Good morning, Fresno.

On Christmas Eve, last-minute shoppers braved rain and wind at River Park (with reports of up to two inches of rain) to finish their holiday purchases, even as lighter crowds made the experience more bearable.

On Dec. 21, a memorial was held in downtown Fresno to honor nearly 50 unhoused residents who died this year from causes including accidents and harsh winter conditions.

Organizers provided free clothing, food, and care items while attendees shared memories and discussed challenges from a new anti-camping ordinance.

Santa and volunteers distributed over 5,000 toys at Poverello House on Wednesday, Dec.

24 during a Christmas Eve giveaway for children 0 to 12 from local families facing hardship — Papa Mike's Café served festive meals that day with Christmas Day hours continuing today.

Family members and local businesses continue searching for 35-year-old Francisco Madera, who went missing on Dec.

13 in the Hanford-Armona area after being last seen wearing a red Ariat jacket, black shirt, gold cross chain, dark jeans and Ariat boots; they urge anyone with information to contact local authorities.

Flooding on McKinley Avenue at Fine Avenue near Fresno Yosemite International Airport slowed traffic on Wednesday, Dec.

24, and drivers were advised to use caution (water reached nearly above tires in some spots).

Fresno Pacific University’s CCT will launch a free Rural Ignite Business Accelerator on Jan.

14 in Reedley, offering five training tracks for rural business owners. Future sessions will be held in Selma and online — giving entrepreneurs hands-on support for growth.

On Christmas Eve, flooding in East Central Fresno damaged ten businesses on Ashlan and Willow (including Diamond Pressure Barber Supply) when heavy rain overwhelmed drainage systems and forced crews to repair pipes.

Neighboring businesses helped while owners faced significant losses.

Local history buffs gathered last Friday at The Archive on Kern to learn that 82 Depression-era lanterns unearthed during a June rail project once decorated Fulton Street lamps.

Archivist Donald Spencer revealed the artifacts (marked with Bryant Spartan) were made between 1918 and 1940 and will be restored for future public display.

New Hmong dual-language programs and cultural camps are launching in Fresno and Merced to help young people learn their native language and traditions while embracing cultural pride.

These initiatives (developed by local community groups) will foster cross-cultural learning and heritage preservation.

City officials warn heavy rain and strong winds will hit Fresno by Tuesday night, prompting crews to clear drains and repair potholes to prevent flooding & urging residents to secure debris and report hazards via 311 or the FresGO app.

Caltrans crews closed the northbound Highway 41 connection to eastbound Highway 180 on Wednesday, Dec.

24, leaving Fresno drivers to use alternate routes. The closure impacted travel and underscored the need for route adjustments.

Fresno officials said yesterday that the Wishon Avenue underpass (south of Shields Avenue) closed due to flooding and drivers were advised to use alternate routes until the storm passes.

Fresno State announced Dec.

24 that Gabriel Bolton is the new head coach of the women’s soccer team, replacing Brian Zwaschka, and will lead the Bulldogs into their switch to the Pac-12 in 2026 as he brings 21 seasons of success from Stanislaus State Warriors including three championships.

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.

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.