Clovis Roundup – November 23, 2023

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Clovis R undup C E N TR A L

The

VA L L E Y ’ S

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CELEBRATING

YEARS

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COMMU NIT Y

NEWS PAP ER

H APPY T HA N KSGIV IN G TO A LL OU R R E A D E R S !

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2023 Vol. 14, No. 15

OWNED & OPERATED IN CLOVIS, CA

Published Every Other Thursday LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, & ENTERTAINMENT

CLOVIS SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER'S

GRAND OPENING

WHAT’S UP CLOVIS?

Check out the buzz around town PAGE 3

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Clovis General Municipal Elections – Karey Cha, City Clerk

CVMD’s 2023 Veterans Day

Karey Cha City Clerk

PAGE 6

November 23, 2023 - It is my pleasure to serve as the City Clerk for the City of Clovis. I am often asked what the role of the City Clerk is, and to provide just a brief overview, the primary responsibilities of a City Clerk include administering democratic processes such as elections, access to city records, and all legislative actions ensuring transparency to the public.

Photo by Ron Sundquist Lynn Ashbeck cuts the ribbon for the official opening of the Clovis Senior Activity Center

Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

November 18, 2023 – The turn out for the new Clovis Senior Activity Center’s Ribbon Cutting was huge.

Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate the opening of

EDUCATION

CUSD holds meeting about student achievement PAGE 15

the new facility at Landmark Square on Third Street.

City of Clovis members and staff, both past and present, were there in support of all the effort put into the place.

Mayor Lynne Ashbeck led the ceremony and introduced City “She kept it all together. She

WHAT’S INSIDE

What’s Up, Clovis?

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

3 8-9 10 11 13

See SENIOR CENTER, Pg. 5

PERIODICALS

@ClovisRoundup

As the elections official, it is

See CHA, Pg. 6

Old Town Clovis hosts One Enchanted Evening Irene Thirwall

@ClovisRoundup CONNECT WITH US

of Clovis General Services Director, Amy Hance. Hance has led the team for the Clovis Senior Activity Center, and Mayor Ashbeck couldn’t give her enough credit where credit was due.

November 17, 2023 - It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, or at least time to kick off the holiday season.

Old Town Clovis is fortunate to have BOOT (Business Organization of Old Town) to help start things off.

Owner of boutique shop, “It’s All About Me” in Old Town Clovis,

Leslie Hagerman said, “I think it’s a good event for the community to preview and see what stores have to offer for the holiday season.”

Hagerman has been in business for 14 years now and says her shop barely survived the pandemic, but she was able to stay afloat.

She said tonight was good exposure for the shops in Old Town Clovis and people could take advantage of special treats such as See ENCHANTED Pg. 4

Photo by Ron Sundquist Fresno and Clovis "royalty" (Right to left) Alexandra, Gabriella, Isabella, and Olivia attend One Enchanted Evening.

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What’s Up, Clovis?

CHECK OUT THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN Photos by Ron Sundquist

Dog of the week

More about the Clovis Senior Activity Center Ribbon cutting

Thank you Andrew and Thomas for sharing Millie with us for our Dog of the Week!

Clovis Senior Activity Center volunteers welcomed everyone to the official ribbon cutting of the new Clovis Senior Activity Center! Make sure to read more about it on our front page, and page 5.

Did youTwo readCities our front page? Here's Marathon more on One Enchanted Evening!

Who is showing their Clovis Way of Life?

Nancy, a volunteer for the Clovis Senior Activity Center, catches up on The Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper during her offtime!

Clovis Veterans Memorial District celebrates Veterans Day

Clovis Veterans Memorial District hosted multiple events for Veterans day such as a pancake breakfast and a car show.

Voices United Chorus provided some of the evening entertainment during One Enchanted Evening! Make sure to check out VoicesUnitedChorus.com to see all their future events.

CVMD CEO, Lorenzo (right), with John (left), a Veteran who participated in the CVMD Veteran Day celebration events.

Buchanan High School also provided some music for the night. Thanks to Buchanan High School for providing more entertainment!

Last, but not least, the carriages of the night! Decorated beautifully for Christmas

Clovis Elks host dinner to honor Veterans

Clovis Elks number 2599 hosted a dinner where they honored 150 Veterans and families on November 10.

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www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

City Council Meeting 11/13; Diversity in our community

housing and economic diversity. He spoke eloquently and passionately about the topic of affordable housing, with November 13, 2023 - The City Council personal examples. meeting began with a presentation from “Now, I’d like to talk about diversity.

Hmong Cultural New Year Celebration It’s something that each of you has indi(HCNYC) Incorporated, a non-profit cated you embrace faithfully as part of based in and sponsored by the City of the Clovis Way of Life,” Gibson said, Fresno. addressing the council.

The new CEO/President of HCNYC, Dr. “We can agree that diversity enhances a Toulu Thao is a retired mechanical engicommunity. Diversity does not detract or neer who worked for the U.S. Departdiminish one. But diversity means many ment of Housing & Urban Development things. We have ethnic and racial diver(HUD) for 23 years. He spoke about the sity, whose different cultural perspecevent before a group of young dancers tives and life experiences certainly performed a traditional Hmong dance. enhance any community.”

The celebration will take place from “But economic diversity is another.

December 28 to December 31, 2023 at And just as important to have the attenby Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup. the Fresno Fairgrounds. New to this year Photo Alta Sierra Lego Robotics Team, Lego En Fuego. tion and the support of the community is that the first day of the celebration will because of the benefits it can bring too. be an international parade. the team to identify a problem and figure to see that if one or more students are Those benefiting from affordable housout how to solve it. inspired by this idea, we’re encouragA representative for Hmong Cultural ing does not indicate being less, other ing them to actually reach out to other Arts and Preservation (HCAP) also than how much money comes into and One of the robotics team members, schools and to create a network that spoke before presenting another young is available to a household,” continued Hunter, spoke about the problem they would expand, eventually into other dance group.

Gibson. identified, “We’ve kind of noticed that counties in California, other states, and “We are excited to preserve our culture, cities [...] have started to get [...] more “In my career, I’ve had the good fortune even worldwide,” as we are first generation [...] myself, my boring.” to hobnob with the highest. I’ve dined “To really kind of shed light on the spouse, and my colleagues here,” said with and interviewed presidents here The team members spoke about the lack fact that we need color.

We need artisthe HCAP representative. and abroad, but my time growing up in of color throughout cities. One of the tic inspiration and we need a child’s public housing proves something to me “First generation to preserve our culture team members spoke about the psycholperspective in city planning as well.” that I’ve carried through life.” ogy behind lack of color, “the broken and to be incorporated into American culture. So, we are very proud and happy window theory,” and more relating to the Mayor Ashbeck encouraged the team to “The amount of money in a household aesthetics of a city and its effects on the connect with the city planning team to to be here tonight.” did not and does not translate into the community. see how they could apply the Colorful quality of the folks in that household Both the council and the residents of World Initiative to the City of Clovis. when it comes to parenting, family, Clovis were invited to attend the Hmong “We would just like to make a differbeliefs, ethics, love, and ways in which ence,” said Hunter.

After the Alta Sierra Robotics Team’s New Year Celebration. they can make the community better,” To solve this problem, they came up with presentation, a concerned citizen named shared Gibson.

Next, the Alta Sierra Lego Robotics Malcolm Gibson spoke about the issue “The Colorful World Initiative” (CWI).

Team, Lego En Fuego, gave a presentaof lack of affordable housing. This “Having a liveable, safe place to go is tion. Each team member stood up at the It’s a network, an organization, that seems to be a very popular issue that has important to everyone.” hopes to give cities suggestions on how podium and spoke. been addressed by multiple Clovis resito make their city more colorful.

The City Council meeting ended with an The team is participating in the “First dents in recent meetings. update to the Active Transportation Plan, One of their suggestions is to have Lego League Challenge,” and a part of One of the points that Gibson made focusing on bike lanes. seasonal paintings located in the city. the challenge is to create an innovation was about the intersection of affordable project. The innovation project required One of the coaches also said, “We’d like Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

pictures of one another and waving at onlookers.

ENCHANTED CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

the Clovis Bucks Raffle, where the winner would be given “Bucks” to use in the Old Town Clovis area.

Attendees of the One Enchanted Evening were treated to beautiful sights such as twinkle lights that lined the windows and awning of businesses, festive Christmas carolers, live music featuring solo artists and the Buchanan High School band.

Businesses had their doors open late to welcome holiday shoppers with treats and special deals to get started on their Christmas shopping.

Also, part of the festivities were street vendors with sweet and salty treats such as kettle corn and something called crunch cakes.

One of the main attractions of this event was the horse drawn carriage rides. A long line formed for “enchanted” ride.

Two different carriages were adorned with lights and filled with smiling people taking

The

Wearing a crown, a beautiful red dress with a sash that said Miss Clovis was Gabriella Ramirez. Only in her second week of her royal duties, Ramirez said she loves this event, “I enjoy connecting with the community and supporting small businesses.”

Her kindness was apparent as people approached her to ask if she would take a picture with them.

Julayne Jorge of Fresno was one who stopped to get a photo with Miss Clovis, she said her friend who lives in Clovis invited her and she was enjoying singing along with the Christmas carolers.

Executive Director of BOOT, Heather Frantzich, was busy making sure everything was running smoothly.

Pollasky Avenue was crowded with people, Photo by Irene Thirwall, Clovis Roundup families and couples making their way through the shops, some so full there was a working at this event and she loves seeing everyone happy and smiling. “It’s just line to get in. a magical night to start the holidays, It Frantzich said this is her third year

Clovis Roundup C E N T R A L

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remind me of a Hallmark movie kind-of feel.” She said it feels like things are getting back to normal.

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.

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Clovis' 2023 Holiday Events Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

11/23: Clovis Senior Activity Center is holding their Thanksgiving Luncheon on Thursday, November 23rd at 11:30am at their brand new location.

The doors open at 11am and it’ll last until the food runs out. It’s a free event, and volunteers are needed.

11/25: Small Business Saturday takes place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and Black Friday, November 25th.

It’s a day to support small businesses all over Clovis instead of strictly shopping at big corporate chain stores. The perfect way to directly support your own community during the holidays.

11/25-26: The Horse Drawn Carriage Rides begin on the weekend of November 25th-26th, and will continue every Saturday & Sunday through December

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 5

12/2: The Children’s Electric Christmas Parade is going to be held on December 2nd at 6:30pm. Road closures begin at 5pm, rain or shine. The parade is presented by the Kiwanis Club of Old Town, and sponsored by Clovis Veterans Memorial District and the City of Clovis.

For the Children’s Electric Christmas Parade, starting at 5pm there will be a free shuttle from Sierra Vista Mall Community Park Shuttle stop to the Veterans Parkway & 5th Street. It will drive back and forth until 8:30pm.

Photo by Ron Sundquist, Clovis Roundup "Voices United Chorus" filled One Enchanted Evening with holiday music.

from 1pm to 4pm.

The exceptions will be on December 2nd, 9th, and 16th where the Horse Drawn

Carriage Rides will take place from 5pm to 8pm. Carriage pick up & drop off will be located on Pollasky between Fourth & Fifth Street.

12/4: The Christmas Tree Lighting will be on Monday, December 4th at 6pm.

The Christmas Tree has been newly planted right behind the Clovis Civic Center sign. Get in the Christmas spirit and come see the Clovis Christmas Tree Lighting with your neighbors.

Clovis Senior Center prepares for Saturday Ribbon-Cutting Alongside the Landmark Square logo and throughout the facility, you’ll see the imprint of a tree’s cross section, also known as a tree cookie. This November 16, 2023 – The new Senior design was inspired by the historiActivity Center got its final touches cal connection Clovis has to lumber, before the ribbon cutting on Saturday, including both the mill and the flume.

November 18th.

The new facility is over twice the size The facility is spacious, thoughtful, of the former Senior Activity Center, and bright. The architect, Paul Halaand even the hallways feel open and jian, along with the Senior Activity spacious. The generous windows make Center team and City of Clovis staff have come together to create a beautiful the space feel bright and breathable. and incredibly versatile space for our It features a billiards room with 4 seniors. tables, stadium-style seating, and large The Senior Activity Center sits on over viewing windows for spectators. There’s also a 300-person banquet hall with a 5 acres of land that is shared with the stage, complete with theatrical lighting. new in-progress Transit Facility and There are versatile rooms for classes, a Fresno County Library. The area is called Landmark Square, and it is built gym, and even a couple kilns. on the site of the old lumber yard.

The Senior Activity Center features a huge tower, and in 2024 they plan to Architect Paul Halajian decided to utilize corrugated metal from the orig- install suspended art inside of it. inal lumber mill that much Clovis was The Senior Activity Center is for people built on—the outside of the building is 50 years and older. Membership is free embellished with this preserved metal. for Clovis residents, and $25 annually From the big picture to the tiny details, for seniors who live outside of Clovis. it’s clear how much thought and care At the last location, about half of the was put into the new Senior Activity members were from outside Clovis. The Center. Even some of the furniture was Clovis Senior Activity Center is the selected with multipurpose in mind. only “full-service” senior center in the Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

SENIOR CENTER CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

was the heart and the soul and the quarterback and the taskmaster [...] the coach, and the troubleshooter for this project,” said Mayor Ashbeck.

“Amy and her team pulled this all together. I literally have not seen a detail unattended to.”

Hance gave many thanks in her speech, with emphasis on the Senior Activity Center team. At the end of her speech, she spoke to the seniors, “This is a place for everyone. You do not have to be alone.”

This project was a massive collaborative effort between the city, contractors, donors, and of course, community volunteers—and it turned out beautifully.

On behalf of congressman Kevin McCarthy, District Representative Blake Zante presented a flag that was flown over the United States Capitol to be proudly displayed at the new senior

center.

Clovis-Fresno area.

There are opportunities to apply for a scholarship to cover the annual membership fee for those who need it.

The Ribbon-Cutting Celebration and Community Open House is Saturday, November 18th from 10am to 2pm.

The Senior Center will open for regular business hours beginning on Monday, November 20th. Classes usually take place Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm.

For more information, visit clovisseniors.org

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Final touches being put in the main lobby entry way at the Senior Center

is now officially open as of Monday, November 20th. They are open Mayor Ashbeck returned to the Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. podium to introduce Bill Smittcamp To find out their current class schedule, and said, “I used to think that only you can visit their website clovissemy parents were the only ones lucky enough to have friends for 50 years [...] niors.org but I am lucky enough to call Bill and Linda my 50-year friends.”

Congratulations to the City of Clovis and the Clovis Senior Activity Center, and thank you to the Smittcamp Family Foundation and all of the donors who contributed to this incredible project.

Bill Smittcamp stepped up to the podium on behalf of the entire Smittcamp family.

Smittcamp spoke of his childhood and his parents, everything they had built and the values they instilled into their family.

“The most treasured form of a legacy are found in gifts such as: value, memories, friendship, love, and respect,” said Smittcamp. “And that’s what it’s all about.”

The Smittcamp foundation donated a million dollars to the project, and for that reason, the Clovis Senior Activity Center is a Smittcamp Family Legacy.

The Clovis Senior Activity Center

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Clovis Senior Activity Center 'welcome' banner for ribbon cutting

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CVMD’s 2023 Veterans Day Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

November 13, 2023 – Clovis Veterans Memorial District held their annual Veterans Day event from 7am to 2pm on Saturday, November 11th.

Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, and is recognized alongside Remembrance Day. On the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, it states, “World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France,” “However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the

Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.”

At CVMD on the 11th, the day started with a Pancake Breakfast hosted by VFW Post 3225. At 11am, the Patriotic Concert began.

From 9am to 2pm attendees were encouraged to see Live Band & Car Show, Veteran Documentaries, Faces of our Veterans exhibit, and the Community Heritage Center.

The Car Show had a beautiful variety of cars both classic and modern. Crowds of people admired the vehicles, connected with one another, and enjoyed the live music by John Pemberton.

Two different Veteran Documentaries were shown. The first began at 9am and it was titled, “The War: A Necessary

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup

CHA CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

my responsibility to conduct the entire election process in partnership with the Fresno County Elections Office.

In the City of Clovis, Clovis voters elect a 5-member council to serve at-large as the City’s legislative and governing body – this means that the Councilmembers represent the entire city.

I encourage you to exercise your right as a voter because it is crucial for a functioning democracy and to ensure an opportunity for you to voice your opinions and shape the direction of our community.

To register to vote, you must be: • A United States citizen

• A resident of California

• 18 years of age or older on Election Day

• Not currently serving a state or federal prison term for the conviction of a felony

War: December 1941-1942.” The second showing was at 12pm and the title was, “The War: When Things Get Tough: January 1943-December 1943.”

The Faces of Our Veterans was a floating photo display. The photos were organized from a variety of sources, and the photos spanned over 100 years of different U.S. conflicts.

Photos included: Airmen at Joint Base Balad, “Iraq Christmas 2010”, Flight nurses of the 57th Air Evac Unit onboard a C-141 serving Vietnam, Philippines, Da Nang, Saigon and Cam Ranh Bay, soldiers and marines in Iraq from the early 2000’s to the late 2010’s, C.A.P. P-5 Marine Fire Team with local Popular Forces Squad in Thon Doc Kinh Village

• Not currently found mentally incompe- Day. tent to vote by a court OR * To vote for the Clovis City Council and In Person: Vote in person at vote center. any Clovis-specific ballot measures, you must live within the Clovis city limits.

How to register to vote:

You can register to vote online at www.

RegisterToVote.ca.gov or complete a paper application and submit it to the Fresno County Clerk/Registrar of Voters.

The members of the Council serve 4-year You will receive a notice in the mail terms, and at each election, they elect one from the Fresno County Elections Office to confirm your registration. member to serve as Mayor and one to When to register to vote: serve as Mayor Pro Tem for two years.

While you may register to vote at any A general municipal election is held every two years, alternating between two time, you must register at least 15 days before an Election Day to be eligible to and three positions each cycle. The last vote in that election. If you become a election in November 2022 was held for U.S. citizen after the registration after for three seats and the next election in the registration deadline, you may still November 2024 will be for two seats. register and vote by going to the Fresno Local government represents a special County Elections Office. level of government that has the most direct impact on people’s lives on a day-to-day basis. The right to vote has been hard-fought, with historical restrictions on women, minorities, and non-landowners. Through your efforts, you’ve earned the privilege to engage in the civic process.

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Airmen at Joint Base Balad, “Iraq Christmas 2010”

You must give the Fresno County Elections Office proof of citizenship and declare that you have established residency in California. If you missed the registration deadline, you can conditionally register to vote and vote.

Vietnam in October 1967, and much more.

“But why is it so important to celebrate Veterans Day? The answer lies in the enduring significance of honoring our veterans. Veterans Day is not merely a day off from school or work; it’s a day to remember and appreciate the men and women who have put their lives on the line to protect our nation,” said CVMD CEO Lorenzo Rios.

“It’s a day to express our deepest gratitude to those who have defended our freedoms, often at significant personal costs.”

Our deepest thanks to all of those who have served our country.

If you want to vote in person, you must turn in your vote-by-mail ballot or you may be required to vote a provisional ballot.

“We mark the 160th year since President Abraham Lincoln set aside a day for ‘National thanksgiving, praise, and prayer,’ while our nation was in the midst of its greatest struggle.

As we once again gather around the table with family and friends, let us remember that there is more that unites us than divides us and let us give thanks for our nation’s blessing as we mark this special American holiday.

Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours.”

Visit www.sos.ca.gov or contact the Fresno County Elections Office for more information. Re-register to vote you change your name, address, or political party preference.

Ways to vote:

Vote by mail or drop box: County elections officials will mail vote-by-mail ballots to all active registered voters.

Your voted ballot must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by your county elections office no later than seven days after Election Day. You may also deliver your voted ballot to your county elections office, any polling place or vote center, or any ballot dropoff location before 8:00 p.m. on Election

www.McCarthyforCongress.com Paid for by Kevin McCarthy for Congress

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Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 7

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New bakery opens in Clovis, 'Spirit Made Cakes' Garabet.

The bakery shop is decorated floor to ceiling with lots of pinks, florals, November 18, 2023 - Spirit Made and neon. The interior is quite the fun Cakes opened their bakery storefront delight. on Willow and Nees, and their ribbon Some of the desserts and baked goods cutting was held on Thursday the 16th. that were available on the day of their Vartine Garabet is the creative mind ribbon cutting included: cream horns, behind Spirit Made Cakes. She has mini tarts, eclairs, chocolate parfaits, been baking since she was a child, later mini lemon raspberry cakes, berry becoming a licensed home bakery before berry mini cakes, cream puffs, chocoopening the brand new shop. late truffles, dulce de leche, tiramisu, Garabet is a self-taught licensed cake zaatar knots, croissants, cinnamon rolls, designer and mother of three. funfetti cupcakes, Armenian cheese boreg, and more.

“When I made a special cake for my son’s baptism celebration, God put In addition to the baked goods and in my heart that it was time to start a desserts, Spirit Made Cakes also offers business and let my passion for baking smoothies, paninis, salads, coffee and and making cakes grow further,” wrote tea. One of their signature paninis is Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup

the Middle Eastern Grilled Halloumi Sandwich.

Congratulations to Vartine Garabet and the entire Spirit Made Cakes team!

Basilwood Farm, a local treasure in the foothills Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

November 14, 2023 - Jill Spruance is the Owner & Chief Visionary Officer of Basilwood Farms, located in the foothills on Morgan Canyon Road, just below Prather.

It all started when Jill Spruance decided that she didn’t want to own acres of land that didn’t serve a purpose. “I thought, you know, it should be working for us,” said Spruance.

“I originally bought two goats for our personal dairy use, and I built a huge vegetable garden,” she said.

“Started milking the goats for liquid milk, cheese, yogurt—all of our dairy uses.

Then, I had extra milk. So, I started looking for other things to do with it, because when you milk goats, you do not want to pour that milk down the drain.”

Then, she discovered you could make soap with it. Jill Spruance researched the goat milk soap-making process for 6 months before trying to make a batch.

Once she made some soap and started using it, she and her husband immediately

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup A large variety of soaps and other products for sale inside the Basilwood Farm Store.

noticed the difference in their skin. Store bought soap did clean, but her skin was left feeling dry, tight, and itchy. With their handmade goat milk soap, their skin was clean and distinctly moisturized.

That’s when she realized that this could be a product. “We started with the soap, and that became successful,” said Spruance. “Largely due to the support of this community.”

When asked what her favorite part about the business is, she responded with “Just being creative,” “I like the soap making, but I also like the marketing, and I like customer service, and I like displays, and I like set up, I like gardening— all of it.”

“I guess you could call me a creative that just uses the business as my outlet,” said Spruance.

After meeting Jill and seeing the farm and store, it’s abundantly clear that she is a creative through-and-through. The best kind of creative at that—she adds unique and meaningful value to her community.

What Jill Spruance and her team have built at Basilwood Farm is an inspiration.

“I always look at how we can change it or make it better—change it for the better.

Not just change for change’s sake,” said Jill.

In reference to owning and raising goats, Spruance said “They’re a crack-up. They are totally a crack-up. They’re really smart.

They are entertaining, to say the least.”

“I didn’t grow up on a farm, my husband grew up in the bay area,” said Spruance.

They made the decision to move away from the city and to the foothills in hopes to alleviate some of work-related stress.

They’ve been at the property now for nearly three decades.

The Spruance family’s story is a demonstration that you can pave your own path and build the life you want for your family.

“All of this came about over time.”

In addition to the Basilwood Farm Store, they also offer tours, field trips, and workshops.

You can purchase their goat milk products or learn more about how and when to visit on their website, basilwoodfarm.com Their next pop-up is their Christmas Market, and it will take place on December 2nd, from 10am to 3pm at their farm.

As stated on their website: • Go the Way of the Goat…

• Climb high • Spread joy • Take the path less traveled • Only butt heads when necessary • Hop till you drop • Stay curious

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Jill petting the goats that reside on the farm.

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

P. Q. R.

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

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

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

Old Town Service District

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

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Sam’s TV Repair Shell Gas Station Speedee Oil Change

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Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

Nursey Rhyme Time with a different theme each month!

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

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

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Antique and Gift Shops

We will be hosting a Show & Tell,

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16. Rodeo Car Wash, 409 Bullard Ave, 322-1380

at A Book Barn

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16. Rosenbery’s Old Town Trading Co., 5th and Pollasky, (559) 498-9935 17.

Suquie’s Treasures

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3 Oaks Studio

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

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Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant

Two Dinners for

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(Plus tax)

349 Pollasky Avenue In Old Town Clovis

between 3rd & 4th Street

559-299-4141

www.lunasclovis.com

“Best of Clovis - Italian Food” - 16 Years

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Old Town Clovis

FARMERS MARKET Located in the heart of Old Town Clovis on Saturday mornings from 9:00 am to 11:30 am Bullard. All year long.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Remember your local businesses during you worthy like supporting your community and of the many talented crafters and entrepene

HORSE CARRIAGE RIDES IN OLD TOWN C Old Town Clovis every Saturday and Sunda Starting on November 25, ending Decembe 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 23, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 9

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Autumn Psalm D A Designs Dancewear Heart’s Delight Ivy and Lace Jackson Jewelry Lulu’s Boutqiue Madeleine’s Bridal Boutique Nonnie’s House Revival 23

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The Foundry Collective Urban Ornaments

(559) 299-0471

808 4th Street www.cvmdistrict.org J

10. Sassano’s Mens Wear, 448 Pollasky Ave, 299.4430, SassanosMensWear.com

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

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Salsa’s Cantina

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

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

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

Hair Salon and Spas

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s Announcements

Pollasky between 3rd & 7th. m. Located on Pollasky between 5th &

ur holiday shopping! Nothing says gift d a gift that took time and effort from one eurs here in Clovis!

CLOVIS ay er 31st

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

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

Visit our website at www.ClovisRoundup.com or follow us on social media, @ClovisRoundup 16

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10 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

Recipe Bold boosts for Holiday leftovers FAMILY FEATURES Transforming that leftover holiday turkey or ham from an ordinary dish you heat up in the microwave or let go to waste into an extraordinary meal may be easier than you think.

From flatbread pizza to a hearty stew, enhancing your everyday meals is easy with Holland House Cooking Wines, available in five flavors – Marsala, Sherry, White, Red and White with Lemon. The premium, flavor-enhancing cooking wines are a go-to countertop ingredient and can be used to add a bold boost to any dish whether it’s around the holidays or just pasta for an anynight family dinner.

These recipes from Guy Meikle, corporate chef for Mizkan America, Inc., show how easy it is to whip up a new twist on holiday leftovers with Holland House Cooking Wines. You can also find quick tips for boosting the flavor of everyday meals on the label of each bottle.

Find more recipes and tips at HollandHouseFlavors.com.

Empanada Dough Servings: 15 Cook time: 5 minutes 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 4 ounces butter

Turkey and Caramelized Onion Jam Stuffed Empanadas Servings: 15 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup turkey, diced into 1/2-inch cubes 2 tablespoons dried figs, diced into 1/2-inch cubes 1 cup button mushrooms, minced

3 tablespoons caramelized onions 2 tablespoons Holland House Marsala Cooking Wine salt, to taste pepper, to taste Empanada Dough (recipe below) 1 egg, beaten Cranberry Dipping Sauce (recipe below) Heat oven to 350 F. In pan, heat butter; add turkey, figs, mushrooms and caramelized

1 egg 1/3 cup ice water 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Sift flour and salt.

Cut butter into small cubes and

Family Barbecue Turkey Mini Flatbread Servings: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes 2 cups Holland House Marsala Cooking Wine 1/2 cup barbecue sauce 1 1/2 cups roasted turkey, large diced 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons yellow onion, small diced 1 cup zucchini, large diced 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded 1 cup fontina cheese, shredded 2 flatbreads (approximately 8 inches each)

2 teaspoons cilantro, chopped Heat oven to 400 F. In small saucepan, reduce cooking wine to about 1/2 cup. Mix with barbecue sauce. Toss diced turkey with about 1 tablespoon of sauce and set the entire mixture aside.

Heat oil and saute onion and zucchini about 3 minutes over high heat. Season with garlic salt and remove from heat; mix in Parmesan cheese. Set aside.

In small bowl, mix Gouda and fontina cheeses together and set aside.

Spread each flatbread with an even layer of barbecue sauce. Top each with 1 cup cheese and half the zucchini and turkey mixtures.

Bake 10 minutes.

Garnish with chopped cilantro then cut flatbreads in half to serve.

onions.

Deglaze pan with cooking wine; season with salt and pepper, and cool.

Roll out dough 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick and cut into

Fold dough in half and crimp with fork; prick top with toothpick to let steam out.

Place empanada on greased sheet tray and brush with

blend into flour.

Whisk together egg, ice water and vinegar.

Add egg mixture to flour and mix until just incorporated.

On table, knead dough; wrap and chill 1 hour.

Hearty Ham and Bean Protein Bowl Servings: 4-6 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30-45 minutes Total time: 3 hours 1 ham bone 12 cups water, divided 2 bay leaves 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns 1/4 cup vegetable oil, plus 3 tablespoons, divided 1 cup yellow onion, small diced, plus 3 tablespoons finely chopped, divided 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1/4 cup Holland House Red Cooking Wine 3 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, undrained

15 3-inch circles.

Brush egg on entire disc of dough, eliminating any air bubbles, and place 1 table­spoon filling in center of each circle.

Cranberry Orange Marsala Dipping Sauce Servings: 15 Cook time: 5 minutes 1 1/2 cups whole cranberry sauce 2 tablespoons whole unpeeled

1/2 cup sour cream 8 ounces wild rice 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons Holland House Sherry Cooking Wine 3 cups fresh okra, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces at an angle 1 1/2 cups grilled corn kernels 1 1/2 cups kosher dill pickle, sliced 1/4 cup parsley 4 teaspoons tarragon To prepare broth: In 4-quart stock pot, combine ham bone, 8 cups water, bay leaves and peppercorns. Bring to boil.

Reduce heat and simmer, covered, about 2 hours. Strain broth and set aside.

In same stock pot, heat 1/4 cup oil and saute 1 cup onion and garlic 2 minutes.

Pour in red cooking wine and reduce by half. Add in canned pinto beans; no need

remaining egg; bake 15 min­utes until golden brown.

Place on plate and serve with Cranberry Dipping Sauce.

orange,

finely chopped 3 tablespoons Holland House Marsala Cooking wine Mix all ingredients thoroughly.

to drain. Bring to boil and reduce heat to medium low. Simmer soup about 30-45 minutes, or until liquid is reduced to stewlike consistency.

Place sour cream in mixing bowl and ladle in some cook­ing liquid to temper it. Add back to soup while stirring.

Let simmer a few minutes.

To prepare rice: In small saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons oil. Add remaining onion and saute 1-2 minutes. Add rice and stir until coated with oil. Pour in remaining water and cook covered about 45 minutes, or until rice is tender. Remove from heat and rest, covered, 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and sherry cooking wine.

In 10-inch skillet, heat remain­ing oil. Saute okra about 3 min­utes, or until slightly charred.

For each bowl: Place rice and stew in center and garnish with 1/4 cup grilled corn, 1/4 cup diced pickles, 1/2 cup okra, 1 tablespoon chopped parsley and sprinkle of tarragon.

Thursday, November 23, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

LET’S TALK CLOVIS:

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 11

A historical timeline spanning more than a century

Peg Bos

Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed

The 1849 California Gold Rush brought thousands to our Golden State.

They created significant demand for food and lumber. The genesis of Clovis began with the pioneers that developed lumber mills in the Pine Ridge area of the majestic Sierra Nevada range and the wheat, cattle and sheep barons that arrived in the fertile foothills.

In 1854, James Hulttz was the first to establish a sawmill at Corlew Meadows, now Meadow Lakes, on Pine Ridge.

Brothers J.H. and J.N. Woods arrived in the Pine Ridge, located south of Shaver Lake, in 1866 and began manufacturing sugar pine shingles. The first phase of Tollhouse Road, known as the beast killer, was initiated by the Woods. They created a crude road from their base to Saver’s Peak. Saver’s Peak was named for an early Tollhouse settler

by Sierra surveyor Josiah Witney.

The Woods hired Indians to hand carry their shingles from Saver Peak, an additional 1,000 foot drop, to the valley.

Joseph Betz established his saw mill in 1875. Three generations of his family would continue that tradition.

In 1878, Fresno County purchased the Tollhouse Road for $5,000. They would construct a new road in 1922.

The four-lane section of Highway 168 that bypassed Tollhouse Road was constructed in 1963.

It was costly and dangerous to transport lumber down the early Tollhouse Road. In 1891, the Fresno Flume and Irrigation Company was organized by C.B. Shaver and his brother-in-law Lewis Swift. Shaver Lake was created by “damming” up Stevenson Creek. A sawmill and camp were established.

The flume would arrive in Clovis in 1893, and at its peak, production would provide 400 jobs. The flume ended at what are now the Clovis Rodeo Association grounds.

Farming and ranching also played a significant role in the development of Clovis.

In 1863, Jesse Blasingame arrived and would eventually secure 12,000 acres in the Big Dry Creek (Academy) and Friant area.

1866 was the year that the pioneers in the Big Dry Creek area petitioned for a school district to serve their 12 children. Large families were the norm, and the Fancher School District at Watt’s Valley & Pittman Hill Road was formed in 1867. The Mississippi School District was established at the J.M. Heiskell ranch in 1869.

Van Buren Cobb arrived at Cobb Island on the San Joaquin River in 1868. Frances Estill arrived in the Big Dry Creek area in 1869. Third and fourth generations of those families continue to live in the Clovis area.

David Cowan Sample Sr. (18491929) arrived at the Big Dry Creek area in 1868; he eventually owned 18 sections of 640 acres each on the plains and in the foothills. He farmed land along Dry Creek.

2024 CLOVIS HISTORICAL SOCIETY CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE AT THE CLOVIS MUSEUM

Steve and Ira Stroud built a horse race track on the Sample ranch in 1870.

We believe it was the first race track in this area.

Clovis Cole, 16, would join his father Stephen Cole in 1872 at their homesteaded 320 acres at the Red Bank area, now Shaw Avenue. Clovis’ father wanted him to haul lumber from the mountains, but Clovis chose the life of a rancher. He eventually became the “Wheat King” of the United States, mostly dry farming 50,000 acres.

In 1891, Clovis and Elizabeth Cole sold a square acre of land for $4,000 of gold coin to Marcus Pollasky for the extension of the San Joaquin Valley Rail

Road from Fresno to Rootville (Friant).

The depot east of the intersection of Clovis Fourth was named Clovis. The name was retained when Clovis was incorporated as a city in 1912.

Our first Clovis merchant, R. E. L. Good, moved his store from the Tarpey Depot to the southwest corner of Fulton (now Clovis Avenue) and Fourth in 1895. His trade area extended 25 miles north and 50 miles east.

In 1930, the Clovis Chamber of Commerce erected the now famous “Clovis the Gateway to the Sierras” sign that still graces Clovis Avenue.

It serves as a reminder of our rich heritage.

ASK HOW YOU CAN STA RT SAVING TODAY!

Featuring Artwork Reprints Donated by Pat Hunter – Gallery II Available with donation

559-297-8033

401 POLLASKY AVE

Open on Tue - Sat 10am - 2pm Visit us at clovismuseum.com

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12 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

Clovis Police make attempted Clovis Police and ABC Agents Arrest homicide arrest following hit and run Suspect for Furnishing Alcohol to Minors U-turn back towards the woman that she had just pepper sprayed, accelerated and swerved, hitting the woman with her car at November 13, 2023 - Clovis Police Offia high rate of speed. cers arrested a suspect for attempted homicide following a disturbance and collision Linder then drove away but didn’t get far near Old Town Clovis yesterday afternoon. before being arrested without incident.

CPD communications center received calls The female victim was transported to the hospital with major injuries, and she is of an injury collision at Minnewawa/9th currently in stable condition recovering. just after 4pm on November 13, 2023.

Linder has been booked into Fresno As officers were responding, witnesses reported the driver of a white Camaro that County Jail for attempted homicide and a warrant. hit a woman in the roadway was leaving the scene.

This arrest was made in part due to the quick actions of the witnesses who called Within 5 minutes of the call, officers law enforcement immediately. located and arrested the driver of the Camaro a short distance away as other officers and EMS were treating the woman who was hit.

The driver has been identified as 23-yearold Courtney Linder of Clovis.

The investigation has shown that there was an argument near an apartment involving neighbors.

At one point, Linder pepper sprayed a man and woman before getting into her Camaro.

Instead of driving away, Linder made a Contributed

Clovis Police Department

Photo courtesy of Clovis Police Department Booking photo of Courtney Linder

Contributed

Clovis Police Department

Clovis, CA – The Clovis Police Department arrested 1 suspect on 11/11/2023 for furnishing alcoholic beverages to minors. The operation was conducted in the City of Clovis.

ABC agents and local law enforcement conducted a Shoulder Tap operation which targets adults who purchase alcohol for persons under the age of 21.

A minor under the direct supervision of law enforcement stands outside of a liquor or convenience store and asks customers to buy them alcohol. The minor also indicates they are underage and cannot purchase the alcohol.

“Underage drinking harms our community. Preventing the sale of alcohol to minors will help to increase public safety and make our roads safer,” said Clovis Police Corporal O’Brien.

If an adult agrees to purchase alcohol for the underage person, they can be arrested and cited for furnishing alcohol to a minor. The penalty for furnishing alcohol to a minor is a minimum $1,000 fine and 24 hours of community service.

“We conduct these operations to keep alcohol out of the hands of our youth,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “By preventing underage drinking we can increase the quality of life in our communities and reduce DUIs.” Statistics have shown that young people under the age of 21 have a much higher risk of being involved in a crash than older drivers. About 25 percent of fatal crashes involve underage drinking according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the ABC Alcohol Policing Partnership (APP) program.

About the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is an agency of the government of the state of California charged with the regulation of alcoholic beverages. ABC’s mission is to provide the highest level of service and public safety to the people of California through licensing, education, and enforcement. ABC is a department of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency.

Alleged unlicensed contractor arrested during Clovis sting The unlicensed contractors apprehended during the operation could potentially face additional charges for advertising construction services without the November 8, 2023 – SACRAMENTO, required license. According to CaliforCA – The Contractors State License nia law, it’s illegal for any individual Board (CSLB) recently joined forces to advertise for construction or home with the Clovis Police Department and improvement work without possessing a the Fresno County District Attorney’s valid license in the advertised construcOffice to crack down on unlicensed tion trade. If unlicensed individuals contractors in Fresno County. advertise for construction contracting In collaboration with law enforceservices, they must clearly express ment, CSLB’s Statewide Investigative they are unlicensed and cannot bid or Fraud Team (SWIFT) carried out the contract for work valued at over $500, sting operation in late October, which including labor and materials. involved tracking down alleged unlicensed contractors and inviting them to Registrar David Fogt affirmed CSLB’s propose bids for various home construc- dedication to consumer protection. tion projects at a prearranged location.

“Our primary purpose is to safeguard The operation uncovered more than just consumers from the risks posed by unlithe issue of unlicensed contracting. The censed contractors. As part of this effort, we emphasize the importance of public Clovis Police Department arrested one suspected unlicensed contractor who had education on hiring legitimate licensed contractors and verifying their credensix warrants from Fresno and Madera tials before signing any construction counties for a number of violations, including three CSLB-related cases. His contract,” he said. vehicle was also impounded for 30 days. Fogt further emphasized the state law that requires strict rules concerning In addition, eight people were issued payments for home improvement projNotices to Appear in criminal court on ects. State law restricts down payments charges related to unlicensed contractto either 10% of the total project cost ing. One unlicensed contractor bid or $1,000, whichever amount is less. $5,300 for a concrete job.

Subsequent progress payments cannot Contributed

Contractors State License Board (CSLB)

Clovis Police arrest second home invasion suspect Contributed

Clovis Police Department

November 17, 2023 - Clovis Police Detectives have arrested the second suspect in a violent home invasion robbery that occurred on November 2, 2023, near Villa/Barstow in Clovis.

Yesterday, 29- year-old Randy Escobedo of Raisin City was taken into custody without incident during an appointment with his parole officer.

Escobedo was booked into Fresno County Jail for home invasion robbery, assault causing great bodily injury, and assault with a deadly weapon.

He was also arrested for violating his parole, which he is on for a prior home invasion robbery conviction.

While both suspects have been arrested, our Detectives continue to complete their investigation in this case.

The victim continues to recover from his injuries. Clovis Police thank California State Parole for their assistance.

Photo courtesy of Clovis Police Department Booking photo of Randy Escobedo

exceed the value of the work completed.

Non-compliance with these guidelines is an administrative violation and a criminal misdemeanor, carrying potential penalties including a year in county jail, a $5,000 fine, or both.

For further information or to report suspected unlicensed contractor activities, please visit the CSLB website at www.cslb.ca.gov or contact CSLB

toll-free at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752).

For ongoing information and updates from CSLB, connect with us on Facebook,Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About CSLB: CSLB operates under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs and licenses and regulates about 285,000 contractors in California.

Andrew Richard Clark 5-25-88 6’ 0 & 215 lbs.

Domestic Violence Wart# F20906349

Luke Lawrence Gerosa 7-20-79 5’ 8 & 140 lbs.

Domestic Violence Wart# F23908072

Lovell Demille Jefferson 6-14-68 5’ 10 & 190 lbs.

Domestic Violence Wart# F22902831

Demetrius Lamont Jeter 2-26-90 5’ 11 & 175 lbs.

Revocation of Community Supervision Wart# R22900090-2

Ashley Nicole Lara 4-3-92 5’ 3 & 180 lbs.

Receiving Stolen Property Wart# F23901921

Eric Rasheen Lindsey 6-4-98 6’ 0 & 200 lbs.

Revocation of Community Supervision Wart# R19900199-1B

Karey Ann Montez 5-2-73 5’ 4 & 160 lbs.

Vandalism Wart# F23907523

Angel Marie Sjurset 9-24-96 5’ 8 & 160 lbs.

Grand Theft Wart# F23901701

REWARD

If you know where any of these fugitives are located you can remain anonymous and if your information leads to an arrest, you will

RECEIVE A REWARD OF UP TO $1000

Thursday, November 23, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

Clovis

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

Native American heritage month

NOVEMBER Thursday, November 23 ANNUAL THANKSGIVING LUNCH Clovis Senior Activity Center 735 Third St., Clovis, CA 11 a.m.

Thursday, November 23 CLOVIS TURKEY DAY RUN

Old Town Clovis 4 p.m. Saturday, December 2 CHILDRENS ELECTRIC PARADE Old Town Clovis 6:30 p.m.

Monday, December 4 CLOVIS CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Old Town Clovis

6 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 10 HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA • 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

AUSA Band Holiday Concert • 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, December 16 CLOVIS RUDOLPH RUN Clovis Trail South of Railroad Park 210 W. Alluvial, Clovis, CA

Saturday& Sunday, November 25 & 26 HORSE CARRIAGE RIDES

• Red Bank Cemetery 11548 E. Shaw Ave., Clovis, CA

Saturday, December 17 WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA WREATH LAYING CEREMONY

Thursday, December 21 JOLLY TIMES

8:30 a.m.

• Academy Cemetery 11844 Mendocino Ave., Clovis, CA • Clovis Cemetery 305

Clovis Senior Activity Center 735 Third St., Clovis, CA 8 a.m

FARMERS’ MARKETS

CALIFORNIA 9-11 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.

Old Town Clovis every Saturday and Sunday thru weekend after Christmas

CLOVIS OLD TOWN FARMERS’ MARKET Polasky Ave., Clovis, CA Every Saturday Year-Round 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (weather permitting) MARKET AT THE PARC Food Trucks and Farmers Market Clovis Community Hospital Temperance & Herndon Every Monday YearRound 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Women's Specialty & Fertility Center, Inc. seeks to hire an Embryologist with BA in Biochemistry (or fgn eqv).

1p.m. – 4 p.m.

Friday, Saturday & Sunday, December 1 thru 31 HORSE CARRIAGE RIDES

N. Villa Ave., Clovis, CA

PLACES TO VISIT

Clovis Ave. and Allluvial

DECEMBER

7:30 a.m.

Kids Activities and Santa Pictures

Cottonwood Park, Clovis, CA

Saturday, November 25 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Clovis, CA

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 13

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Dec. 9 and Sunday, Dec. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. both nights.

Memorial United Methodist Church in Clovis is presenting its annual Live Nativity 1726 Pollasky Ave. in Clovis.

The event is free, and the public is welcome to join and watch.

Is your church hosting holiday events?

Submit them to Calendar@ ClovisRoundup.com and let us share the word!

The candidate will be required to prepare sperm for IVF and cryopreservation, preparation of sperm, epididymal aspirations, and testicular biopsies; perform oocyte retrievals, fertilization assessment, embryo observations, selection of embryos, embryo transfers, embryo cryopreservation, embryo thawing, extended culture, and blastocyst assessment; perform micromanipulation procedures, assisted hatching (AH); perform embryo biopsy and cell fixation; control laboratory stock su supplies; participate in research projects; record / document / report / communicate results; engage in scientific meetings, journal articles, certification; perform word processing / spreadsheets / database entry.

LABCC100: Embryology Certificate course required.

Salary $81000/year. Mail CV to Michael Synn at 729 Medical Center Dr W, Suite 205, Clovis, CA 93611

Make Your Holiday Shopping Safer CONTRIBUTED Noble Credit Union

One sure fact this time of year is that thieves love Christmas shopping. Amid all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we lose sight that criminals can move through big crowds and parking lots without being noticed. They can pickpocket, shoplift, and break into your car – and you’ll have no idea who did it.

Plus, thieves know that the police can be overloaded during the holiday season, so they break into cars to steal gifts, burglarize homes, and even lift items directly from unattended shopping bags. In neighborhoods, thieves look for darkened homes between neighbors with front yards blazing with holiday lights – most likely, no one is home.

Everybody wants a safer Christmas holiday experience! Here are some tips to help you be more careful, prepared, and aware while shopping this holiday

season:

• When you can, shop during daylight hours, but if you do shop at night, try not to go alone.

• Dress casually, comfortably, and avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

• If possible, don’t carry a purse or wallet; use a security travel pouch instead.

• Avoid carrying cash. Pay for purchases with a credit card when possible.

• Upload your credit cards to an electronic wallet and pay for purchases electronically such as through Apple Pay, Samsung Pay or Google Pay. • Think of carrying just your driver’s license or ID and a credit card.

• Shop with a card that puts you in control of minimizing the chance of fraud. If your current credit card does not offer the ability to

set alerts for transactions, control where your card is used, or give you the ability to turn it off when you’re not using it to stop thieves from using it, find one that does.

• If you carry cash or a wallet, keep it in your front pocket.

• If you carry a wallet or purse, be extra careful. Purses especially are a target of criminals in crowded shopping areas.

• Understand that you may be rushed and distracted. Stay alert to your surroundings.

• Always keep a list of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

• The instant you discover a credit card is missing, notify your credit union or bank immediately. Don't assume that you misplaced it and will find it later.

• Don’t overload yourself with

shopping bags. You need clear visibility and quick freedom of motion if you are approached.

• Beware of any strangers approaching you for any reason. Criminals try many ways of distracting you to take your money or belongings.

Noble Credit Union wants everyone to have a safe and happy holiday; following these steps can help.

Noble Credit Union has been treating each member with kindness, dignity, and honor while helping members make sound financial decisions for 81 years.

The Credit Union offers members full access to a wide range of financial education and services, including low-rate auto loans, MyRewards Visa credit card, mortgage and equity loans, online and mobile banking, and more.

For more information about membership at Noble Credit Union, call (559) 252-5000 or visit NobleCU.com

14 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

CUSD Board Workshop 11/13, why they ran and a review of the Brown Act woman, being from a working class family.

One member said that before running, they were approached by a former board November 13, 2023 – On the evening of member who was retiring and encouraged November 13th, the CUSD Governing them to run. The member wanted to keep Board held a small, casual meeting that the traditions, to continue to have the acted as an introductory board meeting for district do what it has done, and to have it new Superintendent Dr. Corrine Folmer. grow better.

The meeting was guided by Peter Fagen Another member talked about their child from F3 Law. Fagen asked each board having experienced another school district member to share what their reason was before attending school at Clovis Unified. for wanting to become a member of the board. So, they went around the room and Before running for the board, the member each member shared why they ran for the had served on a school site council. The member said that CUSD was the best in CUSD governing board. the state of California, and that they want The reasons for running varied from to work to preserve it. member to member. Reasons included A member talked about how because feeling like they could bring a different perspective because they didn’t come from their kids attended CUSD, they wanted to be a part of enabling the district to stay Clovis Unified, being a minority, being a Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup

excellent.

They were not the only member who joined because they wanted to be involved in the governing and decision making of the school district that their children attended.

One member emphasized how important it

was to them to have transparency between the board and the public.

An in-depth discussion was had about the Brown Act, specifically in reference to communication between board members and how that relates to the public right to know.

CUSD Board Meeting 11/8; The Superintendent's Report Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

November 15, 2023 - At the start of the board meeting, Dr. Folmer gave her superintendent report.

She began with talking about the 8 Community Day High School Students who had the opportunity to be VIP at a Golden State Warriors game.

They got to sit courtside and enjoyed a gourmet meal. The trip was a reward for students who had been showing “great academic growth and personal development.” The tickets were generously donated by local philanthropists, Mark and Mary Stevens.

The superintendent shared a quote from one of the students, “The entire trip was amazing, but knowing that my mindset and dedication made it happen made me proud of how far I’ve come.”

In reference to the 8 students who earned the trip, Dr. Folmer said, “It’s a great testament to the work that is done at our alternative education sites,” “We’re so thankful for the opportunity to get to recognize students who have really made a commitment to their education.”

Dr. Folmer also spoke about the 17th annual CUSD Band Night that took place the week prior. There were more than a thousand student performers from all 10 marching bands at the Veterans Memorial Stadium.

“It was so impressive. We had five high school and all five intermediate school marching bands perform the National anthem in unison—and that is just such a powerful moment to see how full that field looks with all of our marching band students.”

The superintendent also spoke about how, “this is the time of year where we get to recognize some of our educators,” California League of Schools offers award opportunities, and our sites get to nominate teachers. “I am so proud of how many that we have that are finalists.”

For a few Monday nights in a row, there will be events where the nominated teachers give speeches that will determine if they remain finalists or are declared the award winner.

The finalist included are as follows.

For elementary: Bryan Byrd - Cedarwood, Julie Terrence- Clovis, Courtney Spurrier - Freedom, Michelle

Houston - Mickey Cox, Dina Emerzian - Pinedale, Kathryn Konze - Riverview, and Roberto Sandoval - Tarpey.

For intermediate school: Rachael Watson - Alta Sierra, Mark Prandini - Clark, Ellen Nielson - Granite Ridge, Richelle Renfro - Kastner, and Scott Case - Reyburn.

For high school: Stephen Kidd Buchanan, Ralph Garcia - Clovis High, Johnathan Benson - Clovis North, Stephanie Avery - Clovis West, and Amy Bonsell - Gateway.

Moving on, Dr. Folmer shared that on November 1st, they had their very first Native American Student Success Conference. 100 Native American students from Clovis Unified

intermediate and high schools spent a day celebrating their culture and learning from community mentors.

“I have the privilege to get to go catch that, and it was so amazing. They had a phenomenal keynote speaker, Kenneth Shirley who spoke about his dedication to amplifying indigenous voices and promoting cultural awareness,” said Dr. Folmer.

Kenneth Shirley who is an award-winning filmmaker, and Founder and CEO of Indigenous Enterprise. Shirley also performed Native dance at President Biden’s inauguration.

Dr. Folmer continued her superintendent report, and the full meeting footage can be found online.

Buchanan robotics team hosts elementary school robotics competition total of 212 students from 7 different cities.

According to their website, FIRST® November 21, 2023 – Buchanan Bird LEGO® League, “introduces science, Brains hosted their First Lego League technology, engineering, and math Qualifier on Sunday, November 19th. The (STEM) to children ages 4-16* through Buchanan Bird Brains are a high school fun, exciting hands-on learning. Particrobotics team that was established in ipants gain real-world problem solving 2004. experience through a guided, global Since their start in 2004, the robotics robotics program, helping today's team has won a World Championship title students and teachers build a better future and seven regional Chairman’s awards, together,” which is a title awarded to robotics teams “Our three divisions inspire youth to with the greatest community impact. experiment and grow their critical thinkBeyond their work building robotics, the ing, coding, and design skills through Buchanan Bird Brains’ goal is to spread hands-on STEM learning and robotics.”

STEM (science, technology, engineering, The first division, “Discover” is for ages and math) awareness all over the Central 4 through 6. The second, “Explore” is for Valley. ages 6 through 10. And the third division, The Buchanan Bird Brains hosted the “Challenge” is for ages 9 through 16.

First Lego League Qualifier at Alta Sierra The First Lego League program was from 9am to 5pm on Sunday. It was founded in 1998, and continues to grow. the largest elementary school robotics It’s a fun and engaging way for children competition that the Bird Brains have to get involved in STEM at a young age. hosted since the pandemic.

FIRST Founder Dean Kamen and the 36 elementary school robotics teams owner of LEGO Group Kjeld Kirk Kriscompeted at the Qualifier, including a tiansen collaborated on the program.

Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

“Dean and Kjeld have a shared belief that FIRST LEGO League inspires teams to research, build, and experiment, and by doing so, they live the entire process of creating ideas, solving problems, and overcoming obstacles, while gaining confidence in their abilities to positively use technology.

It was incredible to see what these children built, but what was just as incredible was seeing how excited and involved all of the team members were in both the practices and the competition itself.

These young robotics designers aren’t just learning how to create and operate robotics, they are also building confidence and working as a team.

The youth are our future, and in many ways, our future depends on STEM. First Lego League is a great way to encourage kids to build a future in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

To learn more, visit firstinspires.org and firstlegoleague.org

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Competition table at First Lego League Qualifier at Alta Sierra

Thursday, November 23, 2023 . www.ClovisRoundup.com

Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper . 15

CUSD holds meeting about student achievement Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

November 9, 2023 – “I have a lot of confidence in this team and the work that they do,” said CUSD Superintendent Dr. Corrine Folmer in reference to the Board.

One of the takeaways from the CUSD 2022-23 Student Achievement Data Governing Board Meeting was that the results are not where the board wants them to be. However, in comparison to statewide results, CUSD’s performance is nothing to be disappointed about.

The meeting began with a brief welcome and introduction before diving into a half hour long powerpoint covering the academic achievement data.

Following the powerpoint, the board Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup had at least 45 minutes of questions and discussion.

11th grade—3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, and working hands-on with math problems It’s clear that CUSD, along with school 8th have not yet achieved the test scores on whiteboards. districts all over the state, are trying that they did pre-pandemic.

The percent of students meeting typical their best to bounce back from the For Math standards, the students have growth in reading from kindergarten pandemic—and the student achievement not made it back to the pre-pandemic to 8th grade: K 35%, 1st 71%, 2nd 72%, data is representative of that. test scores. There was some discussion 3rd 62%, 4th 57%, 5th 56%, 6th 60%, A lot of educators and administration talk about “getting back to pre-pandemic test scores.”

That is not to say that there aren’t schools, grade levels, classrooms, and individual students that are excelling and doing incredible things—because many most definitely are.

When it comes to English Language Arts standards—with the exception of

about a statewide trend of math performance declining over several years.

7th 52%, 8th 48%

The percent of students meeting typical growth in mathematics from kindergarten to 8th grade: K 33%, 1st 63%, 2nd 67%, 3rd 53%, 4th 48%, 5th 52%, 6th While this wasn’t specifically addressed 66%, 7th 51%, 8th 55%. during the CUSD meeting, assistant This is really just the tip of the iceberg superintendents provided examples of of the data that was provided and the how some schools and classrooms are discussion that was had. getting students out of their seats and One challenge that was briefly There has been some research arguing that virtual learning has negatively affected math performance in students.

discussed was the lack of social skills present in some young children coming into preschool and kindergarten, due to their first years of life being during the pandemic lockdown.

In order to address issues, formulate solutions, and identify what individual students need, it seems that there is extensive ongoing communication both district wide and school wide.

CUSD faces many challenges now and in the future due to lasting effects of the pandemic. The board is very aware of where we are, and where we need to go. We look forward to the increase in student achievement within our district.

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16 . Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper Connect with us @ClovisRoundup

www.ClovisRoundup.com . Thursday, November 23, 2023

Grill Master’s 3rd Annual Clovis Tailgate Barbecue Throwdown

Photo by Destiny De La Cruz, Clovis Roundup Destiny De La Cruz @ClovisRoundup

Grill Master’s BBQ Clovis held their 3rd annual Tailgate Barbecue Throwdown on Veteran’s Day.

The event was upbeat and fun. Instead of being located directly in the heart of Old Town, like most Clovis events, it was in front of the Elks Lodge. The

crowd was incredibly diverse, and the music was refreshingly different compared to what you usually hear in and around Old Town Clovis.

There were many barbecue competitors from all over the area and beyond.

The competition focus was on ribs, chicken thighs, and tri-tip.

Prizes were awarded from ribs & chicken thighs, and there was a

people’s choice award for tri-tip.

Flats Seasoning, Cuzzo’s, Solid Smoke There were vendors selling seasonings Barbecue, Quarter Circle Johnson Ranch BBQ, Vato with the Meats, Me and rubs, as well as elote and Dippin Dots. The Elks Lodge opened their bar & Mom’s BBQ, Tate’s BBQ Smokeout, KO.BBQ, Beard’s BBQ, Phatzcutz up to the public as well.

BBQ, Sweet Heat BBQ, Big John’s Participating BBQ competitors BBQ, Anguiano Smokers, LFQ, Barrel included: Smoking Bandidos, Big Boys Bros, Don’t Bite the Bone BBQ, Mexi BBQ, Barefoot BBQ, AK47 BBQ, Q BBQ, and more.

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