Good morning, Fresno.

This month, the Fresno-area Hmong community will celebrate 50 years in the Valley at the Merced County Fairgrounds to mark the New Year and honor their journey from refugee camps to a vibrant future.

Local leaders highlight the progress made over the decades.

Poverello House and Central California Food Bank received $15,000 each from the Lifelong Learning Administration Corporation (LLAC) as donations set to provide 3,000 and 60,000 meals amid over a 20% rise in meal requests.

Officials said they need continued community support as 2026 may bring further challenges.

Valley Children's Hospital will build an inclusive playground with an $8M gift from Table Mountain Rancheria.

Construction will begin early 2026 on the hospital's south lawn (featuring adaptive equipment, sensory-friendly zones, and shaded areas) to support children of all abilities.

Fresno Yosemite International Airport opened a new two-gate terminal on Dec.

17 as part of a $150 million expansion to increase flights and boost the local economy (the 98,000 sqft facility now offers departures to Guadalajara, Denver and San Diego and will soon add new dining options).

Fresno’s tenth Dutch Bros opened on Thursday, Dec.

18 at the southeast corner of Nees Avenue & First Street, replacing a former Boston Market vacant for over two years; the cafe operates from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily and offers free stickers with every drink purchase while supplies last.

The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools has extended mental health support for students through its year-round All 4 Youth program, offering free services at 12 Wellness Centers (including a location at Orange Center Elementary) during winter break while serving 31 school districts.

Fresno State ASI President Camalah Saleh issued a statement this morning addressing antisemitic vandalism on campus, expressing strong support for the Jewish community and confirming the university is investigating the incidents and will work with campus groups to fight discrimination.

Fresno resident Glenda Drake, who entered hospice care last October, was declared cancer-free at a follow-up in Clovis (held Thursday morning) after intensive chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy.

She hopes her recovery inspires others to live each day fully.

Antiques dealer Cece Quinn believes vintage finds offer a better style than big-box furniture and launched her monthly newsletter Casa Quinn this fall to share design tips and antique stories.

She now works in-person at Chesterfield’s Antiques (5092 N. Blackstone Ave).

Fiesta Navidad

3-4:30 p.m. — Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the holidays with Grammy-winning Mariachi Los Camperos in a vibrant cultural performance.

Candlelight Concert: Tribute to Adele

8:30-9:29 p.m. — The Grand 1401 — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting music of Adele under candlelight in an awe-inspiring setting.

Candlelight Concert: The Best of Joe Hisaishi

6:15-7:14 p.m. — The Grand 1401 — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting music of Joe Hisaishi by candlelight in a stunning venue.

Deorro New Year's Eve Party

8 p.m. — Rainbow Ballroom — Ticketed entry — Celebrate the new year with electrifying beats from Deorro at Fresno's hottest NYE bash.

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.