Good morning, Fresno.

Local organizations reported a drop in donations in December amid rising living costs that have increased demand for meals.

Fresno Mission City Center switched to vegetarian lasagna while the Central California Food Bank and Marjaree Mason Center face budget pressures, with each donated dollar now providing up to four meals.

Fresno County Fire crews arrived at a Clovis residence (near Shaw and McCall Avenues) on Tuesday to find a pickup engulfed in flames; they quickly prevented the blaze from spreading and are investigating the cause.

Starting next year, Save Mart will offer Amazon returns at all its California and Nevada stores following a pilot in 15 locations; kiosks provide free bags and labels + remaining stores will receive the service by February with a $5 discount on qualifying purchases.

In 2025, the Central Valley restaurant scene saw change as Fresno’s Saizon (highlighted by the Los Angeles Times) earned statewide acclaim with its farm-to-table dishes while new spots like Willow Osteria and an In-N-Out Burger opened and longtime favorites closed.

After a 2025 report triggered a 16% drop and cost local almond growers $1.2 billion overnight, the Almond Board of California dropped its objective forecast — experts say the change may increase market uncertainty as final harvest numbers come in July.

Pacific Gas and Electric announced that energy bills will drop today as rates stabilize, with residential electricity costs falling roughly 5% (around $7) and natural gas prices decreasing 3% (about $1), and Central Valley customers may see even greater savings.

Selma High School senior Natalie Bonilla won the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for the 21st Congressional District after creating the Community Support app that connects users to hotlines and local resources (Congressman Jim Costa announced the win on Wednesday).

Selma High School senior Natalie Bonilla won the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for her app (Community Support) that compiles hotline numbers and local resources for residents; she developed the app using Java for iOS and Android, and Rep. Jim Costa praised her achievement.

Fresno County is using a $187,317 grant to offer free car seats and train guardians on proper installation as part of its Child Passenger Safety Program.

The initiative covers outreach and technician training from Oct. 2025 — Sept. 2026.

Beginning next year, large corn masa manufacturers must add folic acid to tortillas under a law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Assemblymember Joaquin Arambula said the change (addressing a longtime federal oversight) aims to improve pregnancy outcomes statewide.

Fresno State lost 72-63 to Utah State on Tuesday night at the Save Mart Center as 20 turnovers hurt their play and Jake Heidbreder scored 21 points+the Bulldogs will face Nevada on Saturday at 4 p.m.

Fresno State vs. Utah State Women's Basketball

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Save Mart Center — Reserved premium parking available — Cheer on the Lady Bulldogs as they take on the Aggies in an exciting basketball showdown.

2026 Fresno State Polopalooza Tournament

All day — Student Recreation Center — Check website for details — Dive into a thrilling weekend of water polo competitions and activities.

Southwest Indoor Sectionals & National Series 2026

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — 8555 N Cedar Ave, Fresno, CA — Early registration required — Compete in the Indoor Sectional format and aim for the best score in archery.

Breakfast Gathering at MiMi's Cafe

8-9:30 a.m. — MiMi's Cafe — RSVP required — Enjoy breakfast in a welcoming community atmosphere.

Martin Amini Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with standup comedian Martin Amini.

Jerry Maguire 30th Anniversary Screening

8-9:30 p.m. — Historic Crest Theatre — No entry fee listed — Celebrate the 30th anniversary of a classic film with a fun screening event.