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Journalism

Featured Articles

Explore a featured selection of my writing work below.

Randy’s Donuts expands, bringing iconic treats to Clovis | Clovis Roundup

February 8, 2025 — Fans of the world-famous Randy’s Donuts have reason to celebrate—yet another location appears to be on its way to the Fresno-Clovis area. A lease agreement obtained by The Business Journal indicates that Randy’s Donuts is securing a spot at 1195 Shaw Ave., Suite 101, in Clovis, just north of Sierra Vista Mall. The 1,110-square-foot space was formerly occupied by Yummiez Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt, which closed late last year.
The expansion into Clovis comes as local donut lov...

Buchanan’s Bear Stage brings the magic of Oz to life | Clovis Roundup

January 24, 2025 — The spotlight brightened on a gray Kansas farm, where black-and-white costumes and lighting set the tone for an unforgettable journey. Then, with a gust of wind and a swirl of projected storm clouds, Dorothy and her loyal pup, Toto, were whisked away, and the Bear Stage’s production of The Wizard of Oz began its magical ascent.
This year’s production, presented by 75 talented actors from Buchanan area schools, was nothing short of enchanting. From the innovative use of dramati...

Central Valley triumphs in 4th Annual Best of the West Army All-Star Game | Clovis Roundup

The Central Valley All-Star Team make their way onto the field to the cheers of the fans in attendance. (Photo by Steven Sandage, Clovis Roundup)
January 26, 2024 — In front of a spirited crowd at Buchanan High School’s Veterans Memorial Stadium, the Central Valley team triumphed over Los Angeles 21-14 in the 4th Annual Best of the West Army All-Star Game on Saturday, January 25.
The game, which highlights graduating seniors with exceptional football talent and character, drew fans, families, an...

Clovis Unified showcases hands-on career pathways at CTE Night – Clovis Roundup

January 29, 2025 – Hundreds of students and parents gathered at the Clovis Veterans Memorial Building on Tuesday night for Clovis Unified’s Career Technical Education (CTE) Night, an event designed to showcase the district’s 21 career pathways and provide hands-on demonstrations in fields ranging from welding and automotive technology to health care and software development.
The event, held annually, gives prospective students the opportunity to meet with instructors and currently enrolled CTE s...

Motion Madness: A Family-Run E-Bikes Shop in Clovis | Clovis Roundup

February 13, 2025 — When you step into Motion Madness on Tollhouse Road in Clovis, you quickly realize it’s not just another bike shop. The family-run business offers a blend of customer service, expert repair, and cutting-edge e-bikes. “We’re really the only ones in Central California who do this kind of work,” said Mike Chakov, one of the shop’s founders, as he discussed their unique diagnostic services for all types of bikes.
Mike’s son Ron, who manages the showroom, elaborated, “We’re a full...

Clovis Rotary Club unites for Community Cleanup Day – Clovis Roundup

July 28, 2024 — On a sunny Saturday morning, Rotary Park in Clovis transformed into a vibrant showcase of community pride. Paint cans clattered, brushes swished, and the laughter of volunteers filled the air as the Clovis Rotary Club, joined by local organizations, undertook the ambitious task of revitalizing the park for the Rotary Club of Clovis’s Community Cleanup Day.
This wasn’t just another Saturday; it was a vivid illustration of what a community can achieve when it unites with a shared g...

New York City firefighters come to Clovis for 2024 9/11 Memorial Ceremony | Clovis Roundup

August 15, 2024 — This September, the California 9/11 Memorial in Clovis will host a powerful tribute to the heroes of September 11, 2001, featuring not only artifacts from Ground Zero but also the firsthand stories of those who responded to the tragedy. The Tunnel to Towers 9/11 NEVER FORGET Mobile Exhibit is coming to town, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the events of that day through the experiences of New York City firefighters and first responders.
The 1,100-square-foot exhi...

Clovis Botanical Garden breaks ground on new visitor center | Clovis Roundup

July 31, 2024 — A momentous chapter in the Clovis Botanical Garden’s history unfolded as ground was officially broken for the new Visitor Center on a sunny afternoon. The event saw a gathering of city officials, volunteers, community supporters, and garden enthusiasts, all united to celebrate this milestone.
Mayor Lynne Ashbeck, Mayor Pro Tem Vong Mouanoutoua, Councilmembers Drew Bessinger and Diane Pearce, and City Manager John Holt were among the dignitaries present. Their presence underscored...

Clovis Hall of Fame returns for 50th anniversary – Clovis Roundup

Sept 5, 2024 — The Clovis Hall of Fame is preparing for its 50th anniversary with a focus on revitalizing the event after a brief hiatus. Since its inception in 1975, the Hall of Fame has celebrated individuals who have contributed to the growth and heritage of Clovis. After pausing during COVID-19, this year marks a significant effort to bring back the tradition in a meaningful way.
“This is part of what makes Clovis such a beautiful place,” said Lorenzo Rios, CEO of the Clovis Veterans Memoria...

The 13th annual Clovis Night Out: fun, family, and first responders – Clovis Roundup

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, Clovis is set to host its biggest event of the year—the 13th Annual Clovis Night Out. Starting at 4 p.m. and continuing until dark, the community will come together at David McDonald Park for an evening of fun, food, and family-friendly activities that truly capture the heart of small-town living.
Clovis Night Out is part of a national effort to bring law enforcement and first responders closer to the public. The event provides a unique opportunity for residents...

City of Clovis unveils historic Gould Canal Trail revitalization | Clovis Roundup

October 6th, 2024 — The historic Helm Ranch area of Clovis celebrated a momentous occasion Saturday morning as community members and city officials gathered for the ribbon cutting of the newly revitalized Gould Canal Trail. The event, held at Helm Ranch Park, marked the completion of a collaborative project between the City of Clovis and the Fresno Irrigation District (FID), transforming a once-overlooked canal bank into a welcoming pedestrian pathway that honors the area’s rich agricultural pas...

“Once a Cougar, Always a Cougar”: Clovis High’s class of 1974 celebrates 50th reunion | Clovis Roundup

September 28, 2024 — “Are you nervous?” she asked, squeezing his hand gently as they inched closer to the entrance of the Clovis Veterans Memorial District building.
“Yeah, I am,” he admitted, glancing around at the small crowd forming near the doors. “I’m excited to see who’s gonna show up.”
It was a mix of emotions for the Clovis High School Class of 1974 as they gathered to celebrate their 50th high school reunion this past Saturday night. The air buzzed with anticipation as classmates, some...

Prepping for the academy: Clovis and Fresno PD unite to train future officers – Clovis Roundup

September 6, 2024 — Before dawn breaks, a dedicated group of law enforcement hopefuls gathers at Doc’s Gym for the Clovis Police Academy Prep Program. With classes beginning at 5 a.m., participants arrive early, preparing mentally and physically for the rigorous hour ahead. The program, organized and led by Clovis Police Sergeant Jesus Santillan with help from Instructor Victor Avila, is designed to equip participants with the strength, endurance, and mindset necessary for success in the police...

Clovis gathers for the 13th annual Clovis Night Out | Clovis Roundup

September 22, 2024 — On an unseasonably warm Saturday, thousands of Clovis residents filled David McDonald Park for the 13th Annual Clovis Night Out, an evening that blended family fun with community connection.
From 4 p.m. until well after dark, the park bustled with energy as people of all ages came together to celebrate the spirit of the town and its close-knit relationship with local first responders.
As families entered the park, they were greeted by the sight of children crawling in and ou...

Clovis Rotary’s Community Clean Up Day returns | Clovis Roundup

October 6th, 2024 — In the latest chapter of community love and service, volunteers once again gathered at Rotary Park, located at 100 W. Barstow Avenue in Clovis, three months after the initial cleanup day that marked the beginning of its transformation. The Clovis Rotary Club returned with the same energy and dedication, eager to continue what they started — this time, kicking off the day with the aroma of freshly cooked pancakes and the sizzle of sausages.
As the sun rose, breakfast wasn’t ju...

Remembering the brave at California’s 9/11 Memorial Ceremony – Clovis Roundup

September 11, 2024 — As dawn broke over Clovis on September 11, 2024, the California 9/11 Memorial stood as a beacon of remembrance and resilience, drawing people together to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost in the attacks 23 years ago.
The annual ceremony, rooted in reflection and unity, began with the powerful voices of the Fresno Christian High School Chamber Choir, accompanied by pianist Ben Certain. With each note of “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America,” the spirit of a nation t...
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I am a freelance copywriter based in Manchester, UK. You can follow me on social media with the links below.

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