Clovis Roundup - February 2, 2023

Clovis R undup

Central Valley Team Wins Second Annual U.S. Army All-Star Football Game

A message from our Mayor Lynne Ashbeck

Samantha Golden

January 28, 2023: Excellence and commitment were celebrated in the U.S. Army All-Star football game at Sunnyside High School this weekend, presented and sponsored by Golden Charter Academy and Clovis Veterans Memorial District

The all-star team was made up of senior football stars from all over the valley, coached by Edison High School graduate and Steelers strong safety and team captain Robert Golden.

After his retirement from the NFL, Golden established Golden

Charter Academy in Fresno with the goal of promoting good character and professionalism in students grades T-K to 8th. Excellence in sports athleticism was represented by the Central Valley team taking the victory against the San Diego All-Stars 46 to 7.

See FOOTBALL, Pg. 5

January 24, 2023: Thank you, Clovis Roundup, for being such a strong local voice and for this opportunity for Councilmembers and City Department leaders to be contributors each month through this new column to share news of interest, discuss issues on our mind, and engage residents in this public forum.

The Clovis Roundup fills an important gap in local news coverage and in the local reporting that is See MAYOR, Pg. 5

Clovis Chamber of Commerce hosts annual ‘Salute to Business’ Luncheon

January 26, 2023: There was no shortage of patriotism at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District on Thursday afternoon as the Clovis Chamber of Commerce not only awarded a previous Fresno County Sheriff and former Police Chief, but also had recipients of awards specifically mention the importance that they place on law enforcement.

“There’s four pillars to a great city. The first one is law enforcement, period, end of story. If you’re not safe and secure you don’t have a city…I hope all of you will join our family in supporting and fighting off what I would call a plague that's trying to penetrate this city. Support and elect the right people in the right positions, who have the same value and love for our city as we do.”

The family that is represented

Mayor Lynne Ashbeck lynnea@cityofclovis.com

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig presented Former Clovis Mayor and current SCCCD Police Chief Jose Flores the “Community Impact Award” alongside Clovis City Council Member, Fresno County Judge Bob Whalen.

See LUNCHEON Pg. 4

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Central Valley takes the victory against San Diego in Second Annual U.S. Army All-Star Football Game.

sraegolden@gmail.com (CVMD).

What’s Up, Clovis?

Happy Birthday Jake!

Repairs Happening Around Old Town

Photos by Ron Sundquist

The Clovis Museum has some wonderful hats on display. In the bottom photo, you will see Charles Orville Reyburn. Reyburn Intermediate School is named after this family.

Happy Birthday to Jake the Pawfessional Greeter of Clovis Appliance. Please stop by to wish him the best and contribute to Valley Animal Center. See

for

Bill Helton is a local career Marine Veteran that served in the Korean/Vietnam War. Helton recently received a Commendation and Commandant for raffle from the Ch. 14 Marine Corp League. Bottom right, Helton during his time in Korea wearing a 100 lb. pack.

‘Valley's Painting’ Comes to Clovis

he goes through with, is completed in a professional quality that is first and foremost acceptable to him.

Another ambitious and experienced business is coming to Clovis, and its owner has the same intentions that he had when he started working in the industry over twenty-five years ago.

Valley's Painting, owned by Francisco Rodriguez, does work on commercial, residential and business buildings, and while painting is at the forefront of the operation, simple other handyman tasks like drywall repair can be worked out with clients.

Francisco Rodriguez says that he is willing to discuss jobs during a meeting or an estimate, and is simply here to help out his customers.

Previously in Kingsburg for sixteen years, Valleys Painting began in the LA region when Francisco started his painting and handyman career.

With an eight man crew, mostly part-time, Francisco can be seen on almost every job so long as he doesn’t have other meetings to attend to.

He explains that with his personalized touch, he is able to make sure that whatever job

“I spend most of my time working and getting new jobs..the end of my day is usually around eight or nine o’clock.”

Francisco explained his reasoning for bringing his business to Clovis and referenced the fact that he had already done jobs here before when Valleys Painting was stationed out of Kingsburg. “First I like the city of Clovis, if I could sell my house in Kingsburg and move over there, I would.” He then went on to speak about his future customers in Clovis and how they provide a professional and clean workspace.

“I’m very professional, we are very clean on all jobs, and we bring good quality work,” all things that residents and businesses of Clovis don’t demand but have come to expect in businesses throughout their town.

“All my people that work for me are very professional, quiet, and clean. They’re high scaled professionals.”

Rodriguez also explained that most of his team has been working with him for a number of years on end, with the most senior of his staff having been with him for fifteen years. “That’s why I like to grow

this business, because I want to hire them full time.” With the high level of experience amongst his associates, Francisco guarantees that they are capable and willing to do the job that is needed.

“I’m very picky with my jobs, and I make sure that everything is clean. I have really good customers, and they're happy [when the job is done]. That’s one of the things about Clovis, is the quality of work that we provide, it’s high skilled and professional.”

Finally, Francisco spoke about what it means to have a business in Clovis. “It means a lot because I like to grow more revenue and more business for me and my workers. If I can provide more work for them and more work for me, it means that they can have a better life…I’m a very family person myself, and I really care about my workers and if they’re happy working for me. If I create a

good environment for work for them I know they’re gonna do a lot better job.”

Francisco Rodriguez and his business

Valleys Painting understand the concepts of hard work, happy work environment, and location that can drive a business towards success.

In the land that considers itself as the territory of Clovis, Francisco hopes that those concepts, along with his own values, will lead him and his employees, people who he truly cares about, to both success and more benefits.

Making a world better for them, means making a world better for the City of Clovis, and with potential business created within the town, something that Clovis can do so well, Valleys Painting hopes to be off in the running for the next new business in town.

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

above is that of the Vidmar Family, owners and founding operators of Anlin Windows in Clovis, represented by Greg and Eric, sons of Tom and Linda Vidmar who passed on in 2014 and 2021.

The brothers doubled down on their statement by saying, “I know that our family is prepared to do everything that we can within our resources to preserve the Clovis way of life.”

Former Clovis Mayor and current SCCCD Police Chief Jose Flores continued the Vidmar Family’s sentiment by saying, “We in law enforcement are loving and caring people with families of our own, and we’re here to help. The Vidmar brothers are spot on.”

Flores was being honored by the Chamber of Commerce with the “Community Impact Award” alongside his longtime Clovis City Council colleague, Fresno County Judge Bob Whalen.

Flores and Whalen had previously decided not to run for office in this past November election.

“These events have really been an important part of my life for many years…I miss this, I like being a judge, but I miss this. And the opportunity to be with you in a room warms me up,” said Judge Whalen as he reminisced on his past serving the public of Clovis.

In addition to the Chamber Ambassador of the Year award and Chamber Board Director of the Year award given to Vanessa Puopolo and David Bonnar, respectively, the final award besides Business of the Year given to QK Engineering, was the Einar Cook Leadership Award presented by Einar Cook’s grandson Mr. Todd Cook of Cook Land Company.

Todd Cook, when presenting the Einer Cook Leadership Award to Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims, related the qualities of “professionalism, being a visionary, and service to the community” that his grandfather held, to those qualities that he believed Sheriff Margaret Mims also sustained.

After being presented with the last award of the afternoon, the retired Sheriff spoke to the large crowd in the Liberty Ballroom about her once held job in law enforcement.

“In my business, everyday is not fun. As you can imagine. But everyday was rewarding. We had tragedy, we had good times, we had funny times, working with so many people in law enforcement. But I have to tell you that the City of Clovis and the law enforcement you have, we work so closely together and it’s so important for you to know that. None of us are working by ourselves, we’re all working together, to keep you all as safe as we possibly can.”

As the ceremony concluded, Chamber of Commerce CEO Greg Newman thanked everyone for attending the luncheon and plugged future events that the Chamber will

be hosting in the future. Newman also commented on the turnout of the luncheon before the ceremony and what this meant to the Clovis Chamber of Commerce.

“It's a fantastic crowd, we’re really happy to have everyone here today, and it was wonderful to honor these fantastic people. These are the leaders in this room that are running Clovis.”

On the awardees, Newman stated that the Chamber wanted to “Honor the family of Anlin Windows,” and those efforts of both Bob Whalen and Jose Flores. “Sheriff Margaret Mims has been a fantastic contributor to our community and it was our time to honor her…Like I said, we’re a team, and we’ve been a part of the fabric of Clovis for a long, long time.”

FULL LIST OF AWARDEES:

Einar Cook Leadership Award: Sheriff Margaret Mims, Fresno County retired Sheriff

Business Persons of the Year: The Vidmar Family, founding family of Anlin Windows

Business of the Year: QK Engineering

Community Impact Awards: Jose Flores, former Mayor, 24 years on Clovis City Council

Bob Whalen, former Mayor, 20 years on Clovis City Council

Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Vanessa Puopolo, Vice President Fresno/Clovis Convention & Visitors Bureau

Chamber Board Director of the Year: David Bonnar, Vector Sport Aviation

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims received the Einer Cook Leadership Award.

Photo Courtesy of Valley's Painting Completed vinyl fence project.

City of Clovis Holds Enterprise Canal Trail Workshop

January 25, 2023: At Miss Winkles Pet Adoption Center in Clovis Wednesday night, a few members of City staff were present alongside MIG, an architecture company, to present to members of the Clovis community three separate examples of a new bridge that the City plans to build over a certain location of the 168 freeway.

This location, at the Enterprise Canal Trail, would connect Clovis trail improvements and work south, giving access to both the north and south sides of the 168.

This would not only connect the trails in this area, but would provide more retail opportunities and greatly improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety.

Renee Mathis, Planning and Development Services Director stated “We want them [the trails] to have maximum benefit for the community,” and said that there were very few instances in which there was a break in continuity of the trail system in Clovis, with the 168 freeway being one of those exceptions.

The Enterprise Canal Trail that runs along Owens Mountain Parkway and Temperance streets stops at Owens Mountain Parkway according to Mathis, but with a bridge over the 168, would be able to continue further south and open the mentioned easy access north and south of the 168.

MIG Architecture gave a presentation that

FOOTBALL

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

A 26-yard touchdown and several perfect field goals, as well as a fantastic 38 yard catch for the Central Valley team are just a small part of the great game they played. Excellence in military service was present in the half-time ceremony, in which U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Torres publicly rededicated himself to service in a reenlistment

MAYOR

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

so necessary to democracy, responsive local government, and a stronger community.

A recent article in another California newspaper spoke to the value of local journalism, editorials, and opinion pieces—especially in the face of the ‘tsunami’ of State and national ‘breaking news’ that occupies so much of our media space and that is mostly driven by ‘clicks’ on this story or that headline.

Our traditions, our values, our issues, and our community are far more important for us to focus on—and that’s what Clovis City Councils have done for generations. And what we will continue to do.

exemplified the three different bridges that they believe can be built over the 168 freeway. They, as well as City of Clovis staff, made it known that they understand this bridge will last for a long time for Clovis residents.

The three possible options of bridges across the 168 would be either a Box-Girder Span, Tied-Arch Span, or Cable-Stayed Span with examples of each that can be explored by looking at the link at https://cityofclovis.com/planning-and-development/ engineering/projects/.

The Box-Girder Span, explained to be the most widely used of the three across the state, was estimated to have cost the least amount, coming in at around $10-15 million. This type also was said to have possibly the most potential in terms of being an “open canvas” in which different types of artwork could be completed on it.

The Tied-Arch Span, which gets its name from the arches that hold cables assisting the bridges’ sustainability, was estimated to cost around $15-20 million and received the least amount of votes from the focus-group like poll.

Some members of the public did believe however that the arches themselves would help frame the Sierra Mountains when headed east on the 168 freeway.

Finally, the Cable-Stayed Span, equipped much alike the Tied-Arch Span, with cables connecting to only one or two large arcs in the middle of the bridge came in at around

ceremony.

A team of students from Golden Charter Academy presented their positive affirmations song, and several Fresno rappers and dance groups also performed at halftime.

“The program here is meant to introduce the community to our local hometown heroes,” said CVMD CEO Lorenzo Rios, “by recognizing their service and having the community be introduced to some of our traditions and also the opportunities that are found in

So, thank you, Clovis Roundup, for the role you play and for the chance to submit this first column.

It occurs to me that 2023 will be a year of transitions for our community. Two new Councilmembers were sworn in at the end of 2022, the first time we have had two new members since 2001 when now-Supervisor Magsig and I were elected. A new Clovis Unified Superintendent is coming this summer, new businesses, a new fire chief, new civic leaders, new neighborhoods. There certainly have been many transitions over the 111 years of our City. That is not new. But what seems more important than ever is to be sure we ‘pass these batons’ with great attention to the core values that have served us well for decades. I am not saying

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an estimate of $20-25 million, yet received the highest number of votes when asked of its aesthetic pleasing view to the public. It is said that the City of Clovis has high expectations for the proposed bridge, and “envisions it as a distinctive architectural feature echoing the progressive modernist styles of its surrounding context.”

This gathering, with less than twenty members of the Clovis public, was just a beginning round of further focus group like meetings that the City of Clovis plans to host in the future.

military service.”

Active members of the California National Guard, Airforce, and Army were present at the event as, well as the Fresno State ROTC members.

Dustin Castillo, CEO at CoreWare Group and former U.S. Army Officer, says that one conversation with a naval commander changed his entire life path. He went from a junior-olympic level waterpolo player to Westpoint Military Academy.

we must stay the same—that has never been the case. But our community values become even more important in a world of rapid change and partisan divides fueled by attention spans the length of a social media message. In this world of more remote work and less civic engagement, we need ways for our citizens to engage more than ever before.

We look forward to an update of the City’s strategic plan this year. It has been a number of years since we have spent some time imagining the future of our community, and it is time to do that again. Your input into that process will be essential so keep an eye out for ways to tell us what you think.

As you know, your Council members are elected at large, and we do not yet have

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With bridge construction planned for 20262027, they intend to plan for another meeting this year, coming in around April. A final recommendation will be made before 2025 when the plan then is to submit a final bridge design.

More information can be found at https:// cityofclovis.com/planning-and-development/ engineering/projects/

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Castillo said, “The discipline you learn in sports can apply to everything.”

CVMD CEO Lorenzo Rios said, “In future years, we hope to have those who are looking to enlist do an oath of office,” at the event as well.

The U.S. Army All-Stars Best of the West Football game is only in its second year, but there are promises of many more to come.

‘districts’ in Clovis. Each Councilmember is here to serve you—and a request to any one of us will find its way to the Council and/or the staff who can help. Connect with us at the City’s website: www.cityofclovis.com, via our email addresses, or the next time you see us in the grocery store or at a soccer game.

That’s what I love most about local government. Even as we grow and welcome new neighbors, we can hear about your concerns on one day and take care of them on the next. That is one thing that we never want to transition away from in Clovis.

I look forward to running into you soon.

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Photo Courtesy of City of Clovis

The proposed layout to the Enterprise Canal Bridge that crosses over the 168 freeway.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Committee Hosts Art Reception

January 18, 2023: At the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Committee held an art reception and program for students of Fresno County.

In partnership with the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, the Foundation at Fresno County, and EECU, the Unity Committee was able to put together this annual art show in which students from across Fresno County can display art, essay’s, and even speeches.

This year’s theme was “What is Your Life’s Blueprint? Building a Future on Dignity, Learning, Love, and Justice”.

After the National Anthem performed by Edison High Student Rowan Crass, and Dr. Jeffrey Hunt’s welcome on behalf of the Unity Committee, Essay, Art, and Speech winners were presented and celebrated above a stage in the Independence Room of the Clovis Veterans Memorial District.

With four divisions of Art Winners, students from all across Fresno County were represented especially in “Division D” and “Division A” which had three Clovis High students see their art win awards.

In Division D, Isabella Escamilla and Dylan Hannah, both from Clovis High School received Honorable Mentions, while Milani Stanton won First Place for her project.

In Division A, Cassidy Park of Fugman Elementary and Aria Houston of Garfield Elementary received Honorable Mentions, while Chelsea Park won First Place from Fugman Elementary.

Grace Melendez of Valley Oak Elementary won Honorable Mention in Division B, while Victor Brown and Avery Gregory from Kastner Intermediate and Reyburn Intermediate won Honorable Mention and First Place in Division C, respectively.

Six students from Clovis Unified were Essay Winners, ranging from Elementary to Middle School grade levels.

Elementary:

Ava Kim- First Place, Fugman Elementary

Jacob Terrence- Second Place, Woods Elementary

Talia Altamimi- Third Place, Liberty Elementary Middle School:

Chelsea Su- First Place, Kastner Intermediate

Sophia Helsley- Second Place, Kastner Intermediate Victor Brown- Third Place, Kastner Intermediate

And finally, a few Clovis Unified students were also honored in the Speech contest in all three brackets, Elementary, Middle School, and High School.

Elementary: Alice Feng- Second Place, Bud Rank Elementary Middle School: Sanja Jhangiani- First Place, Granite Ridge High School: Priya Prajapati- First Place, Clovis North High School

A final dance was performed by Roosevelt School of the Arts Dance Performers just before final comments and acknowledgements were made by Dr. Allison Hernandez, Director of ELA, ELD and HSS for the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. In the First Place Award winning essay submitted by Fresno Unified’s Sunnyside High School student, Reese Cantu, it is mentioned that “The values of dignity and learning help you achieve many things and helps you get to your goals.”

With this, it appears that these up-an-coming students understand these values and look to implement them in their lives through the avenues of art that were presented that night.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Clovis Unified student's art submissions.

New state law battles opioid and fentanyl overdoses

January 24, 2023: As students return to school, California's new state law to battle opioid and fentanyl overdoses on college campuses takes effect January 1.

Naloxone Distribution Project (NDP) and SB 367 attempt to reduce the issue throughout California community colleges and California State Universities.

The NDP aims to address the opioid crisis by providing free naloxone to schools requesting the medication, while Sb 367 approved August 29, requires health centers on campuses to carry the medication.

Naloxone, known as Narcan, is FDA approved and works by blocking the effects of opioids.

It’s available in an easy to administer nasal spray, Dr. John Zweifler, medical consultant, Fresno County Department of Public Health said.

“You just put a spray in a nostril and if it is an opioid overdose, it will help them wake up within a minute or two,” Zweifler said.

“If it doesn’t work the first time, you could do a second dose in the other nostril.”

California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard

shows there were 7,175 deaths from opioid overdose with 5,961 deaths related to fentanyl in 2021. Over 20,000 emergency department visits alone were from drug related overdoses.

Fentanyl, one of the many opioids, a powerful synthetic opioid medication used to treat severe pain is becoming more common among those with addiction, and the cause of many overdoses.

Micheal Prichard, staff analyst for Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health said fentanyl is easier to get because it’s made in a lab versus heroin that is made from a poppy. It’s an increasing threat because it’s more potent than heroin, Prichard said.

“The problem with Fentanyl is that because it is so potent, any dose can potentially be lethal if the proportion of fentanyl to other additives is not correct, and so every time you’re using fentanyl, you’re playing a little bit of Russian roulette,” Zweifler said.

Taylor Long, public information officer with the Fresno County District Attorney Office said, based on statistics released by the coroner’s office, there has been a significant increase in fentanyl related deaths in the last few years in comparison to past years.

Zweifler said during the pandemic opioid overdose related deaths have drastically increased by 15 to 20% each year.

“So yeah, pretty dramatic increase in overdoses during the pandemic,” Zweifler said. According to Long, most addiction starts during the adolescence years. Addiction affects people as young as teenagers to individuals over the age of 70.

“Trying to quit cold turkey rarely works. Almost zero success rate,” Prichard said.” Access to resources is not difficult to receive

and available to everyone. Naloxone can be picked from a physician, pharmacy or the following locations in Fresno.

- Community Regional Medical Center Emergency Department with no fee or cost.

- Fresno County Department of Public Health.

- Fresno/San Joaquin Needle Exchange by prescription only.

- Parents & Addicts in Need (PAIN).

Human Trafficking: Recognizing the Signs for the Children and Yourself

Krystle Nozartash @ClovisRoundup

January 24, 2023: The Clovis City Council has recognized human trafficking as one of the largest criminal enterprises and proclaimed January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention month.

Human trafficking doesn't only involve the streets, it exists everywhere including the work industry, but more commonly where there is a vulnerability. Some groups that are particularly vulnerable to exploitation are migrant workers and foster care youth. Fresno County is located between other human trafficking hubs- Sacramento, San Francisco, and Los Angeles making it one of the hubs.

Labor trafficking is similar in ways, and exists in places like agricultural labor, massage parlors, and nail salons. Sex trafficking, the more common type of trafficking, exists in forms of "pimp" controlled prostitution, gang controlled trafficking, and trafficking through the internet.

According to Public Information Officer Ty Wood, the gangs in Fresno County have taken to selling girls in the community to

fund their organization. They fund the guns, drugs and bail money.

One female victim can make a pimp an astonishing $250,000 in a year.

Human trafficking victims are psychologically controlled and expected to make a certain amount of money otherwise they have consequences such as beatings and not being allowed to eat.

Victims of human trafficking come from all walks of life. According to Wood, there are several young girls from Clovis currently being trafficked. Girls are recruited from schools, group homes, malls and social media.

Runaways are typically taken out of town on weekends to make money.

Human Traffickers typically target girls ages 12-20 years old in every community. There is no preferred type for a luring trafficker. While law enforcement and agencies like Breaking the Chains are working to keep children, women and men safe from the hidden crime, the community should know how to keep themselves and children safe and aware.

Human trafficking detective said,

4.45 4.60

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“Unfortunately, it’s not like the movies where a man in a van comes and picks a female up off the street. It’s not uncommon for males to seek out women who are in need of something. Whether it be a stable home, a provider, a male figure, a protector or someone who can help with their financial struggles.”

These are a few tips from Clovis Police and human trafficking detectives that could potentially keep adults and children safe from trafficking incidents. Be careful of who is met online and what information is being willingly shared with people.

A male who is looking to traffic a female will often be overly flattering, offer them the world, and manipulate them to depend on the male. They will also try to isolate them prior to sending them into the sex trade.

Parents of children and those fostering children should be aware of all social media. “Monitor, monitor, monitor social media,“ Wood said.

Talking to children about the dangers they can face needs to happen throughout the year, not just during National Human

Trafficking Prevention Awareness Month. Individuals will target juveniles who have low self esteem and build them up to feel loved and manipulate them. Often times foster youth are most targeted due to their lack of home stability, previous traumas from molestation, drug abuse/exposure, and other factors.

Traffickers will pretend to be their “boyfriends,” and offer to provide for them emotionally and financially. It’s important for people to recognize if their child is more susceptible and to educate them.

Clovis Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team arrested six male suspects going into a Clovis hotel expecting to meet a girl. As part of SET’s on-going human trafficking enforcement, detectives pose as girls on social media and are targeted by male suspects constantly.

SET’s investigation has shown that local gangs sell girls in our own community to help fund their illegal activities.

Photo Courtesy of Clovis PD Facebook Fresno County Health Director Dr. Rais Vohra demonstrating how to administer NARCAN at fentanyl awareness news conference on Friday, June 4, 2021.

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

Old Town Service District

1. A1 Lock & Key 2. ABC Pack & Print

3. All American Smog

4. B and H Tire Automotive Shop

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

6. Central Valley Community Bank

7. Classic Catering

8. Clovis Boot & Shoe Repair 9. Clovis Garage

Wash, 409 Bullard Ave, 322-1380

Antique and Gift Shops

1. 4th Street Antique Mall 402 Pollasky, (559) 323-1636 4thStreetAntiques.com

FARMERS MARKET

Join us Saturday mornings for everything you need a large assortment of vegetables, fruits, herbs and delicious pastries, breads, seed and nut brittle, granola 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Located in the heart of Old Bullard.

SURPLUS SALE

The District will have surplus items for sale from Veterans Memorial District. All purchases are final

need for your local, seasonal shopping. Including and flowers. The morning market also features granola and homemade pies. Every Saturday, Old Town Clovis on Pollasky between 5th & 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Sunday, February 5th Clovis final and come without warranty.

Boutique, Clothing, Accessories

1. Autumn Psalm

2. D A Designs Dancewear

3. Heart’s Delight

4. Ivy and Lace

5.

Food and Drink

1. 356 Tavern

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

Garlic-Rosemary Butter Roasted

Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks, MS, RD, on behalf of the Mushroom Council

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4

Chicken:

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs salt, to taste pepper, to taste

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

16 ounces mushrooms, such as white button, crimini or portabella, quartered

3 zucchinis, sliced in half moons

3 large carrots, thinly sliced

4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves removed and roughly chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

Orzo:

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

16 ounces mushrooms, such as white button, crimini or portabella, finely chopped

1 cup uncooked orzo pasta

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1/3 cup white wine

1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

To make chicken: Preheat oven to 450 F.

FAMILY FEATURES

In today’s world, grocery shopping can seem more like a burden than an opportunity to gather supplies for your family’s favorite meals. With prices of everyday ingredients fluctuating almost daily, it’s important for many families to make their dollars go further at the store. Easy ways to stretch your grocery budget, like using versatile ingredients, can make the checkout experience a little less impactful on your household’s finances. Consider the benefits of mushrooms, which provide a delicious option to enhance flavor in favorite recipes while extending portions in an affordable way.

Save Money

Stretch your dollars by stretching your meals using a process called “The Blend.” Blending finely chopped mushrooms with ground meat can extend portion sizes

of your favorite meaty recipes and help your bottom line. Chop your favorite mushroom variety to match the consistency of ground meat, blend the chopped mushrooms and meat together then cook to complete the recipe. For burgers, use a blend of 25% finely chopped mushrooms and 75% ground meat. For tacos or chili, use 50% mushrooms and 50% meat or an even higher mushroom-to-meat ratio.

Savor the Flavor

The savory umami taste of mushrooms means a flavorful experience in blended recipes like burgers, where the chopped mushrooms help hold in the juiciness. Or, you can chop, quarter, slice or enjoy them whole in recipes like Garlic-Rosemary Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto, Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup or Blended Pasta Sauce paired with your favorite pasta.

One Carton, Multiple Dishes

Thanks to mushrooms’ versatility, you can buy one large carton of mushrooms to chop up then bulk up multiple dishes, from a morning omelet to hearty soups to blended burgers.

Serve Up Nutrition

Low-calorie, low-sodium, fat-free and cholesterolfree, mushrooms are nutrient rich and can play a starring role in a variety of meals. With an array of fresh varieties and nearly endless ways to prepare them, they can be your powerhouse from the produce department. Find more recipe ideas and ways to make the most of your grocery store dollars at MushroomCouncil. com.

Pat chicken dry. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. In large skillet over mediumhigh heat, melt butter. Sear chicken until brown on both sides, 4-5 minutes on each side.

In large bowl, toss mushrooms, zucchinis and carrots with rosemary and garlic. On large baking sheet, spread vegetables. Nestle chicken into vegetables. Drizzle with butter and juices from pan.

Bake 20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

To make orzo: In small pot over medium-low heat, warm broth.

Blended Pasta Sauce

Blended Pasta Sauce

Recipe courtesy of the Mushroom Council

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 pound mushrooms (such as white button, crimini or portabella), finely chopped

1 pound 80% lean ground beef

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

cooked pasta salt, to taste pepper, to taste

grated Parmesan cheese

In large pot over medium heat, add oil and cook onions, stirring occasionally, until just soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, or until mushrooms are soft and reduced in size. Add ground beef, Italian seasoning and salt; cook until browned throughout, about 6 minutes, stirring and breaking up lumps. Skim off fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons.

Stir in marinara sauce and reduce heat to low. Cook 10 minutes. Serve over cooked pasta, season with salt and pepper, to taste, and top with grated Parmesan.

Creamy Spinach,

Mushroom and Lasagna Soup

Recipe courtesy of Emily Weeks, MS, RD, on behalf of the Mushroom Council

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium onion, small diced

8 ounces mushrooms, such as white button, crimini or portabella, sliced

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon granulated sugar

1 tablespoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon oregano

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 bay leaf

3 cups vegetable broth

6 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces

1/2 cup heavy cream

5 ounces fresh baby spinach

1 cup whole milk ricotta

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

Heat large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic, onion and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms soften, 4-5 minutes. Add marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, oregano, pepper, bay leaf and broth. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce

Using skillet from chicken over medium heat, add butter and olive oil. Add onion, garlic and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions soften, 3-4 minutes. Add orzo and black pepper. Stir and cook orzo 2 minutes. Add white wine and cook until evaporated, about 1 minute.

Add broth to orzo, 2/3 cup at a time, stirring until liquid is absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, waiting until last batch is absorbed before adding next. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan.

Serve in individual bowls with chicken and roasted vegetables atop mushroom orzo risotto.

Creamy Spinach, Mushroom and Lasagna Soup

heat to low and simmer. Add lasagna noodles and cook, stirring often, until softened, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and remove bay leaf. Stir in heavy cream and spinach until wilted, 2-3 minutes. Divide between bowls and top each with dollop of ricotta and sprinkle of mozzarella.

Garlic-Rosemary Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs and Veggies with Mushroom Orzo Risotto

LET’S TALK CLOVIS: The Sirimarco Family Contributed to the "Clovis Way of Life"

“Pete”, 1916; Maria “Mary”, 1918; Carmela “Millie”, 1920 and James II, 1922. The date that the family arrived in Clovis is not documented.

Peg Bos Historian/Clovis Museum

Contributed

Vincenzo “Jim” Sirimarco was born in San Sosti, Italy on October 22, 1892. The town was dedicated in 1020 AD by Greek Byzantine Monks of Acquaformosa. Michele

Sirimarco is the present Mayor of San Sosti (estimated population 2,300).

Twenty year-old Jim would arrive at the port of New York on June 14, 1912. He had boarded the steam ship Oceania at Naples. He eventually joined family members in Gustine, CA.

Gustine was developed in the early 1900’s as a Southern Pacific Railroad depot. Cattle King Henry Miller had a young daughter named Sara Miller. She loved to dress up and was called Gussie. She died at age eight and the town was renamed Gustine in her honor.

Jim’s future wife, Rosina “Rose” Fasano, was also born in San Sosti on June 14, 1902. She would arrive in Gustine, CA with her family in 1904.

John Martino (wife Elizabeth Fasano, sister to Rose) also lived in Gustine. He operated a shoe repair shop there and would eventually join the Sirimarco’s in Clovis. He built a home at 436 Woodworth in Old Town Clovis. It remains a residence.

Rose would meet and marry Jim in Gustine. Their four children were born there: Pietro

On April 4, 1927, Jim Sirimarco Sr., Pietro LaVia and Franceno Columbo founded the Rudolph Valentino Lodge No. 1449, Order Sons of Italy in America. The lodge continues to meet on the third Monday of each month at the Notre Dame Hall of Our Lady of Perpetual Help church. They remain visible and active in the community.

Their first meeting was held on the second floor of the old (1906?) Nestor Freitas Hall (now 500 Club) at the southwest corner of Clovis Ave and Fifth Street.

A 1928 advertisement in the Clovis Independent indicated Jim sold shoes and made shoe repairs. His shop was located on Fifth Street next to Attorney Gould’s office (street number not documented).

Jim won ownership of a restaurant during a poker game and it eventually evolved into the legendary “Jim’s Place”. Famous Clovis Country performers Double Gage (twins Jim and Jack Gage) began their professional careers there in 1967.

A 1936 Polk report indicates that Jim and Rose operated a restaurant at 470 Fulton (Clovis Ave). Their residence was located at 118 6th Street. Their son Pete was listed at the same address and was identified as a meat cutter.

The 1938 official program of the Clovis Horse Show and Festival Association published an advertisement: “Jim’s Place” in Clovis, for cool, refreshing drinks. See the

longest bar in town.

The Sirimarco’s purchased a home at 507 5th Street (the northeast corner of 5th and Pollasky). It remains a residence. Jim died at age 71 in 1963 and Rose at age 80.

Granddaughter Rosalene (Rose) Sirimarco

Matteson (daughter of Pete and Kitty Phillips Sirimarco Mosekian) continues the family business tradition in Clovis at the Clovis Town and Country Realty.

The Sirimarco’s provided us a rich heritage.

Courtesy of Clovis Museum

The Sirimarco family in 1924. Left-right, top-bottom: Rose, Pete, Mary, Jim, Carmela.

CPD's Special Enforcement Team's Human Trafficking Operation Nets 6 Arrests

January 25, 2023: The Clovis Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team (SET) arrested 6 male suspects over the weekend as part of an on-going investigation during an undercover operation at a Clovis hotel.

As part of our on-going human trafficking enforcement, SET detectives pose as girls on social media and are targeted by male suspects constantly.

On Friday evening into Saturday morning, SET detectives assisted by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Fresno County’s

Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), arrested 6 suspects who thought they were coming to the hotel to meet a girl they were targeting for human trafficking.

Once at the hotel, each of the suspects were taken into custody without incident.

Those 6 suspects have been identified as 42-year-old Allen Brooks, 31-year-old Darnell Banks, 28-year-old Jaques Polk, 28-year-old Ralph Jones, 27-year-old Devontae Mitchell, and 26-year-old Emari Johnson, all of Fresno.

All suspects were booked into Fresno County Jail for felony charges related to

Attempted Robbery leaves one shot and one assaulted

Contributed by Clovis Police

@ClovisPolice_CA

The Fresno County Sheriff's Office is investigating an attempted robbery by two male suspects that left one shot and one assaulted near Tarpey Village.

On January 21st, Saturday night around 7:30, Clovis Police Department and Fresno County deputies responded to a call of a gunshot victim in a shopping area on Clovis and Griffith Avenues.

When law enforcement arrived at Shanghai Massage Spa, they found one person shot and another injured.

It's unknown if the victim was a worker. The

gunshot victim is in the hospital and listed in critical condition.

According to officials, no description of a suspect or suspects was provided.

No suspects have been arrested.

The investigation is still ongoing, and the area remains closed.

No suspects have been arrested.

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867,

Illegal Skimming Device Located in ATM

Contributed by Clovis Police

@ClovisPolice_CA

January 27th, Friday morning an ATM technician located an illegal skimming device at an Bank of America ATM near Peach/Shaw in Clovis.

This skimming device was removed from the ATM and at this time it’s unknown how long it was there.

Detectives are working with the bank to try and determine when it was placed, and if any surveillance footage of the suspect(s) is available.

This is a good reminder that you should

always check any machine before inserting your debit or credit card into it. Gently pull and push near the card slot to make sure there isn’t a skimming cover on the outside, and also look at the card slot to make sure you do not see any plastic or skimming device inserted into it. Clovis police suggest that you be aware of your surroundings. If you see someone loitering around the area, call law enforcement.

Need us? Call anytime: Emergency: 911

Non-Emergency: (559) 324-2800

human trafficking. During the arrests, a loaded firearm and cocaine was located on Banks.

Human Traffickers typically target girls ages 12-20 years old in every community. They contact girls on social media, at malls, group homes, and even school.

Talking to your children about the dangers they can face needs to happen throughout the year, not just during National Human Trafficking Prevention Awareness Month. SET’s investigation has shown that local gangs sell girls in our own community to help fund their illegal activities.

One girl can make a pimp up to $250,000 a year, and victims come from all walks of life.

Law enforcement has partnered with local organizations such as Breaking the Chains, Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC), and others to bring attention to human trafficking, and help victims.

If you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, local law enforcement and our non-profit organizations are here to help 24 hours a day.

Contributed by Clovis Police @ClovisPolice_CA

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Police Department Left to right, top to bottom: Darnell Banks, Allen Brooks, Emari Johnson, Ralph Jones, Devontae Mitchell, Jaques Polk.

St., Clovis, CA 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 8

UNDERSTANDING

ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA Clovis Senior Activity Center

850 Fourth St., Clovis, CA Space limited 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Sunday, Feb. 12 SWEETHEART DANCE Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 18

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

Saturday, Feb. 18 and

Sunday, Feb. 19

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

Saturday, Feb. 25

CLOVIS ROTARY 30TH

CRAB FEED & AUCTION Clovis Veterans Memorial District 808 4th St., Clovis, CA 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 25

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

MARCH

Monday, Mar. 13

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

Saturday, Mar. 18

DRIVE THRU SHREDDING EVENT

For Seniors and Caregivers

Valley Caregiver Resource Center Parking Lot

5363 N. Fresno St., Fresno, CA 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Sunday, Mar. 19

CRAFT BEER CRAWL

Old Town Clovis

Sunday, Mar. 26

OLD TOWN CLOVIS

STREET FAIRE (Vintage, Antiques & Glorious Junk) Old Town Clovis

7 a.m. – 3 p.m

ALL MONTH LONG

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 CENTERNOW OPEN

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.

CLOVIS FARMERS’ MARKETS

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

Every Saturday

Year-Round

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

HARLAN RANCH FARMERS’ MARKET

HARLAN RANCH COMMUNITY CENTER

1620 N. Leonard Ave., Clovis, CA

Every Wednesday

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

Willow Family Apartments 865 W. Gettysburg Ave., Clovis, CA 93612.

Income restricted.

Taking Applications for the wait list. For information, please call 559-294-8993.

TDD California Relay Service 800-735-2929

This institution is an equal opportunity Employer and provider.

Apartmentos Willow Familia 865 W. Gettysburg Ave., Clovis, CA 93612. Se aplican resticciones de igresos Para obtener mas informacion, por favor llama 559294-8993. Servicio de retransmision TDD California 800-735-2929. Esta institucion es un empleador de igualdad de oportunitades.

Jake’s 9th Birthday Donation Drive for Valley Animal Center

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

February 2, 2023: For the entire month of February, Clovis Appliance in Old town Clovis is celebrating the very special 9th birthday of their resident Pawfessional Greeter, Jake the golden retriever.

Jake’s birthday wish is to collect lots of essential pet-care items for the nonprofit animal shelter and veterinary clinic, Valley Animal Center.

February 6th is Jake’s actual birthday, but rather than limit the celebration to one day, Clovis Appliance is inviting the community to spend the month dropping off donations at their store, on the corner of 5th Street and Pollasky Avenue.

The big windows at Clovis Appliance have been lovingly painted by TNT Window Graphics with lots of birthday pups and details about the supplies you should donate. The items that Valley Animal Center said

they need the most are: high-efficiency laundry soap, bleach, antibacterial dish soap, and new cat and dog toys, leashes and collars and beds.

Valley Animal Center receives no funds from the government to provide their services. Everything they do– from their membership-funded dog park to their clinic and adoption services– is funded by the community, grants, and fundraising.

“They’re just a good nonprofit, and they do a lot of good in this city,” said Jake’s human, Clovis Appliance owner Tammy Shultz. There are quite a few reasons to support Jake’s love for Valley Animal Center this month.

One big reason is that it’s a no-kill shelter, meaning they do everything in their power to treat and rehabilitate any animal that comes into their care until they find their “furever home”.

Another is that Jake’s veterinarian works for the Valley Animal Center clinic– a low-cost,

full-service clinic that provides preventative care, surgery, and treatment for cats and dogs.

Jake is an Old Town Clovis celebrity. Shultz said that Jake gets lots of visitors when he’s at the store, “There are so many people who love him and they want to come in and say

hi to him, he’s just so good with people.”

If you haven’t met Jake yet, he’s usually in the store in the afternoons when he’s done playing at Elaine’s Pet Resort.

On his birthday Jake will be at Clovis Appliance wearing his special Birthday Boy bandana.

Co-Founder of ‘The Positivity Project’ Visits CUSD Schools

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

January 23, 2023: Co-founder and CEO of training program, “The Positivity Project”, Jeff Bryan visited Clovis and Century elementaries last week in order to view his teaching initiative first-hand.

That teaching initiative, “The Positivity Project” or just “P2” for short, is said to “teach positive psychology’s twenty-four character strengths and empower students to build positive relationships.”

Built around the idea of developing an “Other People Matter” mindset, the program teaches character and relationship building skills to empower children to lead lives equipped with important strategies and understandings.

Schools first choose to partner with the Positivity Project and then are handed resources such as a fifteen minute a day lesson.

Some of these lessons include videos, activities, and follow-up questions in order to facilitate classroom discussions.

The Positivity Project believes that their methods work because of their research into child psychology and neuroscience.

They maintain that “what is good in life is as genuine as what is bad,” and that positive psychology is what helps maintain this adage.

Jeff Bryan, co-founder and CEO of the Positivity Project, visited the aforementioned elementary schools and said, “P2 empowers everyone involved with a common language and an understanding of how to build positive relationships. Students are equipped to have conversations about topics that often go unmentioned like bravery, prudence, and open-mindedness…the common pacing calendar allows everyone from the librarian to coaches to campus monitors the ability to reinforce and recognize what is being studied. Parents are included through P2 for Families and can follow along from home with weekly videos and conversation

starters.”

Bryan then went on to describe that at both schools, “It was clear that the students understood character strengths because they were using the vocabulary to describe themselves and others.”

Nearly all of the thirty-four elementary schools in Clovis Unified use the resources provided to them by the Positivity Project, as CUSD was the first to pilot the East Coast created program on the West Coast according to CUSD staff.

Bryan, a West Point graduate, has now had more than 800 schools nationwide use the

lessons provided to them by the Positivity Project.

“The Positivity Project is one of the most incredible strategies I have witnessed and supported in my 22 years in education,” said Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Accountability, Erin Waer. Jeff Bryan finished his visit with CUSD with an example of a third grade student who used the Positivity Project when they were away from school, in their own elements. The student shared that they were almost hit by a moving vehicle while riding on their bicycle, and said that they used the teachings of bravery from one of their lessons in the Positivity Project to remember to be brave in dire situations.

“This was such a powerful example of what we want The Positivity Project to do… Throughout your life, you'll need to be brave, you'll need to persevere, you'll need to be creative...and to hear a 3rd grader thinking about The Positivity Project and [their] character strengths in the middle of a challenging circumstance was incredible.” 135 schools in the Central Valley alone use the Positivity Project, P2 for short, and according to CEO Jeff Bryan, this not only helps students understand their character, but “how to use their character strengths throughout their life.”

More information on the Positivity Project can be found at posproject.org.

Career Technical Education (CTE) Night Held by Clovis Unified School District

J.T.

jt21gomez@gmail.com

January 24, 2023: Clovis Unified held its annual Transition Student Leadership Conference on Tuesday morning, January 24th.

This conference was one of several targeted leadership conferences held by the district that “provides role models, mentoring and key information about future school and career opportunities for student groups who may need additional encouragement and support.”

According to CUSD, recently, a Clovis North graduate who was recently sworn in as a new local law enforcement officer publicly thanked a former Clovis North teacher, noting how attending a CUSD Leadership Conference allowed him to “start envisioning his future.”

Those students who attended the conference on Tuesday morning, then visited a breakout session of Clovis Unified’s CTE Showcase.

Here, demonstrations of student classes included welding, nursing, construction and engineering.

Conducted for visiting students, this Tuesday morning showcase acted as a precursor to CTE Night, held later that evening at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District.

This further showcase for Clovis Unified students and families was conducted in order to get more students to consider the District’s Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways that are available at every high school.

CUSD reported that this highly visual event would provide opportunities for student, parent and educator interviews as plenty of spectators were present for the event.

Exhibits and demonstrations from all of CUSD’s CTE programs, such as careers in public safety, robotics, ag mechanics, culinary arts, and others were performed for audiences live in what was meant to be an intimate, science fair setting.

With the large number of groups, however,

scores of onlookers waited by tables hoping for the chance to speak with some of the more curious demonstrations. All told, the CTE showcase displayed plenty at their CTE night for viewers to collect insight on, and helped the push for further participants in their programs.

Gomez

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Onlookers congregate at CUSD’s CTE Night. Held at the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, students from different CTE programs in CUSD got the chance to advertise their groups to a large audience.

Photo Courtesy of CUSD Staff Co-Founder and CEO of "The Positivity Project" Jeff Bryan sits with a Clovis Unified Student last week during a "P2" lesson in class. The Positivity Project is a training tool based on building character amongst students.

Photo by Tammy Shultz, Clovis Appliance Jake with Clovis Appliance owner Tammy Shultz and Valley Animal Center friends.

Clovis Unified’s Reyburn Intermediate School receives California Exemplary Arts Education Award!

January 27, 2023: The California Department of Education presents the awards to recognize school-based programs that demonstrate a commitment to equity and provide all students access to standards-aligned arts education.

This week’s announcement by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond of the 2023 honorees affirms the amazing effort of our Reyburn team to support the visual and performing arts and make them available for ALL students to experience. Of special note is the collaborative programs between Reyburn’s special education and drama departments that provide students with inclusion and mentoring opportunities.

Reyburn Intermediate provides students with a multitude of opportunities to get involved in the Arts. All students can participate invisual arts, including art, ceramics, instrumental music with band, orchestra and color guard; and performing arts, including choir, drama and dance. These courses are offered to all students with large participation from our Special Education and English Learner sub-groups.

Reyburn is also happy to offer a collaborative mentoring section of Drama, where

students have the opportunity to partner with our Autism program and provide students in that program experiences in the performing arts. This partnership teaches mentoring and collaboration skills to all students involved.

Reyburn’s visual and performing arts are available to all students. With many disciplines within the department structured with different level courses, there is an opportunity for any student with any skill level to join the program and succeed. In addition, the collaboration between our Special Education and Drama departments provides an unparalleled, inclusive, mentoring opportunity.

QUOTES FROM REYBURN PRINCIPAL DR. RYAN EISELE

“The California Exemplary Arts Award validates the ongoing effort of our teachers and staff to provide every opportunity possible for our students to access a high-quality education in Art. While many districts and communities fight to save their art programs, Clovis Unified School District and Reyburn Intermediate School have consistently invested in the arts so students may explore new opportunities.”

“Our teachers welcome all students with a variety of abilities and help each student feel like an artist while they develop their skills. This award is a tribute to a collective effort

of dedicated educators, and we are thrilled to be one of only 19 schools in the state to be honored.”

QUOTES FROM REYBURN LEARNING DIRECTOR NICHOLAS TRUJILLO:

“The goal of Reyburn Intermediate’s Visual and Performing Arts department aligns with Clovis Unified School District’s Sparthenian concept of “Mind, Body and Spirit.” Students have the opportunity to develop a diverse set of artistic skills, express themselves through multiple mediums, and connect with their peers and community during their time at Reyburn Intermediate.

“Reyburn prides itself on providing students with the skills and opportunities to further their future in the arts, both at Clovis East High School and beyond.”

“Reyburn Intermediate follows Clovis Unified School District’s commitment to doing things First Class. From building school and area spirit with its elementary schools through performance tours and articulation nights, to providing a rigorous and equitable learning environment where ALL students can be successful, the Visual and Performing Arts program meets and exceeds the high standards set forth by themselves, CUSD, and their community.”

CUSD Superintendent O’Brien Announces Her Retirement

In a press conference today, the Clovis Unified School District superintendent announced her plan to retire at the end of the school year.

Eimear O’Brien, Ed.D. served as Superintendent of CUSD for six years, but before her appointment in 2017, O’Brien held many other roles in the District.

She joined Clovis unified in 1996 as a thirdgrade teacher at Maple Creek Elementary School, and moved on to serve as a Guidance Instructional Specialist, Learning Director, Deputy Principal, and finally Principal of Clovis West High School in 2012.

O’Brien is most proud to have made time to visit every Clovis Unified school campus each year of her service as Superintendent, and to be able to listen to every employee.

“It’s not just administrators but it’s teachers and custodial staff and campus catering

staff,” O’Briend said, “to be able to hear their concerns and bring them back to the table so we are constantly listening and improving and meeting the needs of our employees.”

The Superintendent’s decision to retire comes from a necessity to spend more time with family.

O’Brien’s mother lives in Ireland, and the family needs help caring for her as she ages. Her plan is to split her time better between her family in Ireland and her daughters here in the United states.

O’Brien stated that the decision to retire this year did not come easily, however, she will be leaving the District strong in its goals to recover what has been lost in education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Benchmark assessments are improving, and plans for new elementary and secondary schools are underway already.

O’Brien referenced the residential growth of the area and the construction of the Terry Bradley Educational Center, which is expected to begin in March of this year.

“I would love to have been able to see that come into fruition but I am very confident in the team we have and their collaboration with the governing board.”

A successor will most likely come from within the District’s current leadership.

The Doc Buchanan Leadership Academy development program was established by the Foundation for Clovis Schools to foster the development of key tenets to CUSD’s guiding principles in its leadership.

Superintendent O’Briend said ,”I know that many of those leadership tenets are alive and well in our current leaders in the district, and [the Governing Board] will be taking that into consideration.”

The search for a new superintendent will begin immediately according to Governing Board President David DeFrank, who said, “The Governing Board will be convening a special session Monday afternoon, at which time we will discuss various issues like timelines, criteria, and procedures for selecting the next superintendent.”

DeFrank also said that the Governing Board will be working closely with the community on the matter, and further details on the search are forthcoming.

CUSD School Board Discusses Plans to Hire New Superintendent

January 23, 2023: The Clovis Unified School Board called a special governing board meeting in order to discuss how they will move forward in the search for a new Superintendent of schools.

This comes of course after the news that current Superintendent Dr. Eimear O’Brien will retire at the end of the school year. Within the first ten minutes of the meeting, the school board easily decided on the creation of a separate work group that would allow less of the majority to discuss and facilitate ideas outside of school board meetings.

School board President David DeFrank, Vice-President Hugh Awtrey and Board member Tiffany Stoker-Madsen will serve as members on this committee.

A few ideas were then discussed at length in

contention as board members could not get on the same page.

One item of dispute consisted of discussion on setting a certain deadline for choosing the candidate of Superintendent.

A soft deadline, meaning that the deadline could change, was set for March 19th, but this was called “too short” of a deadline by both newly elected school board members, Clint Olivier and Deena Combs-Flores.

Other board members were in agreement that time spent on the other side of the March 19th deadline will be all important as the new Superintendent will have to learn specificities of the job such as the hiring of new principals.

Still, it was argued that this soft deadline would not be enough time for the newly formed workgroup and school board in general to properly select a new Superintendent.

Dr. O’Brien commented on this matter, estimating that her own previous application process lasted a length of around eight weeks.

Another argument that divided school board members was that of the workgroup itself and how it will properly identify and communicate with the public.

Board Member Clint Olivier, much interested in the community feedback portion, recognized that the Superintendent is not only the leader of the school district but also acts as a public figure in the community.

He then asked what influences Dr. O’Brien’s current staff would have on the hiring process and whether or not the workgroup would consider an outside consulting firm to assist on the search.

President David DeFrank listed his thoughts by saying that the school board would try to look at past selection processes and use these procedures in following up on the

current selection process.

DeFrank then mentioned the value and importance of parent and community input in this situation.

Whether or not the school board will select a new Superintendent by their eight week deadline is up to speculation as the plan currently rests on furthering this discussion in the form of the previously mentioned workgroup.

There also seems to be a higher probability of future community discussions, in which the school board hopes for and expects community input on who they would like to represent CUSD as Superintendent. This of course will be in addition to the school boards’ obligation of deciphering through a long list of potential candidates, and eventually being placed with the responsibility of making a choice when all is said and done.

Photo Courtesy of CUSD Rayburn Advanced Drama.

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

Photo by Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup Eimear O'Brien announcing her plan to retire via press conference.

Contributed by CUSD Press Release

Judy Hedrick and Susan Frantzich named Grand Marshals of 109th Clovis Rodeo

their families.

January 26, 2023 - The Clovis Rodeo Association honors lifelong friends and rodeo volunteers, Judy Hedrick and Susan Frantzich as Grand Marshals of the 109th Clovis Rodeo set to take place April 26-30. These well-known Clovis cowgirls will be responsible for leading off the annual rodeo parade on Saturday, April 29; a parade they have both been responsible for coordinating and building for more than 60 combined years of service.

Both Judy and Susan are following in the footsteps of some other Grand Marshals in

Judy's husband Bill was Grand Marshal in 2010 and Susan's father Gene Ford was honored in 1988.

Judy and Susan will each be presented with the Grand Marshal's traditional cowboy hat and belt buckle during a reception in their honor the last week of April.

Watch for them leading off the Clovis Rodeo Parade that begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 29.

The 109th Clovis Rodeo runs April 26-30. Ticket prices range from $20.00 to $35.00. Visit www.ClovisRodeo.com and get your tickets now.

Buchanan Captures Another Win in “The Big One”

Buchanan Wrestling faced off against Clovis High Wrestling in “the best wrestling in California” according to past Clovis Roundup Sports Journalist Gabe Camarillo. “The Big One” as it has been nicknamed, featured a combined 26 wrestlers ranked in the top 10 of the state.

Held at Buchanan High School, the introduction to the wrestling matches were a scene to behold themselves, as after performances from cheer squads and a pyrotechnic show, Buchanan wrestlers walked out in navy bomber jackets so as to relate to the theme of

the wrestling match that was “Top Gun”. Buchanan ranked #3 in the nation and Clovis ranked at #19, spectators believed the tension to have amounted to a higher count than before, as Buchanan Wrestling has won each matchup with Clovis High since 2015. And that would be no different on Thursday night, as the dual would end in a 38-18 total points win for the Buchanan High wrestling team.

After the matches completion, Buchanan’s Wrestling Twitter profile tweeted, “Grateful for incredible administration and top notch parent support! Thank you for making Buchanan Wrestling what it is!”

Clovis East Beats Clovis High in “Cougar Craze” Game

pressures on goal were thwarted away by the Timberwolves.

January 20, 2023: What started out with Clovis youth soccer being honored by Clovis High in which all youth received free entry while wearing their soccer uniforms, ended in a Clovis East last minute goal to seal a victory on Friday night.

#24 Cameron Martino kicked the eventual game sealing goal in the 36th minute of the second half of Friday night’s game, crossing from the left side of the field to the right side of the net.

After the kick, Clovis High and #7 Alexander Rodriguez did their best to try to even the score, but failed in doing so as Clovis’

Clovis High had a 1-0 score until around the 25th minute of the first half when #19 Jose Damian scored the first of what would be two goals for the freshman on the night. His second goal of the night came with less than five minutes left in the first half, giving Clovis East a 2-1 lead going into halftime.

Questionable calls were made by the referees on both sides, as the second half became a lot more physical than the first.

With proverbial bragging rights and TRAC league records on the line, Clovis High began to battle back, keeping the ball on East’s side of the field.

With Clovis East’s win, they bump themselves into second place in the TRAC, now just ahead of Clovis High by winning percentage according to MaxPreps.com.

#7 Alexander “Xander” Rodriguez for Clovis High was awarded a penalty kick in the middle of the second half and did not waste it, as backup goalie #33 Anthony Escatell who had just come in for #32 Abdiel Mota, was unable to handle the shot attempt, evening the score at 2 a piece.

And this is where the score would stand for a while as Clovis High and Clovis East traded possession and sides of the field, each with separate chances to take the lead.

Perhaps, the best opportunity before the game winning kick came in the 32nd minute as a shoulder flew from a Clovis High

defender into #10 Cole Lomeli’s chest, awarding him a free kick from about 20-30 yards away.

Lomeli’s kick sailed just above the crossbar, hitting the football crossbar directly behind it.

But it would come to no true avail for Clovis High, as Clovis East’s Cameron Martino saved the day four minutes later with his game winning kick.

Both teams played their next games on January 24th. Clovis East vs Central (1-0), Central wins. Clovis High vs Clovis West (1-0), Clovis West wins.

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

J.T. Gomez jt21gomez@gmail.com

Photo Courtesy of Buchanan Wrestling Twitter page, @BuchananEmpire Buchanan’s Wrestling team, ranked #3 in the nation beat Clovis High’s #19 ranked Wrestling team on Thursday night.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup Moments after the final whistle, Clovis East celebrates their 3-2 win against Clovis on the far side of the field, towards their fans and spectators. Clovis High, in the foreground, discusses their defeat amongst each other and their (12-6-1) record.

Photo by J.T. Gomez, Clovis Roundup The referree signals to players during the game.

Contributed by Clovis Rodeo Association www.clovisrodeo.com

Photo Courtesy of Clovis Rodeo Association Judy Hedrick and Susan Frantzich Named Grand Marshals of 109th Clovis Rodeo.