Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 20th of December.
Good morning, Fresno.
Jack’s Gas is hosting a gift giveaway today with food, music, and a visit from Santa, offering 1,000 gifts such as iPhones, microwaves, headphones, and speakers for community members to enjoy festive activities.
Holiday Magic Studios Inc. launched its 'Million Magic Moments' campaign to raise $100K for 300 Santa photo packages for local families this holiday season; the effort partners with nonprofits (Make-A-Wish, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Toys for Tots, and Boys and Girls Club) and has backing from Mayor Jerry Dyer.
Fresno Mission is working to keep the unhoused safe during frigid weather after two people died from a tent fire triggered by extreme cold.
The nonprofit partnered with Community Health System — which donated $100k plus over 60 boxes of coats — to provide beds and supportive services for long-term independence.
Fresno County deputies played an unusual game of H-O-R-S-E in San Joaquin on Friday, Dec.
19, with Deputy Kirkpatrick sealing the match with a shot no one could replicate (according to the sheriff’s office).
Amazon hosted a tour at its FAT 1 fulfillment center (Tuesday, Dec.
16) and invited workers’ children to see their parents' jobs, enjoy treats, and meet Santa Claus. Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer and Councilmember Annalisa Perea attended the event to celebrate its local economic impact.
Contractors discovered 82 antique lanterns (found during high-speed rail work last summer) inside the Belmont underpass and the Fresno Historical Society confirmed these artifacts were used for festive parades between 1929 and 1931, with plans to restore them for next year’s Christmas parade.
Fresno Historical Society confirmed that ornate lanterns discovered downtown by High Speed Rail workers this summer once lit the Belmont Underpass for trolleys and pedestrian paths in the late 1920s and early 1930s (photos by Pop Laval aided the discovery).
Pine Ridge Elementary eighth-grader Ryan Rogers was named December's Superintendent Superstar for his strong academic efforts and willingness to help younger students — he also plays in the school band and volunteers at booster events.
His dedication makes him a role model for the local community.
The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools is boosting mental health support for students during winter break with its All 4 Youth program (operating wellness centers in 31 districts including Orange Center Elementary) to help with academic routines and home challenges.
Fresno Unified approved a retirement incentive that will have 573 senior employees resign by the end of the 2025-26 school year, potentially saving the district over $56 million.
Officials say the move helps cut costs + address ongoing declines in enrollment.
Experts urge holiday shoppers to set firm spending limits and avoid small extra expenses that add up over time, warns Michael McAuliffe of Family Credit Management.
He advises treating Buy Now, Pay Later programs like any other debt to prevent financial stress next year.
Meathead Movers, a moving company with a strong Fresno presence, reached a $2 million federal settlement over age and sex discrimination dating back to 2017 and will hire qualified workers and invest up to $1 million a year for four years — with independent monitors ensuring compliance.
The Central East Bengals won their second state football championship with a 42-28 win over Pacifica this past weekend, finishing 14-1 after last year’s loss.
Rebranded from the Central Grizzlies, the team set records and made a key play to seal the victory.
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.
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