Clovis Senior Activity Center

Please join us in recognizing Program Volunteer Regina Contreras! Regina became a member of the center in 2020 after retiring as a social worker from the home health and hospice department at a local hospital.

Regina enjoys taking art classes and loves traveling to Denver several times a year to spend time with her children and grandchildren. Recently, Regina shared her story in our Story Booth, speaking about her family’s journey to the United States and how she came to call Clovis home.

One of the most meaningful ways Regina gives back is by facilitating our Grief Support Group here at the center. These free groups provide a safe and welcoming space to better understand the grief process, while allowing members to share concerns, experiences, and challenges with others on a similar journey.

The support groups consist of six one-hour sessions designed to help participants find comfort, connection, and support. If you are interested in joining, please call or sign up at the reception desk.

Next Grief Support Group Begins: Thursday September 10
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Thank you, Regina, for your compassion, dedication, and support that continue to inspire and strengthen our community!

The Clovis Memorial Run is just days away! Don’t miss this powerful event as we run, walk, and roll in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

This event has something for everyone – a timed 5K (3.1 miles) Run or Walk, a 2-Mile Walk, a 1/2 Mile Kid’s Run, a 1/2 Mile Senior Walk & Roll, a pancake breakfast, an awards ceremony, a raffle prize giveaway, a resource fair, and more.

New this year, in honor of the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, photos of fallen service members from our community, submitted by event participants, will line the trail. Plus, all participants will receive a special 250th Anniversary patriotic shirt and medal, shown here!

Be sure to join us Saturday, May 23, as we pay tribute to the brave men and women of our United States military who made the greatest sacrifice of all for our country.

We highly encourage participants to register in advance, but same-day registration will also be available. Race fees vary, and discounted pricing is offered for seniors. Registration is free for all active-duty service members and veterans.

Proceeds benefit the Clovis Senior Activity Center to help improve the programs and day-to-day activities offered to senior citizens within our community.

To register, visit ClovisCA.gov/MemorialRun

Special thank you to our sponsors -
PLATINUM: Clovis Veterans Memorial District
GOLD: Saint Agnes Medical Center, Central Valley Timing, Sprouts, Starbucks

Member Spotlight: Nicholas Smirnov

We are proud to shine the spotlight on one of our members, Nicholas Smirnov! Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Nicholas made his way to the Central Valley in 1973 after joining the United States Navy and being stationed at Lemoore Naval Air Station. During his service, he accepted the opportunity to serve in Naval Intelligence as an interpreter.

After 25 years of military service, Nicholas graduated from Fresno State University, where he earned his teaching credentials. He then dedicated 20 years to teaching at Chowchilla California State Prison, making a meaningful impact through education and mentorship.

Nicholas was also selected to participate in the Central Valley Honor Flight and continues to stay active in several veterans organizations, including the American Legion and VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars).

Today, Nicholas is an active member of the retirement group SIRS. In addition to enjoying reading, gardening, and traveling, you can often find him at the Senior Activity Center playing pool in our billiards room!

When asked for his words of wisdom, Nicholas shared:
“Stay active and don’t let the old man in!”

Thank you, Nicholas, for your service, wisdom, and positive spirit you bring to our community!

The Clovis Memorial Run is just weeks away! Register now and join us as we run, walk, and roll in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

This event has something for everyone – a timed 5K (3.1 miles) Run or Walk, a 2-Mile Walk, a 1/2 Mile Kid’s Run, a 1/2 Mile Senior Walk & Roll, a pancake breakfast, an awards ceremony, a raffle prize giveaway, a resource fair, and more.

New this year, in honor of the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, the event will include an opportunity to recognize those who gave all by submitting images of fallen service members to be featured along the trail. Plus, all participants will receive a special 250th Anniversary patriotic shirt and medal.

Be sure to join us Saturday, May 23, as we pay tribute to the brave men and women of our United States military who made the greatest sacrifice of all for our country.

Registration for the 2026 Clovis Memorial Run is open now, race fees vary, and discounted pricing is offered for seniors. Registration is free for all active-duty service members and veterans.

Proceeds benefit the Clovis Senior Activity Center to help improve the programs and day-to-day activities offered to senior citizens within our community. To register, visit ClovisCA.gov/MemorialRun

Special thank you to our sponsors -
PLATINUM: Clovis Veterans Memorial District
GOLD: Saint Agnes Medical Center, Central Valley Timing, Sprouts, Starbucks

Want to have fun, meet new people, and hit the dance floor? Then Jolly Times is the place for you!

Jolly Times is a beloved tradition at the Clovis Senior Activity Center, where laughter, music, and dancing come together in a joyful setting. It’s more than an event—it’s where connections deepen and community spirit thrives.

What started over 20 years ago as a simple potluck among friends has grown into a vibrant community celebration. Thanks to early contributors like Tom Jarvis, and the continued leadership of Wes Butler and Richard Van Diest, this monthly celebration remains a highlight for many.

Each month, the generous volunteers from Old Town Kiwanis serve up a delicious meal for all attendees. Jolly Times also gives back to the Senior Activity Center—helping provide things like a movie night setup, popcorn machine, tables, carts, and more.

Expect a lively four-hour experience filled with live music, dancing, and great company. With some of our regular house bands and special guest performers, there’s always something new to enjoy!

When: 3rd Thursday of every month | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Tickets: $15 (includes lunch)
Available at the front desk (cash or check)

Be sure to check your monthly newsletter for upcoming event dates!

We would like to thank our dedicated volunteers, the Jolly Times committee, and our Senior Activity Center community for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you all at our next event!

Honoring our Veterans: Ed Borjas
We are honored to recognize Ed Borjas as a valued member of the Clovis Senior Activity Center and a proud U.S. Air Force veteran. Ed served in the United States Air Force from 1969 to 1972 as a mechanic on HC-130 aircraft – specialized planes that played critical roles in search and rescue, aerial refueling, and emergency response missions. His work supported life-saving efforts around the world, and his service reflects the same qualities we see in him today: dedication, humility, and a genuine willingness to help others.

We’re especially grateful that he will be joining us out on the course for this year’s Clovis Memorial Run on Saturday, May 23rd, where we come together to honor those who have served and remember those who gave all. Ed’s participation is a meaningful reminder of the purpose behind this event and the strength of the community that supports it.

From the Clovis Rodeo one weekend to Clovis Trail Fest the next! Join us for the 10th Annual Clovis Trail Fest this Saturday, May 2. In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, it’s set to be the biggest Trail Fest ever with many patriotic elements along the way!

For one day only, our Old Town and Dry Creek Trails will transform into a miles-long wellness festival featuring activities, demonstrations, snacks, and refreshments for all ages offered at over 45 locations from Fourth Street and Veterans Parkway to Dry Creek Park and Railroad Park. You can start and end at any location and walk, bike, run, or scooter along with us! Don't miss this fun, family-friendly (and pet-friendly) event and a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a beautiful spring day on our city trails.

For more information and to download our 2026 event map, visit ClovisCA.gov/TrailFest

A special thank you to our General Services Department, the City of Clovis Recreation Section, and the Clovis Senior Activity Center for making this event possible each year!

Member Spotlight: Sherin Guzman

Sherin was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. At just five years old, she experienced the loss of her father. After her mother remarried, her stepfather’s military career took the family across several states—and even overseas to Munich, Germany—before they eventually settled in Columbus, Georgia.

While working at a local store, Sherin met a young man named Ken, who was in town working as a Key Grip on The Green Berets, starring John Wayne. Ken quickly swept her off her feet, and Sherin soon found herself visiting the set, watching him work and experiencing the excitement of filmmaking firsthand.

When filming wrapped, Ken asked Sherin to move to California with him—beginning her journey to the Golden State.

Over the years, Sherin met many well-known actors and even appeared as an extra in films. But her most cherished memory was finally meeting John Wayne.

Though they didn’t meet during filming in Georgia, he later asked Ken to introduce him to her. In 1976, while filming The Shootist, that moment finally came true.

As Sherin recalls:

“I went to the set, and there was John talking to some people. He saw me, asked them to wait, and walked toward me. He said, ‘You must be Ken’s wife from Georgia. It is a pleasure to meet you.’

He reached for my hand, and all I could do was look up at him. I was lost for words as tears rolled down my cheeks.”

That unforgettable moment became one of her most treasured memories.

Today, Sherin enjoys spending time at the Senior Activity Center, making friends and attending Kirk’s Art Exploration class.

In her words:
“I love the center because of all the beautiful people here and the activities they offer us.”

Her advice:
“Stay healthy, be safe, and love thy neighbor.”

Thank you, Sherin, for being such a special part of our community!