 16th.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office received a call for help from the lake at around 8 PM that night.

The boat that Klomp was on hit a log in the water while traveling, causing the boat to change direction.

According to Fresno County Sheriff's

Sergeant Jeff Sticker, each individual traveling in the boat was thrown to the floor of the boat.

Klomp was thrown into the side of the boat where she suffered head trauma that would ultimately lead to her death.

According to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, boating has become a more riskfilled venture due to the snowpack that came from the previous winter.

With this record snowpack, water levels have risen to unprecedented heights, and debris, such as the log that caused the

accident, are also more prevalent.

Sgt. Stricker states that this was a “devastating” start to the summer season. “When someone’s like, ‘Hey, we’re gonna go have a fun day,’ and then it turns into tragedy. That’s terrible.”

Those closest to Klomp said that all she wanted to do was “live life to the fullest and have fun with the people she loved.”

“It’s real hard right now, real hard right now,” said Danny Akers, a friend of Klomp. “Life of the party, she made everything fun…She loved my grandchildren as much

as her grandchildren.”

With Klomp’s death comes the reminder from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office to stay safe when on any body of water. They recommend not drinking alcohol while swimming, boating, or water skiing as well as wearing a life jacket in a boat or water skiing, “even if you are a good swimmer”. When boating it may be important as well to be aware of floating debris and any other obstructions in the water.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help with Marlene Klomp’s family.

Photo courtesy of Fresno County Sheriff's office Pine Flat Lake.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Groups joined at the Crow & Wolf Brewing Company to take part in Southpaw Sports’ first ever trading card event. Partnered with Fresno Street Eats, Southpaw Sports helped provide sports card and other memorabilia for sale to the public.

Photo Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup Ken Curtis

CUSD announces new Athletic Director for Buchanan High

undefeated for the last 12 and 9 seasons.

June 28, 2023 - Clovis Unified School District just announced the hiring of Kory Anderson as the new Buchanan High School Athletic Director.

Anderson comes with over 20 years of experience in education and coaching. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the position.

Anderson has been the head track and field coach at Ventura High School for over 18 years, earning 31 league titles and remaining

Anderson has a wealth of coaching experience in football, high school basketball, and high school cross country and assisted with strength and conditioning for girls' volleyball.

Anderson also served as an Advisory board member for Southern California sports. With a Master's in education administration, a Master's in athletic administration and coaching, and a degree in Education, Anderson is well-equipped to lead the athletic department at Buchanan High School.

He has even budgeted and fundraised over

1 million dollars as the head track coach at Ventura High School from 2006 to the present and has served as CIF SS meet director for CIF prelims in T&F, overseeing over 100 high schools.

Anderson's appointment as Athletic Director is effective July 1, 2023.

Kelly Avants, APR Chief Communications Officer Clovis Unified School District

Pinedale Elementary School worried about potential cannabis dispensary

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

June 29, 2023 - Pinedale Elementary School, a CUSD elementary school located in Fresno off of Blackstone Avenue, is questioning the placement of a cannabis dispensary within hundreds of feet of their school grounds.

With estimates of up to 1000 feet from the elementary school, the supposedly planned dispensary, Embarc, is something that RSP Teacher Brandon Daniels does not want around his students.

There is one Embarc franchise already in Fresno, located on Blackstone Avenue, south of this second intended spot.

In a statement issued by Pinedale Elementary, they stated, “We are vehemently opposed to the dispensary for the following reasons:

Safety, public health, convenience, and welfare of our community members who reside, work, visit, or recreate in the surrounding neighborhood. It will create a nuisance.”

Further they warned, “To grant the permit of a dispensary at this location is a slap in the face to educators, parents and students themselves.”

“Students would have to walk by that dispensary [on their way to school],” says Daniels.

The RSP teacher is also concerned with the fact that armed guards would have to standby at the dispensary during business hours.

“I just don’t think it’s a good idea to have the guards out there with their weapons.” This is the third attempt to place a dispensary in this certain location. In a letter sent to Pinedale staff in 2021, CUSD chimed in on the subject of a different dispensary’s attempt at business saying, “The District believes this retail location will be an attractive nuisance to our students resulting in supervision problems for school staff at a time when resources are short and should be directed more intentionally on-site, a potential nuisance for the business, and potential problems related to the health and welfare of students.”

There was a planned protest of the dispensary at the school on June 22nd with over 100 attendees to protest the dispensary and more specifically the armed security.

A future “Community Opposition Meeting” will be held at Pinedale Community Fellowship on July 10th at 6 PM.

Firefighter-owned local mushroom company at the Friday Night Farmers Market

June 28, 2023 - The CAPN’s Mushroom Supply Company is a small, local mushroom farm that is owned & operated by a veteran firefighter.

Former Fire Captain, Jeremy Savitt, started The CAPN’s Mushroom Company with long-time friend and business partner, Darren Wherry.

While working as a firefighter and paramedic, Jeremy Savitt was injured during a rescue involving a car and semi.

The female occupant of one of the vehicles was in desperate need of medical attention, so he tried to remove the front windshield in order to reach her.

In the process of trying to remove the windshield and ended up ripping the bicep off of his arm and tearing nerves.

Following his injury, Savitt was going to

be out for a couple of years, so he and his business partner Darren started growing mushrooms as a hobby to keep busy while healing and undergoing surgeries. According to Darren, “Things just kept going.”

The company grows their gourmet mushrooms in addition to foraging for some other types of mushrooms, like morels.

On top of cultivating mushrooms, they also plan on educating the public on the many health benefits that mushrooms can provide.

The CAPN’s Mushroom Company grows and sells several types of fresh mushrooms, including: Golden Oyster, Pink Oyster, Blue Oyster, King Blue Oyster, Elm Oyster, King Trumpet/King Oyster, Speckled Chestnut, Lions Mane, Enoki, and Shiitake.

They also sell dehydrated mushrooms— both grown and locally harvested. The CAPN’s mushroom company offers mushroom powders, supplements, and tincture. One special item that the company sells is

their 5 Alarm Mushroom Coffee.

Their 5 Alarm Mushroom Coffee is an adaptogenic mushroom coffee roasted by Q29 Roastery, and it includes all five of their adaptogenic mushrooms: Chaga, Turkey Tail, Lions Mane, Reishi, and Cordyceps.

Fresh & dehydrated mushrooms,

adaptogenic mushroom coffee, powders, supplements, tinctures, mushroom jerky and grow kits are some of their current offerings. Find them at the Clovis Farmers Market in downtown Clovis between 4th and 5th avenues on Friday from 5:30pm-8:30pm and Saturday from 9am-11:30am.

Photo courtesy of Brandon Daniels, Pinedale Elementary

A group of protesters stand by at the June 22nd protest of an Embarc dispensary within 1000 feet of Pinedale Elementary, a CUSD school located in Fresno. Pinedale plans for another protest on July 10th.

Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRounduap

Photo courtesy of CAPN's Mushroom Co. Fire Captain, Jeremy Savitt.

Saturday Farmer’s Market: Couple brings positive vibes to Old Town Clovis

Nikki McCabe mnick1717@gmail.com

July 1, 2023 - High heat kept the Friday Farmer’s Market from being held, but couldn’t stop vendors and shoppers from gathering the next morning.

The Old Town Saturday Morning Farmers Market took place near Pollasky and Fifth with familiar vendors set up from 9 to 11:30 a.m. But you might not recognize newcomers such as young couple Javen Dunn and Tatiana Mosley.

Dunn, 19 years old, set up his booth alongside Mosley to represent their small businesses.

‘Enlighten Fits’ is Dunn’s clothing brand. Ranging from hats, t-shirts, and leggings, every piece of clothing has a message of positivity and inspiration.

“I created this brand with the intention to enlighten others to their true potential,” said Dunn.

“I believe we can do anything we set our mind,body, and spirit to and my life’s purpose is to share that with others.”

The vendor donned a hat which read, “don’t trip u got this” and wore a tank top with an infinity symbol displayed across the front. Dunn said he sees a lot of negativity across different clothing brands and wants to offer something different.

“Our clothes represent ourselves without saying anything. They carry lots of power and intention with the energy and specifically the words that they say. When I wear these clothes, I feel the inspiration I had when I created them.”

Mosley was not shy to educate customers of all the different types of rocks and crystals ‘Awakening Sunflower’ had available. An array of shining stones such as ocean jasper, selenite, rose quartz, black obsidian, tiger’s eye, citrine, and many more covered their table.

Mosley said she turns all of the precious stones into stylish accessories herself. Even meditation wands were available, which are meant to aid in the process of relaxing the mind

Mosley explained that each stone has different energies and can support whatever intention you want to improve in your life.

“Crystals come from the earth and are very healing,” said Mosley. “You can use them within your practices of yoga or reiki healing.”

Mosley said by educating the power of stones and crystals, she wants to help people heal on a spiritual level. She believes it is important for everyone to find balance of both feminine and masculine energies.

“That’s another reason why I love crystals! Because you can just hold them in your hand and feel their energy as you are saying positive affirmations and assuring yourself that everything is going to be okay.”

The vendors have only set up their booth a few times at small events. Not only are they new to the farmers’ market, but also fairly new to the area after moving here just two months ago.

“Everyone here is really nice and really genuine, I just enjoy connecting with people here,” said Dunn. “We’re excited to meet more people here. Great vibrations here,

great energy, and great people.”

Both Dunn and Mosley represent their businesses at events, social media, and their own websites.

You can learn more about their businesses

at enlightenfits.com or awakeningsunflower. com

You can also find them at future farmer’s market events. “We’re going to keep putting out inspirational messages on clothes and sharing our wisdom,” said Dunn.

Photo by Nikki McCabe, Clovis Roundup Javen Dunn and Tatiana Mosley at Saturday Morning Farmers Market.