Thursday, January 8th, 2026
Good morning, Fresno. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Giving Machine Fresno wrapped up its first season in Central Valley with over 9,000 items purchased for charities at River Park Shopping Center during the holiday season (lasting 23 days), and organizers will bring the donation station back soon. KMPH
- ➤ Fresno Humane Animal Services needs community help as it struggles with overcrowding in its 57 kennels and is urging residents to adopt or foster dogs to avoid euthanasia. The shelter notes that dogs with pink tags (indicating they are spayed or neutered) are ready for immediate adoption. KMPH
- ➤ Arnold Williams Sr.'s home was destroyed by the Eaton fire last January and he died last summer from heart failure. His son, Arnold Williams Jr. intends to honor his father's legacy by rebuilding the home (pending family talks) though the lot may be sold if no agreement is reached. ABC30
- ➤ Mothers Against Drunk Driving is teaming with Hedrick Chevrolet and the California Highway Patrol Fresno Area throughout January to raise funds for local educational programs and teach students about the dangers of impaired driving (a key effort to prevent tragic DUI outcomes). KMPH
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ GV Wire’s Edward Smith spoke with Liz Gonzalez on Wired Wednesday about why the Almond Board of California ended its yearly forecast. The conversation gives insight into local agricultural trends that could impact producers. GV Wire
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ The Academy of Financial Education launched financial therapy sessions — aimed at easing money worries and building healthy spending habits — to support Fresno residents, said CEO Samuel Molina. Sessions will be held at various community locations to help reduce debt anxiety. ABC30
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The federal government withheld $160M from California after a 2025 audit found issues with 17,000 commercial driver licenses held by non-citizens, and state officials extended the cancellation deadline by 60 days while working with FMCSA to resolve concerns before March 6. ABC30
- ➤ Fresno CalPortland Ready-Mix drivers will vote to remove union representation on Thursday, Jan. 29 at the employer’s break room (410 N. Thorne Avenue) after the union dropped its blocking charge grievances earlier this week. The Business Journal
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, fitness trainer Rhonda Murphy led a Workout Wednesday session in Fresno to help local seniors improve their stride at a community park. The event promoted healthy movement through simple exercises for better balance and mobility. ABC30
- ➤ On New Year's Day, Fresno Unified retirees lost access to Community Medical Centers after Aetna cut ties due to a contract dispute, affecting about 1,500 retirees' primary care. The district is evaluating options while Aetna offers a temporary (continuity of care) authorization that requires extra paperwork. GV Wire
- ➤ Orangetheory Fitness is launching new classes to help residents reach their 2026 fitness goals & Sabrina and Sarah outlined what participants will experience at the local studio. ABC30
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Breakfast Gathering at MiMi's Cafe
8-9:30 a.m. — MiMi's Cafe — RSVP required — Enjoy breakfast in a welcoming community atmosphere.
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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.
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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.
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Sweetheart Dance 2026
2-5 p.m. — Clovis Veterans Memorial District — Donations accepted — Dance the evening away with your sweetheart at a lively celebration of love and community.
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ARISTO SHAM Keyboard Concert Series
7:30 p.m. — Concert Hall — Tickets $5.00 - $40.00 — Experience a delightful evening of piano music at the ARISTO SHAM Keyboard Concert Series.
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BAD BUNNY BOWL
9 PM – 12 AM — Strummer's Bar & Grill — Tickets from $8.18 — Enjoy a festive DJ fiesta featuring music and visuals inspired by the Latin superstar.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.
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