Clovis R undup
Things
and
Local barbers help cut back-to-school costs
Leece @ClovisRoundup
August 19, 2024 – Local barbers at Prolific Cuts and Kongo Barbershop gave back to Clovis by offering free haircuts on August 18th for kids going back to school. Scheduled the day before Clovis
Unified School District went back for the new year, these barbershops cut the hair of hundreds of kids ensure they looked sharp for their first day.
On early Sunday morning as the sun barely touched Shaw Avenue at 7AM, Prolific Cuts awaited in eager anticipation
for the crowd of families that would drop by that day for their haircut. They worked all the way until 4PM, thousands of hair strands being swept up as the hours passed by. As this occurred, families took up every seat in the shop,
City Council begins meeting with honoring transit employees
August 19, 2024 - The Clovis City Council meeting opened with a heartfelt proclamation honoring two transit employees for their exceptional service. Councilmember Pierce read the proclamation, signed by Mayor Lynne Ashbeck, recognizing the extraordinary actions of Dayana Contreras, a dispatcher, and Juan Lomeli, a van driver.
The proclamation sung the praises of the "extraordinary
CUSD celebrates Lamonica Stadium's 50th Anniversary
Hannah-Grace Leece
@ClovisRoundup
August 27, 2024 - In the darkness of night on Friday, August 23rd, bright lights shone on the field at Lamonica Stadium at Clovis High. On this night, local football coach Tim Simons received fame and recognition after the field was officially named after him for his dedication to the community.
This also took place while the school celebrated the 50th anniversary of Lamonica Stadium being built, including
festivities and remembering the past as the community recalled Simons' dedication and the first naming of the stadium.
Coach Simons is renowned in the local football community for almost 50 years of dedication to the Clovis Unified School District (CUSD), three decades at Clovis High and two decades at Clovis North High.
He served as assistant coach of the Clovis High team from 1974-1976 and then served
15
See CITY COUNCIL, Pg. 4
Photo courtesy of Clovis Unified School District
Tim Simons, legendary Clovis High School Football coach, speaks with current players on the newly named "Tim Simons" field.
See LAMONICA Pg.
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup The team of barbers at Prolific Cuts ready for the day ahead of providing free back-to-school haircuts for kids.
Hannah-Grace
See LOCAL BARBERS Pg. 4
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Photo courtesy of City of Clovis
What’s Up, Clovis?
Submit a picture of your furry friend for a chance to be featured in the paper!
Please include: -Dog's name and age -Breed or if they're a rescue dog -Your name -Anything else you'd like to add!
Message submissions to our Facebook or Instagram page
Onion is a 5-year-old dachshund mix adopted from Miss Winkle's Pet Adoption Center and owned by local residents Ira Carmelo and Shields Prestridge.
Harley is also a former resident of the amazing Miss Winkle's Pet Adoption Center and was submitted by Grace Schmidt.
Furry Friend of the Week
Aug 19th - Onion
Furry Friend of the Week Aug 26th - Harley
A well-dressed couple cut a rug.
A happy couple embrace each other while the band plays.
Staff members happily pose for the camera at the "Senior Prom".
Attendees dressed in "roaring 20's" attire filled the Senior Activity Center
The Prom Queen sash on full display. Photos courtesy of Christian Zarcone
A lineup of dapper gentlemen ready to celebrate the 2024 "Senior Prom"
A lovely couple are all smiles on the dance floor.
LOCAL BARBERS
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
patiently waiting for their turn in the barber's chair. Many of them brought more than one child to get a haircut, looking forward to their kids looking sharp for that first day back to school. One of those customers was Melissa Garcia, who brought her sons Ryan and Kolton to the shop. Being a fulltime worker and mom of two kids, she expressed an appreciation for Prolific Cuts offering the back-toschool haircuts so her boys could look their best.
She explained, “It’s a huge thing [for the community] and expecting nothing out of it is amazing.”
Prolific Cuts owner Peda Thik opened up shop last year, right near the border of Clovis and Fresno. Growing up and not being able to get a nice haircut for the next school year, Thik wanted to ensure local families were more fortunate.
He added, “When people come in, we like to just make people feel great. When they come in, we greet them and make them feel welcome.”
Stephanie Sanchez, Thik’s fiancée, shared similar feelings about the shop. She stated, “It’s a very friendly environment … Some kids don’t like getting their hair cut, hearing the buzzer, but [the barbers are] patient with them and [the kids] enjoy their experience here.”
Over in a more northern part of Clovis, Kongo Barbershop saw a similar crowd of children awaiting their back-to-school haircut in a similar event.
Many families spent their time outside at the back of the building,
CITY COUNCIL
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
actions of Dayana Contreras, dispatcher, and Juan Lomeli, van driver, whose exceptional teamwork demonstrated exemplary dedication to our community." She detailed how during a routine passenger pickup, Juan became concerned when a wellknown regular passenger failed to respond. After consulting with Dayana, they made the crucial decision for Juan to return to the passenger's residence to assess the situation. Upon his return, Juan heard faint cries for help coming from inside the house. He quickly notified dispatch, and Dayana immediately alerted emergency services, providing critical information that facilitated a swift response.
It was discovered that the passenger had fallen the previous evening and was trapped between her bed and the wall. Thanks to Dayana and Juan's prompt actions, the passenger was rescued and has since expressed
enjoying pizza and sodas for lunch while also getting a bag of free school supplies to help families afford new supplies for the academic year.
The supplies were donated by local community members, as well as Kingdom on Earth Church and the Fresno Asian Business Institute.
The owner of the shop, Kong Xiong, explained his passion for giving back to the community through hosting events like these.
He said that the barbers he hires to work at the shop are people who share his same vision – people who enjoy giving back to the community and helping others through the work they are doing.
Xiong added, “They’re passionate about cutting hair, they’re passionate about kids, and they’re passionate about their career.”
These free haircuts for kids going back to school are not the only way by which Xiong gives back locally. He allows up-and-coming barbers trying to learn the trade to shadow him for free, something that usually comes with a cost, and teaches classes for others to learn how to cut hair.
He stated that “barbering,” the term for cutting hair in a barbershop, is a lifestyle, not just a living. “We do community work, we cut hair for a living. This is a lifestyle for us.”
The work of these barbershops can certainly be described as “community work,” as Xiong aptly stated. If you know someone following this example of paying it forward, be sure to bring it to our attention at Clovis Roundup so that we can share their story.
profound gratitude for their efforts, which were instrumental in her recovery.
"Dayana Contreras and Juan Lomeli’s dedication to duty and exemplary service are examples of the highest standards of professionalism and compassion, reflecting great credit on themselves, our transit division, and the city of Clovis," Pierce continued.
"The Clovis City Council, on behalf of the citizens of Clovis, hereby honors Dayana Contreras and Juan Lomeli for their outstanding service, dedication, and teamwork, which have made a significant difference in the lives of our passengers and our community."
Following the proclamation, the council moved on to public comments, where concerns were raised about the timeline for expanding public transit routes and issues affecting local small business owners related to city actions on property and sewage systems.
The council then tackled a series of agenda items, including the
55 Shaw Avenue #106, Clovis, CA 93612
Email: info@clovisroundup.com
authorization of a Proposition 218 public hearing for implementing water meter installation fees in Tarpey Village and the approval of the Behymer-Sunnyside Southwest Reorganization Annexation Agreement. These measures aim to comply with state regulations and facilitate future developments on 246 acres of land. However, the most heated discussion of the evening centered on the future of the Research and Technology (RT) Park. The council reviewed a detailed presentation on a zoning cleanup project intended to update regulations and accommodate campus-affiliated housing within the park. While city staff emphasized that the cleanup was a technical adjustment to standardize zoning across 63 properties, residents expressed significant concerns.
David Wright, a local resident, and attorney David Gilmore, representing homeowners, criticized the reliance on outdated environmental impact reports and questioned the clarity of
www.ClovisRoundup.com Follow us on social media, @ClovisRoundup CONTRIBUTING
dmelchor@ clovisroundup.com
REPORTERS: J.T. Gomez Samantha Golden Hannah-Grace Leece Steven Sandage
the university-affiliated housing definitions. They urged the council to delay approval until more specific guidelines were established, fearing that the proposed changes could drastically alter the community’s character.
Councilman Messenger supported continued dialogue with residents to ensure any actions taken were well-informed. Mayor Ashbeck and other council members acknowledged the concerns but ultimately moved forward with the rezoning and ordinance amendments necessary for future development, passing the measures with a 3-1 vote, with one abstention.
As the meeting concluded, Mayor Ashbeck reassured residents that the council would continue to address the complexities surrounding the RT Park's development. The future of Clovis’ growth remains a topic of significant interest, with the council committed to balancing development needs with community values.
CPA (559) 326-7072 teresa@tmstevenscpa.com
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup
Kong Xiong, owner of Kongo Barbershop, with his sister-in-law Nancy Moua (left), and his wife Frances Moua (middle).
Exploring the newly opened Clovis Senior Activity Center
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
August 24, 2024 — The Clovis Senior Activity Center, a state-of-the-art facility, has rapidly become a vital part of the community since its opening in November last year. With a range of activities and classes tailored to those 50 and older, the center has already attracted nearly 3,000 new members. Amy Hance, Deputy General Services Director for the City of Clovis, shared insights into the center's offerings and future plans during a recent walkthrough.
"We average between 500 and 600 people in the building daily," Hance said as she looked into the fitness center. "It’s really popular, and almost always, when I poke my head in, there’s somebody doing something. It’s pretty great." The numbers confirm the center's success, but it's the variety of activities that truly sets it apart.
Among the center’s diverse offerings are classes like Beginning Western Line Dance, Senior Scam Awareness, Traditional Exercise, Spanish for Beginners, Mixed Media Art, and Decoupage Art. These activities cater to different interests, providing something for everyone. Additionally, the center is home to social events, including Friday night dances and special occasions like the recent 2024 Senior Prom, which featured a Roaring 20s theme. This event was spearheaded
by the creator of the event, Moni Randolph, a dedicated staff member at the Clovis Senior Activity Center. The facility also features flexible classroom spaces where the walls can be collapsed to create larger areas for various programs. "We’ve added just shy of 3,000 new members since we opened," Hance noted as she visited a group of gentlemen playing billiards. "We still have our regulars from the old building, but we’ve got a whole new demographic, which is really nice. And now, we have the space to possibly host tournaments."
Excitingly, the center is expanding into an additional 4,000 square feet. "This will give us the room to offer more classes and accommodate very popular ones," Hance explained. "Very quickly, when we moved in here, we were full. And that was my goal. The space is just so popular." The expansion, already approved by the city council, is expected to be completed within two years.
The center is also exploring the possibility of extending its hours to accommodate working seniors. "Right now, we primarily close public spaces here at 5 p.m., but I think it would be great to offer billiards and fitness to folks that are still working," Hance mentioned. "We’re looking at that and evaluating what it would look like."
The Clovis Senior Activity Center is more than just a place for classes;
it’s a community where people come together to support each other. "We have a group of wonderful volunteers that support our operation," Hance said. "We have them in our nutrition program, and we have them at our front desk, and they will happily give you a tour."
For those new to the area or just learning about the center, there’s plenty to explore. Whether it’s joining a music class, learning to knit, participating in the hot lunch program that serves between 120 and 130 people daily, or
attending the weekly dances, there’s something for everyone. And as Hance emphasized, "If we don’t have it, if you tell us, and if we can find someone to teach it, we’ll try."
The Clovis Senior Activity Center is located at 735 Third Street, across from Clovis Veterans Parkway, and is open to anyone aged 50 or older. For more information, you can call the office at (559) 324-2750 or visit their website to view the latest schedule of activities.
Local band performs live at the Clovis Senior Activity Center
Hannah-Grace Leece @ClovisRoundup
August 23, 2024 – Every Friday at 10:30 in the morning, the Main Hall at the Senior Activity Center in Clovis is bustling with activity and music as the De Leon Brothers Band performs live music for visitors. This is just one of several activities the center hosts every hour in their expansive, multi-purpose facility in Old Town Clovis.
The band consists of two brothers and a close friend who perform at the hall every week, playing a variety of tunes ranging from Tex Mex to folksy to oldies.
Ruben De Leon, the band’s drummer, stated that he enjoys the atmosphere of the center. He stated, “All the people enjoy our music, we enjoy seeing them dancing. They all have a good time and they’re always friendly to us.”
That friendly, vibrant atmosphere was not missed on Friday, August 23, when the brothers went back for another performance. The crowd once again came alive with the music when they began playing, and attendees got out on the dance floor.
Jim De Leon, who plays bass and sings for the band, also commented on the good times he’s shared with his bandmates. He stated, “We’ve been playing together for a nice probably five years and we’re just … I don’t know, it just works.”
He explained how the band has been performing together since before the new, updated senior center had been built. The new building has brought an uptick in the visitors to their performances.
He recalled previous experiences performing in the center, stating, “Just wait until you see the people. As soon as we start coming [here] and playing, they’ll dance and go out.”
And that’s exactly what happened –as soon as the band started playing, the tables surrounding the venue were vacated by people coming to dance together. Whether they were connecting with other visitors to the center or enjoying the time with a close friend, family member, or significant other, everyone seemed to have a great time.
Some people line danced to the music, moving in sync with the friends that surrounded them, while others embraced their partner, holding them tightly before twirling around on the hardwood floors.
Mark Gonzalez, a member of the Senior Activity Center and one of the attendees at the event, explained that the center had a variety of ways to keep people entertained for the whole day. He stated, “These older people, they love it, you know? Some of these people like to come here every day.”
Gonzalez brings his mother to the center a few days a week to spend time with the other people, participating in a variety of activities, such as exercising in the fitness center and listening to the live music. Whether it’s these live music events or the other variety of activities the center puts on, they are certain to not disappoint the seniors – age 50 and above – that visit. These visitors eagerly await to see what the future will bring for the Clovis Senior Activity Center.
Photo courtesy of City of Clovis
The Clovis Senior Activity Center sits at 735 Third Street, across from Clovis Veterans Parkway.
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup Attendees at the live music performance at the Clovis Senior Activity Center on August 23, 2024.
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup Attendees at the live music performance at the Clovis Senior Activity Center on August 23, 2024.
August 15, 2024 — This September, the California 9/11 Memorial in Clovis will host a powerful tribute to the heroes of September 11, 2001, featuring not only artifacts from Ground Zero but also the firsthand stories of those who responded to the tragedy. The Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit is coming to town, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the events of that day through the experiences of New York City firefighters and first responders.
The 1,100-square-foot exhibit, located at 3485 Never Forget Lane, will showcase significant artifacts from the World Trade Center, including steel beams, pieces of the marble lobby floor, and the aluminum façade. However, what truly sets this exhibit apart is the presence of retired New York City firefighters and first responders who will be on-site to share their personal accounts of 9/11 and the days that followed.
“These are the men who ran into the flames when others were running out,” said Frank Siller, Chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
“Their stories, like that of my brother, FDNY Firefighter Stephen Siller, need to be heard. The 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit ensures that communities across the country remember the heroic sacrifices made to save others that tragic day.”
For these firefighters, the exhibit is more than just a collection of artifacts—it’s
a mission to educate and honor. Their firsthand stories offer a glimpse into the chaos, courage, and solidarity that defined the hours and days following the attacks. Visitors will hear directly from those who climbed the towers, searched through the rubble, and faced unimaginable loss—all while continuing to do their duty.
The exhibit will open for a special preview on September 3 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., exclusively for veterans, military personnel, and first responders. The general public can visit on September 4 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
This meaningful exhibit serves as a
prelude to the Annual September 11 Memorial Ceremony on September 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the California 9/11 Memorial. Clovis has long been a gathering place for citizens, first responders, and military personnel to honor the 2,977 lives lost in the attacks.
Established by Pelco and CEO David McDonald, this memorial is the largest of its kind outside New York City and stands as a lasting tribute to those who perished.
In conjunction with the memorial, the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools will host the One Voice event, bringing together local junior and high school students, community members, and public safety agencies in a united
song of remembrance.
Since its official establishment in 2019 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the California 9/11 Memorial has dedicated itself to preserving the memory of those who died on September 11, 2001. Through education and commemoration, the memorial ensures that the stories of the brave—particularly those who wore the uniform—are never forgotten.
As Clovis prepares to welcome the New York City firefighters and the mobile exhibit, the community is encouraged to participate in these events, standing alongside those who risked everything to save others and preserve the American way of life.
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup
The Wounded Warrior Bronze Sculpture, crafted by the late John Parsons, with the words "Honor, Educate, Remember" on the back, honoring the vision of the California 9/11 Memorial in Clovis, CA.
Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup
A statue of two firefighters, created by the late sculptor John Parsons, look up at the Twin Towers Monument at the California 9/11 Memorial.
Candy store prepares for grand opening in Old Town
everybody of all ages.”
August 23, 2024 – On the corner of Pollasky and 5th Street, the previous location of Madeleine's Bridal Boutique, a selection of vibrant, rainbow-colored candy will soon be available for visitors of Old Town.
The renowned candy store is called Rocket Fizz and will be opening up in the currently vacant spot that sits next to the DeWitt Building.
It’s a multi-location soda pop and candy shop that has over 500 unique soda pop flavors made with sugarcane sugar, 1000 candies, 80 flavors of saltwater taffy, as well as gag gifts and toys for children.
The owners of the new store, Enrique and Maritza Ruiz, wait in excited anticipation for the store opening hopefully sometime this fall.
The Ruiz’s joined into the Rocket Fizz chain a few years ago. They were impressed by the brand after watching an episode of “Undercover Boss” featuring them and wanted to get into their business.
The couple expressed a heart for the business, being able to involve their children and having an appreciation for the atmosphere and the customers of the shop. Part of what drove the two to Old Town Clovis was the historical, old-timey feel shared by the candy shop.
Ms. Ruiz stated, “It’s a really fun place, very nostalgic and I feel like it’s for
Mr. Ruiz expressed similar feelings, stating that “it’s nice to see people from all over the world being able to sometimes come in and [try our things] and relive their childhood or relive that memory.”
The two spoke about the variety available within the store, offering a one-ofa-kind shopping experience that can’t be found outside of their stores. They regularly update their inventory based on what’s popular on social media, but also keep classic items such as butterscotch candies, whoopee cushions, and cream sodas. Mr. Ruiz added to this, stating, “We’re always looking to bring in new items, things that are trending on TikTok and Instagram.”
Ms. Ruiz also noted that their team will be creating surprise bags for people to buy filled with various items from the store to add some excitement to what people purchase and will be featuring gag gifts like squirting pens and little snake eggs.
Clovis residents of all ages will soon be able to enjoy the candies and items from this store, and the Ruiz’s look forward to both serving customers and hiring locals to help run the new location. They encourage people 18+ to apply for positions such as a Sales Associate among other positions they might have open. Applicants are encouraged to send resumes and work availability to rocketfizzclovis@gmail.com.
Photo courtesy of Enrique and Maritza Ruiz Enrique and Maritza Ruiz, the soon-to-be owners of the Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop in Clovis, with their children at their Bakersfield location.
Photo courtesy of Enrique and Maritza Ruiz Some of the items available for purchase at the Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop.
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
Old
1.
4.
5. Boice Funeral,
Service District
6.
Antique and Gift Shops
1. 4th Street Antique Mall
Pollasky, (559) 323-1636 4thStreetAntiques.com
(559) 498-9935
640 Clovis Ave., 297-9052
602 5th St., 299-6806
442 Pollasky Ave, 326-8464
Boutique,
Food and Drink
1. 559 Brewery 2. 500 Club 3. Blast & Brew 4. Bobby Salazar’s 5. Kuppa Joy
DiCicco’s Italian, 408 Clovis Ave, 299-3711, www.DiCiccosClovis.com
7. Full O Bull 8. House of Juju
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
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
Fifth Street Salon
Hairology
Head to Toe Beauty Salon
Moxie Salon
Re:Treat Color and Hair Design Studio
Salon Innovation
Resisting the weeknight urge to call for takeout or order delivery starts with an approachable at-home menu with recipes you can prep in an instant. Especially during back-to-school season when schedules are jam-packed with activities, easy meals and desserts you can rely on allow you and your loved ones to ease tension in the kitchen.
Simplicity is the key to putting dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less, and these Taco Salad and Taco Mac and Cheese recipes offer mealtime solutions that make cooking duty a breeze. Make all that classroom effort worth it with a kid-friendly dessert you can prepare over the weekend and keep refrigerated for weeknight treats with these No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars. Find more recipe ideas to simplify hectic back-to-school schedules at Culinary.net.
A Sweet Treat to Make School Days Special
Sometimes a long day in the classroom and tough homework assignments call for a cool treat. Rewarding all that studying can be a cinch with a no bake cheesecake bar that lasts throughout the week. These No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars allow you to keep things cool in the kitchen without cranking up the oven. Plus, they’re made with C&H Sugars that are perfect for adding a little something special to school days. Find more back-to-school desserts at chsugar.com.
No Bake Dragon Fruit
Cheesecake Bars
Prep time: 35 minutes
Rest time: 6 hours
Yield: 16
Crust: 1 1/2
1/4 cup C&H Granulated Sugar 12 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature 1 1/2 cups C&H Powdered Sugar 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, full fat, at room temperature 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
To make crust: Line 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave 2-inch overhang of paper on both sides. In medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, butter, brown sugar and salt until well combined. Pour mixture into prepared pan and press into even layer. Place in freezer.
To make bars: In small saucepan over medium heat, cook dragon fruit and granulated sugar until sugar is completely dissolved, dragon fruit is soft and mixture reduces in size, 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool completely.
In large bowl, beat cream cheese until soft. Add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Scrape sides of bowl. Add vanilla and yogurt. Beat until combined. In separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold cream into cream cheese mixture. Pour half of mixture into prepared crust. Add 5 tablespoons dragon fruit mixture to remaining cream cheese batter. Mix until well combined. Pour over plain cream cheese mixture. Place in refrigerator to set at least 6 hours, or overnight. Cut into 16 bars.
Spice Up Weeknights
Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that’s easy to make on busy weeknights. With just a few extra ingredients and steps, you can turn boxed mac and cheese into a filling dinner.
To make this Taco Mac and Cheese, simply prepare your favorite boxed mac and cheese according to the package instructions and stir fry the meat and vegetables together. (Hint: You can even chop vegetables the night before to make cooking the next day even easier.) Then add taco seasoning and combine for a new take on a classic dish. Visit Culinary.net to find more quick and simple recipes.
Taco Mac and Cheese
1 box macaroni and cheese
1/4 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
1 pound ground turkey
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 orange bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 teaspoons taco seasoning Prepare boxed mac and cheese with milk and butter according to package instructions. In skillet, brown ground turkey over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onion. Add taco seasoning.
Stir turkey mixture with mac and cheese to combine.
Make Dinner Happen in 30 Minutes
If you’re looking for a go-to meal for your hungry family, search no more. This Taco Salad calls only for pantry staples so you can spice up busy evenings in just half an hour. Visit Culinary.net for more quick dinner solutions.
Taco Salad
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Taco Salad
No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars
LET’S TALK CLOVIS:
Glenn Reyburns’ Memories of Clovis High, 1899-1904
Glenn Reyburn (1878-1979) was the third of nine children of Joseph D. and Mary Ellen Reyburn. The family arrived here in 1881 and acquired three sections of land (section=640 acres/1 square mile). Joseph raised wheat for 38 years and was considered a wheat specialist. Joseph would remarry after the death of Mary Ellen (1851-1893). His union with Anna Buckley (1867-1950) produced six additional children.
Bessie Ward (1886-1979) married Walter Reyburn (seventh Reyburn child, brother to Glenn) in 1912. She was the beloved Clovis librarian for many years. In 1956, she gave the Clovis Independent permission to print Glenn’s written history of Clovis. We share some of that information that was published by the Clovis Independent on April 19, 1956. In 1899, 17 high school students were housed in the two upstair rooms (west side of Pollasky, north of Second Street) that were rented from the Clovis School District for $100 annually. The average daily attendance was 12.
Glenn described Mr. Louis K. Webb (teacher/principal) as: “Webb was an excellent principal, teacher, a very genial, refined gentleman, immaculate in personal appearance, perfect in speech and manner, very tolerant and reasonable; the very man to have at the head when so few of the people knew so little as to what a high school beginning in those days should be.”
Mr. Webb (M.A. degree from Stanford University) taught advanced arithmetic, geometry, English, botany, ancient and Roman history and short courses in parliamentary law and elementary general science. Principal Webb received $120 per month. There were 59 volumes in the library. Total school expenses for the first year was $1,755.32.
A rough board fence secured the school yard. The entrance was over a four-step stile. There was a shed that served as a stable for students who rode their horses to school. Restrooms were two “Doolies” (out house) at the rear of the school. Vacant lots east of the school served as playgrounds.
Expenses for the second school year (1900-1901) accelerated to $2.710.24.
Board Clerk J.A. Mills received numerous objections regarding the increase of taxes.
Frank A. Cooley (also a Stanford graduate) served as principal 1902-1903. The school was attended by 17 boys and 18 girls. The average daily attendance was 19. The library boasted 242 volumes. There were two graduates that year: R. Lee Brown and Emory Reyburn (fourth born of Joseph D. and Mary Ellen).
Principal Cooley proved to be a good baseball coach and the high school team played against Fowler High, town teams and farmer boys teams.
Clovis High had assembled a brass band of 14 pieces. They would play at parties or picnics. They were not allowed to play at dances since public opinion did not support “such pastime”.
Mr. Thos. A. Lewis served as principal from 1902 to 1903. A total of 38 students were enrolled with the average daily attendance 22. Four graduated that year: Idyle Mills Stanton, Chester
Ray Reyburn (6th child of Joseph D. and Mary Ellen), Glenn W. Reyburn and Beda Parker.
In the fall of 1902, the school board purchased property and built a one story building for $7,481.50. That building housed students until a $50,000 bond was approved for the two story high school that opened in 1920.
Principal G. H. Wilkinson arrived in 1904 and would remain as principal for seven years. There were 19 boys and 28 girls enrolled with an average daily attendance of 37. Seven students would
graduate.
Clovis High moved to 1055 Fowler Avenue in 1969. The 1920 building served as a continuation and adult school. The City of Clovis (1973-1974) wanted to demolish the historic school to build a new civic center. Three alumni groups became involved and the City and School Board reached an agreement that saved the historic building. The San Joaquin Law College now occupies that location.
Clovis High provided and remains an important part of our rich heritage.
When You Can’t Afford Your Minimum Payments
involving collectors. Not only does this help you avoid the stressful collection process, but it can save you from negative impacts on your credit.
may not be able to get a more affordable one. If you think refinancing may help your situation, talk to your lender about your options.
It’s scary to find yourself in a situation where you can’t afford your monthly debt payments. Whether that’s due to a sudden life change, like a job loss or illness, or if you’ve simply found yourself unable to keep up, there are steps you can take.
Time For Action
Though it may feel tempting to pretend like your loans or credit cards don’t exist, it’s unwise to hide from debt payments or avoid making them. Doing so makes it harder to get out from under the debt as interest, late fees, and penalties build up. The best thing to do is take action as soon as you find yourself beginning to fall behind. The sooner you make a plan, the sooner you can regain control over your financial situation. The emotional and financial relief that taking action can bring will make facing your debts worth the effort.
Make the Call
One of the best things you can do to improve your situation is to call your lender. Chances are they’ll be willing to work with you if you’re struggling to make your payments. That’s especially true during a recession, natural disaster, or other large-scale event with an economic impact. Beyond simply wanting to help, lenders have a financial incentive to do so. If your lender can’t get a hold of you to pay your debt or if you go too long between payments, they’re often forced to send the debt to a collection agency. So, often lenders are eager to help you make a plan to pay off your debt without
Plan it Out
If you’re not sure where to start, there are two approaches that may be effective in helping you get out of debt: a debt snowball or a debt avalanche. Taking the debt snowball approach means that you focus on paying off your smallest debt first, then roll the amount that you were paying into the next smallest, and so on until you’ve paid everything off. The debt avalanche method, on the other hand, is when you pay off the debt with the highest interest percentage rate first, and then work your way down, saving you more in interest rates.
Refinance Your Loans
Depending on your situation and credit score, refinancing your loans may help with your payments. Refinancing essentially means that you take out another loan to pay off your current one. This may allow you to get a lower interest rate and monthly payment. But there are also drawbacks. Often, in order to lower your payment, you’ll need to change the term of your loan, making it longer. That means that while your monthly payment may go down, the amount that you paid for the loan all together will go up. There also may be fees associated with refinancing, depending on the type of loan. For example, if you refinance a mortgage, you may need to pay closing costs, fees for paying the loan off early, and application fees. Finally, trying to refinance can impact your credit, and depending on the terms of the current loan, you
Get Help
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and believe you may benefit from individualized help, it may be worth hiring a professional or working with a non-profit that offers debt relief services such as a financial advisor or a debt counselor. There is no shame in getting help and actively improving your situation. These professionals can assist you in making a plan and walk you through strategies that will work best for your situation. But be sure to choose someone that you trust. Research various companies or individual counselors to learn more about their background and experience. Above all else, you should only agree to work with someone if you feel comfortable with the advice that they give you. Noble Credit Union partners with GreenPath, a non-profit organization that helps people manage difficult financial situations through counseling, education, and actionable solutions. You can learn more by calling them at (844) 572-5922. Noble Credit Union, voted the 2024 best credit union in Central California by the Business Journal, Forbes Best in State Credit Union, 5-Star rating by Bauer Financial, Fresno Bee’s Best of Central California, and perhaps the award that we’re most proud of: Fresno Chamber of Commerce’s Community Champion award. For more information about membership at Noble Credit Union, call (559) 252-5000 or visit NobleCU.com.
Peg Bos Historian/Clovis Museum Contributed
[Photo contributed by Clovis Museum]
Clovis Police urge vigilance after recent "Candy Van" incidents
August 25, 2024 — As the new school year gets underway in Clovis, recent reports of suspicious activity near Cedarwood Elementary and Clovis Elementary have led local authorities to issue a safety reminder to parents and guardians. On Friday, August 23rd, the Clovis Police Department addressed concerns about two separate incidents that occurred earlier in the week. The first incident reportedly took place on Tuesday, August 20th, and the second on Thursday, August 22nd. In both cases, teenage girls were alleged to have
approached young participants of a local soccer club at the schools. The girls reportedly offered candy to children, aged between 6 and 9 years old, and suggested taking them to a nearby white van to receive the treats.
At this time, the Clovis Police Department has not confirmed any criminal activity. The information available is based on second and third-hand reports, and officers have been attempting to reach out to adults who were present during these incidents but have not yet received responses.
In response to these reports, the Clovis Police Department is reminding the community to stay vigilant. Parents are
advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially when with children, and to report any suspicious activity or crimes in progress to law enforcement immediately. It is also important to gather descriptions of suspicious individuals and vehicles when possible. Additionally, educating children about personal safety, such as feeling comfortable saying "no" and promptly informing a trusted adult if something feels wrong, remains essential.
The Clovis Police Department continues to investigate the reported incidents and encourages anyone with additional information to come forward.
Clovis Police Department promotes eight officers to Corporal
August 23, 2024 — The Clovis Police Department recently celebrated the promotion of eight officers to the rank of corporal in a ceremony attended by their families, friends, and colleagues. Chief Curt Fleming led the event, highlighting the officers' extensive experience and dedication.
The newly promoted corporals are Kedric Anderson, Jordan Dunn, Josh Faith, Nathan Jaime, Brian Major, Jacob Mulhern, Amandeep Singh, and Dan Wilson. Together, they bring a combined 88 years of law enforcement experience to their new supervisory roles.
Kedric Anderson has served with Clovis PD for 10 years, holding various
positions such as patrol officer, detective, UAV pilot, field training officer, drug recognition expert, and crisis negotiator. His diverse background will be a significant asset in his new role.
Jordan Dunn, with 15 years of service (10 with Clovis PD), has experience in patrol, detective work, UAV piloting, crisis negotiation, and as a homeless liaison officer.
Josh Faith, who has been an officer for 17 years (10 with Clovis PD), has worked in patrol, SWAT, detective roles, field training, and defensive tactics instruction.
Nathan Jaime also has 17 years of service (7 with Clovis PD) and brings experience in patrol, detective work, field training, UAV piloting, and crisis negotiation.
Brian Major, with 10 years of experience overall and 1.5 years with Clovis PD, has served in patrol, as a detective, SWAT member, field training officer, and defensive tactics instructor.
Jacob Mulhern, who has been with the department for 5 years, has worked in patrol, K9 operations, Honor Guard duties, wellness training, and as a homeless liaison officer and recruitment team member.
Amandeep Singh has 8 years of experience (6 with Clovis PD) and has served in patrol, detective roles with MAGEC, crisis negotiation, drivers training, defensive tactics instruction, and recruitment.
Dan Wilson, with 6 years of service, has held roles in patrol, as a detective, SWAT member, UAV pilot, and has been part of the Honor Guard and recruitment team.
For further details or to report any relevant information, please contact the Clovis Police Department.
The Clovis Police Department is also actively seeking new recruits. Those interested in joining a supportive and community-focused team can find more information through the link in the department's bio.
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Photo courtesy of CityofClovis.com
The Clovis Police Department is encouraging everyone to remain vigilent this school year.
Photo courtesy of Police Department Facebook The Clovis Police Department is actively seeking new recruits.
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Clovis Happenings
French-American Heritage Month
Friday, August 30
FRIDAY NIGHT
FARMERS MARKET
Live Music: Max Headroom
80's Night
4th and Pollasky
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 4
WAKE UP CLOVIS
PROP 47 - 10 years later
WHERE ARE WE NOW
Clovis Community College Herndon Campus, Room 308
390 Fir Ave.
7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Friday, September 6
FRIDAY NIGHT
FARMERS MARKET
Live Music: Auberry Road 4th and Pollasky
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday, September 6
BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK
Live Music: Sugar Pine Clovis Veterans Memorial Park
6:00 p.m.
Sunday, September 8
25th ANNUAL CENTRAL VALLEY BURNOUT, WALK & ROLL TO CURE ALS
Clovis Rodeo Grounds 748 Rodeo Dr. 10 a.m.
Wednesday, September 11 9/11 CEREMONY
The California 9/11 Memorial 348 Never Forget Lane 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Friday, September 13 CLOVIS POLICE FOUNDATION 2024 GOLF TOURNAMENT Eagle Springs Golf and Country Club 21722 Fairway Oaks Ln., Friant, CA
Friday, September 13 FRIDAY NIGHT FARMERS MARKET Military Appreciation Night Live Music: Justin Lawrence
4th and Pollasky
5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday, September 6
BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK
Live Music: Tall Can Koozi
Clovis Veterans Memorial Park 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 19
WALK LIKE MADD
Dry Creek Park
855 N. Clovis Ave.
8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday
September 14 - 15
FRESNO/CLOVIS
7th ANNUAL TOY TRAIN SHOW
American Legion Post 509 3509 N. First St., Fresno, CA 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Friday, September 20
BREAKING THE CHAINS PRESENTS 4th ANNUAL FOREVER FREEDOM CELEBRATION
Clovis Rodeo Grounds 748 Rodeo Dr. 5:30 p.m.
Friday, September 6
FRIDAY NIGHT
FARMERS MARKET
Live Music: Boomers 4th and Pollasky 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 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
OLD TOWN CLOVIS FARMERS MARKET
Pollasky Ave., Clovis, CA
Every Saturday Year-Round
9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (weather permitting)
MARKET AT THE PARC
Food Trucks and Farmers Market
Clovis Regional Medical Center
Temperance & Herndon
Every Monday Year-Round 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Friday, September 6
BLUEGRASS IN THE PARK
Live Music: Sugar Pine Clovis Veterans Memorial Park 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 21
CLOVIS NIGHT OUT
David McDonald Park Coventry Ave. 4:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Clovis seeks young leaders for Youth Commission
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
August 15, 2024 — The City of Clovis is actively seeking motivated and passionate high school students to join its Youth Commission. Established in October 2023, the Commission offers a unique opportunity for young residents to contribute directly to their community's growth and development.
“We believe that our youth are the future of Clovis,” said Chad McCollum, Economic Development, Housing and Communications Director.
“By involving them in the decision-making process, we’re empowering the next generation to shape the city they call home.”
The Youth Commission is comprised of up to 21 high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who will meet monthly from October 2024 through April 2025. Commission members will gain invaluable experience in local government, develop leadership skills, and collaborate with city officials on a variety of projects.
“We want to foster a sense of civic engagement and responsibility among our young people,” McCollum added.
“The Youth Commission is a platform for them to learn about the challenges and opportunities facing our community and to propose innovative solutions.”
The City Council recognized the need to create a formal avenue for young people to contribute to the development and progress of the
community, which led to the approval of the establishment of a Youth Commission.
“A Youth Commission is a proactive step towards promoting civic engagement among the youth and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in shaping the City’s future,” McCollum said.
To qualify for the Youth Commission, applicants must be high school sophomores, juniors, or seniors who reside within the city limits of Clovis.
Selected members will be expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in city events, and contribute to a commission-led project that benefits the Clovis community.
“Expectations include meeting monthly to set and accomplish goals outlined by the Youth Commission, Clovis City Council, and City staff, represent Clovis youth at designated City events and activities, plan and execute a project benefitting the youth of Clovis, and present to the Clovis City Council annually,” McCollum said.
The application process is now open and will continue until September 6, 2024. Interested students can obtain an application from the City Clerk’s office at City Hall, located at 1033 Fifth Street, Clovis, CA 93612, or download it from the city’s website. Completed applications can be submitted in person, by mail, or via email to CityClerk@cityofclovis.com.
For more information about the Clovis Youth Commission or the
application process, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (559) 349-6300.
The Clovis Youth Commission is a city-sponsored program designed to provide a platform for young people to actively participate in local government. Through mentorship, leadership development, and community
engagement, the Commission aims to cultivate the next generation of civic leaders. The City of Clovis encourages all eligible high school students to apply for the Youth Commission. This is an extraordinary opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and gain valuable experience for future endeavors.
Satoshi Hirayama Elementary opens its doors to students
August 17, 2024 — As the first day of school dawns on Clovis Unified School District, Principal Laura Reynolds eagerly prepares to greet students at the newly minted Satoshi Hirayama Elementary School.
Named in honor of longtime educator and local legend Satoshi Hirayama, this marks a significant milestone as the district's 35th elementary school.
"We want kids to feel they're part of something new, the beginning of a long legacy," Principal Reynolds remarked, reflecting on the excitement and nerves that come with a new school year.
The school's namesake, Satoshi Hirayama, led a remarkable life, shaped by experiences that included internment as a child, collegiate baseball at Fresno State, and service in the US Army during the Korean War. Notably, he was the first Japanese American to play professional baseball in Japan, earning the nickname "Fibber" among friends and fans alike.
At the school's grand opening, a flag from the Japanese baseball league adorned Mr. Hirayama's seat, a poignant reminder of his journey and achievements. His son Kevin Hirayama, speaking with his father's characteristic wit, shared sentiments of pride and humility on behalf of the family.
"I think my dad would be very humbled, proud. He would say the
same thing I just said -- unbelievable. What a facility," Kevin Hirayama expressed, amidst a gathering of family members and community supporters.
The ceremonial ribbon-cutting, led by Hirayama's three sons and his 101-year-old brother, marked the official opening. Principal Reynolds assured that essential services like the cafeteria, library, and office will
be operational from day one, despite ongoing construction.
While the campus undergoes final touches, students will temporarily attend classes in brightly decorated portables, a testament to the school's commitment to providing a nurturing learning environment.
Kevin Hirayama, reflecting on his father's passion for education,
expressed hope that students will embrace the opportunities awaiting them at Satoshi Hirayama Elementary.
As the teachers along with the kids and their families all prepare for back-to-school night, anticipation builds for a school year filled with promise and new beginnings at Satoshi Hirayama Elementary School.
Photo courtesy of City of Clovis
The Clovis Youth Commission encourages any juniors or seniors in high school to apply.
Steven Sandage @ClovisRoundup
Photo courtesy of CUSD The newly opened Satoshi Hirayama Elementary School, named in honor of longtime educator and local legend Satoshi Hirayama has taken on the name of the "Heat" for their mascot.
as head coach, leading the Cougars on to several championships from 1976-2000.
When Clovis North opened its' doors in 2007, Simons helped start up the football program there, leading the Broncos to their first Valley title and finishing up his time as a head coach with a record of 249-94-7.
Today, he serves as the freshman coach for the Broncos at Clovis North and as an advisor for the varsity team.
During this time, Simons was added to four Athletic Halls of Fame in the area, and this is another way of honoring his service to CUSD and the futures of their students.
The ceremony also named tribute to the late Daryle Lamonica, whom the stadium was named after. Lamonica was a former quarterback at Clovis High who went on the play for the Raiders in the Super Bowl in 1968. Festivities for the event were included for family members of Lamonica and additionally the 1974 Clovis High football state
championship team.
While the scoreboard at Lamonica Stadium had a tarp pulled down to reveal the name "Tim Simons Field," community members gave recognition to Coach Simons' many accomplishments, including a video displaying the Clovis High 1974 team being led by Simons to a state championship trophy.
Hundreds in attendance at the event were touched by the recall to the past, particularly members of the Lamonica family.
This include Lamonica's wife, Mary, who was presented with the first ball ever used in the stadium by Jim Fugman, retired former CUSD administrator and head coach of the 1974 team. Their son Brandon also was in attendance and was witness to the heartfelt tribute to his father.
As the traditional coin toss was held, Simons, Fugman, representatives of the Lamonica family, and members of the 1974 team served as honorary captains. Following this, the Clovis North Cougars entered the field, ending the night with a 27-12 win against Central Valley Christian High School.
Clovis Community celebrates "Live Like Molly Day"
Hannah-Grace Leece @ClovisRoundup
August 27, 2024 – The Clovis Community College (CCC) Student Activities Office hosted a blood drive and gave out free ice cream and words of encouragement on Monday, August 26, to celebrate the birthday of the late Molly Griffin. Griffin was a former CCC student and nurse who was tragically killed in a car crash with a drunk driver in 2015 and had a passion for random acts of kindness.
In recognition of her kindness and to honor her memory on her birthday, the college decided to give free ice cream to students and the public as well as offer flowers and cards with encouraging notes on them.
The school also hosted a blood drive for this event, partnering with the Central California Blood Center to encourage students to help others by giving back.
An hour into the event, 12 students had already donated, which was a welcome surprise to Community Support Specialist Alina Torres. She stated, “Donating blood is a very direct way to be kind to the community, the patients in our hospitals.”
Torres further explained that all the blood donated goes towards five counties served by the center, which go directly to hospital patients and is used in life-saving treatments. She also mentioned their current promotion for
giving a free pint of ice cream for people who donate a pint of blood at the center.
About 20 steps away from the bus where people donated blood for the center, student employees on campus helped give out free ice cream for students passing by.
Dr. Monica Chahal, the Interim President for CCC, reflected on the importance and meaning behind events such as these. She stated, “it is part of our culture and this is an annual event for us, and it’s really about nothing other than promoting kindness and creating a nice climate for our students on campus.”
Across from the ice cream tables, two workers from the Student Activities Office also offered flowers with note tags on them with compliments and offered students a chance to write a compliment for someone and take one of their own from a compliment jar. Some of the flower tags read “You are the best” and other uplifting words. Kassandra Hernandez, one of those workers, explained, “It’s Day of Kindness, just to give back to the community and make everyone feel good.” CCC, through events such as these, is certainly helping their students in small ways as well as honoring the memory of a local resident who was loved by many. People interested in giving back are also encouraged to donate to the Central California Blood Center or other blood donation centers in the area in reverence to Griffin and her family.
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup Student workers at Clovis Community College work diligently to give students free ice cream at the Live Like Molly / Day of Kindness event.
the bottom.
Photo by Hannah-Grace Leece, Clovis Roundup Student workers at Clovis Community College work diligently to give students free ice cream at the Live Like Molly / Day of Kindness event.
Photo courtesy of Clovis Unified School District Tim Simons stands on the field for the coin toss to start the game betwen Clovis North High School and Central Valley Christian High School at Lamonica Stadium.
Local songwriter signed to major record label
Hannah-Grace Leece
@ClovisRoundup
August 19, 2024 – Auberry local Noah Rinker has made his big break as a musician recently, being signed on to the major record label Warner Records.
Growing up in a small town of about 3,000 people, Rinker may not have imagined becoming a name known by millions when he first began learning music at the age of four.
But after years of participation in his church’s worship team, lots of writing, and releasing music through social media, that dream is becoming a reality. That dream first began with a four-yearold boy playing the piano, which he replaced with a guitar not long after.
Unlike many modern artists, he obtained much of his musical knowledge from church hymnbooks. This was a result of growing up going to church at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Auberry, where he still attends today.
This was an interesting start for Rinker, who explained, “there’s a lot of structure in hymns, which actually really helped me along the way in the beginning.”
However, he also ventured out of those hymns and eventually got into a variety of artists and genres such as rock, early 2000s grunge, and 90s country music.
One of his favorite songs is John Mellencamp’s “Pink Houses.”
Rinker draws his own musical inspiration from his small town, which is the backdrop on which much of his music is based.
He began writing more music last fall outdoors, influenced by the beautiful scenery and nature that surrounded him.
With this as Rinker’s inspiration, he began posting on Instagram under the handle “noahrinker,” and soon gathered millions of views. At that time, he began to meet with record labels, traveling to places like New York, Nashville, and Los Angeles with his manager Mike Ferri.
Rinker explained, “My goal was to choose a partner who really valued the vision and the direction, and also understood me as a person and where I came from.”
Rinker’s dream was to be signed by Warner Records, who are known for signing popular artists such as Zach Bryan, Green Day, Dua Lipa, and others.
When he first walked into a meeting with them, “it was just immediately apparent that they were the right fit … it’s really cool to start a partnership with the best team in the music business.”
A few meetings later, the label decided to sign him on.
He stated, “There are hundreds of thousands of people that are dreaming to have an opportunity like this, and I’m very honored to be in the position I’m in, with having such a great partner. Together, we’re going to be able to take this project to the next tier, the next level.”
Rinker shared his appreciation for those that got him to being signed by Warner Records, expressing immense gratitude for the people that helped him along his
musical journey.
His parents were the first among those he mentioned to have gratitude towards, stating that “I wouldn’t be able to do this if they weren’t behind me, backing my goals.”
He added that working for the family business, Mountain Flame Propane, also gave him the flexibility he needed to pursue music.
He also mentioned Ferri, who has been
with Rinker for two years and “is a crucial part of my team,” as well as the Creative Artist Agency, who he also recently signed with.
Going forward, Rinker looks forward to sharing his new EP, After Dark, with his fans, as well as releasing new music in the months ahead. He also is excited for his performances in November 4-6, where he will perform in San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
Photo courtesy of Noah Rinker Noah Rinker (middle) with his music team. From left to right: Manager Mike Ferri, Warner COO Tom Corson, Noah Rinker, Warner CEO Aaron Bay-Schuck, Warner A&R Brad Beausir.