Fresno Flyer Vol 6 No 5 by Fresno Flyer

IT’S THE TIME OF YEAR FOR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS AND WE’RE CHALLENGING YOU TO REDUCE WASTE IN 2022!

HERE ARE A FEW EASY RESOLUTIONS TO KEEP FRESNO BEAUTIFUL THIS YEAR: Bring your own reusable bags when you’re shopping Avoid single-use items like plastic straws and water bottles Donate all clothing and re-usable items Dispose of household hazardous waste properly

*CRV bottles and cans only 2

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EDITOR’S NOTE There has been a lot of concern over the opening of cannabis dispensaries in Fresno, and unsurprisingly, a lot of confusion. During the October special hearing before the City Council, many community members took to the podium to express their opposition to dispensaries opening in their neighborhoods. From the nature of the complaints, you’d think Fresno had just approved the opening of opium dens. Cannabis is an intensely monitored industry. One only needs to look at Article 33 of Fresno’s municipal code to see that it’s far beyond anything required of pharmacies, bars, or liquor stores. Fresno, like most California cities, sets a high standard for dispensaries to stay in compliance or risk losing their extremely expensive permits. No cannabis products can be visible from the street, which means the stores will not have any windows that will let passersby see inside. Additionally, the store’s signage is not allowed to have any indication that it’s a cannabis dispensary - no weed leaves, no joints, nothing. Plus, consuming or smoking cannabis on-site, or anywhere near the facility for that matter, is strictly prohibited. In fact, customers will be immediately escorted out of the store and required to leave the

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premises after making their purchases. There will be 24-hour security guards patrolling the area to make sure of it, too. There are also purchase limits to keep kids from playing “hey, mister” as they do for cigarettes or alcohol. This means that each person who goes into the dispensary has to submit their ID to a staff member who then cross-checks it in their system for any previous purchases at any dispensary to determine if they’ve hit their max. Let’s also not forget that entrance to these places is also heavily guarded. You’ll need to provide a valid ID just to get into the lobby, which is separate from the retail showroom (you know, where they keep all the weed). Then, you’ll have to show ID again to a receptionist who logs you into their system. If everything looks good, THEN they’ll buzz you through the security door into the store. This is just the tip of the iceberg. And, if after all this, you’re still concerned about the impact these stores will have on your neighborhood, attend one of the community meetings. Most, if not all, dispensaries will host monthly or quarterly meetings to hear those concerns. Now, how many liquor stores, bars, or pharmacies do you know who care enough to do that?

WEED JOBS By Lisa Talley and Dave Fountinelle

he next few months will bring Fresno into a new age as 17 cannabis dispensaries are set to open across the city’s seven districts. (The remaining four slots for the overall 21 permits are still in the application process) That not only means the introduction of a new industry but a boom in local jobs. Much of the information in this article is listed in the now publicly available dispensary application forms on the City Manager Office of Cannabis Oversight website. However, each application is roughly 200 pages long. Below is an extraction of key details that a prospective employee would want to know. Some major takeaways are that many if not all dispensaries will give preference to Fresno residents. If a store has social equity status, it will give preference to applicants who reside in the same district as the store. Cannabis dispensaries also provide extensive training, so don’t worry if you don’t have any prior experience in this budding field.

The cannabis industry is here and they’re hiring. A breakdown of who they are and what they have to offer.

strains. Opening timeline: Unknown While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval. Hiring Timeline: Unknown Lemonade plans to hire 33 employees during its first 18 months of operation. Lemonade has partnered with local organizations including the Poverello House, Fresno EOC, Breaking the Chains, and other nonprofits, to identify and recruit “second chance” applicants, and those from low-income households, or who live in economically disadvantaged areas of the city. Benefits and Pay: “Middle Class” Lemonade is committed to paying its employees a living wage. As such, they have pledged to pay all of its employees above the current city or state-mandated minimum

DISTRICT 1 Fresno Canna Co. Dispensary 3257 W Shaw Ave #109, 93711

clone cube in the center of the showroom where customers can view live cannabis plants and purchase clones for cultivating at home. The Artist Tree will showcase a new art exhibit every three months and welcomes local artist contributions through its website at www.theartisttree. com/artists/. Opening Timeline: Spring 2022 Pending the final approval of its conditional use permit and necessary building permits, The Artist Tree anticipates a grand opening sometime in the spring of this year. Hiring Timeline: March 2022 The Artist Tree will begin accepting applications as soon as March 2022.

Fresno Canna Co. is a social equity dispensary whose mission is to sell quality cannabis products at an affordable price, to serve the community by providing regular educational classes on safe use practices, and to actively support entrepreneurial and economic enterprise within communities of color.

its ethos is a commitment to support the arts, and local artists. The Fresno location will resemble an art gallery with various areas to display artwork from local artists. The store will also feature a freestanding glass

The Artist Tree Showroom

Lemonade/Cookies 1264 N Wishon Blvd, 93728 Cookies is planning to open a commercial dispensary under the name Lemonade in the former Bank of America building - in the heart of the Tower District. Lemonade is Cookies’ sister brand, started in 2015 by Cookies co-founder and hip-hop star Berner. Named for a custom-curated strain of cannabis sativa, Lemonade differentiates itself from other dispensaries by specializing in flavor-forward, sativa-dominant | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

wage. Additionally, Lemonade also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health care, 401k, and maternity/paternity leave.

DISTRICT 2 The Artist Tree 7835 N Palm Ave Ste 102, 93711 The Artist Tree blends local art exhibits with its cannabis retail experience to highlight the synergy between art and cannabis. Deep in

Benefits and Pay: $17+ per hour or $80,000+ per year. As stated in its application form to the City, The Artist Tree seeks to employ over 46 individuals from the Fresno community. The positions range from entry-level front desk associates and cannabis guides to senior-level management positions. Respectively, compensation will range from $17 per hour for hourly positions to $80,000 annually for salaried positions. Additionally, because The Artist Tree provides extensive training, prior cannabis experience is not required. Prospective employees can also look forward to an impressive benefits package that includes health insurance (open to all employees), dental, vision, and accrued

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...‘Weed Jobs’ cont’d from pg 3 paid time off. Further, The Artist Tree provides financial benefits, family benefits, and a continuing education program. Where to Apply: Online or Email Applicants can apply directly to The Artist Tree’s website at www.theartisttree.com/ jobs/ or email their resumes and information to careers@theartisttree.com.

Traditional Fresno 6926 N. Weber Ave, 93722

Minority owner Aaron Mamann has a vision for Traditional Fresn o to be both a premier brand in the California cannabis industry, as well as a distinguished employer. Tr a d i t i o n a l Fresno plans to achieve this is by providing a positive work environment, some of the best employee benefits in the industry, and ample opportunities for professional growth within the company. Opening Timeline: Unknown While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval. Hiring Timeline: Unknown As a social equity dispensary, they have committed to hiring at least 50% of their fulltime staff from within District 2. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Traditional Fresno uses a wage benchmark of 200% above the Federal Poverty Level for a family of two. This places their proposed starting wage at $34,820 a year, which is well above the current state-mandated minimum wage. Traditional Fresno also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement savings for full-time. The company also plans to offer opt-in benefits for part-time employees after 6 months of employment. Traditional Fresno plans to provide educational assistance to its employees as well.

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DISTRICT 3 Viola Fresno 755 Van Ness Ave, 93721 Viola is a social equity dispensary and the largest African American owned cannabis company in the industry. Founded by former NBA star, Al Harrington and business partner, Daniel Pettigrew, the Viola brand operates in multiple markets across the country. The owners are dedicated to providing resources for social equity individuals that have suffered from the War on Drugs. Opening Timeline: 6 Months Viola Fresno is confident they’ll have operations up and running within six months of receiving their license. As licenses were awarded this past October, Viola should host a grand opening as soon as April 2022. Hiring Timeline: Immediately Upon receiving a permit from the City of Fresno, Viola expressed that it would immediately begin reaching out into the community to fill its staff. The storefront aims to provide between 25-30 fulltime and part-time jobs. Viola Fresno has signed a Labor Peace Agreement with the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 8-Golden State which it hopes will be a valuable resource for sourcing its staff. Outside of this partnership, the storefront will post its open positions on both online job boards and local newspapers. Benefits and Pay: $45,000/yr Minimum As stated in their application form submitted to the City for the permitting process, Viola claims that it has always paid its employees above-average wages. The storefront asserts that no employee will make less than $45,000 per year, even for entry-level positions. At that minimum, the salary breaks down to an hourly wage of roughly $23.50 per hour. Additionally, Vio l a promises a benefits package containing workers’ compensation, subsidized health, dental, and vision coverage with preventative care that includes ob-gyn, mammograms, childcare, and immunizations. All employees, including those with part-time status, will earn paid time off

and paid holidays. Parents may also receive subsidized childcare or early-education assistance.

DISTRICT 4 Infinity Assets Fresno 618 E Shaw Ave, 93710 Infinity Assets has successfully operated dispensaries since 2003, and throughout that time, the company has learned that its team members are its most important assets. In fact, Infinity Assets have employees that started as security guards and budtenders who are now owners of some of the company’s stores. Additionally, Infinity Assets loves to create projects that serve the community. In Fresno, the store has developed a strong partnership with the Central Valley Food Bank. The company looks forward to developing other programs that will help the greater Fresno area. Opening Timeline: June or July 2022 Infinity Assets Fresno hopes to open its doors around the end of 2022’s second quarter or the beginning of the third quarter - which is roughly June or July. Hiring Timeline: May 2022 Infinity Assets Fresno plans to hire between 15-19 employees initially, and then scale up its staff once the store is able to assess its immediate needs. However, the hiring process cannot take place until the store’s conditional use permit has been approved and building plans have been submitted. May is the soonest the company anticipates being able to begin receiving applications. Benefits and Pay: “Living Wage” As stated in their application form, Infinity Assets Fresno claims it is committed to offering and providing a living wage to every employee working for the company. All employees can expect to receive paid volunteering hours. Fulltime employees can look forward to paid time off and holidays. However, employees must complete one year of employment before Infinity Assets Fresno will offer health, dental,

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and vision insurance. Where t o Apply: Various Once the company announces its open positions, either through local publications and newspapers or through online job postings, various methods of applying will be available to applicants. Cookies 5048 N. Blackstone Ave, 93710 Cookies plans to open its flagship store on the Northeast corner of Blackstone and Shaw Ave. Cookies offers a wide assortment of high-quality products and a knowledgeable staff, focused on providing customers with strain selections curated to their individual preferences. Opening Timeline: Unknown While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval. Hiring Timeline: Unknown Cookies plan to hire 45 employees during its first 18 months of operation. Cookies has partnered with local organizations including the Poverello House, Fresno EOC, Breaking the Chains, and other nonprofits, to identify and recruit “second chance” applicants, and those from low-income households, or who live in economically disadvantaged areas of the city. Benefits and Pay: “Middle Class” Cookies is committed to paying its employees a living wage. As such, the company has pledged to pay all of its employees above the current city or state-mandated minimum wage. Cookies also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health care, 401k, and maternity/paternity leave. Higher Level of Care 4795 N. Blackstone Ave, 93726 Higher Level of Care hopes to distinguish itself from other retail cannabis dispensaries by not only offering a higher level of care in the quality and selection of cannabis it offers, but a higher level of care in the impact it makes on the community and the environ-

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Masks For Dummies XVIII

Welcome 2022

By I. smiley G. Calderón | smileygcalderon@gmail.com

appy New Year, dear reader! Glad you made it thus far through this persisting global Covid-19 pandemic. Now, it’s been a long, tough road, and so much has happened since the coronavirus first emerged some two years ago in China. We start this new year with 290 million global cases and 5.4 million untimely related deaths - a 1.9% global mortality rate. SARS-CoV-2 (and its rapidly evolving variants) has infected over 55 million Americans. And, as a result, we’ve lost over 826 thousand Americans - a national mortality rate of 1.5%. And, here in Fresno County, with over 149,320 total Covid cases, we’ve had more than 2,365 family members, friends, and coworkers leave us prematurely because of this cruel virion. Our Central Californian mortality rate has consistently been at about 1.6%. Fresno, we need to do better. All three mortality rates - global, national, and county - tell us the same sullen statistic: For every 100 people who get infected with the coronavirus, two will die. For every 1,000 infections, 20 will die. For every million cases, we should expect 20,000 deaths. These have been the facts. And the cases are dangerously rising as you read this. Dr. James Phillips, Chief of Disaster Medicine at George Washington University Hospital, is extremely worried. “We’re seeing a surge in patients again, unprecedented in this pandemic,” he warns. “What’s coming for the rest of the country could be very serious. And they need to be prepared….” Yes, indeed. When the Chief of Disaster talks, you listen. Of course, the big concern is that the new variant we discussed in our last issue is currently the dominant coronavirus strain in the U.S. The variant was identified by its Pango lineage name B.1.1.529, aka Omicron, named after the circular-shaped 15th letter of the Greek alphabet. Several key mutations make it much more transmissible and contagious than all previous strains - even more than the infamously destructive Delta variant. As a result, B.1.1.529 is spreading everywhere fast - it’s even infecting fully vaccinated people and those who have already been previously infected by earlier Covid strains. This is why, in just a little over a month, Omicron has taken over America. When Omicron first emerged on the world platform on the 26th of November as a socalled “Variant of Concern” (VOC), it did so in South Africa. Well, kind of. Let me explain. Whenever the World Health Organization (WHO) announces a new “Variant of Interest” (VOI) or a VOC, there is always a country associated with the new emergent mu-

tant strain. For example, when the Alpha strain was designated a VOC in December 2020, the associated nation of origin was the U.K. When the WHO announced the Gamma strain in Jan 2021, it was associated with Brazil. Again, when the Delta strain was designated a VOC last May, the WHO listed India as its affiliated nation. But, when it comes to Omicron, even though the news announced that it was from South Africa (as I mentioned last month), the reality is that it wasn’t from there at all. What happened was that Botswanan scientists identified this new variant from four specific international European travelers who had just entered the country and tested positive for Covid. When the scientists analyzed the travelers’ test samples, they were shocked at their genomic makeup - a new coronavirus variant never seen anywhere in Africa. Dr. Sikhulile Moyo, laboratory director at the Botswana-Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership and researcher with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, led a team of scientists who first discovered B.1.1.529. This is what he had to say about this new variant that would soon spread like wildfire: “When we looked at it, we compared it with other sequences circulating in Botswana, and we realized this is an unusual pattern of mutations. The number of mutations that it had was just unbelievable…and we realized it was not [previously] seen in Africa….” At around the same time, South Africa also began to see the same kind of variant in their samples. So both countries shared this vital data with each other and in regional databases. A couple of days later, in a sincere act of global solidarity against the coronavirus, South Africa shared this crucial information and alerted the WHO. And a couple of days after that, on the 26th of November, Omicron was officially born as a bonafide VOC. And, what was the world’s response? These southern African countries were put on the international red list travel ban. In essence, a punishment for alerting the whole world to a potentially dangerous pathogen. Flights and vacations were canceled, business halted - millions of dollars were lost. Local economies suffered. You could imagine how small businesses felt. Locals began hurling insults at the scientists, calling them “bigmouths” and accusing them of canceling the Christmas season industry. Really, it was unfair. Omicron did not come from South Africans - it was brought to South Africa by Europeans! Thankfully, the WHO realized this, which is why B.1.1.529 is the only VOC that does not have a specific country of origin associated with it. Instead, Omicron is listed as “Multiple Countries.” But, somehow, for some reason, the world saw things differently, | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

and when the travel bans were imposed - were European countries put on a travel ban? Dr. Moyo shares his frustration: “I would call it an unfair treatment of African countries. The Alpha variant was raging in the U.K. [months ago], and none of the countries put the U.K. on the red list. Because we understand that it’s a global village. Of course, we enhanced border screening, enhanced requirements for entering into the country, including maybe a quarantine and testing. But it was never shutting our door because we understand that these viruses don’t respect our natural borders.” He’s absolutely right. Viruses don’t respect us. They just don’t care - especially SARSCoV-2 and all of its mutated variations. All they want is to replicate in us and find better and faster ways to do so. But that’s why we need to protect ourselves from them physically. Vaccination is the foolproof way to protect yourself, for sure. And, we’re pretty lucky to live in this modern epoch of cool medical technology where this kind of specialized internal armor exists. But before vaccinations were even possible or available, the first way to protect yourself and others has always been by properly wearing your mask. We’ve been saying this from the very beginning. And, we recommend that you only use an N-95 or KN-95 (or similar) respirator mask when in public - we’ve been saying this since way before it was popular. If not, then you’re just inviting SARS-CoV-2 into your body through your mouth and nose. And, once inside, this coronavirus likes to replicate in us a lot. Covid is a rapidly consuming beast. Now, whether Omicron will prove to be as deadly or more deadly - or less deadly - than its Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta earlier versions is yet to be determined. So far, even though it is incredibly contagious, it seems like Omicron is a lot milder in symptoms than the previous variants. Meaning it may not be as lethal. But maybe what we’re seeing right now is the impact of effective vaccines? Yet, sadly, only about 62% of Americans are fully vaccinated. Nowadays, it’s the unvaccinated who make up the majority of Covid hospitalizations - and that makes sense. Get vaccinated, be vigilant, and wear your mask. More than 1,000 people a day are still dying across our nation because of Covid. Protect yourself. God Bless America. Here’s to hoping that 2022 is a better year for all.

--I. smiley G. Calderón is a Gen X Chicano and lifelong educator who spent a career in academia in Southern California, but is most proud of being a father.

By Nancy Zanicchi-Bobb newbeginningconsulting11@gmail.com Happy New Year! Many letters from readers have expressed gratitude for sharing information on coping skills, ways in which we learn how to carry on with challenges in our constantly changing life. This column will continue sharing more skills to add to your repertoire. Do you ever feel like if you stop for a minute to process the day’s events, you will get behind in your schedule? It’s like turning your back on the ocean. We learn to be multi-taskers and natural micro-managers. We choose to address the emotional waves for later rather than now – but it doesn’t stop those waves from coming. So, what do you do, mentally suppress it for another time? After a time, suppressing and repressing can develop into anxiety or depression, or both. Unresolved issues or continually repressed events will surface when we least expect it, triggered by something as minor as hearing a song on the radio. Mediate to Meditate The best advice for addressing a life transition is to understand your feelings. Try writing them down and meditating on what is happening, how it makes you feel, and what you want to see change. Talk it through and challenge how this issue is going to be resolved. It is a process. After a day of stress, it is best to wait to tackle a mountain of emotion to establish a clear connection and direction for relaxation. Practicing focus techniques and restful sleep will allow you to process the information with improved clarity the next day to understand exactly what you need to address.

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THe state of the tower, one year into the illegal occupation By Jaguar Bennett | jaguarbennett@gmail.com

t’s been one year this month since the Tower District community first learned of the impending sale of the Tower Theatre to Adventure Church. It’s been one year since Jan. 5, 2021, when Adventure Church was notified that it was violating zoning laws. And it’s been one year since Jan. 10, 2021, when the first Save the Tower Theatre demonstration was held. After a year of the illegal occupation of the Tower Theatre and 52 continuous weeks of protest, it’s a good time to take stock. What is truly at stake in this controversy? What dangers does the community face — and what has it won? And now that the struggle to define the Tower District is entering its second year, what will happen next? Even after a year of occupation and protests, I still meet Tower District residents who have no idea what’s happening at the Tower Theatre. So, it’s worth going over the basics of the threat to the Tower Theatre and the Tower District. Adventure Church is trying to buy the Tower Theatre, but it has not yet succeeded, and the theater has not been sold. When the news broke out in January 2021 that Adventure Church was buying the Tower Theatre, Sequoia Brewing Company filed a lawsuit to enforce its first right of refusal. Sequoia is a tenant of the Tower Theatre, and its rental agreement gives them the first right to buy the theater building if it is put up for sale. This lawsuit may go to court this spring, but as long as the lawsuit

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is pending, the theater cannot be sold. Adventure Church is breaking the law by operating out of the Tower Theatre. The Tower Theatre is zoned Commercial Main Street. In such zoning, community and religious assembly are prohibited in facilities of more than 2,000 square feet. The Fresno City Attorney’s Office sent a notice to Adventure Church on Jan. 5, 2021, stating that holding church services in the theater was a zoning violation and advising that if the church intended to hold services at the theater, it should apply for a rezone. When they received the citation for holding services against zoning on Jan. 24, Adventure Church paid the fine — which is an admission of guilt, by the way — and vacated the theater for several months. Then, in May, Adventure Church, in an abrupt about-face, restarted Sunday services at the Tower Theatre, denying that any rezoning was necessary. So far, the City has not cited the church again, presumably because of the church’s frequent threats to sue the City. So in effect, the church is getting a rezone without going through public hearings. Changes to the zoning of the Tower Theatre will be disastrous for bars and restaurants. The zoning of the Tower District is supposed to protect the economic role the neighborhood plays as a nightlife center with bars, clubs, and restaurants. However,

Rezoning the center of the Tower District for church use threatens the long-term viability of Tower nightlife. California ABC can prohibit liquor licenses within 600 feet of a church; City of Fresno ordinances are stricter, prohibiting liquor licenses within 1,000 feet of a church. Of course, a change in zoning doesn’t mean that liquor licenses will be yanked overnight. But it does mean that liquor licenses for new businesses and liquor license transfers can be challenged. In the long term, this will gut the Tower District economy.

Adventure Church can’t change Tower District culture. Last January, Adventure Church Pastor Anthony Flores liked to talk big about how his church would provide a “redemptive lift” to the Tower District, which apparently meant street harassment of gay people and bar patrons. Today, Flores has lost a lot of his swagger. The protests have forced Flores to claim that he has no intention of opposing the bars or the gay character of the neighborhood — and he knows that any attempt to “Christianize” the Tower District will provoke more opposition.

What has a year of protest accomplished? 2021 was a year of exhausting struggle, and it seems like the only thing that’s resulted is a stalemate. Adventure Church continues to occupy the theater illegally, and the City won’t enforce zoning law. But vigorous action by Tower District residents has prevented things from being far worse. Here’s what a year of protest has accomplished:

The Tower District is stronger as a community and a political force. Individualists don’t band together until they perceive a common threat. Facing down Adventure Church and its Proud Boy allies has brought the Tower community together into a united force that the Fresno City Council cannot ignore.

The Tower Theatre has not been sold to Adventure Church. When the Save the Tower demonstrations began in January 2021, the sale was a done deal, and we thought we were fighting only to prevent the theater from being rezoned. But the outpouring of community support convinced Sequoia Brewing Company to file the lawsuit that has prevented Adventure from acquiring the theater.

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What happens in 2022? We all hope that Sequoia’s lawsuit will be successful. Until then, we seem poised for another year of stalemate and illegal occupation. The only force that can shift this is if the city government decides to enforce zoning. That will only happen with continued community pressure upon elected officials. 2022 is an election year for the Fresno City Council. We should all ask only one question of the candidates: Will you help save the Tower Theatre?

Retired, My Ass! By Don Priest | kfsrbluesdog@gmail.com

“

So, how do you like retirement?” I get asked that question a lot these days, especially when I bump into someone I haven’t seen for a while. My response is always the same, “Best job I ever had.” True enough, but it took a while to develop the right skillset. It seems there’s a tendency among some of us retired educators to jump right into the next thing before we’ve had a chance to test the calmer waters. Maybe it’s fear of not being useful. Or uncertainty about our finances. Or perhaps we’re just easily bored. Whatever the reason, figuring it out is definitely a learning experience. My studies began in December 2011 when I officially retired from my teaching position at Fresno State. Then immediately went to work for CMAC (Community Media Access Collaborative). This non-profit organization provides video equipment and training to local community members to tell their own stories. I helped develop the training program and assisted in hiring the first staff. I also taught a few classes and helped with productions. It was supposed to be a ‘part-time’ gig but still took up a pretty good chunk of hours. About four years into this, my old department at Fresno State called, asking if I would be willing to help them out by teaching a couple of courses as an adjunct. Naturally, I said yes and spent the next three years doing double duty. At the same time, I hosted a weekly 3-hour music show for the campus radio station and played percussion in four different bands. All of which meant I was pretty much working full time. What kind of retirement is that? The change came in 2017 when I had a benign growth removed from my lung. Recovering from that gave me time to think about my priorities and what I was doing with my retirement. That’s when I decided it was time to lighten the load. The

first step was to retire from CMAC, which left me more time to take care of personal stuff, but I still had the part-time teaching gig, the radio show, and the bands to keep me running. Then Covid hit. The teaching ended, the music died, and I finally had to let go of the radio show I’d been doing for almost 20 years. Suddenly I was a 75-year -old media guy staring at a mostly blank screen. That’s when concerned friends start-

ed asking me, “What are you going to do with all your time?” Like they were worried I would disappear into the recliner with a beer in one hand and the remote in the other (I actually did some of that - till it got boring). I wasn’t too concerned, though. I knew the downtime wouldn’t last too long because I believe in science. You see, one of the fundamental laws of physics is that Nature hates a vacuum – and if there’s a space, something will come along to fill it. So let one thing go, and pretty soon, something else will come along to take its place. It’s happened to me time and again, and it happened again this time. It was a gradual process—first one thing, followed by another. Then something | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

else as Nature tried to fill in the blanks. It could have gotten out of hand, but I’ve finally learned to say, “No,” and only took on the things I really wanted to do. Now, my days are still full. I currently volunteer on two boards: as Chair of the Valley Music Hall of Fame and newsletter editor for the Emeriti and Retired Faculty Association. Both keep me busy and creatively challenged – but not too much. I’m only in two bands now. And I finally broke down and bought myself a real drum set (which I’m still learning to play). I might even try a little singing. Health-wise, I’m doing OK – just dealing with the stuff old men usually deal with. To try and keep it that way, I work with a trainer at the gym, pay more attention to what I eat, and have cut way back on the beer (that’s been the tough one). It seems to be working, and I have lost a few pounds. So now here I am, ten years into retirement, and I think I’ve finally got a handle it. I’m still busy doing stuff I enjoy and still feeling ‘engaged’ and ‘contributing.’ But at a much more leisurely pace with time to read, write, do my chores and ‘bang with the boys’ (as my wife calls my music-making). And I still have some time left for staring off into space. I guess my advice to those about to take that next step into the “Golden Years” – and maybe even some who’ve been there for a while – would be to take it slow. Pursue your interest, for sure. Now really is the time to start doing all the things you love – but don’t jump in over your head. Let it unfold. Think of entering retirement as like opening a bottle of fine wine. You can pop the cork and savor the fragrance – then you have to give it time to breathe. That’s when it really becomes the best job you’ve ever had.

...Welcome cont’d from pg 5 When you are ready, meditate and focus on the issue at hand in a quiet environment. Here is a heartfelt and creative project to help deal with a life transition. May you find it gratifying for yourself, family, and friends. Purchase a glass jar, any shape or size, nothing expensive. Find one that resonates with you. It can be clear glass or colored. Now fill it with items you find resonate with you (i.e., a stone, a rock, leaves, flower petals, buttons, jewelry, fabric, a photo, an old letter, etc.) Be creative but let it speak to you; it must have a connection with you. Take your time with this step; it may be hours or days. Finally, the last thing for you to do is to place something you cherish at the top of the jar, representing you, who you are. It must be at the very top. When complete, place the jar where you can visibly see it every day on your mantel, hearth, desk, and front porch. This exercise represents you! You are at the top always! Wherever that jar is in your home, it will be the first thing you see when you arrive home. The very top item is YOU. You are first, always. You are #1. You are strong. You are unique. You are your best self! If you have a question on a topic regarding life transition, coping skills, loss, and grief, send your inquiry email to: newbeginningconsulting11@gmail. com.

--Nancy Zanicchi-Bobb, M.A. Counseling Psychology, consultant, author, speaker for transition, loss & grief.

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JANUARY 2022 |

CBD Smiles By I. smiley G. Calderón | smileygcalderon@gmail.com

BD is very popular nowadays - and it should be. It’s the federally legal phytocannabinoid with powerful and safe anti-inflammatory properties without unwanted psychoactive effects. But what does CBD stand for anyway, and where does it come from? Keep on reading because in this column, we’re going to go over the CBD basics, and we’ll see if CBD is right for you (spoiler alert: it is). Let’s see how CBD can make you smile. CBD stands for the chemical cannabidiol. It belongs to a group of terpeno-phenolic, highly lipophilic compounds collectively called ‘cannabinoids’ found in the resin of the trichomes of the cannabis plant. (Trichomes are sparkly ‘frost’ sometimes seen on cannabis flowers) Although this incredible plant has been used safely by humans for millennia and for many therapeutic purposes, the CBD chemical was only isolated in 1940. Its structure was only clearly understood as recently as 1963. Another popular phytocannabinoid in this plant’s resin is the infamous THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, known for its psychoactive, potent high. THC was not isolated and understood until a year after CBD, in 1964. Yet these two cannabinoids are not the only ones found in the Cannabis plant to date. There are over one hundred other cannabinoids in the plant that have been shown to possess therapeutic properties. Cannabis may offer a whole spectrum of medicinal and therapeutic health benefits. Some have even investigated its impact on immunity - something especially interesting during this coronavirus pandemic. Cannabis research is a relatively new industry, and more investigation is needed to fully explore all of the rich and valuable chemicals in this plant. For example, cannabichromene (CBC), another non-psychotropic cannabinoid found in cannabis, has potential clinical use in adult neural stem progenitor cells (NSPCs) viability. These NSPCs are significant for healthy brain function and in the etiology of epilepsy and seizures. We all have heard about and are familiar with essential body systems like our nervous system, circulatory system, or integumentary (skin) system. But not many people (including physicians) know much about their endocannabinoid system (ES) one of the most powerful and vital body systems we possess. Our ES is dynamic and is

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interconnected with all of our other body systems. Phytocannabinoids activate our ES, which is made up of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) called CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are concentrated in the brain. There are more CB1 receptors in our brain than any other receptor. Plus, CB1 receptors are also found in lower concentrations throughout the body in peripheral tissues. CB2 receptors are primarily found in the cells of the immune and hematopoietic systems but are also found in the brain, liver, pancreas, and bone. These important receptors are found throughout your body. What’s curious about the steric selectivity of CB1 and CB2 receptors is that

with high affinity? Or, could it be because CBD enhances anandamide signaling and inhibits its degradation? (Anandamide is a naturally occurring fatty acid neurotransmitter endocannabinoid that your body naturally produces. It was the first endocannabinoid ever discovered - only a few decades ago, in 1992 - it binds to your CB1 and CB2 receptors and positively activates your ES). As CBD increases the amount of available anandamide in the brain, it has demonstrated effectiveness in exerting anti-psychotic effects in treating schizophrenia. CBD is amazing. Another non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid, cannabigerol (CBG), is also

CBD has a low affinity for these receptors. CBD does not bind to CB1 or CB2 receptors or activate our ES like THC, and other cannabinoids do. The mechanism of CBD action in the body is a bit unclear, to be honest. But, we know that it works. CBD is effective for anti-anxiety, anti-convulsive, anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. Exactly how and why is a little elusive. Is CBD’s effectiveness due to its powerful antioxidant properties? Are these properties due to a currently unknown and undiscovered cannabinoid receptor(s) in our body that tightly binds CBD

pretty impressive. It seems to activate pharmaceutical activity at the CB2 receptor the receptor mainly found within the cells of your immune system. CBG has shown promising results in the research laboratory treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It reduces nitric oxide production of macrophages modulated by the CB2 receptor. CBG also reduces oxidative stress within intestinal epithelial cells - a potential treatment for IBS patients. Cannabinol (CBN) is another crucial non-psychotropic phytocannabinoid. And so are Cannabivarin (CBV) and Can-

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nabicitran (CBT) - demonstrated to be effective in reducing Intraocular Pressure (IOP). And we can’t forget Cannabidivarin (CBDV) - another powerful non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid that has shown promise in treating epilepsy with its anticonvulsant properties. As you can see, there are a lot of exciting, non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids that you can safely and confidently use to help with a whole host of real-life debilitating conditions that you may be dealing with - all without getting ‘high’ or experiencing any unwanted intoxication. What might surprise you is that you can easily purchase therapeutic lotions and balms filled with CBD, CBG, CBN - what we call ‘Broad Spectrum CBD’ - to help reduce muscle and joint inflammation and pain topically all over your body. Effectively dosed lotions (1000mg+) and balms with CBD and the other Broad Spectrum non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids can effectively ease migraines and PMS cramping. Pills, oil-based tinctures, and vape pens are also great ways to ingest and holistically self-administer Broad Spectrum CBD to therapeutically help with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and many other conditions. Of course, Broad Spectrum CBD is no panacea to cure every disease and in no way is this column promising any specific results or health outcomes. The FDA prohibits anyone from making clinical claims or health promises about cannabis and its phytocannabinoids - I can’t call it ‘The Miracle Cure’ - even if I believe it to be true. But what this column is trying to say is that if you’re in pain and suffering from exhausting inflammation or with any of the symptoms and conditions mentioned above, you may want to keep an open mind when it comes to cannabis and its phytocannabinoids. This column aims to introduce you to the beautiful world of Broad Spectrum CBD. The goal is to encourage you to see and try for yourself if including CBD, CBG, CBN, etc., in your daily routine might help you reach your health goals and live more comfortably and happily, to help you smile. Wishing you health, happiness, and plenty of smiles in 2022. -smiley G. President, smileyCBD smileygcalderon@gmail.com

...‘Weed Jobs’ cont’d from pg 4 ment. Higher Level of Care plans to invest considerable resources into its Blackstone Ave location to create a clean, attractive storefront featuring drought-resistant landscaping. Opening Timeline: Unknown While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval. Hiring Timeline: Unknown Standard practice for most cannabis retailers is to begin the hiring process approximately 60 days before opening, to allow adequate time for staff training. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Higher Level has pledged to pay its starting employees a wage between 150%-244% of the state-mandated minimum wage. They also intend to provide a benefits package they claim to be one of the best in the industry. This includes a medical plan with no annual deductible or co-pay, 3 weeks of vacation time per year, a 401k retirement plan, and continued education compensation. Additionally, Higher Level has committed to hiring at least 1/3rd of its workforce from “second chance” and low-income applicants. DISTRICT 5 Culture Cannabis Club 2590 S Maple Ave Ste 103-104, 93725 Culture Cannabis Club distinguishes itself through a commitment to community service and promoting social equity. With over 17 years of industry experience, the Culture Cannabis Club team has the knowledge and expertise to provide customers with the highest quality products and unparalleled customer service.

Opening Timeline: Unknown While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval. Hiring Timeline: Unknown Culture Cannabis Club plans to hire approximately 30 employees during its first 18 months of operation. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Culture Cannabis Club boasts on its application form that it will pay employees a minimum starting rate that is 83% over California’s mandated minimum wage of $12 per hour (as of 2020). After a bit of math, 83% of $12 comes out to $9.96, which totals $21.96 after all is said and done. Employees should expect, at minimum, roughly $22 per hour according to Culture Cannabis Club’s application. Culture Cannabis Club also tout a “superior” benefits package that includes health/dental/vision insurance, 401k, annual raises and bonuses, tuition reimbursement, and a profit sharing program for tenured employees. Where to Apply: Local Organizations Culture Cannabis Club’s hiring process includes a plan to partner with local organizations to recruit members for its staff. These organizations include the Fresno Economic Opportunity Commission (EOC), UFCW8, and Workforce Connection. Further, the dispensary will look to establish a Veterans Incubation Program to seek out and hire veterans and a Culture Convicted program to hire felons of marijuana convictions. Fresno Farms 3849 E. Ventura Ave, 93702 Chief Financial Officer Kirill Merkulov says that his Fresno Farms dispensary will stand out from the competition by offering customers a large variety of the most popular strains and brands, competitive pricing, and friendly, knowledgeable staff. Opening Timeline: “This year” Merkulov anticipates opening before the September deadline imposed by the City. Fresno Farms will be launching a full PR campaign to let cannabis job seekers know when and where they can apply. Fresno Farms plans to hire about 25 full and part-time employees within its first 18 months of operation. Hiring Timeline: “Stay Tuned” Fresno Farms will begin accepting applica| FRESNOFLYER.COM |

tions approximately 60 days before their grand opening. Prospective applicants are encouraged to follow Fresno Farms on social media for updates. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Merkulov says Fresno Farms will pay a “living wage” above the state-mandated minimum. They will also offer benefits, including health insurance and continuing education expense reimbursement. Additionally, to promote eco-friendly commuting, Fresno Farms will pay up to 50% of an employee’s public transportation expenses, or a to-be-determined portion of the purchase, upkeep, repair, and storage expenses for employees who wish to ride a bicycle to work. Fresno Farms is also committed to staffing a portion of its workforce from “second chance” and low-income applicants. Element 7 Fresno 4686 E Kings Canyon Rd, 93702

Authentic Fresno 6929 N Willow Ave Ste 103-104, 93710 Authentic Fresno is owned by the parent entity, Shryne Group, which owns three cultivation facilities, three manufacturing facilities, three distribution centers, and nine retail stores throughout California. Opening Timeline: Unknown

Element 7 is a California-based company whose mission is to become “California’s most local cannabis company.” The retail store maintains a focus on educating customers, social justice and inclusion, and operating with a very local voice and footprint.

While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval.

Opening Timeline: Unknown. While unknown, the City’s Department of Cannabis Oversight has set a deadline of September 2022 for all permit recipients to begin operation, or risk forfeiting their approval.

Hiring Timeline: 4-6 weeks prior to the grand opening. Authentic Fresno anticipates hiring between 40-50 employees for this location which will allow for “ample opportunity for customer education” and “short wait times for shoppers.” The hiring process will begin with a self-hosted job fair 4-6 weeks before Authentic Fresno plans to open its doors.

Hiring Timeline: Unknown. Benefits and Pay: “Living Wage” While Element 7 Fresno’s application form states the company is committed to providing its employees a living wage, the details were redacted (unavailable for public viewing). Additionally, the owner was not available for comment. Employees can expect to receive a standard package including health insurance, 401K, paid time off, and the right to take leave for medical or family reasons. A stock option plan and gym memberships will be available to full-time employees. Notably, part-time employees will have the option to join the company’s insurance plan after six months of employment. And full-time employees will receive 100% of their insurance premiums paid for by Element 7.

DISTRICT 6 Culture Cannabis Club 314 E Bullard Ave, 93710 [see above under “District 5”]

Benefits and Pay: “Living Wage” While Authentic Fresno’s application form states the company is committed to providing its employees a living wage, the details were redacted (unavailable for public viewing). Additionally, the owner was not available for comment. However, the application did reveal some details the benefits package. All full-time and part-time employees will receive the protections of the Collective Bargaining Agreement Authentic has entered with UFCW. Additionally, the company will offer medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, maternity/ paternity leave, an employer-funded pension plan, 401(k), paid volunteer hours, and continuing education benefits.

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JANUARY 2022 |

CALENDAR Art

Full Moon Landscape. Monday, January 17th, 6pm. Rocky Hill Yoga Studio, 430 E. Maple St, Exeter. Wine & Paint! Easy, guided acrylic paint class for adults. Monthly class reoccurs every night of the full moon. Join us for another fabulous, full moon Paint Party at Rocky Hill Yoga Studio in Exeter, Ca.

The “No” Fashion Show. Sunday, January 9th, 6pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Introducing The “N0” Fashion Show. 10 brands and designers showcasing their fashion art of design. 30 local models cat walking down the runway. Multiple local photographers catching every moment of the event. Live performance by local artist Brian Cade. DRESS CODE: PLEASE DRESS Wine Tasting Like a Pro! Saturday, TO IMPRESS and “Be Fashionable January 15th, 10am. Modernist Craft and express who you are” -KMonet Cocktail Bar, 719 Fulton St, Fresno. This workshop will teach you the techJanka. Friday, January 14th, 7:30pm. niques of how to taste wine and how Temple Theatre, 514 Visalia St, Han- to unveil the quality and subtlety of ford. Movie premiere presented by any wine. 3-hour workshop. Includes the Kings Players. A Holocaust Survi- 6-8 wines to taste and lunch. In this vor from Sighet to Auschwitz to Amer- workshop you will rediscover the role ica. Written by Oscar Speace and of the senses and how fundamental performed by Janice Noga, Janka’s they are in our daily life. daughter in law. Genderpeers: Gender Support New Worlds. Sunday, January 16th, Group. Saturday, January 15th, 3pm. William Saroyan Theater, 700 12pm. Merced Multicultural Arts M St, Fresno. The Fresno Philharmon- Center, 645 W. Main St, Merced. Genic celebrates the legacy of The Rever- derpeers is a super inclusive peer-led end Martin Luther King Jr. with a con- support group for all gender non-concert featuring Adolphus Hailstork’s forming people. Please join us if you Epitaph for a Man Who Dreamed, are transgender, non-binary, agenChickasaw composer Jerod Impich- der, intersex, and more. Meets every chaachaaha’ Tate’s Clans and Dvor- first and third Saturday at noon. ak’s Symphony No. 9.

Self-Improvement

Events

Vegan Brews & BBQ. Saturday, January 15th, 1pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. We’re excited to bring our special brand of soul food back to Fresno! We’ll have a loaded menu featuring Southern Staples and Sandwich specials. Menu highlights include Fried Chickun, BBQ. Mac N Cheeze, Jambalaya, Cajun Corn, Beer-Cheeze Battered Beyond Burgers, and Totchos!

Boardgames and Brunch: A meetup for LGBTQ+ Folks and Friends. Sunday, February 6th, 12pm. Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 W. Main St. Merced. Play some games, have some nosh, and meet new friends. This is a free monthly meetup for LGBTQ+ people over 40, their friends and family. Tickets and registration are not required to attend this event--feel free to show up!

Winter Comfort Food Cooking Demo. Friday, January 21st, 6pm. Children’s Storybook Garden & Museum, 175 E. Tenth St, Hanford. Looking to make delicious food during these winter days? Join us for this exciting cooking demo! Tickets are available online or in the Garden office during hours of operation. $20-25

Theater

Slice of Comedy headlining Vince Royale. Friday, January 7th, 8pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. Jersey City native, Vince Royale is a stand up comedian, actor, and recording artist. Vince has shared the stage and performed with Wine and Food Pairing Fundamen- comedy legends such as Louis C.K., tals. Saturday, February 5th, 10am. Bobby Lee, Paul Mooney, Tommy DaModernist Craft Cocktail Bar, 719 vidson, Todd Glass, Jim Gaffigan, just Fulton St, Fresno. Designed for any to name a few. person who already has some basic knowledge about wine and wishes to Full Circle Presents: The Downtown learn the fundamentals of how to pair Beat Down Comedy Showcase. Sunwine with food. In this class we will day, January 9th, 5:30pm. Full Circle be exploring different developmental Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresstrategies in the exquisite art of wine no. It’s a new show, a new night, and and food paring. a new venue, but that’s not stopping us from picking up right where we left off with live comedy in March of FRESNOFLYER.COM

2020. Join us at our new Fulton St tap room! Beginning May 16, 2021, we’ll be showcasing some of the very best comedians California has to offer every Sunday night. JUST THE TIPS Comedy Show + Open Mic. Wednesday, January 12th, 7pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. Ticketed and TIP Based show with Professional comics followed by a comedy open mic. Feature show followed by a Comedy Open Mic every Wednesday. Slice of Comedy headlining Aidan Park. Friday, January 14th, 8pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. Aidan is a stand up comic and actor based in Los Angeles. He performs comedy at some of the most respected comedy clubs in Hollywood including the improv, comedy store and the Laugh Factory. Aidan has toured internationally headlining for respected comedy clubs, fundraisers, colleges, corporate events and festivals! “My Letter to Dr. King” Live Stage Performance. Monday, January 17th, 3:30pm. Playhouse Merced Community Theater, 452 W. Main St, Merced. “My Letter to Dr. King” is an original production of how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s activism inspired and impacted the lives of many. Admission is free. LMAO Ent. Presents: Comedy Showcase. Tuesday, January 18th, 7:30pm. Patterson, 35 S. 3rd St, Patterson. Great Comedy, Great food, Great people, Great drinks! Tickets $15. 21+ w/ID JUST THE TIPS Comedy headlining David “Rosie” Rosenberg. Wednesday, January 19th, 7pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. David Rosenberg is a stand up comic located in Los Angeles. He’s performed all over the country and has appeared on Netflix, Comcast Cable, IHeartRadio, SiriusXM, the San Francisco Comedy Competition, and the World Series of Comedy Main Event. Bert Kreischer. Thursday, January 20th, 7pm. Saroyan Theater at the Fresno Convention Center, 300 M St, Fresno. Comedian Bert Kreischer performing live at the Saroyan Theater. Tickets start at $62.

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Theater PizzaCon 2022. Sunday, January 9th, 12pm. Round Table Pizza, 1691 E. Noble, Visalia. Celebrating John Ozuna, Costar of Matrix 4 & Venom 2, MegaForce Black Ranger Rayster Slice of Comedy Headlining Keith Michaels, Michael S.Rodriguez 2022 Carey. Friday, January 21st, 8pm. release of Last American Horror DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clo- Show 2. Anime artist Edward Luena, vis Ave, Clovis. Keith Carey is a Long Cleanest Comedian Lonnie, Drevan Beach-based comedian who per- from MandoMercs and Valleywood forms all over the country, sharing his Werewolves films reunion. Benefits thoughts on comic books, homopho- #BoredomBusters bia, and other hard-hitting topics. Tribute Quartet, Tribute Live. Chanel Ali LIVE at Mammoth Brew- Wednesday, January 12th, 7pm. Riving Company. Friday, January 21st, erdale Assembly of God, 2813 W. Mt 10pm. Mammoth Brewing Company, Whitney Ave, Riverdale. Multi-Dove 18 Lake Mary Rd, Mammoth Lakes. Award nominated, Tribute, shares Eastern Sierra Comedy presents an evening of inspiration and songs Chanel Ali at Mammoth Brewing from the latest recordings. Admission Company! Special Friday Show! Janu- is free. ary 21st! Tickets $20. Colorful Owl / Tulare Ca. Saturday, JUST THE TIPS Comedy headlining January 15th, 6pm. WonderVision Daniel Dugar. Wednesday, January Wellness & Emporium, 132 E. Kern 26th, 7pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restau- Ave, Tulare. Join us for another fabrant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. Born in ulous Paint Party at Wonder Vision New Orleans and raised in Oakland, Wellness & Emporium in Tulare, Ca. Daniel Dugar is one of the funniest Guided acrylic paint class designed comics in the country. He’s opened for adults and kids 12yr & up. up for such acts like D.L. Hughley, Damon Wayans, Cedric the Entertainer, Imagine U Museum. Thursday, JanThe Kings of Comedy Tour and even uary 20th, 12:30pm. ImagineU Chilmusical acts such as Patti LaBelle dren’s Museum, 210 N. Tipton St, Visalia. Imagine U exhibits focus on and Earth, Wind, & Fire. agriculture, science, and art through Marc Maron: This May Be The Last the power of play. Play is the vehicle Time Tour. Friday, January 28th, 7pm. for exploring and learning, developing Fremont Theater, 1035 Monterey St, new skills, and connecting with othSan Luis Obispo. Marc Maron will be ers. Play also has important links to live at the Fremont Theater in down- developing key skills that serve as town SLO! $46-$56 Advance General a foundation for life-long success, Admission / $61 Day of Show / $63 including critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, and collaboAt the Door ration. Imagine U Children’s museum believe that a child’s imagination comes first: Imagine, Explore, Learn. Disney’s Frozen (2013) at the Hanford Fox Theatre. Saturday, January Thin Mint 5K & Shortbread Shuffle. 8th, 2pm. Hanford Fox Theatre, 326 Saturday, January 22nd, 10:30am. Irwin St, Hanford. The Hanford Fox Woodward Park, 7775 N. Friant Ave, Theare will be showing Disney’s 2013 Fresno. Girl Scouts of Central Califilm Frozen. Tickets are available at fornia South are ready to kick off our Cookie Season. This family friendly the Fox Theatre box office. event features 5K & 1 Mile races. Youth Events @ the MAC. Saturday, Girl Scouts, Girl Scout families and January 8th, 2pm. Merced Multicul- the public can enjoy the Thin Mint 5K tural Arts Center, 645 W. Main St, or the Shortbread Shuffle (1 mile) at Merced. A free meetup for LGBTQIA+ Woodward Park. Both events are unyouth in Merced, with themed events! timed and are designed with fun in All LGBTQIA+ youth 17 and under, mind. their friends and guardians welcome! Tickets and registration are not re- The Pious Harp for the Weary Soul quired to attend this event--feel free - LIVE. Sunday, January 23rd, 5pm. Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 355 E. to show up! Champlain Dr, Fresno. Raw, dense Slice of Comedy Headlining Jen Murphy. Friday, January 21st, 8pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis.

Family

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vocal harmonies and relaxing acoustic guitars will fill the air in Holy Spirit Catholic Church on January 23rd, 2022. Please join us for a restful evening of gentle folk music inspired by the Sacred Harp hymnal and personal prayer life. Admission is FREE.

Ben and Abby at Full Circle. Thursday, January 13th, 7pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Ben and Abby will be performing an intimate duo set here at our Brewery District Taproom. 7pm.All Ages. Free

Mr Moose Summer Youth Painting. Wednesday, January 26th, 4pm. Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St, Paso Robles. Youth are invited to paint with us at Studios on the Park in Paso Robles. Youth attendees will get to learn brush techniques, blending paints and stroke work. Each painter will leave with a canvas of their own creation!

S.F. Yiddish Combo. Sunday, January 9th, 3pm. Congragation Beth Shalom of Modesto, 1705 Sherwood Ave, Modesto. Made up of classically trained musicians who enjoy stretching musical boundaries, the SFYC is led by cellist Rebecca Roudman who has fronted groups all over the world bringing her virtuosic and fiery playing to stages Tickets $10-25.

Cumbia Bass at Full Circle. Friday, January 14th, 8pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Friday January 14th, 2022 - Cumbia Bass at Full Circle! 8pm / All Ages / $10 Adv. / $15 DOS. Astrid’s 80’s Remix. Saturday, January 15th, 7pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Astrid’s 80’s Remix is making their way back into our taproom! Come out and dance to the top 80’s classics with a live performance by Astrid Plane. 7pm / All Ages / Free

Yachtley Crew. Saturday, January 15th, 8pm. The Tower Theatre, 809 E. Olive Ave, Fresno. One night only! Disney on Ice presents Dream Big. WE ARE YOUNG: 2010s Night with An Evening with Yächtley Crëw at the Thursday, January 27th, 7pm to Sat- DJ Blade. Friday, January 14th, 9pm. Tower Theatre In Fresno, CA Tickets urday, January 29th, 7pm. Selland Welcome to the debut of our latest on sale NOW! Arena, 700 M St, Fresno. Believing theme night All ages, $5 cover. is just the beginning at Disney On FRESNOFLYER.COM Ice presents Dream Big. Miguel aspires to be a musician and journeys through the Land of the Dead to unlock his family’s history. Moana and Maui bravely restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti, Anna and Elsa save their kingdom and the Disney Princesses inspire with stories of strength, determination and kindness. Share every magical moment filled with breathtaking ice skating and beloved Disney songs and stories that give everyone a reason to believe! Sumner Peck Ranch u-Pick Citrus Season. Monday, January 31st, 8:30am. Sumner Peck Ranch, 11439 N. Friant Rd, Fresno. The River Parkway Trust is thrilled to invite you to the upcoming U-pick Citrus season at Sumner Peck Ranch! Lace up your boots and grab your baskets, it’s time to go fruit picking! Come take a stroll up and down the orchard. Enjoy picking navel oranges, blood oranges, pomelos, Minneola tangelos, mandarins, and lemons all at $1 per pound.

Music Shannon and the Clams. Saturday, January 8th, 8pm. The Cellar Door, 101 W. Main St, Visalia. Shannon and the Clams performing live at The Cellar Door. Tickets at ticketweb.com Get Dead. Wednesday, January 12th, 5:30pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Get Dead Ceschi Ramos Narly Head 1335 The Sneaky Merlins All Ages / $14 Adv / $18 Dos | FEATURED | DINING | CALENDAR | MUSIC | CLASSIFIEDS |

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JANUARY 2022 |

Kills Birds: Watch This Space. Photo By: Laci Miranda | @darkstar84_photos By Dave Fountinelle | dave@fresnoflyer.com

hat if Joan Jett sang on Hole’s iconic 1994 album “Live Through This?” This was the question that sprung to mind halfway through “Rabbit,” the first track on LA-based Kills Birds sophomore album, “Married.” Like Jett, singer Nina Ljeti’s vocal delivery seamlessly blends punk aggression, pop sensibility, and rock n’ roll attitude over a raw, guitar-heavy soundtrack straight out of the ’90s. Her voice shoves to the front like a pissed-off teenager pushing through the crowd to get to the stage. “I could have tanked you, ended you… But I’m not like the other girls,” Ljeti scowls. On the next song, “Cough Up Cherries,” the 90’s grunge throwback vibes are even more potent. Ljeti’s voice channels the best parts of Hole’s Courtney Love, Bikini Kill’s Kathleen Hanna, and Jessicka from Jack Off Jill. And surging behind Ljeti’s vocal gut punches like crashing waves are Jacob Loeb’s raw, heavy, layered guitar riffs. These two elements combine to form a more Gen X sound than

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Eddie Vedder in flannel, stage-diving into a vat of Jones Soda at Lollapalooza. It would come as no surprise then that Gen X icon and the unofficial “cool uncle” of rock n roll, Dave Grohl, hand-picked Kills Birds to open for his band, The Foo Fighters. After personally inviting the band to record “Married” at his recording studio, Studio 606, he offered them the opening slot for the Foo’s west coast tour dates. The December 9th show in Fresno was their last date on tour, and Kills Birds delivered a send-off performance that firmly established themselves as a band to watch heading into 2022. Kicking off their live set with “Rabbit,” Kills Birds launched into an energetic, bare-bones set that showcased their new album, along with a couple of songs from their self-titled debut. Ljeti strode confidently across the huge Save Mart Center stage with a rock star presence. The front of the stage belonged to Ljeti as she pumped her

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fist, jumped, stomped, and commanded the audience’s attention. Loeb’s heavy, grunge-gaze guitar riffs carried her powerful vocal performance with a dark, brooding urgency that transported the crowd back to a time when MTV actually played music videos. As their set and their whirlwind stint on the Foo Fighters tour concluded, Ljeti gushed to the packed house, “you guys have been absolutely amazing!” And judging from the response of the crowd, the feeling was mutual. Kills Birds has accomplished something truly impressive. They have managed the unlikely feat of capturing the sound and fury of 90’s grunge while also delivering it in a way that’s still completely relevant and fresh. “Married” is an album about heartbreak, uncertainty, and devotion. It should come as no surprise that it was recorded during the peak of the pandemic, as those thematic elements also reflect the band’s own experiences during the recording process. First, heartbreak, as the

Photo By: Laci Miranda | @darkstar84_photos pandemic brought the world to a halt just as the band was preparing for a breakout performance at the South by Southwest festival. Second, uncertainty about the future as shutdowns devastated the music industry. Lastly, devotion - both to their music and each other - that inspired and motivated the band while they worked in the studio. The result is a

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beautiful and brilliant album that is sad and hopeful, angry and tender. While thanking Kills Birds during his set, Dave Grohl told the Fresno crowd, “We don’t pick a band to open for us unless we fucking like them. We like Kills Birds, and we want you to like them too.” So, listen to uncle Dave. He knows what he’s talking about.

Jackson Dean - Dying Bread Brewing Oakdale - Small Town Loud Tour. Saturday, January 15th, 8pm. Dying Breed Brewing, 963 Shepherd Ct, #B, Oakdale. Jackson Dean will be making the Small Town Loud tour to Central CA! His song “Don’t Come Looking” just premiered on the TV Show Yellowstone! He will be selling out arena’s before you know it! All proceeds from the ticket sales will go to Modesto City Police K9 Division.

JoJo Siwa. Thursday, January 20th, 8pm. Save Mart Center, 2850 W. Shaw Ave, Fresno. JoJo Siwa performing live at the Save Mart Center. Tickets start at $40.

Marbin. Thursday, January 20th, 8:30pm. T-Bar Social Club, 2588 CA 158, June Lake. International touring progressive jazz-rock band make their Eastern Sierra debut. Marbin has released eight albums and regularly plays in clubs all over the US and EMO TRAP NIGHT with Blade. Sun- in jam and jazz festivals around the day, January 16th, 8pm. ETN Vol- world. Tickets $22. ume 8! This wild and festive theme night dedicated to Emo-Trap-Sound- Rock En Espanol. Friday, January cloud-Underground Hip Hop sells 21st, 6pm. Full Circle Brewery Disout every time. So get tickets early. trict, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. Friday Blade will be shooting a live music January 21st, 2022 - Come out to video this night in addition to all the the 1st Rock En Espanol of the New festivities. Portion of proceeds will Year! There will be food, vendors, live be donated to a suicide prevention & music, cold beer + more! 6pm / All mental health awareness charity. All Ages / Free Ages, $6 adv, $8 DOS. together Pangea, The Paranoyds, Austin Meade & Kody West. Mon- No Win. Saturday, January 22nd, day, January 17th, 7pm. Strummer’s, 8pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Austin Me- Fresno. Together Pangea—William ade and Kody West performing live at Keegan, Danny Bengston, and Erik Strummer’s. All ages show. Jimenez—return in 2021 having made the most of 2020’s turbulence Celtic Alchemy at Full Circle. Tues- by writing and recording DYE, an upday, January 18th, 6pm. Full Circle beat, undeniable collection of hooks, Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fres- anthems, and power-pop garage-rock no. Tuesday January 18th, Celtic catchiness that is unmistakably the Alchemy is taking the stage at our album of their career. Brewery District Taproom! 6pm / All Ages / Free ARMNHMR - Waiting For Love Tour. Saturday, January 22nd, 8pm. RainBen Napoles at Full Circle. Wednes- bow Ballroom, 1725 Broadway St, day, January 19th, 6pm. Full Circle Fresno. With masterful original proBrewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fres- ductions and beautifully resonating no. Wednesday January 19th, 2022 remixes, ARMNHMR has built a loyal - Come out and have a drink as Ben following as well as received strong Napoles takes the stage with an support and recognition from high acoustic set. 6pm / All Ages / Free profile artists throughout the industry. Tickets $20-25. Life and Music of George Michael. Wednesday, January 19th, 7pm. Fre- Marbin at Full Circle. Sunday, Janmont Theater, 1035 Monterey St, uary 23rd, 6pm. Full Circle BrewSan Luis Obispo. The Life and Music ery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. of George Michael will be live at the MARBIN is a progressive jazz-rock Fremont Theater in downtown SLO! band led by Danny MARkovitch (saxA brand new immersive concert-style ophone) and Dani RaBIN (guitar). All show that chronicles the amazing Ages / $3 ADV. / $5 DOS. journey George Michael had with music and his fans. The Life and Music FORTUNATE YOUTH Good Times of George Michael captures the per- Roll On Winter Tour with Arise Roots, formance and sound with concert Eureka Sound. Friday, January 28th, style staging and lighting while tell- 8pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, ing his story through early music hits Fresno. Fortunate Youth’s Good from Wham! and his illustrious solo Times Roll On Winter Tour comes to career. Tickets $28-50. Strummer’s. All ages show. FRESNOFLYER.COM | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

Dayan Kai at The Dying Breed Brewery. Saturday, January 29th, 6pm. Dying Breed Brewing, 963 Shepherd Ct, #B, Oakdale. Inspirational Singer, Songwriter, Multi-Instrumentalist Dayan Kai back at the Dying Breed after last summers visit left the crowd in awe. Dayan Kai’s virtuous musicality and soulful voice combined with his deep insight into the human condition make him a beloved singer/ songwriter and top-notch band member. He is a favorite at many musical festivals. Tickets $5-80. TRAP TIDE - Local New Wave/Trap Night. Sunday, January 30th, 6:30pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. A new wave/trap night featuring local artists: A DOLLAR UNDERWATER (New Wave) Augie (Hip Hop) Jesus H Macey (Indie/R&B) GreyXeyes (SF Emo Rap) Teddy B (New Wave) X1L3D (Horror Trap) $8 adv, $10 DOS Possessed by Paul James // The Sam Chase at The Grove House. Wednesday, February 2nd, 6pm. The Grove House, 4993 5th St, Mariposa. Possessed by Paul James brings his incredible live show to The Grove House with very special guest The Sam Chase. Tickets $15. Possessed by Paul James // The Sam Chase at Dying Breed Brewing. Thursday, February 3rd, 5:30pm. Dying Breed Brewing, 963 Shepherd Ct, #B, Oakdale. Possessed by Paul James brings his incredible live show to Dying Breed with support from The Sam Chase. Tickets $10-160. STRAWBERRY GIRLS, Standards, Dwellings, Moondough. Thursday, February 3rd, 7pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Strawberry Girls comes to Strummer’s with special guests Standards, Dwellings, and Moondough. She Rocks. Thursday, February 3rd, 8pm. DiCicco’s Italian Restaurant, 408 Clovis Ave, Clovis. A Musical Tribute To 8 Great Female Classic Rock Icons of The 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Featuring Catt John. With Karen Tesi and Margo Montoya. For More Information Visit The She Rocks Website at WWW.Sherockstribute.com. Tickets $25. FRESNOFLYER.COM Promote your event with us. Call, text or email us today (559)472-7182 FRESNOFLYER.COM | FEATURED | DINING | CALENDAR | MUSIC | CLASSIFIEDS |

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21 + ARTIFICIAL LANGUAGE, Sea In The Sky, Prawg Dawg, Hyacinth. Friday, February 4th, 7pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Artificial Language comes to Strummer’s with special guests Sea in the Sky, Prawg Dawg, and Hyacinth. Music of The Eagles with Boys Of Summer. Saturday, February 5th, 8pm. Full Circle Brewery District, 712 Fulton St, Fresno. The Boys of Summer - All Ages | 21+ Bar | $12 Presale / $15 Door

SOULFLY, Farooq and Severed One. Thursday, February 10th, 7pm. Strummer’s. 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Metal legends Soulfly performing live with special guests Farooq and Severed One. All ages show.

STRUMMERSLAM Blacklist Pro Wrestling. Sunday, January 9th, 5pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Blacklist Pro Wrestling return home to Strummers. Prepare yourself for hard-hitting entertainment as the inaugural heavyweight champion will Kenny G. Thursday, February 10th, be crowned. General admission: $15. 8pm. Saroyan Theater at the Fresno Veterans / Active Military : Free Convention Center, 700 M St, Fresno. Award winning musical artist Kenny Best of The West presents: New G will be performing his trademark Horizons. Saturday, January 15th, smooth saxophone jazz sounds live 6pm. BotW Studios, 5766 E Fountain at the Saroyan Theater. Tickets $91. Way, Fresno. Best of The West Wrestling returns with their first show of Valentine’s Super Love Jam. Friday, 2022 in Fresno! Bringing the best pro February 11th, 7:30pm. Selland Are- wrestling on this coast, or any coast! na at Fresno Convention Center. 700 Tickets are $15 for Kids and First M St, Fresno. ZAPP, Midnight Star, responders, $20 for General AdmisRose Royce, Tierra, The Intruders, sion, and only $25 for front row seats Peaches and Herb, GQ, Bloodstone & where you will be mere feet away Notations. from the action!

Dropout Kings. Wednesday, February 9th, 6pm. Full Circle Brewing Co, 602 F St, Fresno. When you take a group of six degenerates from all over Arizona and put them under one roof, the results are proven dangerous. After the dust settled from this eruption, out came DROPOUT KINGS. A powerhouse of hip-hop and metal with a crew of friends bringing the ruckus along the way. Never knowing what will happen next and living life CWA: All Out War (live pro wrestwith no limits is an understatement. ing). Saturday, January 8th, 3:30pm. Castle Youth Center @ Veterans Park, LIL BEAN, ZAY BANG, Shawn Eff, 1699 County Park #3, Atwater. Live Yvnng Ecko. Wednesday, February pro wrestling makes it way back to 9th, 7pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern the caste youth center in Atwater, CA! Ave, Fresno. Lil Bean performing live Come see all your favorite CWA stars! at Strummer’s with special guests Zay Bang, Shawn Eff, and Yvnng FRESNOFLYER.COM Echo. All ages show.

Sports

UFC 270 Fight Night. Saturday, January 22nd, 5pm. The Tarmac, 1903 Airdome Entry, Atwater. Saturday January 22, we will be showing UFC 270 at both locations ( The Tarmac & Ceres Taproom & Brewery. The UFC Returns to Anaheim! Catch Two Title Fights Live on January 22. Card Features Ngannou vs. Gane, Moreno vs. Figueiredo 3, and More! Pre purchase your ticket now for Carlos’s unlimited tacos & a beer only $15!!

Top Rank Boxing: Ramirez Vs. Pedraza. Saturday, February 5th, 5:30pm. Save Mart Center, 2650 E. Shaw Ave, Fresno. Former Unified Junior Welterweight World Champion Jose Ramirez , the pride of California’s Central Valley, will face former two-weight world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza in a 12-round junior welterweight battle. In a six-round heavyweight special feature immediately before the main event, Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr., from the Central Valley town of Tulare, California, will make his long-awaited professional debut. Tickets start at $36.

ary 7th, 9pm. Mint, 1140 N. Van Ness Ave, Fresno. Mint Presents FrostBite live! Tickets $0-75. Must be 21+ to enter. The Chill Suite. Friday, January 7th, 9pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. The Chill Suite is a monthly R&B event featuring local DJs playing your favorites from classics to today’s heat. Enjoy a lounge environment, full bar, games & food truck. Tickets $5. 21+ only.

King Buzzo - Ragin’ Records Fresno. Saturday, January 8th, 1pm. KING BUZZO - Jan. 8, 2022 @ Ragin’ Re559 Fights 84. Friday, February 11th, cords Fresno - Back Patio (Veni Vidi 6pm. Visalia Convention Center, 303 Vici) Doors @ 1:30 PM (PST) - Set E. Acequia Ave, Visalia. 559 Fights Start 2:30 PM - There will be no openis back with live MMA and Grap- ing act so arrive on time for the rock! pling action. https://camomma.org/ 21 & over. Tickets $25 amateur-mma-events/E1401/559Fights-84 Tickets $35-600 Jurassic Rock. Saturday, January 8th, 7pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. The Jurassic Rock Jam is an annual event bringing some of Fresno’s awesomest rock legends unapologetiQ a party for QTPOC. Fri- back to the stage for one special day, January 7th, 9pm. Strummer’s, night of music and fun! The 15h an833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. New year, nual JURASSIC ROCK benefit concert same vibes! unapologetiQ: a dance is for Donovan Rivas. Donovan is a party for QTPOC. Come celebrate who young boy who suffers from a very you are. Fri Jan 7, 9pm. 21+. $5 cover rare connective tissue disease. He Mint Presents FrostBite. Friday, Janu- and his family live right here in Fresno. You can learn more at http:// donovansdisease.webstarts.com/. Your $15 donation goes 100% to the Rivas family.

21 and Over

Get Lucky - DAFT PUNK DJ Night. Saturday, January 8th, 9pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Come join the party with a DJ spinning Daft Punk’s greatest hits. 21 and over, $5 cover. LIFEJACKET, 1335, Beyond California. Thursday, January 13th, 8pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Join us for a free night of music with local favorites Life Jacket (Pop Punk), 1335 (Reggae/Ska) and Beyond California (Alt Rock). 21+ in the Strummer’s Grill NORTEC: Bostich + Fussible. Thursday, January 13th, 8:30pm. Emerging from Tijuana’s growing electronic music scene in 1999, a new music style called Nortec - a Techno and Norteño music fusion, was created, Nortec Collective.

14 | JANUARY 2022

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TOTALLY 80s REWIND with Duckie D’Albino & DJ Numbskull. Saturday, January 15th, 9pm. Strummer’s, 833 E. Fern Ave, Fresno. Our salute to all things 80s returns. Featuring DJ Numbskull & Duckie D’Albino providing aural & visual delights. Plus an 80s costume & trivia contests, Dance-off, & plenty of giveaways. 21+ $5 cover.

KT Tunstall. Saturday, January 22nd, 8:30pm. The Siren, 900 Main St, Morro Bay. KT Tunstall performing live at The Siren. Tickets $30-35. Jerry Burns: A Celebration of Life. Sunday, January 23rd, 4:30pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. Please mark your calendar for Sunday, January 23rd. Starting at 4pm , we’ll have music, fellowship and remembrances of our dear friend Jerry. Supersuckers & Scott Biram. Tue- 21+ only day, January 18th, 7:45pm. The Siren, 900 Main St, Morro Bay. Scott H. Smith Kotzen (Of Iron Maiden). Biram unleashes a fervent display of Thursday, January 27th, 7:30pm. The conviction through, not only the genu- Siren, 900 Main St, Morro Bay. Join ine blues, classic country, bluegrass, us at the Siren for an intimate eveand rock n roll, but he seals the deal ning with Iron Maiden founder and with punk, heavy metal, and frankly, lead guitarist Adrian Smith along with anything else he wants to. Tickets rock god Richie Kotzen! Tickets $35Nortec Collective paved the way for $15-20. 40 21+ a new generation of producers and DJ’s whom have reinvented electron- Nefertiti at Saint Joaquin. Wednes- Mint w/ Brondo. Friday, January ic music from a global perspective. day, January 19th, 6:30pm. Saint 28th, 9pm. Mint, 1140 N. Van Ness Tickets $25 earlybird, $30 advance, Joaquin, 1755 Broadway St, #106, Ave, Fresno. Brondo returns to Fresno $35 DOS. Fresno. Exploring Miles Davis’ Ne- to make his Mint debut! Tickets $10fertiti with the Programme Hifi Team. 200. Must be 21+ to enter. Mint w/ Sage Armstrong. Friday, Jan- Nefertiti is the fourth album by Miles uary 14th, 9pm. Mint, 1140 N.Van Davis’ second classic quintet featur- Paint & Pour. Saturday, January Ness Ave, Fresno. Sage Armstrong ing Herbie Hancock on piano, Wayne 29th, 6pm. Children’s Storybook Garbegan making waves in the house Shorter on tenor saxophone, Anthony den & Museum, 175 E. Tenth St, Hanmusic scene with his debut Dirtybird Williams on drums, and Ron Carter ford. Join us at the Children’s Storyrelease, ‘What’s Yo Tempetcha?’. on bass. book Garden & Museum for a night of Grown in the south, he has been inpainting and drinks! Tickets are availfluenced by a multitude of different The Emo Night Tour - Fresno. Friday, able online on Eventbrite and chilgenres that continue to inspire his January 21st, 8pm. Fulton 55, 875 drensstorybookgarden.org You can creative flow in the studio and on Divisadero St, Fresno. The Emo Night also reserve your seats at the Garden stage. Tickets $10-200. Must be 21+ Tour is coming to Fresno! The Emo during open hours. Adults-only event Night Tour DJ’s will be spinning all Fulton 55 11 Year Anniversary Party. Stunnaman02 performing live at the the angst your teenage dirtbag heart Saturday, January 29th, 8pm. Fulton Palladium Nightclub. Friday, January desires all night long and a special 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. Join 14th, 9pm. Palladium Nightclub, 950 guest band will make you feel like us as we close out our 11 year an10th St, Modesto. Stunnaman02 will you’re at Warped Tour ‘08 minus all niversary weekend with some great be performing his hit Big Steppin’ the dust and melting in the sun! 21+ local talent. The Morning Drive, We and much more live at the Palladium / $15 Adv / $18 Dos Hunt Like Wolves, Cloudship and one Nightclub in Modesto. Tickets $20. other local act will fill our Saturday Must be 21+ to enter. Viberite Presents Energize 2022. night celebration with joyous sounds! Friday, January 21st, 9pm. Mint, Tickets $10-15. Dead Man’s Party - Oingo Boingo/ 1140 N. Van Ness Ave, Fresno. Danny Elfman Tribute. Friday, Janu- Viberite Presents Energize 2022. Mike Jones At Switch. Saturday, ary 14th, 9pm. The Siren, 900 Main Featuring Rusty, Bradley, Viceclear January 29th, 10pm. Switch Lounge St, Morro Bay. OINGO BOINGO tribute & Shant P. Tickets $10-15. Must be and Nightclub, 5665 N. Blackstone, band Dead Man’s Party has been 21+ to enter. #110, Fresno. Mike Jones at Switch bringing you Boingo tunes LIVE – the lounge and nightclub. Dj cesar Muway you remember ’em from actual Fulton 55 Anniversary Party with Tr- noz in the mix. 21+ to enter. Tickets Oingo Boingo shows – for over a de- ish Toledo. Saturday, January 22nd, $15. cade! Tickets $20-25. 21+ 8:30pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. Join us in celebration of Bumpin Uglies with Artikal Sound Led Zepagain. Saturday, January being open 11 years! Trish Toledo System plus Joey Harkum. Sunday, 15th, 8:45pm. The Siren, 900 Main returns to Fulton 55! Doors at 7:30 January 30th, 7:30pm. Fulton 55, St, Morro Bay. As they are celebrating show starts at 8:30 Tickets available 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. Bumptheir 30th year in existence in 2018, on the ticket link and to save service in Uglies do things their way, free to Sony recording artists Led Zepagain fees in Fresno go to Tower District Re- play, think, and write however they have become highly regarded as the cords or Cali Smoke Shop’s Stuffed feel, critics and the mainstream mumost accurate and authentic replica- Pipe (Across from Fresno State)and in sic industry be damned. Brandon tion of Led Zeppelin in the world to- Clovis head over to FlyTrendz (Clovis Hardesty – Vocals, Guitar. Dave Wolf day. Tickets $22-25 and Barstow). Tickets $20-25. 21+ | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

– Vocals, Bass. TJ Haslett – Drums. Chad Wright – Vocals, Keys, Guitar. Lydia Pense & Cold Blood. Saturday, February 5th, 8pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. The band Tower Of Power was born from! Lydia Pense & Cold Blood return to the Fulton 55 stage, Saturday Feb 5. This American rock-soul-jazz band has been wowing audiences since 1969. Don’t miss your chance to see West Coast music royalty live in Fresno at Fulton 55! Tickets $20 adv, $25 DOS. 21+ only.

Sex God, Ab Party, that will drive you absolutely WILD. Whether you’re celebrating a Birthday, Bachelorette Party, Divorce, Dirty Thirty or your Sheer Awesome Self; You will meet your party match with “GIRLS NIGHT OUT THE SHOW”! 21+

The Iron Maidens. Friday, February 11th, 8pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero St, Fresno. Formed in 2001, The Iron Maidens have quickly established themselves as one of southern California’s most popular tribute acts and are rapidly gaining international rec“The Nesmith Factor” - The Music ognition. The band boasts beauty as of Mike Nesmith. Sunday, February well as excellent musicianship, lively 6th, 6pm. Fulton 55, 875 Divisadero stage presence, and a remarkable St, Fresno. Join us for a celebration of stage show with theatrical scenes inThe Music of Michael Nesmith of The terspersed throughout. Tickets $30. Monkees. Performers include: Richie 21+ Blue, Debi Ruud, Blake Jones, Cattie Ness, Gary Baxter, Ron “Doc” Morse, Mint Presents Valentine’s Jam w/ John Shafer, Jorden Rosen, Charles Eddie Bitar. Friday, February 11th, Smith, Geoff Anderson, Ben Sond- 9pm. Mint, 1140 N. Van Ness Ave, heim, Jerry Thurston, Mike Alexander, Fresno. Eddie’s sound of futuristic cutting edge trance, that seamlessly Bill Reiland...with more Tickets $15. blends the best elements from tech Girls Night Out the Show at La and psy, has seen him receive huge Maison Kabob. Tuesday, February support from the likes of Armin van 8th, 8pm. La Maison Kabob, 1243 Buuren, Paul Van Dyk, Simon PatterFulton Mall, Fresno. “Girls Night Out son, John O’Callaghan, Aly & Fila and The Show” is an intensely exciting many more. Tickets FREE with RSVP - $75 VIP. Must be 21+ to enter.

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CLASSIFIEDS

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

SOLID WOOD cabinet for displaying $250 (559) 577-0295 2 CARTS for sale 1 $250 the other needs love and is $100. Brian 559-779-7537 VINTAGE RCA phonograph not sure what year needs repair 75.00 price is firm (559) 9304455

APPLIANCES

KENMORE Natural gas dryer. Clean, works great Auto dry and timed dry Model no. 1107192311 $120 Call or text 559 Two 86-1484 OSTER countertop oven and air fryer with large 3.7L capacity, brand new in open box, $100, txt559-8698268. BLACK SIDE x side Refrigerator $400 refrigerator is in very good condition. It is not very old. Ice and water in the door. It is 26 cubic feet in size. 559 513 0723. My phone does NOT text, please call 559 513 0723

BUY SELL TRADE NEW KEURIG K-Classic K50 Black coffee maker - $100 New, never used, Keurig K-Classic K50 Black, Single Serve Coffee Maker, 3 Cup Sizes, 48oz Includes Quick Start guide Call/ text 559.301.4141

BIKES LADIES 26” Road Master bicycle functional but needs restoration, $300. 559 259 9740.

3 SPEED Nexus 26” X 1.75” Tires Clean and in good condition $150 Please call 559-261ATVS 4680 if interested. No 2017 YAMAHA 450 text. r quad. Everything is CARS completely stock except for nerf bars. This quad has no more than 2003 TOYOTA Camry 15 hrs on it. It’s basi- $2,600 Very reliable , cally brand reason for the low price is that it failed smog, KAWASAKI kfx 90 when I took it in they quad for sale. Runs told me the catalytic great, no issues and converter on the car just had it serviced. is not California apOnly selling because proved. 559-458-1056 the kids don’t use it. This quad is not regis- 2 TIER tool box on tered due to it was only wheels. Snap-on and ridden on my property. other brands, SAE and As you can tell it really metric. Asking $3,000 only needs a new seat OBO (559) 229-3637 and other than that, it’s great. Electric start 2008 CHEVY Malibu $1,200 (559) 392-8466 lt clean title and smog ready to go, in excelOEM TINTED half lent conditions ,4 cylwindshield Canam inders, runs very good, maverick x3 New, tires in good condition, Used on 1 trip due to paint in good shape, full windshield on back clothes interiors like order. Excellent con- new, power windows dition and works well. and doors lock alarm, Easy install, perfect fit power seat,A/C cold New 350$ asking $300 more info 451 7959 (559) 760-9023

ELECTRONICS 2 EPSON Stylus Color 3000 PRINTERS $100 CALL ME AT 559307-5552 CAMBRIDGE soundworks Left & Right Channel Movie Works 5.1 Heavy Duty Speakers. This Movie Works 5.1 left/right channel speakers are in excellent working condition. $30 If interested please call or text (559) 2745996

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DAPHON GA15 15watt Guitar Amplifier Amp - Like New. This 15watt guitar amp is in excellent working condition. It is like new. This amp is only for a guitar and not a bass guitar. measurements: 12 inches high x 10 inches wide x 6 inches deep. $30 If interested please call or text (559) 274-5996

FARM & GARDEN WEED EATER is working perfectly. It is basically brand new it was hardly used. We are asking $130. If Interested call (559)8005118 TORO 22inch recycler self propelled lawn mower. 6.5hp engine. runs good everything works. $150. (559)3555533 TITAN Implement root grapple. These grapples attach to the skid steer quick attach mounting system. A third function of some sort is required to be able to operate this grapple. I have one sizes currently in stock: 48” root grapple. This one is $1,300. Call Joseph at 559-574-5445 extension 2

FURNITURE

BEDROOM or Living Room Tables with Drawers Both for $35 Text call 559-207-0589 ROCKING Cradle for babies/infants Antique 60 years old ORIGINAL Owner Call Ann 559-765-0980 NO Texts please. SELLING something List it here info@fresnoflyer.com | FEATURED | DINING | CALENDAR | MUSIC | CLASSIFIEDS |

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BUY SELL TRADE

CLASSIFIEDS TALL BREAKFAST table with 2 iron chairs, marble top, nothing broken.. $80. Call or text 559217-9024

LOW-HOUR(26.5) 2018.5 KTM 450SXF. The bike is basically stock except for Fastway bar mounts. The bike will come with oil, oil filters, extra air filter, owners manual, and MOTORCYCLES everything OEM that came with the motor2009 Yamaha R1 cycle. Bike has scratch14XXX Exhaust slip es here and there, as on, carbon fiber front well as a slightly bent and rear fairings New front fender; however, chain, new plugs, new the forks are aligned levers, new throttle ca- and the front tire is ble Second owner Runs true(straight).Text 559100% $8,500 559-750- 246-8965 $8500 OBO. 7479 KENMORE Natu2020 CRF450R $8700 ral gas dryer. Clean, Bike has a total of 22 works great Auto dry hours on it. Brand new and timed dry Model wheels, bars, levers, no. 1107192311 $120 plastics, discs, chain/ Call or text 559 Two sprocket, wheels, tires, 86-1484 exhaust, Factory Connection Suspension. MUSIC (209)271-9494 FENDER SQUIRE statacaster with 5 w amp with cord, strap, WOOD Workbench warming bar and nevon Wheels with Vise er used fender tuner $75 cash! Call 559 341 bought separate still 2575 new brand new $200 text me at 538-2417 2 FRANKLIN Mint models. First one, Har- VIOLIN SET- Adult ley-Davidson Electra 4/4 w/bow and Case Glide $45 Cash! Sec- - Brand New! - $120 ond one, 1989 H/D Price reduced, have Heritage Softail $45 new rosin, new bow, Cash! Call 559 341 new case, new strings. 2575 Whole Violin set brand new. Tuned and ready. 2 TIER tool box on Shawn 760-458-3888 wheels. Snap-on and other brands, SAE and VINTAGE DRUM metric. Asking $3,000 set that belonged to OBO (559) 229-3637 my father...used during the 50’s & 60’s. A few DECORATIVE Real of the items are older Steer Skull Head $35 than others,which he cash! One of a kind! purchased used in the Call Call 559 341 2575 50’s. $ 500.00 cash only. Gladly taking TAILGATE Baseball phone calls only. 831and Bat Handle BBQ 601-0915 $35 Cash! Tailgate Baseball and Bat HanSUPPORT LOCAL dle BBQ $35 Cash! Call 559 341 2575 MISCELLANEOUS

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ROOMS FOR RENT ROOM FOR rent for single person $350 month. Near Fresno State, by airport. Small deposit, utilities split evenly, no pets. Call (559) 797-5209

RVS 1997 HOLIDAY Rambler vacationer 29ft. Class A. Like new low miles - $12,900 (1 owner super clean must see!) 559-770-6130

to meet Coast Guard requirements, Tow Ropes, Wet Suits. If it goes in the water I might have it. Shop early as this gear does not last! First come first service! If interested call Zeus, calls only, NO TEXT Call 8am to 5pm only 5597067841 BASEBALL bags , sports bags $10 Each call 559 519-4648

NEW TENNIS bag with back pack carrying straps. Can hold up to 6 tennis rackets. Price is firm. Thanks! 1995 sandpiper by co- $40 470-8091 text bra 24ft Bunkhouse please Sleeps 6-8 Fully self-contained 4-burner PSE Nighthawk Restove/oven refrigera- curve Bow. Great contor/freezer microwave dition. 40lb draw. 62” shower/tub booth style length. Arrows are dinette Air condition- available too. $100 ing and heating cur- Call or Text 559-515rently registered ready 1762 to go $6900 call 925GOLD’S GYM ellipti726-7230 cal excellent condition 2000 mallard 24 ft has fan and heart moniModel# 24J Every- tor. $200 559-213-6452 thing works No leaks Sleeps 6 comfortably TOOLS Dinette converts to bed Couch converts to bed New tires Registration 2 TIER tool box on wheels. Snap-on and $9200 559-214-9352 other brands, SAE and metric. Asking $3,000 OBO (559) 229-3637 SPORTS GOLF CLUB starter WOOD Workbench on Sets $35 Each 559 519- Wheels with Vise $75 cash! 559 341 2575 4648 TENNIS Racquets $20 each Call 559 5194648

METAL lockers, 15x36x78, in good condition $300. Call 559 360 2977.

LEEDOM Snowboard Helmet XL call 559 TWIN 3 ft aluminum ladder 300 lb rating in 519-4648 good condition. Call ALL WATER sports 559 259 9740. gear for sale. Wake, Knee, Surf, Skim, Body Boards for sale. Life preserve Jackets, Towable tubes, Water ski’s, Throw pillows

WORKS PERFECT, Black and Decker Brand in really good condition. $30 Call 760-458-3888

...‘Weed Jobs’ cont’d from pg 9 Where to Apply: Local organizations and job fairs. While Authentic Fresno plans to host a job fair for its open positions, it plans to also work with the UFCW, the Chamber of Commerce, Fresno City College, and the Fresno Economic Development Corp to get the word out to local residents. Banyan Tree 207 E. Sierra Ave, 93710 Adolfo “Ace” Castillo believes that Banyan Tree will offer Fresno’s cannabis connoisseurs a truly unique and unforgettable buying experience. Taking its namesake from a popular spot in Maui for cannabis lovers to commiserate, Banyan Tree hopes to provide customers with a “Hawaiian vacation vibe” as the friendly staff helps them pick out the perfect strains to suit their needs. Opening Timeline: April to June 2022 Castillo is optimistic that Bayan Tree will complete the lengthy permit and licensing process well before the September deadline. Banyan Tree plans to hire about 16 full and part-time employees. Hiring Timeline: “Stay Tuned” Banyan Tree plans to announce a hiring fair about 60 days before their grand opening, to allow ample time to train employees on compliance and other industry-specific requirements. Castillo also plans to extend an olive branch to other social equity applicants who didn’t receive permit approval from the city and offer them an opportunity to get a second chance with Banyan Tree. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Castillo says that Banyan Tree plans to pay

a starting wage of $15, which was above the state minimum of $12 when they submitted their application to the city. Castillo did not state whether that pay would increase as the state minimum wage rose to $15 on January 1st. As one of the four social equity applicants in Fresno, Banyan Tree has committed to hiring at least 50% of its staff from within District 6. DISTRICT 7 Haven 1704 E. Belmont Ave, 93701 Haven is a Southern California-based brand that prides itself in being a safe space where all can feel comfortable to explore, discover, and learn about all things cannabis. Its mission is “to provide the most enjoyable cannabis buying experience, made through moments of authenticity, wellness, and exploration. Opening Timeline: 3-6 months from final approval. From the date of the granting of the conditional use permit (which is at the mercy of the City’s timeline) it would take approximately 3-6 months for Haven to complete the buildout of the facility. Hiring Timeline: Unknown. Haven aims to fill 100% of its open employment positions with qualified candidates residing in Fresno for more than one year. Benefits and Pay: $16 per hour or $60,000 per year. Haven will offer starting wages for hourly positions at $16 per hour, and salaried management positions will receive approximately $60,000 per year. However, the application provides a detailed layout for their benefits package.

Full-time employees can expect to receive health insurance, maternity/paternity leave, 401(k), bonuses, paid time off, and a chance to earn an additional bonus for “green commuting.” (reducing emissions by using public transportation, carpooling, riding a bicycle to work, etc.) Further, the company will also provide a continuing education benefit. Notably, Haven will offer a stipend to employees who adopt a pet from a Fresno County shelter or rescue. The stipend aims to help cover the adoption fee and incidental costs. Where to Apply: Local organizations and job fairs. Haven plans to partner with local organizations including Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission, Fresno County Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Lincoln Training Center, Fresno City College Career Center, and CSU Fresno Career Center to reach out to the community about its employment opportunities. Additionally, Haven will host informational sessions, job fairs, and provide resume writing/application workshops for prospective employees. Sweet Flower 3150 E Olive Ave, 93702 Sweet Flower originated as a medical collective in 2006 and is now Southern California’s leading cannabis retailer whose employees are 80% diverse at the store level, and 90% diverse at the corporate level. Sweet Flower also made it a priority to engage in outreach and partnership with the Hmong Chamber as the storefront is positioned in the center of the Southeast Asian Hmong community. Opening Timeline: October 1. Sweet Flower attributes the extended timeline due to the amount of work needed in the building they plan to occupy. Ordinarily, the buildout of a new store occurs more quickly but the extensive work required to get up and running is going to take more time than usual. Hiring Timeline: 6-8 weeks prior to opening. Sweet Flower will begin actively looking for and receiving applications about two months before the grand opening. That puts the timeline at around August for any hopeful applicants.

Sweet flower rendering | FRESNOFLYER.COM |

Benefits and Pay: $16-$25 per hour. Sweet Flower aims to have 21 employees at the time of the opening and as many as 37 employees by their third year in business. While the Store Manager position

will be a salaried role, all hourly employees should expect a pay rate ranging from $16 per hour to $25 per hour, depending on the role. Full-time employees can also expect to add an extra $5 per hour in the form of tips and gratuities from customers. Sweet Flower also offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, and insurance plans. Employees can also expect accrued paid time off, sick leave/leaves of absence, and paid time off for volunteer hours. Additionally, Sweet Flower will provide a generous 50% employee discount as well as a mentorship program and continuing education benefits. Where to Apply: In-person and online. As the timeline for opening nears, Sweet Flower will advertise its open positions online and host multiple virtual and in-house hiring fairs. Applicants are also welcome to email their resumes to jobs@sweetflower.com. Embarc Fresno 4592 N. Blackstone Ave, Ste 103, 93726 Embarc differentiates itself from other cannabis businesses with its proven track record of civic engagement, patient and customer education, and community support at all of its locations. Through its Community Advisory Boards, Embarc provides local residents with a seat at the table to help guide Embarc’s community outreach. Opening Timeline: Unknown Embarc has listed an intended grand opening date of October 2022 in its application to the City. In addition to its retail location in Fresno, Embarc also plans to operate a cultivation facility in Mendota and will hire over 100 applicants to staff both locations. Hiring Timeline: Unknown Embarc anticipates beginning the application and interview process as early as March or April 2022. Benefits and Pay: Living Wage Embarc Fresno is committed to paying its employees a starting wage that it claims to be among the highest in the industry. Additionally, Embarc will provide its employees with comprehensive health/dental/vision insurance, tuition reimbursement, and an employee stock option program. Embarc also offers a paid volunteerism program to encourage employees to take a proactive role in the community. This program will provide up to 40 hours of paid community service per year for each employee. | FRESNO FLYER |

JANUARY 2022 |

THRIFT STORE

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

30% OFF TOTAL PURCHASE

Discount is taken off the subtotal, before taxes. One time use only, must surrender at the time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other transaction discounts. No photocopies accepted. Valid only at Clovis location. Expires 1/31/22. CASHIER USE: FF30

115 SHAW AVE. IN CLOVIS!

OPEN 10 AM - 5 PM Monday - Saturday

We are looking for Volunteers! INTERESTED?

Call Volunteer Services at (559) 317-6016

Looking to give back to your community? Wanting to keep busy and make some new friends? Need job experience? If you said YES to any of these questions, then we are looking for you! Call us today!

Recycling Hotline: (559) 621-11111 Visit fresno.gov/recycle for more information