Clovis Roundup - March 14, 2024

New Tom Stearns Pavilion under construction at Clovis Rodeo Grounds

Clovis Rodeo, on the last weekend of April.

says that the pavilion is set to complete before the 110th annual

Just like the previous pavilion, the new set of VIP suites will cater to sponsors by providing them with a great view of the show, in addition to food, drinks, and VIP parking.

The new structure has two levels, spacious suites, and will cater to 20 sponsors with 15 guests for a $10,000 annual commitment on a five-year term. Additionally, the new pavilion will connect to the open suites

Jess Gonzalez @ClovisRoundup

March 6, 2024 — Smiles were everywhere inside the Clovis Veterans Memorial Building as Clovis Community College (CCC) celebrated its annual President’s Luncheon on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. But it went beyond being the President’s luncheon. It was a celebration of educational success, merited recognition, much more—a feel-good time

for students, teachers, administrators, and the community.

The event not only highlighted student achievement, but it also pinpointed how such success was accomplished and displayed the systems that help all students reach their educational and career goals.

Whether students want to transfer to a four-year school, complete their associate degree or attain their career certificate that will allow them to enter the workforce fully prepared—the

school is there to accommodate them.

Meet the President

The person of the hour was Dr. Kim E. Armstrong, the college’s third president—a lady with a smart and witty way of expressing herself and getting her point across. She possesses a contagious smile that she passes on to everyone she meets. She had everyone smiling that day!

March 7, 2024 - One of the greatest strengths of our community—today and for all of the generations before us—is the chance for citizens to engage with our local government.

From the more formal City Council and Commissions (like Planning and Personnel) to advisory committees (tourism, arts, General Plans, and historical preservation) to town halls, Facebook Live sessions, attending Council meetings and simply running into a Councilmember in the grocery store, citizen engagement matters here.

March 10, 2024 - A new Tom Stearns Pavilion is under construction at the Clovis rodeo.

Arena Director Vince Genco

Photo courtesy of Ben Genco The new Tom Stearns Pavilion is currently under construction and expected to be finished before the next rodeo.

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

See PAVILLION Pg. 5

Photo courtesy of City of Clovis The Clovis Youth Commission.

Photo by Jess Gonzalez, Clovis Roundup President of Clovis Community College, Dr. Kim E. Armstrong.

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

Email: info@clovisroundup.com

www.ClovisRoundup.com

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Samantha Golden

CONTRIBUTING

Peg Bos - Let’s Talk Clovis

LAURANN KANAMU Story ideas/Calendar/

Service calendar@ clovisroundup.com

Photos by Ron Sundquist

One of this week's Dog of the Week comes from owner Jill Richardson, who owns Wally Warkentin, a 6 month old Toy Poodle. Wally loves to play fetch, meet new people on walks and most importantly, give them

Bozo, owned by CW, is an American Cattle Dog, Queensland Heeler.

French Veterans were honored guests of local Veteran, Vernon Schmidt.

Above, left to right, Vigner Marc (French veteran), Vernon Schmidt (WWII Army Veteran), Vincent Orrene (French Veteran), and John Cline (moderator of the Monday AM Veterans meetings).

Top right, Vincent shaking hands with Jim Johnson, a Navy Veteran.

Bottom right, Vigner and Vincent holding Tokens of Appreciation.

Charles Diffey, a member of the Sierra Model A Ford Club, stands with his 1930 Model A Ford at the carshow.

Mary Rigsbee celebrates 103rd Birthday at Magnolia Crossing

Samantha Golden sraegolden@gmail.com

March 8th 2024– Mary Rigsbee celebrated her 103rd birthday at Magnolia Crossing, the assisted living facility near Old Town Clovis.

“She is our oldest resident here,” Says Executive Director of Magnolia Crossing, Constance Peters,” You know that’s something so beautiful for us, we thought she deserves to be celebrated. And what’s most beautiful about her 103rd birthday is that she had her 100th birthday here, and we did her 101st, 102nd, and now her 103rd.”

Peters says that this birthday is so important to Magnolia Crossing, because the facility is just 6 years old, and Rigsbee has lived at the facility for about 5 years. “Here, you just feel more at home,” Rigsbee says.

Rigsbee’s daughter, Pam Sarantos, says that she comes to visit once a month for a week, and her brothers and cousins come to visit with Mary the rest of the time.

Besides family time, she gets to spend a lot of time with friends. “I have a lot of friends!” Rigsbee says, and Peters agrees, “She does have that little group of friends that she can have meals with…they hang out during meals and after meals.” And they ask after one another if someone is absent from the table, Peters says, “It’s a beauty that she’s 103 and she gets really involved.”

Mary Rigsbee was raised in Clovis, by farmers and cowboys, and the Rigsbees remain a major Clovis historical family.

Pam Sarantos, her daughter, recounts

that Mary lived with her father on a plot of land on Locan Avenue, where they raised figs, before moving into town later in her life. “We lived on a ranch in Clovis,” Sarantos remembers, “until 2003, and then she moved into town.”

Rigsbee’s two sons, Dan and Chuck, still live in Clovis, along with many of her grandchildren and other relatives, and she is content to have lived her whole life in Clovis. “Most people ask me, did you ever leave?” Rigsbee says, “[there have been] a lot of changes, a heck of a lot, but it’s a nice little town.”

Rigsbee says she doesn’t know how she’s lived this long, but she enjoys her exercise classes and watching sports on television. “If there are pro rodeos on and stuff like that, I like to watch those.” Rigsbee says, along with tennis and golf. However, she maintains that the Hallmark channel is too “phoney”. “She’s never been really ill, she didn’t even have a cardiologist until, what, two years ago,” Sarantos laughs, ”So, she’s a pretty healthy person, honestly.”

Rigsbee worked at Clovis Auto Parts as a bookkeeper until she was 81 years old.

“You should work if you’re able, and I was able,” Rigsbee says.

“Yeah I like it, I always liked it,” Rigsbee says, about Clovis, ”so I’ve just stayed.”

On March 8th, Mary Rigsbee shared her birthday celebration with the staff and fellow residents of Magnolia Crossing, with live music, a food truck provided by Loving Seed, and a visit from friends, family, and the Mayor of Clovis.

Monday to Thursday

Photo courtesy of Magnolia Crossing Left to Right: Pam Sarantos; Dan Rigsbee; Chuck Rigsbee; Lynne Ashbeck, Clovis Mayor; Constance Peters, Executive Director Magnolia Crossing, standing behind the Birthday girl, Mary Rigsbee.

ASHBECK

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Over the last couple of years, Mayor Pro Tem Vong Mouanatoua and I shared a vision to find ways for our kids to engage in this place that they call home. After looking at ‘best practices’ in other communities and conversations with our colleagues at Clovis Unified, the idea for a Clovis Youth Commission was born.

The Clovis Youth Commission was formed in December of 2023 and met for the first time in January of this year. The Commission is made up of 16 high school sophomores and juniors who reside across the City of Clovis. There was an application and an interview process along with their family support for their participation.

Our inaugural group of Commissioners is an incredible group of young people.

LUNCHEON

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

With a large contingent of dignitaries present, including Clovis City Mayor Lynne Ashbeck, the luncheon effectively used a “show and tell” type format that had administrators, teachers and students taking turns presenting their achievements in the various fields of education that are taught at the college. To say the least, there some very impressive reports.

President Armstrong opened by saying “We truly believe on our mission of ‘Creating opportunities – One student at a time’.” She then spoke about a full slate of awards and recognitions Clovis Community College has received recently.

A special recognition

Addressing a full house at the expansive hall, the Dr. Armstrong stated she was especially proud of her school having been named a 2023 Equity Champion of Higher Education based on the number of associate degrees for Transfer earned by Latinex and Black students. She

PAVILLION

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

above the metal stands on the north side of the arena.

VIP suites are in high demand by some arena sponsors. “I had forty people on the waiting list when we started [construction], so we still have twenty people on the waiting list,” Genco said, “We have 26 suites here, and 10 in the Centennial, so that’s 36, but we have very little turnover.”

The money that comes from arena sponsorships and VIP seating is a big deal.

“We’re trying to stay as one of the top 20 rodeos in the country, and that gives us some priority on the Cowboy Channel as far as tv is concerned,” Genco says ,”That’s been the idea since the beginning– to build these [pavilions] to generate more income to increase our prize money, because we can’t do it with ticket sales only.”

According to an article published last year on The Cowboy Channel’s website, the Clovis Rodeo is the highest paying rodeo in California, with a $400,000 prize pool.

This year, the prize pool is expected to increase to nearly $450,000, and Genco says that’s in thanks largely to the generous sponsors of the rodeo.

Ticket sales do contribute, but Genco pointed out that the Clovis Rodeo is relatively affordable for the average

They come from different schools, different neighborhoods, different families and have varied (and many!) interests. Some knew others in the group. Most did not. And, above all else, they are the best example of that while they are indeed unique individuals, they quickly found their way to the things they have in common.

They are proud of our community and describe it with words like ‘home,’ ‘tradition,’ and ‘community’.

They want to be a part of making it an even better place. And particularly for their generation. Just what should a Clovis Youth Commission accomplish?

Will they focus on a specific project---for example, what if we had a Youth Center that rivals our new Senior Center as a place to gather? Could we ‘think big’ to make Clovis the best place for kids?

And, gratefully, at their first meeting,

stated Clovis Community College is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

In an interview with the Clovis Roundup, Dr. Armstrong stated she was “very happy being at Clovis Community College where the community is very passionate about education; it’s a very welcoming environment that is dedicated to improving and growing.” She placed special emphasis on the tutorship programs that are helping many students to not only pass their courses, but also to achieve the highest grades.

The story of another president

One such student is Jeremiah Lopez, a Buchanan High School graduate.

Speaking before the large and diversified gathering, Jeremiah described how he thought he was doing good in his studies. However, when grades were passed out, he was shocked to see that his efforts did reflect the effort he had put into them. So, he sought help from tutors. Not only did he better learn his courses, but he also learned how to study! His grades shot up. Jeremiah is the Associated Student Government president.

attendee. “On the weekend I think we’re only $20 or $25 a ticket, and with the concert it’s $35,” Genco says, “and we try to keep the prices down, so we keep the place full, so the sponsors want to come, and it all works together to be able to afford to pay the cowboys and cowgirls more.”

Each year the Clovis Rodeo averages about 45,000 tickets sold, with concert nights contributing up to 12,000 tickets.

The community surrounding the Clovis Rodeo is very supportive of the success and growth of the show.

“The cost [of construction] probably increased by about 50%,” Genco said, “after COVID, everything was so expensive.”

People who care about the rodeo did their part to help out. In addition to the new pavilion, the Clovis Rodeo is also getting new roping chutes and pens underneath.

Genco says that one member of the Rodeo Association donated the new Priefert chutes, and another member donated all the material for the new holding pens.

“We’ve had some of the sponsors give us checks above and beyond their sponsorship just because they appreciate what we’re doing for them,” Geno says, “It’s the community that has really supported us. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

they taught us a bit about how their generation likes to communicate---both with technology and with some of the slang being used in high school. Unusual as it sounded to my ears, I was incredibly appreciative for the ‘crash course’ in teen vocabulary!!

This inaugural group of Youth Commissioners are trailblazers—joining the ranks of a community built by trailblazers—those who built the flume, who imagined a vibrant Old Town, our first woman Mayor, those who invented farm equipment, developed technology, thought an abandoned railroad line could become a trail and more.

Their job will be to define the course of how future Youth Commissions will serve this community. What is important to our youth? How will we know? How do they want to get and stay involved?

The 2024 Clovis Youth Commission

Meet the ILOs

Describing all that goes on in her school, Dr. Armstrong alluded to the importance of the ILOs—Institutional Learning Outcomes. She described them as attributes and skills that each student will attain upon completing a degree or certificate from Clovis Community College.

So, what are the ILOs? 1. Communication and literacy; 2. Critical thinking; 3. Global awareness; and 4. Personal responsibility and professional development. Those steps to success can work for students and for citizens of the world.

Not all President’s Luncheons are the same

The President’s Luncheon had something for everyone. Did we mention the

meets monthly through May 2024. For more information, visit: www.cityofclovis.com/government/city-council/ youth-commission.

But back to perhaps the most important lesson from these kids—one that many adults have forgotten. They remind us that we can gather together with people we do not know, who may appear different than us, who live in different parts of our community—and all agree that Clovis is a special place and one worth working together on.

With these young Clovis leaders in charge—and those that will follow—I am confident in the future of our community. And THAT is the job of us, as leaders, today—make sure there are those ready to follow.

We’ve got that covered.

study of frozen matter in space? Or about the many outstanding performances and triumphs of Crush athletes in the sports fields? They were all there. So was the clothing store that helps students and others to dress well!

Amid the many reports of achievement, expressions of admiration, laughter, and applause for the many who achieved outstanding performances at Clovis Community College, the event had an easiness about it that made all in attendance feel good and welcomed. There’s no doubt the diversity, equity, and inclusion Dr. Armstrong promotes was present and working at the Memorial Building for the President’s Luncheon!

Soroptimist International of Clovis honors award winners

their dreams is one of the greatest rewards of being a Soroptimist.”

March 8, 2024 - Approximately 120 guests gathered at the Herndon campus of Clovis Community College on Feb. 28 to recognize the Clovis International Soroptimist Live Your Dream award winners.

“It was such an honor for our club to be able to award 35 women with Live Your Dream Awards,” said President, Linda Gillis. “Providing each of these women with grants that will help them access the education and training to achieve economic empowerment and pursue

Thirty-six thousand dollars were divided among the women, all of whom are head of household and enrolled in an educational program.

“We’re so proud of you...and want to stay in touch with you,” Gillis told the recipients.

Winners’ educational study areas included Business Administration, Social Work, Accounting, Forestry, Engineering, Psychology and Nursing.

Some of the schools they attended

were Fresno State, Reedley College, Fresno City College, Clovis Community College, and National University.

First place recipient, Lily Drinnon-Lucio, received $2,000. Her dream is to become an electrical engineer; she is a sophomore at Clovis Community College.

“When I was notified I won the award, I was ecstatic, very happy.” said Drinnon-Lucio. “I couldn't believe it and it honestly warms my heart to know that there's women who support me and my dreams. It motivates me to go forward.

“Some obstacles I have faced whilst trying to get my education were being an adoptee with little family support. I have never known my biological mother. I was born prematurely and grew up unconventionally. So, although I have been able to be independent it has been a struggle to stay motivated. I am also a domestic violence survivor, juvenile hall graduate, and single mother of a four-year-old.”

Asked what advice she would give women who face challenges in achieving their goals, Drinnon-Lucio was quick to respond.

“Never give up on yourself even when it's tough,” she said. “Always believe in yourself instead of the stereotypes society expects of you. The saying that you can be whatever you want to be is true. Also, accept help when it is offered.”

Clovis Soroptimists participate in the “Dream” programs of Soroptimist International of the Americas: “Live Your

Dream” Education Awards for Women and “Dream It Be It” for teens.

Locally, the club works with the Marjoree Mason Center and the Evangel Home, the Salvation Army, Family Healing Center and CUSD Kids in Transition, among many others. They also offer a financial scholarship, “Women’s Advocate Award,” to San Joaquin College of Law.

If you are interested in learning more about the Soroptimist International of Clovis, visit siclovis.org or Email: siclovis@soroptimist.net.

Carole Grosch

cgg266@comcast.net

Photo courtesy of Brendan Gillis First place recipient, Lily Drinnon-Lucio.

Photo courtesy of Brendan Gillis

From left to right, Janie Hokanson, Rachel Bennett (LYD Chair), Judith Preuss, Kathleen Orona, Mary King, Kaden Ferretti, Sue Buckley (Immediate past president of SIClovis), Linda Gillis (Current president SIClovis), Dr. Kim Armstrong (president CCC), Sarah Donaldson, Delaine Pereida.

New B.O.O.T. storefront displays official Clovis merchandise

March 10, 2024 - The Business Organization of Old Town (B.O.O.T.) is selling Old Town Clovis merchandise from their new office at 336 Pollasky Avenue.

“I’m so excited,” says B.O.O.T. Executive Director Heather Frantzich, about the new office space, “we have all this storage room back there, and it’s like we can breathe, and when we get ready for events, we can do it all right here.”

The fresh interior features clean, modern decor, with a touch of western flare.

The B.O.O.T. office is right in the heart of Old Town Clovis, next to Gottschalk Music Center, and prime real estate for visibility from everyday Old Town visitors.

Right now, the storefront is selling t-shirts, hats, and mugs with original designs, but there are plans to expand the offerings. “We are going to re-order our most popular shirt, but we have other designs, and we’re going to do Farmers Market shirts and stuff like that,” Frantzich says, “I would like to expand our inventory to magnets or postcards, or beanies, maybe even a license plate frame.”

The money you spend on Old Town Clovis merchandise goes right back into the store, to help B.O.O.T. provide more ways to show your love for our town.

In the fall and winter, the organization plans to introduce long sleeve shirts and hoodies as well.

According to Frantzich, the new

merchandise has already traveled across the country, “In fact, we had a guy come in on Monday to buy coffee mugs and he’s actually going to ship them to Tennessee to his son who moved over there.”

Besides stopping by, social media is the next best place to see what’s new in store, and Frantzich has plans to use online engagement to help drive sales, “It’s really cool, like we had a guy that came in and said, ‘I got suckered in by your Instagram’ and he bought a hat.”

Frantzich says that there may be an online poll for a new design soon, “It’s just more interactive, and more people may see it and come in to buy something.”

Keep an eye on the official Instagram @Old_Town_Clovis or the Old Town Clovis facebook page for more designs soon, but if you want to see the merchandise in person you can stop by Tuesday through Friday, from 10 A.M. to 3 P.M.

Madeleine’s celebrates 20th anniversary with ribbon cutting

Mary Gadberry @ClovisRoundup

March 6, 2024 - Madeleine’s Bridal Boutique owner Sherri Mosher recently celebrated 20 years in business with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Clovis Chamber of Commerce.

Originally located on Blackstone and Sierra Avenues, Madeleine’s moved to their current location on the corner of Fifth and Pollasky, in Old Town over ten years ago.

The ribbon cutting ceremony honored Madeleine’s as a long-time fixture in Old Town and celebrated their joining the Chamber.

Attending the ceremony were members of the Chamber as well as City of Clovis Councilmember Diane Pearce.

Pearce called Madeleine’s “part of the fabric of the community,” and stated that she, like many of us, have a Madeleine’s gown somewhere in our past, whether prom dress or wedding gown.

A representative from California State Senator Shannon Grove’s office presented owner Sherri Mosher with a proclamation.

In business since 1954, Madeleine’s has been a staple of the bridal and prom industry here in the Fresno-Clovis area.

The beautifully appointed bridal boutique carries everything you could possibly need for your wedding attire. Their large selection of wedding gowns include designers who specialize in dressing curvy brides.

Madeleine's services include tuxedo rentals, in all sizes from ring bearer to groom. The store has a large selection of bridesmaid gowns and flower girl dresses, with all necessary accessories. Coordinating mother of the bride and mother of the groom dresses can also be found here. Madeleine’s also does alter ations for the bridal party, and provides a service for brides to have their wedding dresses cleaned and preserved properly.

The dedicated and experienced bridal

stylists believe that the day a bride selects her wedding gown should be as special and memorable as the day she walks down the aisle in it.

Sherri's words to hear in her boutique are "I say YES to becoming a Madeleine's Bride!"

Photo Samantha Golden, Clovis Roundup B.O.O.T. Storefront displays official Clovis Merchandise.

Clovis

Clovis

Recipe

Celebrate St. Patrick's day with Traditional Irish Dishes

(Family Features)

If St. Patrick’s Day inspires feelings of hearth and home rather than leprechauns and green beer, you can celebrate tradition with warm, filling meals that harken back to Irish heritage. Soups and stews are certain to conjure up some nostalgia while soft, delicious cake is a perfect way to honor tradition regardless of your ancestry.

This Irish Sláinte Stew offers a warm welcome to guests with your

own way of toasting to the holiday - Sláinte is “cheers” in Gaelic. This hearty meal is perfect for a crowd with traditional stew meat slowcooked in a Dutch oven with beef broth, spices, carrots, potatoes, herbs and an Irish draught beer. Serve alongside crusty bread that’s ideal for soaking up each delicious drop.

Share a sweet way to complete the meal in style with Irish Apple Cake, a classic dessert to top off

Irish Sláinte Stew

• 1 pound stew meat

• 1-2 pinches salt, plus additional to taste, divided

• 1-2 pinches pepper

• 3 tablespoons flour

• 48 ounces beef broth

• 1 cup carrots, diced

• 1 cup celery, diced

• 3 cups potatoes, diced

• 1/2 onion, diced

DIRECTIONS:

• 2 tablespoons garlic pepper

• 1 tablespoon dried thyme

• 1/2 tablespoon dried rosemary

• 1 tablespoon dried chives

• 1 bottle Irish draught beer of choice

• Oil, for drizzling

• crusty bread, for serving

In Dutch oven over medium heat, drizzle oil and brown stew meat with salt and pepper. Sprinkle flour over meat. Add beef broth, carrots, celery, potatoes, onion, garlic pepper, thyme, rosemary and chives. Add Irish draught beer. Bring to boil, stirring, 5 minutes. Simmer 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serve with crusty bread.

a filling celebration. This version is easy enough to prepare with a handful of everyday ingredients for the cake, a crumbly topping and homemade custard for the finishing touch.

If you’re looking for additional ways to honor tradition this St. Patrick’s Day, consider a few other cozy Irish dishes:

* Boxty (potato pancakes, similar to latkes)

* Boiled cabbage

Irish Apple Cake

Cake:

• 3 cups self-rising flour

• 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon cloves

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoon ginger

• 1 stick butter, cubed

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 4 apples of choice, peeled and cubed

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup half-and-half

Topping:

• 1/2 stick butter

• 3/4 cup flour

• 1 cup brown sugar

Custard:

• 6 large egg yolks

• 6 tablespoons sugar

• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half

• 2 teaspoons vanilla

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 375 F. Grease and flour 9-inch round springform pan.

To make cake: In large bowl, sift flour with cinnamon, cloves,

* Irish soda bread

* Shepherd’s pie

* Corned beef and cabbage

* Potato soup

* Irish coffee

* Colcannon (mashed potatoes and greens)

* Coddle (typically including pork sausage, potatoes and onions)

* Seafood chowder

To find more ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, visit Culinary.net.

nutmeg and ginger. Using fork, cut butter until mixture resembles crumbs. Add sugar and apples; mix well. Stir in eggs and half-and-half until mixture reaches thick, dough-like batter. Pour batter into prepared pan.

To make topping: In bowl, mix butter, flour and sugar to create crumbled mixture. Sprinkle on top of batter in pan. Bake 1 hour. Check with toothpick to make sure middle is completely done. If not, bake 5-10 minutes. Let cool on rack.

To make custard: Whisk egg yolks and sugar. In saucepan, bring half-and-half to boil. Add one spoonful half-and-half at a time to egg mixture, whisking while adding. Once whisked together, return to saucepan and stir over medium heat until thickened, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla.

Serve custard over cake.

LET’S TALK CLOVIS: The First 50 Years of Clovis

Peg Bos Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed

The Clovis Chamber of Commerce, Clovis City and a citizen committee published “The History of Clovis, 50 years of progress” ($1 per copy) to celebrate the city’s first 50 years (1912-1962). William T. Akin was the author and Mal Johnson was the Editor and Publisher. We will be sharing and quoting portions of this book.

Joseph Edwin Bretz (1887-1957) was honored as an early Clovis pioneer. His father established the first mill (1875) in the Shaver area. Ed was one of the founders of the Pine Ridge School. He served on their board of trustees and on the Sierra Elementary School Board. He dedicated 19 years on the Clovis Union High School Board. His sons Lou and Bob were operating the Clovis Bretz Lumber Company in 1962.

A coin (Mint Saloon, Clovis, CAL, back side: good for a 10 cent drink or cigar) was pictured. It was stated there were 10 saloons in Clovis. All saloons were closed at the 1912 incorporation since the “Dry Slate” won the election.

Members of the Chamber of Commerce and Merchants Association were pictured at their new location (1897 SP depot). Vernon “Mugs” Smith was President, Wayne Rohde, Vice President, H.R. “Slim” Beaver Treasurer and Brenda Boswell Secretary. The depot was dismantled in 1970 and

Dr.

the Clovis Cole Hotel is now at that location.

A picture of the Clovis Veterans Memorial building identified: President Carl Merriman, Superintendant of Recreation, Rex Phebus, Directors: Edward Mesple, Hifumi Ikeda, Robert C. Burgess and Earl Smittcamp.

Some of the “Facts about Modern Clovis” published: The area of Clovis Judicial District is over 206 square miles. Bus service by Moyer Stage Lines served Clovis from downtown Fresno, nine trips daily. There were 57 civic, service, fraternal, veterans and social organizations. Population: special US census 1961, 7,704; from regular 1960 census, 5,500. Clovis Unified School District: 10 elementary schools, one high school with a total of 5,950 students.

We quote a paragraph titled “Solving our water problems”: “Procuring an adequate supply of water for culinary and other purposes is and has been a very important problem in Clovis as indeed it is in most of California. Our pioneers solved the problem by digging shallow wells, which was about all that was needed in the 1890s. The Enterprise and Gould ditches transferred river water to parched sands and changed a dry area where fruit trees and vines would grow abundantly. Increasing population and farming acreage through the years still makes water procurement an acute problem.

Harmesh Kumar:

He is not a politician, but he’s running

March 11, 2024 - There are politicians. And then there is Dr. Harmesh Kumar. He is not a politician. He is a renowned clinical psychologist. But he is running for the 20 the Congressional District that was left without a representation when then Congressman Kevin McCarthy resigned the post after being removed as the Speaker of The House in Washington. The Special Election is on March 19th.

So, why is Dr. Kumar running?

Because mental illness is running rampant throughout our country, and he feels the government sees it as the “Big Elephant” in the room and is not doing enough to bring it under control. In fact, he has a plan to reduce the high number of mental illness cases.

Running as a Doctor of Psychology

“Yes, I am affiliated with the Democratic Party, but I am running as a Doctor of Psychology,” he affirms. “Mental illness is everywhere in our society. Of course, we’ve all heard of the tragic shootings. But mental illness causes so many problems in so many ways and in so many areas of life.

Think of homelessness, drug addiction, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and so many more.”

Of course, one of the reasons as to why people who suffer mental disorders go untreated are the costs involved. The government is not the answer to

everything, but in the case of mental illness, it must get involved because most families do not have the money to pay for treatments. “If a child is diagnosed with a mental disorder, parents usually can’t pick the costs,” he says. He also has a plan to help reduce the costs of treating mental disorders.

“That is the main reason I am running,” he adds. “I am not a politician, but running is the only way I think I can help to bring down a problem that is everywhere but is being overlooked!”

Unique perspective on immigration

There is also another area in which Dr. Kumar also feels he can help. Having arrived as an immigrant to our country, Dr. Kumar went through the immigration system and faced all the obstacles found in that system. Yet, he was able to prevail and succeed. He feels his unique insight to immigration can help to arrive at an effective and workable system that can improve the system presently in place.

While he understands running for the Special Election on March 19th may make some people skeptical about what he can do, he feels the limited term can help him accomplish his objectives. “Candidates running for the full term will do nothing in the 9 months left of the term because they will be out campaigning,” he affirms. “I will go to congress with an urgency to give needed attention to the problem and to get things done—now!”

Modern science, engineering and the State and Federal government have gone far to relieve this situation.”

A picture submitted by Arthur H. Bier identified his father Henry B. Bier (member of the contracting firm) using early mechanical trenchers to install the water ($25,000 bond issued) and sewer ($24,000 bond issued) system. We quote: “According to some source the water table was sometimes only four feet below ground level and

caused great difficulty. Sometimes men were buried in the trenches but fortunately no lives were lost. Much of the original water line is in use in Clovis today, fifty years after it was laid.”

The 1913 Clovis Water tower (south of Fifth and Hughes) constructed at that time continues to be functional.

One page displayed pictures of snow and stated it was a birthday present for Clovis. On Jan. 21 and 22 of 1962, Clovis received two and a half inches of snow. “In 1930 it snowed 2 ½ inches but this was on a Sunday and it was all gone by Monday.”

Pictures of Clovis High’s new gymnasium ($250,000) and the Mercedes Edward modern auditorium addressed the continued progress of the school that had a 1,400 pupil enrollment.

A photo of the 1955 Clovis billboard that was placed by Clovis Chamber of Commerce on state highway 99 just south of Clovis Avenue provided the following message to over 50,000 automobiles daily: “Clovis gateway to the Sierras. Shortest route to Fresno County Playland: Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Dinkey Creek, Millerton Lake.”

A copy of the book is available for review at the Clovis Museum. It reminds us of our rich heritage.

Jess Gonzalez @ClovisRoundup

Courtesy of Clovis Museum Cover of the book The History of Clovis "50 years of progress".

Teenager in critical condition after collision with car

Contributed Clovis Police Department

March 6, 2024 - A teenage juvenile remains in critical condition at the hospital following a collision at Willow/Sierra yesterday afternoon.

On March 5 just after 3PM, officers responded to a collision between a car and a teenager on an electric scooter.

The collision shut down a portion of the intersection at Willow/Sierra for 2 hours while CPD Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) investigated the circumstances.

The investigation showed that the adult driver of a car was preparing to make a left turn onto northbound Willow from eastbound Sierra while a teenager on an

electric scooter was westbound on Sierra approaching Willow.

The adult driver of the car remained at the intersection and cooperated with our investigation.

The teenager was transported to a local hospital and their parents were made aware. Currently, alcohol and/or drugs are not suspected.

The Clovis Police Department would like to remind parents and riders of electric scooters of the laws in California that are in place to make our roadways safer:

• Minors must wear a helmet when riding an electric scooter.

• All riders must obey traffic laws and signage.

• Electric scooters may not travel faster

than 15MPH and may not travel on a road with a speed limit greater than 25MPH.

• Always ride in a bike lane when one is available.

• You may not operate an electric scooter without a driver’s license or permit.

Clovis Police and ABC work together in a Statewide Underage Drinking Enforcement Operation

Contributed Clovis Police Department

March 11, 2024 – Clovis Police cited 1 individual during ABC’s statewide Shoulder Tap operation on March 9, 2024 in Clovis for furnishing alcoholic beverages to minors. This enforcement operation is designed to create awareness about the dangers of underage drinking throughout California and keep communities safe. During the detail, 9 locations in Clovis were checked and 21 people were contacted.

A Shoulder Tap operation focuses on 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 Chief of Police Curt Fleming.

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).

This operation was funded by ABC’s Alcohol Policing Partnership program and the California Office of Traffic Safety through NHTSA.

Photo courtesy of Clovis Police Department Damage sustained between the car and electric scooter.

Clovis

Friday, March 29

VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY

Clovis Veterans Memorial District

808 4th St, Clovis, CA

Women's History Month

Saturday, March 16

AMERICAN LEGION FAMILY DAY

508 4th St., Clovis, CA 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

CLOVIS’ ALMOST ST. PATRICK’S DAY PUB CRAWL

Clovis Ave. / Pollasky, Clovis, CA

4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sunday, March 17

CLOVIS COMMUNITY BAND CONCERT

Paul Shaghoian Memorial Concert Hall 2770 E. International Ave., Fresno, CA 2:30 P.M.

Sunday, March 17

CRAFT BEER CRAWL

Old Town Clovis 2 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 19

VETERANS BINGO

Clovis Senior Activity Center

735 Third St., Clovis, CA 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Thursday, March 21

JOLLY TIMES

Clovis Senior Activity Center

735 Third St., Clovis, CA 9 a.m.

Friday and Saturday, March 22 & 23

Sunday, March 24

CENTRAL VALLEY GEM & MINERAL SHOW

748 Rodeo Drive, Clovis, CA

Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Sunday, March 24

CLOVIS BRITISH AUTO ROUNDUP 2024

Old Town Clovis Roundup 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sunday, March 24

VINTAGE MARKET & ANTIQUES Old Town Clovis 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

• Vietnam Map – West Side Park

• Car Show – Veterans Parkway

• Now & Then Photo Exhibit - Liberty Ballroom

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Saturday, March 30

FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONY

7246 N. De Wolf Ave., Clovis, CA 8 a.m.

Sunday, March 31

EASTER SUNDAY

Sunday, March 31

COMMUNITY EASTER LUNCHEON

Clovis Senior Activity Center

735 Third St., Clovis, CA 11 a.m.

Saturday, April 6 and Sunday, April 7

BIG HAT DAYS

Old Town Clovis

Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

What is Inflation?

Inflation measures how much prices rise over time. When prices rise, the value of a dollar falls and your purchasing power goes down.

When inflation occurs, the price of goods and services—stuff you buy— isn’t constant; prices change over time. When prices go up, that’s inflation. During moments of inflation, it takes more money to buy products or services. This means that purchasing power goes down.

To measure inflation and purchasing power, economists look at a price index, often the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the average price of goods at specific moments in time. Economists then compare changes in cost averages to figure out the rate in which they’ve gone up. That rate is the rate of inflation and is measured as a percentage.

The Good and the Bad: The Good If inflation is mild and consistent, it encourages consumers to buy now instead of later when they’ll have to pay more. Demand rises, companies increase production and hire more workers—the result is a boost in economic growth.

Another good side effect of inflation is that it decreases the chance of deflation, inflation’s much more disastrous cousin. Deflation is when prices for goods and services go down. Lower prices sound pretty good... But over time, it can lower demand for goods,

cause companies to lay off workers, decrease the amount of money circulating in the economy, and create a cycle of economic decline.

The Good and the Bad: The Bad

One tough side effect of inflation is obvious: stuff costs more. If wages don’t match the rise of prices, consumers are forced to spend less and some may not be able to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, or groceries. With less money to go around, inflation could spike further, causing the economy to slow down and unemployment to go up.

Stagflation: Stagflation is bad news and happens when there’s high inflation, high unemployment, and slow or stagnant economic growth. Such a troublesome combination of events generates a decrease in spending— which means less money circulating in the economy. Plus, the money that is available is worth less and less as time goes on. It can get a little complicated, but stagflation is likely caused by fiscal policies. Because of changes in policy and economic conditions, it’s pretty unlikely to happen today.

What Causes Inflation?

There are two ways that prices typically rise—both have to do with supply and demand: demand-pull and cost-push.

Demand-Pull: Demand-pull inflation happens when goods or services are in higher demand than usual, but the supply remains the same—so companies can raise prices, knowing that people are willing to spend the money.

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

OLD TOWN CLOVIS FARMERS’ MARKET

Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA

Every Saturday Year-Round

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

Friday, April 12

WAKE UP CLOVIS “THE BASICS OF STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS”

Clovis Community College

Herndon Campus, Room 308 390 W. Fir Ave., Clovis, CA

Saturday, April 13

WATER TOWER CAR SHOW 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many people needed cleaning supplies, disinfectants, and hand sanitizer, resulting in a shortage and driving some of those prices up.

Cost-Push: Cost-push inflation is when the supply of goods and services is limited but the demand stays the same. And so, again, companies can raise prices. One common example of cost-push inflation has to do with oil and gas prices. If conflicts or natural disasters in the Middle East make it difficult to distribute oil, the price of oil goes up–even though demand stays the same.

Inflation is just one part of normal economic conditions. But, like most things, too much can be damaging. Even in moments of healthy inflation,

Old Town Clovis on Pollasky

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sunday, April 14

COMMUNITY CHOIR OF THE VALLEY

Songs of Broadway, Television and Silver Screen

Warnor Theatre

1400 Fulton St., Fresno, CA 2:30 p.m.

the loss of purchasing power feels significant when your budget is tight. Try tracking your spending and adjusting your budget to match actual prices now instead of what prices were. For easy-to-use online budgeting tools, visit Noble Credit Union’s website at www.NobleCU.com and click on the “Learn” tab.

Noble Credit Union, voted the 2024 best credit union in Central California by the Business Journal, offers offer 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.

Bob Kayajanian the road to officiating greatness (Part 2)

March 14, 2024 - With his officiating abilities in continual step-climbing mode, in 1984 Bob had been officiating college sports for three years. That’s when he met Don Wilson at an off-season West Coast Football Officials Clinic in Southern California. Wilson was assigner for the newly organized America West Conference. Impressed by Bob and his group of officials due to their knowledge, commitment, and willingness to improve their officiating, Wilson immediately assigned them to work football games in the new conference. Officiating basketball would soon follow.

Climbing to the top of the mountain

With Wilson solidly behind him, Bob soon became a Division I football official. In a few years, he had gone from officiating intramural sports in junior high to the pinnacle of amateur sports officiating in our country—reaching heights he never imagined!

In 1989, Bob lived one of the highlights of his officiating career. Wilson called wanting him to represent the America West Conference as an official in the Potato Bowl in Bakersfield. His work ethic and determination were rewarding him for his dedication to his officiating career. Twenty-one years before, he had been team manager with the Fresno City

College football team that played at the Potato Bowl. Now, he would officiate that post-season game. Overcome with emotion, Bob walked out of his house and looked up toward heaven. With tears in his eyes, he thanked God for his good fortune. In a career that would last over 60 years over a span of seven decades, that was special. In fact, he loved officiating. But nothing in life lasts forever… Sports Association leader

In 2002, injuries led to Bob’s early retirement from officiating. But he stayed in the game by becoming an instructional leader of basketball camps in Las Vegas. That’s what he was doing when, in 2003, he was asked to interview for the head job of the San Joaquin Valley Officials Association. He didn’t get it, but 7 years later, he did. He led the SJVOA for 13 years. He then became assigner for women’s basketball in the Central Valley Conference.

Based on his reputation for getting things done, in 2021 Bob was persuaded to return to heading an area officials’ association. The Central Section Officials Service Assistance has 128 officials and works with 10 high schools, 34 middle schools, and 15 elementary schools. He also trains people to conduct sporting events at Fresno State and Fresno Pacific.

Bob’s impact on Central Valley sports

Bob Kayajanian has impacted the Central California sports scene by doing things his way. A serious childhood injury prohibited his participation in sports, but he was far from finished. His resolve, strength of character, as well as his drive and creativeness pushed him to constantly prepare himself to walk onto many a field of play. His knowledge of sports, integrity, honesty, respect, and hard work impacted not only players and coaches; it continues to impact officials and the games. At 76 years, he is not thinking about retirement. He continues training officials. He likes to tell them to always officiate their best—regardless of the level of competition!

Today in Central California, Bob is a highly respected individual because of what he stands for and all he has given our community that goes beyond the

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: TRIBUTE TO JAMES HALLOWELL

Contributed

Gregg Hernandez

March 7, 2024 - In 1961, I was a Senior at Clovis High School. I was the janitor at Hallowell Chevrolet Company before and after school and on Saturdays.

One day a customer traded in a 1948 Chevrolet FleetLine, two-door sedan. I was making ninety cents an hour before taxes and I didn't have a car.

With James Hallowell's kindness, arrangements were made for me to purchase the car, for one hundred fifty dollars. I was to pay twenty-five dollars a month until paid in full.

I've always been thankful for James Hallowell's care and kindness to me personally and for all the employees at Hallowell Chevrolet Company.

world of sports. People who have known and seen him in action over the years were glad to tell us about him.

Allen Huddleston

Coached basketball at Merced Junior College for 28 years—23 as the head coach “One of the best things about Bob—that is missing in many officials today—was his ability to connect with a coach. He hustled, was always in position, and was always open to talk to the coach. He always had a good explanation for his calls. If it happened, he would admit missing a call. He set a very high bar for excellence in officiating!”

Dara Johnson

Hoover High School Athletic Director, ex multi-sport athlete at Fresno Pacific “As a player, I remember Bob, as an official, being instructive on how we could play better. It wasn’t coaching, just helping us to be better. He has always been a large positive side of athletics. He understands and lives the positive— always there to help. That’s always been Bob—as a teacher, coach, and official. He’s an amazing athletic pillar to our athletic world!”

Stephen Mintz

Ex basketball official, scorer’s table official “He’s always worked hard, getting to the game early, staying late. Very thorough; he knows the rules better than anyone. When he took over the officials’ association, he knew it needed change and, though some people resisted, he changed basketball officiating for the better. He found a way to implement the use of three officials. He is not quick to judgment and supports his officials.

He believes officiating is not just about sports—it’s also about the camaraderie of officials.”

Moments lived, accomplishments attained—too numerous to list It is easily understood that over his extensive career as a multi-sports official Bob lived many special moments and achieved countless highlights in his exciting career. Here are a few of them…

• Officiated 13 consecutive football bowl games

• Officiated 2 NCAA Regional Basketball Tournaments

• Became the first, and is still the only official, to officiate Division I football and basketball in the same year—did it from 1984–1987

• Officiated a bowl game he participated in

• Assisted in development of Basketball Section Finals held in Selland Arena

• Officiated the first Clovis vs Clovis West game

• As a sports officiating teacher and mentor, Bob helped guide one of his students into officiate in the NBA

• Presently, six Division I college football officials are his former pupils; two of them have worked the national championship games

In his own way, Bob has made Central California a better and more exciting place to live; a place to enjoy the wonderful world of sports. Without doubt, thousands of area residents have been positively impacted by what Bob Kayajanian has been doing for so many years. He deserves big thanks!

heard.

Jess Gonzalez

@ClovisRoundup

Photo courtesy of Bob Kayajanian Bob Kayajanian

Photo courtesy of Chapel of Light James Hallowell

Photo by- Rob Hansen

February 24, 2024- The Clovis North varsity boys soccer team poses with their two plaques, as back to back central section division 1 champions. The Broncos battled the entire match against

Photo by Armando Negrete @etergen_sports

Photo by Armando Negrete @etergen_sports

The crowd cheers Clovis North’s game winning goal late in the second overtime period during the Central Section division 1 soccer championship.

Photo by Armando Negrete @etergen_sports

Clovis North’s Nixon Hansen and Brady Downing celebrate during second half action in the Central Section Division 1 Soccer final.

Photo courtesy of Rob Hansen February 24, 2024 - The Clovis North varsity boys soccer team poses with their two plaques, as back to back central section division 1 champions. The Broncos battled the entire match against a tough Ridgeview (Bakersfield) team but in the end Clovis North came out victorious with a 3-2 win over the WolfPack from Ridgeview. Clovis North gets 2 goals from Sophomore forward Nixon Hansen and the overtime game winning goal from Junior midfielder Dylan Mostes.

Photo courtesy of Armando Negrete, @etergen_sports Clovis North Junior Dylan Mostes (13) guards RidgeView Junior Andrew Orozco (19).

Photo courtesy of Armando Negrete, @etergen_sports

The crowd cheers Clovis North’s game winning goal late in the second overtime period during the Central Section division 1 soccer championship.

Photo courtesy of Armando Negrete, @etergen_sports Clovis North’s Nixon Hansen and Brady Downing celebrate during second half action in the Central Section Division 1 Soccer final.

Special Olympics a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship

Jess Gonzalez @ClovisRoundup

March 8, 2024 — The loud cheering reached outside the two gyms, basketballs were continually heard thumping heavy on the slick wooden floors, and— being a basketball tournament—the ever-present and distinctive sounds of officials’ whistles interrupting the action were ever-persistent on the courts. It was Saturday morning, March 8, 2024. The place was the Clovis North High School Broncos gym—home of the Boys Division I CIF Central Section Champions. But, no--it was not the Champion Broncos on the court this time.

The Tournament at Clovis North

All the excitement, the thumping, slick moves, shots, rebounds, and baskets were being made by Olympians—very Special Olympians! It was the celebration of the 2024 Fresno Regional Special Olympics Basketball Tournament. A total of 27 teams from Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings, and Tulare counties were playing hard to advance in the state competition.

“All the teams were playing their hearts outs—having a great time!” That is how Molly Eide Marquez, one of the event’s organizers, described the action on each of the courts being used. A multitude of people were present. Smiles everywhere from families, friends, sports fans, and other interested admirers. The competing teams were made up of players of both genders and all ages--from 8 years on up. There was nothing new about the objective in each game; run

up and down the court to try and put as many points as possible on the scoreboard for your team.

Haley Janzer, Special Olympics Sports Manager for the Central Valley, informed “the teams have been practicing for this tournament from 6-8 weeks, so they come prepared to play their best.”

The competition was broken up into 5 divisions—all based on the ability levels of the players with over 250 athletes, 50 coaches, and many volunteers were involved in the tournament. Games were played in eight-minute quarters of running time. The last two minutes of the second and fourth quarter was stoppage time. Each team

played 3 or 4 games in one day. The Special Olympics offer competition in 11 different sports the year around. The Northern California region has nearly 250 competitions in those sports every year.

History of The Special Olympics

The Special Olympics were started by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister of President John F. Kennedy, in the summer of 1962. For years she had seen what she believed to be was an injustice on the way people with intellectual disabilities were treated. She didn’t like how they were often ignored, neglected, and routinely placed in custodial institutions even though they had many talents and gifts to offer the world.

She had witnessed it firsthand because her sister Rosemary had an intellectual disability. Yet, having grown up with Rosemary, she knew that she was talented and was very capable of participating activities, including in sports. One day, in the summer of 1962, Eunice invited people with intellectual disabilities to a sports camp in her own backyard. Calling it Camp Shriver, it turned out to be a great success. The gathering that saw first light in her back yard rapidly extended everywhere. In fact, only six years later, in 1968, the first international Special Olympics Games were held in Chicago, Illinois, and the rest is history!

Special thanks

Aside from being highly attended, the tournament at Clovis North had many volunteers. Among the organizations stepping forward were California Health Science, Clovis Rotary, Clovis Police Department, Fresno City College Women’s Soccer Team, East Fresno Rotary, and Clovis Kiwanis were present to lend a helping hand.

“We want to thank all those organizations and volunteers for their help,” informed Molly. "And a special thanks to the Clovis Unified School District and Clovis North High School for allowing us to use their facilities—we’re very appreciative!”

Anyone interested in participating in anyway with the Special Olympics— whether as a participant, volunteer and, or donor—is urged to reach them on the internet at SONC.ORG.

Photo by Jess Gonzalez, Clovis Roundup Haley Janzer, Special Olympics Sports Manager for the Central Valley & Molly Eide Marquez, event organizer.