Ben Hensley<\/a><\/p>\nFresno and Clovis are gearing up for celebrations marking the United States\u2019 250th anniversary, integrating patriotic themes into longstanding community events and partnering with local organizations to highlight the once-in-a-lifetime milestone.<\/p>\n
The City of Clovis, in partnership with the Clovis Veterans Memorial District and the Fresno City & County Historical Society, held a news conference on Thursday, March 26, announcing the collaboration and unveiling plans for multiple community events, while at the same time commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Memorial District.<\/p>\n
Clovis Mayor Vong Mouanoutoua said the anniversary presents a rare opportunity for the community to reflect on the nation\u2019s history.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs our nation reaches its 250th birthday, Clovis is rising to this historic milestone with unifying intention and purpose,\u201d Mouanoutoua said. \u201cTogether, we want to remember America\u2019s founding, its values and greatness. We will do this through education, storytelling, celebrations, dedications, memorials and festivities throughout our community.\u201d<\/p>\n
Events will span the entire year rather than focusing on a single date, with many existing community events incorporating American themes tied to the anniversary.<\/p>\n
From Clovis Trail Fest in May, to Flag Day observances, Freedom Fest, the Memorial Run and Clovis Night Out, organizers aim to craft an atmosphere that resonates with the community and helps to celebrate the anniversary.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have a once in a lifetime moment upon us,\u201d Mouanoutoua said. \u201cOur children and our grandchildren will never see another 250th anniversary. This is it.\u201d<\/p>\n
Lorenzo Rios \u2014 who leads the district and is currently running for Congress \u2014 said the milestone provides an opportunity to highlight the values that connect veterans, the Constitution and community life.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is important because the 80th anniversary of the Memorial District is to honor military service,\u201d Rios said. \u201cAnd the way we honor military service is by remembering the oath they took was to the Constitution of the United States, not to a branch of service, not to a political party. It\u2019s to a way of life.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rios said the anniversary celebrations will emphasize civic engagement and appreciation for the freedoms the nation was founded on.<\/p>\n
The best way we can encourage folks to honor military service is to be great citizens,\u201d Rios said.<\/p>\n
City officials say the celebrations will emphasize collaboration throughout the region, with Clovis coordinating efforts with Fresno and working alongside the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, local chambers, civic organizations and schools.<\/p>\n
Local organizations are also incorporating the theme into existing traditions. The Clovis Chamber of Commerce plans to feature America 250-themed merchandise and messaging during Big Hat Days in April and again at Clovis Fest in September.<\/p>\n
\u201cBig Hat Days has always been a celebration of tradition, community and local pride,\u201d said Clovis Chamber CEO Greg Newman. \u201cAnd this year, we were honored to connect that spirit with a celebration of America\u2019s 250 years.\u201d<\/p>\n
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